Feminism in Action Awardees

Where Are They Now?

In 2016, we awarded this woman with

The Feminism in Action Grant.

Here is an update on what she is doing now.

Zahra Ohldin is a believer in the power of collaboration. She has worked in various sectors of the nonprofit community related to issues such as family advocacy through community-based social work, youth development and youth mentoring, after-school dance and literacy programs, and early childhood educational programs. Through a creative partnership with flutist Adrienne Baker, she seeks to elevate the traditional concert space to one of social activism. Inspired by the Black Lives Matter and Black Joy movements, she wanted to create a musical event where black women were represented and recognized. Additionally, she wanted to host more than a concert, also fostering a discussion among black women and others regarding their experiences with pay equity. Thus the idea for Women’s Equity Project was created.

The Women’s Equity Project will feature musical compositions by black women composers and feature an all-women ensemble. This concert will promote and celebrate the works of Black Women composers and bring attention to the opportunity and pay disparity that exists across a broad range of professions. Following the concert, there will be a panel discussion about how the musicians’ intersecting identities have affected their musical trajectories. Concert attendees will also be informed of current legislation that is aiming to bridge the gap, and to provide a space where women, musicians, and others can discuss their experiences as it relates to pay equity. All attendees will also receive resources where they can learn about city-wide negotiation workshops, connect with other musicians, and action steps that they can take following the concert.

In 2015, we awarded these women with

The Feminism in Action Grant.

Here is an update on what they are doing now.