“To keep from crying, I laughed.” A powerful evening of women’s stories in Toronto

On Friday, April 4th, a remarkable event took place in Etobicoke, Toronto —“To Keep from Crying, I Laughed. Lesya Ukrainka’s Words in Modern Times.”

This was more than just a gathering — it was a space of trust, truth, and real connection.A place for women who seek depth, meaning, and a community of their own — especially in times when the world feels uncertain, or even upside down.

What made the evening special?

🗣 Powerful monologues — raw, emotional, deeply personal. Shared by women brave enough to speak their truths.🍷 Wine & treats — creating warmth, comfort, and a sense of togetherness.💬 Meaningful networking — new faces, real conversations, and shared values.🤝 Reunions with old friends — as our community continues to grow stronger.✨ Atmosphere — the kind that photos only partly capture, but hearts remember.

Our moderator, journalist and author Zoya Kazanji, guided the evening with grace and insight, helping every voice find its moment.

We reflected on the legacy of Lesya Ukrainka, one of Ukraine’s greatest poets, who once wrote:“To keep from crying, I laughed.”A line written in pain — yet filled with strength. A reminder that even in the hardest times, we choose resilience. We choose connection. We choose each other.

Thank you to everyone who joined us 💛

Together, we are building something meaningful.This is only the beginning — more powerful gatherings are ahead.

📸 View the photo album from the evening here: