This Friday from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Blank Canvas Gallery (890 St. Clair Ave. W.), Our Women’s Voices presents the first annual When Women Speak – a panel, showcase, and network session for women, by women focused on empowerment, self-expression, and voice.

When Women Speak begins with a panel led by Reesee Zigga Zagga of Reclaim Your Voice, Ubah Idle of #SaveOurSomaliYouth, and Temi Marie of HERday sharing their experiences as women and discussing ways they’ve used their voices in their daily lives and respective communities.

A showcase featuring six woman-identifying artists – including spoken word poet and storyteller Faduma Mohamed, R&B singer/songwriter Shanaaz, and dance artist Mary-Dora – will follow, with an open mic and network session for all attendees and guests closing out the night.

Sounds will be provided by DJs Ace Dillinger and Iced Misto, and vendors Cake Your Way, Freshmen Clothing, Agartha Jewelry, Kalayaan, and Mimp Magazine will also be hand selling their wares.

Tickets are $15 in advance online or $20 at the door.