Across Nova Scotia older change-makers are leaders. They are also parents, grandparents, artists, musicians and more. Join us in celebrating them and all that they do. For Senior’s Week 2021, we are celebrating three amazing change-makers from across the province whose social change work pushes for equity, inclusion and connection.
Today, we celebrate Myla Borden!
Myla Borden — Mother, Teacher, Drummer, Quilter, Nana
Home — New Glasgow, N.S.
Community Involvements — Black Education Association; Cultural Academic Enrichment Program; Member of the Vale Quilters Association; African Drum Teacher; and much more!
Change-Work
Myla shares that she is a part of a community of doers. She shares how change-work can be passed on through many generations within the community. She shares how in 1998, she was a part of planting a community garden and that youth in the community are still continuing that garden today. She says change-work is gradual and it can take years for institutional change. She highlights that actions speak louder than words. “If you’re going to say it, do it,” she says.
Making an Impact
Myla is very passionate about quilting, which she learned from her Aunt Frances. “She taught me how to make a block and the rest is history,’’ she says. Myla shares how creating “picture quilts’’ allow her to share history and stories that words alone cannot convey. Myla’s quilts travel in art shows, reaching many people! Myla is very proud to be involved in the New Glasgow Black Gala Homecoming committee. Since 1990, the homecoming invites people to come back to the community. She says the event brings everybody together — young, old, living far away and locally. The Homecoming Committee has been pivotal in many things in the community. Members of the Homecoming Committee also sat on the Africentric Heritage Park Committee and attended the opening of the park.
Sharing of Wisdom & Learnings
Myla shares that “everybody can do a little something, you don’t have to be a big superstar to make change”. She stresses that if you’re consistent and don’t quit, change will come. Little things over a longer period of time can make great lasting change.
Please join us in recognizing and celebrating all Myla has done to make Nova Scotia a better place! To learn more about Myla and the stories she shared check out the video below:
