International Women’s Day honours and celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is a day to reflect on the efforts of women shaping an equal future and advocating for change.
How can you challenge gender bias and inequality? How can you empower and uplift women around you?
Start by thinking about the powerful and inspiring women around you and educate yourself on the gender inequality and challenges women face!
Here are 7 leading, inspiring, and dedicated women you should learn about this International Women’s Day:
Sage Paul
An award-winning artist, designer, artistic director of Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto, and a founding collective member (IFWTO). This Denesuliné designer, based in Toronto and a member of the English River First Nation, is known for her work in fashion, costume, and crafts. The IFWTO aims to confront mainstream stereotypes of Indigenous people and their culture. As a leader and inspiration, she also uses her platform to amplify the visibility of other Indigenous women artists and designers.
On March 9, 2022, Sage Paul joins us to share her story, and hopes to inspire a shift in how we engage with Indigenous people and their culture. To learn more about the event, click the ‘Learn More’ button below!
Vivek Shraya
A musician, filmmaker, writer, and visual artist who has received numerous awards including a spot on CBC Music’s list of Best Canadian Albums (2017). In her latest book, I’m Afraid of Men, she discusses how toxic masculinity affected her growing up as a trans woman and it has been referred to by many as an essential read. Her commitment to empowering others is a true inspiration.
Nadaya Okomoto
An author, speaker, and fierce advocate for destigmatizing periods and mental health. Her book, Period Power, aims to explain menstruation and the stigmas and biases that surround it. She is the Founder of PERIOD an organization fighting to end period poverty and stigma.
On March 8, 2022, Nadaya Okomoto joins us for a discussion to talk about women empowerment and the Menstruation Movement! To learn more about the event, click the ‘Learn More’ button below!
Dr. Alaa Murabit
A physician serving as an advocate for global sustainable development goals appointed by the Secretary-General of the UN. Dr. Alaa Murabit has become a powerful voice for Libyan women and a strong force of modern feminism. We are in awe of her willingness to fight for inclusivity, women’s rights and change through global policy.
Kween
A valedictorian graduate from the Randolph Academy for Performing Arts, a dancer, teacher, advocate, author, actor, choreographer, director, producer, advocate, curator, marketing/social media guru, and TedX International Speaker. She founded The Kween Company, a marketing, social media, and branding hub focused on supporting Black, Indigenous, and BIPOC owned and operated businesses. In addition to offering support for BIPOC creatives, and education and awareness in activism, allyship and on political issues.
On March 7, 2022, Kween joins us to guide students through a Soca dance class! To learn more about the event, click the ‘Learn More’ button below!
Hayley Wickenheiser
A four-time Olympic gold medalist and all-around hockey icon from Canada, she is a force on and off the ice. Hayley Wickenheiser is the first woman to score a goal playing in a men’s semi-professional league and is an all-time leader in international goals, assists and points. Upon retiring, she became the first woman to hold the title of assistant director of player development for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Her efforts to promote gender equity in sports and pave the way for upcoming athletes are admirable.
Eternity Martis
An award-winning Toronto-based journalist and editor named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women by Women’s Executive Network (2020). Her work has influenced newsrooms to change their style guides to capitalize “Black” and “Indigenous,” change policies on anti-Black racism in Canada and has been taught in academic syllabuses across many universities.
On March 10, 2022, Eternity Martis joins us to discuss her journey as a university student on a predominantly white campus and examine the impact of racism on students on campus. To learn more about the event, click the ‘Learn More’ button below!