Empowerment and Innovation: Highlights from BCW’s International Women’s Day Celebration
This past Saturday, March 2nd, the Edmonton Convention Centre was transformed into a vibrant hub of inspiration, empowerment, and community as it hosted BCW’s International Women’s Day event. Under the theme “Empowering Innovation: Women Redefining Tech Trends,” the gathering brought together an impressive roster of leaders, innovators, and advocates to celebrate the strides made toward gender equality while acknowledging the journey that lies ahead.
The event was honored with the presence of The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor of Edmonton, who has consistently championed the cause of gender equality and inclusivity within the city’s administration and beyond. His participation underscored Edmonton’s commitment to creating a supportive and equitable environment where women’s contributions are celebrated and their challenges are met with actionable solutions.
Adding to the roster of distinguished guests, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault represented the federal government, bringing with him messages of support and recognition for the progress made in advancing women’s rights and opportunities in Canada. His words highlighted the importance of continued efforts and collaboration across all levels of government to ensure the momentum for equality and inclusion does not wane.
A monumental presence at the event was Rhiannon Hoyle, marking a historic moment as the first Black female Member of the Legislative Assembly in Alberta. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and breaking barriers, offering profound inspiration to those who aspire to make their mark in politics, advocacy, or any field traditionally underrepresented by women, particularly women of color.
The spotlight also shone brightly on women in the fields of technology and science, acknowledging their groundbreaking contributions and the unique challenges they face. The event celebrated dozens of women leading the charge in these sectors, providing them a platform to share their experiences, insights, and visions for a more inclusive industry.
Through workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, attendees engaged in deep conversations about leadership, entrepreneurship, technological advancement, and scientific discovery, all through the prism of gender equality. These sessions were not just about sharing knowledge but also about forging connections, offering practical advice, and building a supportive community that transcends the event itself.
One of the day’s most resonant themes was the power of mentorship and the importance of building support networks among women. Seasoned professionals and newcomers alike shared spaces of dialogue and discovery, emphasizing the “lift as we climb” philosophy. This spirit of mutual support and empowerment was a testament to the incredible potential that can be unlocked when women come together to inspire and uplift one another.
As the BCW’s International Women’s Day event concluded, it left an indelible mark on all who attended, not just as a celebration of achievements but as a powerful reminder of the work that remains. It reinforced the belief that the path to equality is a shared journey, one that benefits from the collective efforts, voices, and courage of everyone involved. The event was a call to action, a reminder that every day presents a new opportunity to advocate for change, support one another, and build a more equitable world for future generations.
