In honour of International Women’s Day, Women United hosted an inspiring event that brought together leaders, advocates, and community members to celebrate women’s achievements and discuss the shared experiences of women and trailblazers.
Embracing shared experiences: Inspiring women in leadership
Jennifer Stewart and Catherine Clark from the Honest Talk podcast led a discussion about women in leadership and audience members jumped in to share their own stories and advice. Catherine took a moment to reflect on the motivations behind starting their podcast, emphasizing the importance of women knowing that they are never alone in the choices they make.
Throughout the discussion, both Catherine and Jennifer asked questions, encouraging the audience to reflect and engage with one another. On the topic of gaining confidence, Jennifer Stewart shared, “I was a morbidly shy child. That changed in my twenties when I realized what I was good at; and that I don’t have to be everything to everybody.”
"Other women have gone before you in making difficult decisions, so don’t hesitate from being open, talking to your friends, and sharing what you’re going through. You may think that you’re facing a choice alone, but another woman has been through it, and a legion of women will be there to support you with whatever choice you are going to make."
In case you missed it, watch the recap of the event below.
United Way East Ontario’s Women United is committed to empowering women and fostering positive change in our communities. We’re proud to host events like this one, bringing people together to connect, learn, and make a local difference. Want to learn more about Women United? Get in touch with us to learn more about the benefits of becoming a Women United member.
For more key takeaways from the event, check out this blog by OBJ Social correspondent Caroline Phillips.
Empowering women, empowering communities: Community Action Grants at work
Community Action Grants provide opportunities for Women United members to actively participate in philanthropy and address community needs. These grants fund community groups and residents’ associations to create initiatives that empower women, build strong and safe communities, and inspire women leaders, with up to $3,000 in funding available for eligible programs, activities, and events. Euphrasie Emedi, a Community Developer at South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre, shared her perspective on the power of Women United’s Community Action Grants. Thanks to multiple grants, residents have been able to develop flourishing community gardens and continue to expand on them.
"We put tables in the center of the community with food and we cook. People who didn’t know about the garden come and learn; people who were isolated in their homes come out to see what’s going on. Everyone gets something to eat so at least for that season, they have something fresh and healthy to eat.”
Creating impact together: Women United and Accenture's partnership
Events like this are possible because of our partnership with Accenture. Accenture has been a long-time supporter of United Way through various programs, initiatives, sponsorship, and engagement opportunities. We were thrilled to have Accenture join us for the International Women’s Day event.
Elizabeth Gilbert and Fatima Hafid, Ottawa Corporate Citizenship Co-Leads at Accenture, were in attendance, and said this event was “engaging, informative, and a great opportunity to network and meet people in different industries with a similar passion.”
We’re grateful for Accenture’s support and for their commitment to creating a strong, healthy, safe region for women everywhere, as Women United’s program sponsor.
While International Women’s Day is a time for us to recognize the progress made for gender equity, we know that there is a lot of work still to be done. As a Women United member, you can be an advocate and supporter of a more equitable future for women and girls all –year round.
Join Women United today and help ensure that all women have the supports they need to thrive.
