In November, I had the opportunity to attend the first ever “SuperWomen & Friends”, a red carpet gala fundraiser at Four Seasons Hotel put on by the Women In Leadership Foundation. Founded in 2001 by Maya Kanigan, WIL has invested over $1.7 million into showcasing female role models and recognizing the accomplishments of Canadian business women. In her tearful opening speech, Maya spoke of how she dreamed of bringing women together to share their successes. Most notably, through their six-month mentorship program, young women are paired with business-minded female professionals to share wisdom and gain support on how to be a successful leader and contribute to the overall goal of achieving more female leaders in society.
Keynote speakers for the evening included Melanie Berry, president of the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (think: JUNO Awards!) and the upbeat and lively Rena Heer of CTV news. Both speakers touched on the disproportionate ratio of women in management roles and praised the efforts of WIL in contributing to a worthwhile cause.
For more photos and a full review on the evening, click HERE.
Article by Vanessa Choot of Modern Mix Vancouver.
Photograph by Grace Lau of Grace Lau Photography.