Today, we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women, girls, and non-binary individuals in our Humber community and beyond. International Women’s Day is a both a time to honour the progress we have made and acknowledge the work that remains ahead. More importantly, it is a reminder that change requires action that is sustained, deliberate and inclusive.

This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, speaks to the urgency of advancing gender equity. Progress is not a passive process; it is driven by those who challenge the status quo, break down barriers, and create opportunities for others. At Humber Polytechnic, we are dedicated to cultivating an environment where every individual, regardless of their gender identity, is supported and empowered to contribute, lead, and thrive. 

In the lead-up to International Women’s Day, I had the privilege of attending two inspiring events on campus that highlighted the importance of community and mentorship while recognizing the strength, resilience and leadership of the women and non-binary people within our Humber community.  

Earlier this week, I was honoured to attend The Collective: Women’s Empowerment Network, hosted by the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion & Belonging. This event brought members of our community together to celebrate women’s and non-binary people’s achievements while creating space for meaningful conversations on leadership and equity.  

I was also delighted to attend the University of Guelph-Humber Women of Distinction event, which featured Naisha Suthaharan, IGNITE Student Representative, as the Master of Ceremonies. At the event, we recognized outstanding students, alumnae, and employees who have made lasting contributions to our community. This year’s honourees include: 

• Student and Alumna Recipients: Ashnaa Narumathan (fourth-year Kinesiology student), Paulina Sieczka (second-year Psychology student), and Kelly Skinner (Justice and Public Safety alumna, 2013, and Staff Superintendent at Toronto Police Services). 

• Employee Recipients: Dr. Laelie Snook (Instructor, Kinesiology), Sandra Fazio (Alumni Advancement Coordinator), and Susan Thomas (Department Head, Student Services). 

These women are trailblazers who have excelled in their respective fields while paving the way for future generations. They demonstrate that leadership is not about waiting for change but creating it. Their accomplishments remind us that bold, decision active creates lasting impact and empowers others to rise.  

I also want to take a moment to recognize the outstanding achievements of the incredible female student-athletes who represent the very best of Humber Polytechnic. This week, our women’s basketball team secured a silver medal and our undefeated women’s volleyball team is heading to the national championships tonight in Durham to compete for a gold medal. These athletes exemplify what it means to lead with dedication, teamwork, and resilience while demonstrating their exceptional talent and perseverance both on and off the court.  

As a woman in a leadership role, I have experienced both the challenges and joys of navigating spaces where women have not always been equitably represented. Leadership does not happen in isolation. It is built on community, mentorship, and the encouragement and support of those who believe in our potential.  

That is why I am so passionate about building a strong, supportive community. When we create inclusive spaces for mentorship, collaboration, and personal growth, we help break down systemic barriers, whether they stem from unconscious bias, institutional inequities, or societal expectations. True inclusion is about more than representation; it is about ensuring that every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. 

While we have made significant strides in advancing gender equity, our work is far from over. Now more than ever, we must accelerate our efforts to close the gaps that persist and ensure that women, girls and non-binary people have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed in every aspect of life. 

At Humber Polytechnic, we are committed to action. Our institution thrives when every member of our community is empowered to share their voice, pursue their ambitions, and has the tools they need to bring their ideas to life. This is the kind of momentum we must sustain, ensuring that today’s actions lay the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive future. 

On this International Women’s Day, I encourage all of us to consider how we can personally contribute to this movement. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, education, or amplifying the voices of those around us, every effort—no matter how big or small—has the potential to drive lasting impact. 

To all the women and non-binary individuals in our Humber community, thank you for your leadership, resilience, and contributions. Your work is inspiring, your impact is invaluable, and your presence continues to shape a brighter, more inclusive future. Let’s continue to accelerate action and build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.  

AMV