Hundreds gather in London, Ont. to celebrate women in leadership

Reta Ismail reports on an International Women’s Day event for area business leaders at RBC Place.

Hundreds gathered at RBC Place London. Ont. ahead of International Women’s Day to celebrate women in leadership and recognize changemakers across Southwestern Ontario.

The seventh annual All Women L.E.A.D. event brought together community members, entrepreneurs, and leaders for a day of networking, inspiration, and awards.

Organizers say the celebration was created seven years ago to fill a gap in the community.

“We wanted a place where we could have real conversations about what it meant to be a woman who leads. And so we built something that we wanted, the possibility that leading doesn’t need to look like it’s always looked. And that we can actually lead in a way that feels authentic and true,” explained Melissa Maloney, co-founder and executive director of All Women L.E.A.D.

This year’s event introduced the first She L.E.A.D.s Awards, recognizing women who are transforming their businesses, organizations, and communities across the region.

Attendees also heard from three keynote speakers described by organizers as trailblazers and mentors.

“They are ceiling breakers, glass ceiling breakers. They have done phenomenal things in their lives, in their careers, and I think they’re wonderful mentors and role models for all of the people that are going to be here today, and to see them speak.,” said Jennifer Matwawana, co-founder and program director of All Women L.E.A.D.

Among the keynote speakers was the Honourable Marci Ien, who reflected on her experience as one of few women in leadership roles throughout her career.

“I get to share that in a lot of the rooms that I was in, whether it was broadcasting or politics, I was one of one or one of two. I was very aware about opening a door, not just opening it, but keeping it open,” she said.

This year’s theme, “The Future Is Now,” encouraged women to act with urgency and surround themselves with support.

“We don’t have to think about, well in five years, in 10 years, maybe. No, let’s do it now. Why not put the people you need around you, around you and go for it?,” added Matwawana.

Organizers say they hope the momentum generated by the event continues well beyond International Women’s Day.