Celebrating International Women's Day: Empowering Women Across All Industries

As we approach International Women's Day on March 8th, we're reminded of the remarkable progress women have made in Canada over the past two decades. From breaking glass ceilings to driving innovation, Canadian women have been at the forefront of change in every sector. As a half-owned women's company, we believe it’s important to recognize this important day and continue to advance our progress as women across all industries. 

Why is International Women’s Day important?

International Women's Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It's a day to recognize the progress that has been made, but also to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done to achieve true gender equality.

The roots of the women's rights movements date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when brave women and allies around the world began advocating for equal rights, suffrage, and better working conditions. These movements laid the foundation for the progress we've seen today.

In Canada, the past 20 years have seen significant strides for women:

1. Education: The gap in educational attainment between men and women has virtually disappeared, with women now outnumbering men in university enrollment and completion rates.
2. Workforce: The labor force participation rate for Canadian women has risen steadily over the last two decades, reaching nearly 82% in 2020.
3. Entrepreneurship: Canada has seen a surge in women entrepreneurs, with the number of women-owned businesses growing by 42% between 2000 and 2017, compared to a 17% increase for all businesses.
4. Politics: While women remain underrepresented in many political spheres, progress is being made. In Toronto City Council, for example, women make up approximately 44% of council members as of 2022. In Canadian federal politics, women’s representation has also increased, with women holding 29% of seats in the House of Commons as of 2020, up from 21% in 2000. 
5. STEM Fields: While women remain underrepresented in STEM fields, efforts to encourage girls and women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics have shown promising results, with more women entering these fields than ever before.

In addition to the strides made by women in Canada, it's essential to recognize the contributions of prominent Asian women globally. Women like Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate, and Michelle Yeoh, the Malaysian actress and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, have inspired millions with their advocacy and achievements.

Despite these achievements, significant barriers still exist for women, both in Canada and around the world. Gender-based violence, unequal access to education and healthcare, and limited economic opportunities continue to hold women back in many communities.

As we celebrate International Women's Day, let's not forget the millions of women who are still fighting for their rights and freedoms.

This International Women's Day, let's celebrate how far we've come, but let's also recommit ourselves to the work that still lies ahead. Together, we can build a brighter future for women and girls everywhere.

To all the women in Canada, Asia, and around the world: thank you for your strength, your resilience, and your courage. We stand with you today and every day.

Happy International Women's Day!