Chambers of Commerce across the North are hosting various events this March 8 to mark International Women’s Day.
The annual global event, which has been observed since 1911, celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.
In the Sault, the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce is hosting a breakfast panel discussion under the theme ‘The Difference Makers.’
Speakers include Lisa Vezeau-Allen, a city councillor and prolific community activist who founded the Grocer 4 Good grocery store; Jennifer Johnson, the founder of iCA Immigration, which helps newcomers settle in the Sault; and Carolyn Hepburn, a member of Fort Albany First Nation who is the dean of the School of Indigenous Studies and Academic Upgrading at Sault College.
The keynote speaker for the day is Traci Costa, president and CEO of ATHENA International, a non-profit organization that offers leadership development and award programs for women leaders.
As part of the event, the Chamber will present the 2024 ATHENA Award to its local recipient.
Registration information is available here.
In Sudbury, the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce will host a breakfast panel discussion, themed ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ featuring four local entrepreneurs.
They include Julie Zulich, CEO of TESC Contracting Company; Heather Scott Mannella, owner of Kitchen Bits; Shannon Bubalo, owner and team lead of The Bubalo Group; and Dr. Nadia Mykyczuk, president and CEO of MIRARCO.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of menstrual hygiene products to support the Tampon Tuesday initiative, which helps support women who are unable to afford menstrual products.
Details about the event are available here.
In Timmins, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon in conjunction with the Business Enterprise Centre Link North.
The featured speaker will be Julie Cole, the cofounder of Mabel’s Labels, which creates durable, waterproof labels for children’s items. Originally started in Hamilton, Ont., the company grew to a multi-million-dollar enterprise before being sold to a multinational company for $12 million in 2016.
Cole will share lessons learned on her entrepreneurship journey, including innovation, the importance of corporate culture, inclusivity and core values.
This event is already sold out.
