International Women's Day | 2021

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MONDAY, MARCH 8, 2021

“While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last.” - Kamala Harris, Vice-President of the United States

#CHOOSETOCHALLENGE

#IWD2021

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 1

ON THE FRONT LINES As a health care union, CUPE 204 is made up of mostly women, many of whom are racialized workers. Women have been disproportionaly affected by COVID-19. Not only do we work on the front line in essential fields like health care, but because many of us are also balancing home schooling, childcare needs, caring for our elders, in addition to facing sexism and misogyny in the workplace and society. CUPE 204 wants to thank all women for the hard work you do, and we stand united in the fight against inequality in the workplace, and in our communities. HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY!

Debbie Boissonneault, President CUPE 204

The mission for HUB Women Network is to: Engage employees to help build and develop collaboration at all levels. Empower employees to master their potential to achieve personal and professional development. Excel their individual growth and elevate their overall capabilities through engagement and empowerment. What is HUB Women Network? HUB Women Network provides support and fellowship, contributes to employee’s professional development, and provides organized activities for employees of diverse backgrounds. This program is open to all HUB employees.

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

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#CHOOSETOCHALLENGE

“Choose to Challenge” is the theme for the 2021 International Women’s Day campaign, which encourages everyone to call out inequality, question stereotypes and help create a more inclusive world. Each year on March 8, International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the globe. For more than 100 years,

International Women’s Day has put a spotlight on issues of inequality and the need for change. At the same time, it’s an opportunity to applaud women’s successes in realms of sports, arts, technology, innovation, health care, education, research — and so much more. Celebrations might look a little different this year due to the pandemic, yet it’s still possible to find ways to mark the moment through virtual events and other creative approaches. Another way to celebrate International Women’s Day 2021 is by supporting female-focused

charities and businesses in an effort to make a positive difference for women in our communities. From every workplace to private space, we can strive for inclusivity so women can continue to thrive. Each person can also make a difference by choosing to challenge thoughts and actions that stand in the way of equality. These challenges can lead to change, which is an important step on the road to an equal — and equitable — future. There’s no time like the present to stand up, show your solidarity and choose to challenge. ◗

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

MONDAY, MARCH 8, 2021

Publisher Bob Cox

Director, Advertising, Niche Publications Charlene Adam Charlene.Adam@freepress.mb.ca

Editor Jennifer McFee Design Jane Chartrand

View online at winnipegfreepress.com/publications

Celebrating Manitoba women trailblazers By Jennifer McFee Women trailblazers have earned their place in the spotlight for their contributions to social justice, arts, sports, politics and community activities in Manitoba. The Nellie McClung Foundation announced the recipients of the 150 Manitoba Women Trailblazer awards in partnership with the Winnipeg Free Press on Jan. 28, the 105th anniversary of most

Manitoba women being the first in Canada to receive the right to vote. Board chair Doris Mae Oulton noted that about 350 women were nominated for the award and they all deserve recognition for their achievements.

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Let’s celebrate the achievements of women and support a more gender inclusive world! women ’ s

HON. CANDICE BERGEN, MP PORTAGE E LISGAR INFO O CANDICEBERGEN.CA 204 4 822 4 7440

JAMES BEZAN, MP SELKIRK E INTERLAKE E EASTMAN OFFICE O JAMESBEZAN.COM 204 4 785 4 6151

RAQUEL DANCHO, MP KILDONAN E ST. PAUL RAQUEL.DANCHO O PARL.GC.CA 204 4 984 4 6322

TED FALK, MP PROVENCHER TED.FALK O PARL.GC.CA 204 4 326 4 9889

MARTY MORANTZ, MP CHARLESWOOD E ST. JAMES E ASSINIBOIA E HEADINGLEY MARTY.MORANTZ O PARL.GC.CA 204 4 984 4 6432

LARRY MAGUIRE, MP BRANDON E SOURIS LARRY.MAGUIRE O PARL.GC.CA 204 4 726 4 7600

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“Many women have not been acknowledged for their work — and it’s time we celebrated them.”

ecutive Education ecutiv Doris Mae Oulton is the board chair for The Nellie McClung Foundation.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

W omen need to see successful women entrepreneurs so they can dare to become one.

This international Women’s Day, The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) chooses to challenge bias and stereotypes in entrepreneurship. In an effort to redefine who an entrepreneur is, what they do, and how they look, WEKH’s See It Be It campaign and database features hundreds of successful women entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, sectors, experiences and regions across Canada. WEKH is a national network and accessible digital platform with 10 regional Hubs and a network of more than 250 organizations for sharing research, resources, and leading strategies to support diverse women entrepreneurs. https: //wekh.ca/seeitbeit/

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 5

The Famous 5 monument features trailblazers Henrietta Muir Edwards, Emily Murphy, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney and Nellie McClung.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

On March 8, we wish you a happy

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"Women in leadership roles are important. They bring a different perspective in decision making. They empower other female employees."

“The selection group tried to select women who had perhaps been first trailblazers specifically rooted in Manitoba,” she said. “They looked for women who did something that broke the ceiling for other women or who achieved a first in their area.” For the next step of the project, the organization aims to produce a bilingual virtual book featuring a biography for each award recipient. The target publication date is June 25, which is Nellie McClung Day. At the same time, it’s worth taking a moment to recognize these women on International Women’s Day. “I think the 150 list is emblematic of what we’re trying to do on International Women’s Day, which is to make sure that women are recognized as part of the fabric of what’s making the world a better place,” Oulton said. “Many women have not been acknowledged for their work — and it’s time we celebrated them.” The full list of recipients and nominees is posted on The Nellie McClung Foundation website at nelliemcclungfoundation.com. ◗

Sophie Éthier Vice-President, Risk and Compliance

"Whether it be on our Executive Team or our Board of Directors, at Caisse Financial Group we support equal opportunities for both men and women." Sylvie Laurencelle-Vermette Vice-President, Marketing and Communications

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The chief executive officer of Bockstael Construction Ltd. and his family have set up scholarships for full-time University of Manitoba undergraduate civil engineering students, one for those who identify as female and another for an Indigenous student. The inaugural $1,000 scholarships are expected to be awarded this spring. Recipients can apply for summer work placements at the fourth-generation Manitoba company founded in 1912. “Those are the two areas where there’s not enough scholarships,” says Bockstael, who was chair of the Canadian Construction BOCKSTAEL BUILDS A BETTER FUTURE WITH WOMEN By Judy Owen John Bockstael doesn’t just say he’d like more women working in the construction industry — he backs that up with actions.

From left: Ceilidh Houston, project manager; Lisa Reichart, project manager; Victoria Munro, senior project manager; Kayla Gervais, project co-ordinator, Kelsey Lapointe, skilled labourer; Traci Cluff, project co-ordinator; Samantha Lewis, carpenter. Photo by Darcy Finley

They work hard on the details and on closing out jobs.” There is also a female estimator, carpenter and labourer among its estimated 150 employees. Recognizing the barriers has been an emphasis for the company and industry, Bockstael adds. “You have to open the door. You have to interview. You have to encourage and explain the possibilities and the career paths and make this workplace more welcoming.” ◗

Association in 2019. When he joined the family business in 1985, there was a female receptionist/ bookkeeper and no women in the field crew. Now its key project-delivery group of 16 staff includes a female senior project manager, three project managers and two project co-ordinators. “They’re there as leaders, managers, co-ordinators of the work,” Bockstael says. “What I find is they’re very thorough.

Essential Skills for Women in the Workplace program • Taking control of your situation • Showing your Courage • Thinking to the Future We took a moment and reflected on these words, as an organization and as individuals. It was clear: we wanted to celebrate a woman within our own that is the definition of Essential Skills for Women in the Workplace . Marlene Gogal started with WEM 14 years ago. She is a true Northerner and would not have it any other way. From partnering with First Nations to encouraging female specific programing and education to all Manitobans, Marlene is a trailblazer in her own right: a strong leader within WEM. It is her drive and her fearlessness that moves us forward. All of this, while balancing her own family life and being a Mom. In all that

she does, she brings strength, resilience and a kindness that is ever present. She has never demanded credit or accolades, but now is the time. Thank you, Marlene, for letting us celebrate all that you bring to WEM, Essential Skills and to Manitoba. “I hope this inspires other women to look for where they can make their contribution. I’m so proud to make my mark in any way I can for the North. It will be a challenge but listen to your gut. Take that challenge. You can do it!” - Marlene Gogal, WEM Director of Strategic and Partnership Development. To register for Essential Skills for Women in the Workplace , please email jlorusso@ wem.mb.ca today. Funding provided by:

To register for Essential Skills

for Women in the Workplace, email jlorusso@wem.mb.ca

The Government of Canada The Manitoba government

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 7

Women, Wine & Food GOES VIRTUAL

the day before, along with a choice of a bottle of wine from Calabria Market & Wine Store, a four-pack of assorted beers from Little Brown Jug or a non- alcoholic beverage supplied by Little Sister Coffee Maker. Virtual entertainment will add to the excitement for those at home, whether they’re dressed to the nines or donning comfy PJs. Once again, the event serves as a fundraiser for the Women’s Health Clinic with a particular focus on funding free birth control.

and the 40th anniversary of Women’s Health Clinic. On Monday, March 8, at-home attendees will enjoy a selection of 12 hot and cold canapés prepared by featured female chefs Christa Bruneau- Guenther of Feast Café Bistro, Emily Butcher of deer + almond, Kristen Chemerika-Lew of Lark, Ashley Hebel of The FrenchWay Café and Bakery, Connie Klassen of Pizzeria Gusto and Jessica Young of Diversity Food Services. These tasty treats will be delivered

By Jennifer McFee A much-anticipated culinary extravaganza will celebrate a duo of milestones this year — and attendees can enjoy it all from the comfort of home. In true pandemic fashion, the 2021 Women, Wine & Food event will go virtual this year. Not only will the evening event celebrate International Women’s Day, the festivities will also mark the fifth anniversary of the fundraiser

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University College of the North helps build northern Manitoba. Trades careers are waiting for women. UCN gives them the skills to become part of that essential work- force.

The 2021 Women, Wine & Food virtual event features food, drinks and online entertainment to enjoy from the comfort of home.

Amy Tuckett-McGimpsey of Women’s Health Clinic explained that the organization usually spends about $120,000 per year to give out free birth control, but prices have increased during the pandemic. The annual fundraiser helps offset these costs while also offering an evening that sparks enjoyment and connection. “In the past, it was just electric in the air when everybody got into the room with the combination of food and wine and mingling and live music. We have tried really hard to replicate some of that excitement and bonding,” Tuckett-McGimpsey said. “With a great lineup of musical artists, such as Sierra Noble, you can enjoy good food, music and drinks in your

HERE YOU CAN. UCN.CA

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provide great food to as many people as possible and continue to support the Women’s Health Clinic.” Tickets for Women, Wine & Food are available through eventbrite. ca and a 40-page cookbook is also available for preorder. Options are available for vegan, gluten-free, pork-free and shellfish-free food boxes. For more information, visit Women’s

event along with Chantal Hogue of Frescolio. “This year, the featured chefs actually have to volunteer a lot of time because I’m asking them to produce a large amount of canapés,” Cattani said. “It’s just awesome that they’re able to step outside whatever is happening with their restaurants, in the middle of this uncertainty, and they can put forward some great food for this event. We’re hoping we can

home without having to brave the harsh Winnipeg winter.” In some ways, the virtual event is more accessible because you can order one box and share it, she said. “The chefs have been so amazing by donating their time and talents,” she added. “We also want to show our support to restaurants since they’re having a hard time right now.” Chef Kelly Cattani of Bluestone Cottage Bakery and Café came up with the original idea for the

Health Clinic’s website at womenshealthclinic.org. ◗

Happy International Women’s Day

MALAYAMARCELINO MLA for Notre Dame 204-788-0800

NAHANNI FONTAINE MLA for St. Johns 204-582-1550

MINTU SANDHU MLA for The Maples 204-417-3486

DANIELLE ADAMS MLA for Thompson 204-677-2744

DILJEET BRAR MLA for Burrows 204-415-7621

WAB KINEW MLA for Fort Rouge 204-615-1922

BERNADETTE SMITH MLA for Point Douglas 204-414-1477

NELLO ALTOMARE MLA for Transcona 204-594-2025

LISA NAYLOR MLA for Wolseley 204-792-2773

JAMIE MOSES MLA for St. Vital 204-219-5407

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Clockwise from far left: Women, Wine & Food will feature mouth-watering morsels by Christa Bruneau-Guenther, Emily Butcher, Jess Young, Connie Klassen, Kristen Chemerika-Lew and Ashley Hebel.

Manitoba Construction Sector Council, Manitoba Heavy Construction Association and the Oce to Advance Women Apprentices have partnered with River East Transcona School Division to deliver an introduction to heavy construction course for young women, with funding from the Manitoba Status of Women. “Young women can have meaningful careers in the construction industry,” says Colleen Munro, owner of Munro Group “ Companies lack skilled workers, and women bring a unique set of skills which our industry requires and will appreciate. This course takes away that ‘fear of the unknown’ for young women.”

Student Jami Genik agrees. “I always considered myself a leader, dedicated to critical reasoning and a willingness to learn. I had all the essential skills for a career in construction but never had the opportunity to get my foot in the door, until now,” Genik says “I met experienced instructors. This program really breaks boundaries, lets me take charge of my future.” Chloe Phillips adds “I already have experience in heavy-duty trades in metal-fabrication. I enjoy what I’m learning and what I’m able to do as a woman. We don’t get opportunity like this every day, especially females of my age.”

www.mbcsc.com

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 11

“While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last.” Kamala Harris is making history as the first female vice-president of the United States of America. When she declared these powerful words in November before introducing president-elect Joe Biden, her speech encouraged girls and women to reach for their dreams — even if it takes them into uncharted territory. Although this news stems from south of VICTORY MAKES HISTORY By Jennifer McFee

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Left photo: Dr. Sharanpal Ruprai, associate professor in the department of women’s and gender studies at the University of Winnipeg, reflects on the impact of female leaders such as Vice-President Kamala Harris (right photo).

change the landscape for activities across Winnipeg, but it also ripples out across the prairies and across the country as well.” And whether it’s in the White House or in Winnipeg- based organizations, Ruprai encourages leaders to focus on succession planning to ensure that doors continue to open for future generations. “You can have great leaders in great roles, but sometimes there’s no sense of who’s next. In these next few years, I hope that women who are in positions of power plan for who’s going to be next — whether that’s in a boardroom or classroom or in other job spaces,” Ruprai said. “We need to create that space for succession planning and mentorship in whatever capacity you’re in. I think the current U.S. administration is actively doing that.” For International Women’s Day, Ruprai is pleased to pause and reflect on the journey of women — yet she also encourages everyone to continue these conversations every day. “Everybody in rooms of power needs to look around and say ‘Who is represented here? Do I see the

the border, the ripple effect can be felt in Canada too. Dr. Sharanpal Ruprai, associate professor in the department of women’s and gender studies at the University of Winnipeg, says it’s important that women are represented at every level of every government. “Harris’s win is amazing and it’s going to have a great effect across North America. She has already proven to surround herself with smart, capable, young, ambitious people from across representations. I think that will help create bridges across these different groups of people,” Ruprai said. “It was quite telling in her speech when she said that she won’t be the last woman. She’s creating that kind of space to bring other women up — and that’s what is really needed.” Closer to home, there’s no shortage of trailblazers who are making history in our own province. “In Manitoba, we have NDP MLA Uzoma Asagwara as our first out black queer representative,” Ruprai said. “That’s a huge deal, not just for black people but also for queer people of colour. It’s going to

same demographic? Do I see the same faces?’ We really need to think about the demographics making decisions,” she said. “It’s great to have a day for women, but I think you need to be thinking about these things on a constant basis — not just on International Women’s Day. We need a lot more positive intersectional feminist representation across the board, and that challenge is for everybody around the table.” ◗

Proud to celebrate the extraordinary achievements women have made to build our province.

Dougald Lamont MLA St. Boniface Dougald Lamont MLA St. Boniface

Jon Gerrard MLA River Heights

204 - 289 - 1511 Cindy Lamoureux MLA Tyndall Park

MANITOBA LIBERALS

Let’s Connect:

manitoba.liberals@leg.gov.mb.ca

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 13

By Jennifer McFee BREAKING BARRIERS in politics and beyond

Manitoba’s first-ever black cabinet minister says she’s got sunshine in her soul so she always feels warm. Southdale MLA Audrey Gordon shared some soulful reflections and heart- warming inspiration for International Women’s Day. Born in Jamaica, Gordon moved as a young girl to Winnipeg, where she has lived ever since. A mother of two adult sons and owner of a Jack Russell terrier named Dublin, Gordon is an arts lover, sports enthusiast and avid reader. Her long list of achievements includes a master’s degree in business administration from the Asper School of

Business. Professionally, she worked for the provincial government for 25 years and spent another decade working in health care with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. In 2016, she decided to put her name on the ballot for the provincial election in the Fort Rouge riding, up against two party leaders. “The candle was lit for politics when I worked for the deputy minister of labour and immigration. He took me to every meeting and I really learned the ropes,” she said. “Then when I was working in health care, I was so frustrated with how the system was functioning. I felt it wasn’t functioning in the best interest of the patient. It was not about the health-care workers; it was about the way the system was organized.” CONTINUED >>

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Mental Health, Wellness and Recovery Minister Audrey Gordon feels honoured to be Manitoba’s first black cabinet minister. MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 15

Minister Audrey Gordon encourages others to reach for their dreams, even when it seems impossible.

“I’m so humbled and honoured to be a trailblazer and lead the way by opening the door for other black individuals to enter politics and to know it’s possible. I hope my accomplishment inspires people who may have given up on their dream, regardless of race, ethnicity or skin colour,” she said. “It may be hard and it may take time, but it’s not impossible if you keep believing in yourself. You need to have mentors, and you need grit, perseverance and determination. Just because you’ve failed doesn’t mean you can’t pick yourself up and try again.” Gordon recognizes that she may serve as a role model, just as other women have inspired her along her journey. “There were others who opened the doors in these sectors to make it possible for me to be here today. I’m grateful for what they’ve done to pave the way. We need to celebrate women and their breakthroughs across the sectors,” Gordon said. “As women, we are strong. We can be stronger by moving forward together in a unified way. It’s been quite a journey for me, but I’m very glad to be here.” ◗

Moving ever upwards, Gordon became minister of the new provincial department of health, wellness and recovery in January 2021. On her way “I’m so humbled and honoured to be a trailblazer and lead the home from the swearing-in ceremony, she realized she’s now the first black cabinet minister in Manitoba’s history. way by opening the door for other black individuals to enter politics and to know it’s possible.”

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She felt compelled to do more than merely talk about the situation, so she surprised her husband when she told him about her plans to run in the next election. “I have to be a candle that is lit in what I consider to be a dark space, so I came forward as a candidate for nomination. A lot of people were surprised. I wasn’t a shoo-in and I had to work really hard,” she said. “I was not successful in that election, but I was successful in terms of learning how to run a campaign and how to be competitive.” Rising to the challenge, Gordon put her name on the ballot again in the next election as the Progressive Conservative candidate for the Southdale riding. She was elected Southdale MLA on Sept. 10, 2019.

Celebrating International Women’s Day.

Brian Pallister MLA for Fort Whyte 204.489.0828

Audrey Gordon MLA for Southdale 204.415.7397

Eileen Clarke MLA for Agassiz 204.385.2469

Cathy Cox MLA Kildonan - River East 204.334.7866

Sarah Guillemard MLA for Fort Richmond 204.221.8881

Janice Morley-Lecomte MLA for Seine River 204.253.4509

Rochelle Squires MLA for Riel 204.615.5241

Heather Stefanson MLA for Tuxedo 204.487.0013

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WHAT YOU APPRECIATE, APPRECIATES

Over the years, dts lifeStyles founder When you make a difference with what you have, it expands by Jim Timlick

Debbie Styles has helped numerous women direct energy and attention to their financial future. While her advice has inspired many of those women, Styles says the relationships forged have more so inspired her. “Oh, absolutely,” says Styles, who began her financial advice business in 2000. “To me, my business is people. It’s about meeting people where they are and helping them get to where they want to be. “It’s so great to see women who are willing to forge their own path and make a difference with what they have. They want to make smart decisions, stand on their own and continually invest in their future.” One of the women who has inspired Styles is Athena, 26, a criminal justice major attending university. As a survivor of sexual assault, Athena sought accountability and successfully sued the institutions that failed to protect her as a youth and came to Styles for help in investing the

For Debbie Styles, her three best investments are her daughters Signey, Lane and Gretta.

a legal battle with his employer after he was left unable to work. And finally, there is Reena, who Styles originally met as an instructor at her daughter Lane’s acting class. She was so impressed by Reena’s teaching style she encouraged her to start up her own children’s acting studio. The two struck up a friendship and later decided to start up a business club for female entrepreneurs, resulting in many successfully run businesses. “They fuelled my creativity,” Styles says of her fellow club members. “They were amazing with technology, they had Instagram accounts, they had followers, and they were building their businesses in ways I didn’t even know existed.” ◗

compensation she received. “I asked her why she came to me for advice and she said: ‘Financial security is new to me, and I trust that with your guidance, I will grow this new safety net. I am facing my hard history to write a different ending.’” Another inspiration for Styles has been Darbie, whose father passed away while she was just a child. Darbie received a sizeable life insurance payment from her father’s employer, which was held in trust until she turned 18. Styles has been working with Darbie for the past 14 years and has provided her with advice on everything from acquiring several real estate properties to helping her common-law partner fight

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Robyn Okaja is the general manager of Audi Winnipeg.

of two boys. “Because we all can’t be good at everything, I like to surround myself with people who are experts,” she said. Okaja worked at other dealerships and started as a sales representative. In April of 2019, she joined Audi Winnipeg in her current position. At 12 years old, she was “part of the VW club and loved everything VW related,” she said. The Volkswagen group, to those who are not in-the- know, owns Audi. “It must have been fate,” she admitted. Working well in a team setting stems from having played team sports. It “shows you how to have individual successes within a team,” she said. Sports is a good barometer to determine a desire to develop and be competitive. Okaja said, “The harder you work at something, the results will come.” Essentially, it comes down to working toward your goals and knowing that "you can achieve more as a team than any one person could do on their own," she said. When asked what advice she would offer to girls, Okaja said to “focus on the things you have control over and you’re really good at … rather than trying to fit a mould.“ That is not just good advice for girls or women, she added. A former boss had sage advice: When life gives you chances — take them. Okaja’s encouraging words are just as sound. She said, “Be confident in your abilities. You’ll figure it out as you go. You can’t say no to results!” ◗

YOU CAN’T SAY NO TO RESULTS

It would be difficult to be uninspired by Robyn Okaja. Her outlook on life is so positive — which is refreshing in this rather negative world. As general manager of Audi Winnipeg, Okaja may work in a traditionally male-dominated field but being a woman trailblazer is not her focus. She is more interested in results. Okaja revealed that there had been times when people assumed that her father or husband owned the dealership — insinuating that she had not earned the role. But she takes these comments in stride and “prefers to focus on others’ intentions,” she said. Comments such as these are seen “as an opportunity to change pre- conceived notions,” she added.

Okaja explained that women “may still have a long way to go.” In considering gender, race and minority concerns, “we still are not equal,” she noted. But she also feels that we all have something to overcome. Her story of why she started in vehicle sales is light-hearted and pragmatic. With a goal of becoming a dentist, Okaja accepted a scholarship to play Division 1 volleyball for Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia. Once finished her undergraduate degree, she came to Winnipeg and needed a vehicle. Okaja had heard that if she worked at a dealership, she might get to use a car. Sometimes “life works that way,” she said. It takes you on an unexpected journey. Most of us know that life’s path is rarely linear. But Okaja admits the role is perfect for her. Creating a solid team is the main goal for this mother

Virtual concerts CELEBRATE INDIGENOUS WOMEN By Jennifer McFee

Above: Shaneen Robinson-Desjarlais is the Indigenous Music Development co-ordinator. Right: Singer-songwriter Ila Barker will be performing in the Iskwewak Nikamowak virtual concert.

Indigenous women from across Manitoba will share their musical talent in back-to-back virtual performances for International Women’s Day. The Indigenous Music Development program at Manitoba Music received funding from Factor Canada to host the toe- tapping events. Shaneen Robinson-Desjarlais, Indigenous Music Development co-ordinator, came up with idea following the success of last year’s online Mother’s Day concert. For the Iskwewak Nikamowak virtual

concert, she invited submissions from Indigenous women who are already members of Manitoba Music. “Iskwewak Nikamowak” means “women singing” in the Swampy Cree dialect from much of northern Manitoba, which is home to many of the performers. “We want to showcase some of our Indigenous female talent that we work with,” she said. “We’ll highlight them in a mini concert so we can celebrate them on International Women’s Day.” In addition, the Iskwewak Nikamowak online talent showcase provides an opportunity for Indigenous women who are emerging amateur singers. “There’s an underground community of artists that participate in talent shows in the

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Happy International Women’s Day!

WTCWINNIPEG.COM

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“Iskwewak Nikamowak” means “women singing” in the Swampy Cree dialect from much of northern Manitoba, which is home to many of the performers.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MARCH 8 TH

FROM CHALLENGE COMES CHANGE So let’s all choose to challenge gender bias and inequality, misogyny and violence against women. How will you help forge a gender equal world? Celebrate women’s achievement. Raise awareness

I CHOOSE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MARCH 8 TH

I CHOOSE ONAL WOMEN’S DAY MARCH 8 TH NTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MARCH 8 TH

I CHOOSE

against bias. Take action for equality. #CHOOSETOCHALLENGE #IWD2021

I CHOOSE

FROM CHALLENGE COMES CHANGE So let's all choose to challenge gender bias and inequality, misogyny and violence against women. How will you help forge a gender equal world? Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness against bias.

CHOOSE

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Clockwise from top: Andrina Turenne, FONTINE, Rhonda Head and Brandi Vezina are among the performers.

ISKWEWAK NIKAMOWAK VIRTUAL CONCERT PERFORMERS

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Indigenous circuit across Manitoba. So many big Indigenous female singers started out in the talent show circuit,” Robinson-Desjarlais said. “This event is for singers who maybe perform for their families and communities in talent shows but might not have made it to the next level. There’s so much amazing talent untapped in these communities, and this is a way for them to get noticed in the industry.” The Top 5 aspiring singers will receive cash prizes, along with a free one-year membership to Manitoba Music and a music career consultation. Both concerts will air on March 8 on the Facebook page for Indigenous Music (@MusicIndigenous). For more information, including the schedule, visit the Facebook page or indigenousmusic.ca. ◗

Tracy Bone Kimberley Dawn Andrina Turenne Rhonda Head FONTINE Victoria Turko Ila Barker

Paige Drobot Lisa Muswagon Brandi Vezina The Keen & The Kind Sherri Shorting Ivy Venin

Happy International Women’s Day

Niki Ashton , MP Churchill—Keewatinook Aski Niki.Ashton@parl.gc.ca 1-866-785-0522

Leah Gazan , MP Winnipeg Centre Leah.Gazan@parl.gc.ca 204-984-1675

Daniel Blaikie , MP Elmwood—Transcona Daniel.Blaikie@parl.gc.ca 204-984-2499

22 CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

8 MARCH

Clockwise from top: Tracy Bone, Sherri Shorting, Victoria Turko and Kimberley Dawn will also sing in the virtual concert.

What Celebrating International Women’s Day means to us!

At Howe Harrell & Associates, we are incredibly proud of the continued movement towards an increased level of financial education amongst women. We’re glad that our team is building a great foundation around empowering successful women in our city on this cause. Each year we fully support International Women’s Day to it’s

fullest, as it’s a large part of our mission as well.

To find out how we’re doing it, reach out to us at info@hhaa.ca, we’re excited to connect.

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 23

Celebrating International Women’s Day THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS ADVERTISING MANAGEMENT TEAM

From left: Mandeep Cheema, director; Karen Buss, vice-president; Tami Bradford, director; Charlene Adam, director.

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