In honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, the Town of Innisfil and the Innisfil Indian Association are presenting the inaugural She-roes Gala at town hall (2101 Innisfil Beach Rd.) this Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m.
"As the president of the association, I firmly believe that (the) International Women's Day event is an essential (occasion) to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in our society,” said Loki Swain. “It's a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and a time to honour the strength, resilience and achievements of women from all walks of life.”
This free event's theme is Be Unstoppable, and it will include a panel discussion featuring businesswomen and local dignitaries, a keynote speech by Honorary Colonel of the 77th Line Regiment and Order of Ontario recipient Bhavana Varma, Indian cuisine, live music courtesy of Katherine Chabot, door prizes and networking opportunities.
“From gift cards to exclusive merchandise, we have had multiple businesses from in and around Innisfil who have generously donated for the door prizes,” said Swain.
The panel discussion, Redirecting Success: Empowering Women to be Unstoppable in Their Own Definitions of Achievement, will include:
- Mayor Lynn Dollin, Mayor of the Town of Innisfil
- Andrea Khanjin, Barrie-Innisfil MPP and Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
- Sheryl Sutton, Deputy Chief of the South Simcoe Police Service
- Christy Fines, managing partner of 400 Chrysler and Barrie Chrysler
- Dr. Claudine Cousins, chief executive officer (CEO) of Empower Simcoe
- Col. (Ret'd) Nishika Jardine, veteran ombudsman
“(International) Women’s Day holds immense significance for me as it serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions, resilience and strength of women,” said association vice president and event moderator Su Sahu. “It’s a time to celebrate our achievements, advocate for gender equality and inspire future generations to strive for greatness without boundaries. Let's unite in solidarity, uplift one another and continue our journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society.”
Varma was also the president and CEO of the United Way of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington for 24 years.
A 2023 recipient of the Order, Varma has received multiple awards, including the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal, Queen’s University Alumni Association Jim Bennett Achievement Award, a Legacy Award from the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Canada’s Award of Staff Excellence, the George Hart Award, and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Pin.
Her keynote is titled Embracing Fearlessness: Cultivating the Mindset to be Unstoppable in Pursuing Your Dreams.
“By coming together to commemorate (International) Women’s Day, we not only amplify the voices of women but also inspire future generations to strive for a more inclusive and equitable world,” said Swain.
Donations to the Innisfil Food Bank will be collected at the March 2 event. Anyone interested in participating can register on the gala's Eventbrite page.
