Four Faculty of Environment community members reflect on what International Women's Day means to them and what advancements in their fields they hope for in the future
International Women's Day represents more than a day of celebration. It's a moment to pause and acknowledge the strength, achievements and contributions from the women in our community. This International Women's Day we asked four Faculty of Environment community members what this day means to them and what advancements in their fields they hope for in the future.
Their responses highlight the importance of equality, representation and support in leadership, education and research. Most importantly, they underscore that progress is not achieved alone and not in one day.
While we are proud to highlight the voices of these four incredible women, today and every day we celebrate resilience, brilliance and dedication of all women working to make their community a better place.
Dr. Kelsey Leonard
Dr. Kelsey Leonard is a Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Waters, Climate and Sustainability, and professor in the Faculty of Environment. A leader in water science and governance, she is dedicated to uplifting women in academia and values the importance of community and celebrating accomplishments and achievements.
"I've committed myself to starting to build a list, an "honor roll" as one media outlet called it, of Indigenous women scientists who are world builders. Today that list is in the hundreds and, 7 generations from now, I'm sure it'll be in the thousands, if not millions. In fact, it already has been, is, and will be. It's just about perspective and how we choose to not only uplift but recognize the intergenerational hidden stories of women and girls among us."
"Women and girls are already leaders. We are water protectors. My hope is that future changes or advancements for the protection of water will recognize and empower those existing leaders, unsung heroes, those who persist, resist and remain ever hopeful."
Read Dr. Leonard's full reflection.
Ashley Salvador
Ashley Salvador (MA 20) is an Edmonton city councillor advancing inclusive and representative civic leadership. As a woman in politics, Salvador understands the power of solidarity and the need for systemic change to ensure diverse voices are heard in decision-making spaces.
"I've had many conversations with women who are passionate about their communities, but hesitant to step into public life because of the barriers that still exist. I do my best to share my experiences, offer guidance and remind them that their voices are needed."
In the 2021 Edmonton City Council election, more women than men were elected for the first time. Yet, she recognizes that systemic barriers still remain and continued efforts are needed to change.
"More needs to be done to protect and expand the rights of women and gender-diverse community members who continue to be under threat by harmful policies and rhetoric. As a city, I would like to see us continue to strengthen our approach to GBA+ (Gender-Based Analysis Plus) so that every decision we make - whether it's about transit, housing, or public safety - considers the unique impacts on women, gender diverse community members, and other equity seeking groups."
Salvador's hope is for a future where leadership reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
Read Salvador's full reflection.
Eryn Stewart
Eryn Stewart (BES '15) is a Future Cities Institute staff member who believes in the importance of redifining what it means to be a leader and reflects on the ways women are forced to navigate leadership differently.
"Throughout my career in the energy sector, I've navigated male-dominated industries with the invaluable guidance of primarily male mentors who excel in their respective fields. I closely observed their successes, studied their leadership styles, and attempted to mirror their behaviors striving to establish myself in the same way they had. But along the way, I encountered an uncomfortable truth: the same traits that earned my male counterparts the title of "visionary" were often met with entirely different negative labels when exhibited by womxn."
Stewart's hope is that communities will recognize and empower women leaders and create space for others to thrive. "We need to challenge these biases and redefine what it means to be a leader one that embraces diverse leadership styles and values confidence in everyone."
Read Stewart's full reflection.
Sabine Weber
Sabine Weber (MES '15, PhD '22) is an apparel engineer who is dedicated to sustainability and equity in the fashion industry.
As a woman who has gone through challenges early on in her journey to pursue her passion, Weber believes strongly in the importance of helping women navigate their journey and find their place in this industry.
"I want to see more women not only in production roles but also in leadership positions, such as CEOs, managers, and decision-makers. Unfortunately, we're still far from achieving gender equality at higher levels. It's time for the industry to embrace more diversity not just in terms of gender but also in materials, perspectives, and people. By broadening our definition of beauty and inclusivity, we can drive innovation and create a more sustainable, ethical industry."
Weber's journey was supported by her mentors, like Dorothee Keysers. Today, she is committee to paying it forward by mentoring students, encouraging them to think critically about the industry, and helping them create positive change.
International Women's Day happens every year on March 8 to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.
