March 8 is International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and girls. It’s also a time to highlight the progress made in advancing women’s rights and the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their full participation in all aspects of society. To learn more about Government of Canada’s initiatives, visit International Women’s Day – Canada.ca.
Join Us in Accelerating Action
CIWA is proud to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 with a series of empowering events and activities. This year’s global theme, “Accelerate Action,” calls for urgent efforts to address gender inequality and break down barriers that impede women’s progress.
IWD Events at CIWA
This International Women’s Day, we invite you to be part of the movement to accelerate progress towards gender equality. Whether you’re an immigrant, a mature learner, or someone exploring a career change, our IWD events and year-round programs offer valuable opportunities for growth and empowerment.
These diverse events offer something for everyone, from creative activities to informative sessions, all celebrating the strength and achievements of women in the community.
Women in Action: Shaping the Future Together
Date: March 7, 12:30 pm – 4: 30 pm
Location: Bow Valley College, South Campus
This collaborative event is organized by Women Owned Narratives in partnership with Bow Valley College, CIWA, and Virtuous Circle Counseling. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Accelerating Action for Gender Equality,” focusing on creating opportunities to connect, learn, and share stories while advancing conversations on gender equity and empowerment.
- Café Conversations: Exploring themes like workplace diversity, gender equality, women’s entrepreneurship, and mental health
- Guest Panelists: Featuring inspiring leaders and change-makers
- Resource Fair: Showcasing services, supports, and career opportunities
- Mindfulness break activity from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm Facilitated by Ivana Calina from CIWA’s Uncovering Promising Futures Project, Wellbeing and Resiliency Department
- Registration: Women in Action: Shaping the future, together! Tickets, Fri, 7 Mar 2025 at 12:30 PM | Eventbrite
International Women’s Day Celebration: Accelerate Action
Date: March 7, 1:00 pm – 4: 00 pm
Location: Westminster Presbyterian Church
This event is dedicated to immigrant senior women, recognizing their resilience, wisdom, and continued contributions to their communities.
- Eligibility: Immigrant women ages 50 years and over, who are Permanent Residents or CUAET holders
- Registration: Yao Li at yaol@ciwa-online.com / 403-852-9013 or Zaina Hazari at zainah@ciwa-online.com / 403-615-5379
Empowered Hues
Date: March 7, 1:00 pm – 4: 00 pm
Location: CIWA
In collaboration with Pebbles in the Sand students, Civic Engagement staff at CCCS and CIWA will celebrate IWD with a special presentation on women’s rights. Students will also participate in a creative painting activity, focusing on a meaningful one-word theme to commemorate the event.
-
Presentation on women’s rights
-
Creative painting activity
-
“Imprint” Activity: Pebbles students at CIWA will engage in a hands-on activity by decorating plain white tote bags, creating personalized literacy bags to take home along with classroom materials. Additionally, a henna corner will be set up for students to enjoy a beauty and cultural experience
-
Eligibility: Immigrant women ages 50 years and over, who are Permanent Residents or CUAET holders
- Registration: Victoria Oyeniran at Victoriao@ciwa-online.com / 403-263-4414 Ext. 199
Resources Awareness Event
Pebbles students who attend classes at Robert McClure Unuited Church, will have the opportunity to learn about different programs and services that CIWA offers.
Date: March 3, 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm & 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
Contact: Himan Iman at himani@ciwa-online.com / 403-263-4414 Ext. 333
Wellness and Grace
Pebbles students who attend classes the Dalhousie online group will meet at CIWA in-person and will have the opportunity to attend the “Cervix Screening” information session and “Henna”.
Date: March 6, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Contact: Himan Iman at himani@ciwa-online.com / 403-263-4414 Ext. 333
Amazing Women in My Life
Clients from CIWA’s LINC Program will create handcraft flowers and design a poster to celebrate International Women’s Day.
Date: March 7, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Contact: Yuanliang Zhu at yuanliangz@ciwa-online.com / 403-263-4414 Ext. 122
Mosaic Flower Colouring
Clients from CIWA’s LINC Program will handcraft classroom decorations to celebrate International Women’s Day.
Date: March 4, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Contact: Yuanliang Zhu at yuanliangz@ciwa-online.com / 403-263-4414 Ext. 122