In celebration of International Women’s Day
March 8 marks International Women’s Day - a day to celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness against bias and take action for equality and inclusion.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion.
When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment. - InternationalWomensDay.com
We sat down with three of our board members to ask how they inspire inclusion, what advice they have for young women, and what gives them hope for the future of our relationship with animals and our planet.
As a CPA-CA, Jennifer Wong has spent over 15 years in the financial services industry in roles focused on strategy, financial budgeting and management, insolvency and restructuring, and auditing. She attended the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario where she received an Honours Business Administration degree. Jennifer has always had an affinity for helping animals starting as a teenager where she would donate to animal welfare causes, later expanding into volunteering weekly at a cat shelter and governance positions for animal focused not for profits.
This year’s IWD theme is #InspireInclusion. What advice do you have for young women to inspire inclusion in their own communities?
My advice is to not overthink it. We may be afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing, opting to do nothing at all. Rather, be your authentic self: invite others into a conversation or situation, if you're curious then ask, and don't forget to share your story... you can't expect others to feel comfortable and share if you're not doing the same.
What message do you want to send to young women interested in protecting animals and the planet?
Don't always look at a position for just the title or the role; you need to consider the manager. Having a supportive manager that pushes you outside of your comfort zone, challenges you with stretch assignments, and then acts as a sponsor is invaluable to your growth and promotion within a company. For several years my career growth was stagnant. It wasn't until I found the right manager who pushed me and sang my praises did I move up quickly within the company, successively finding other amazing managers that helped me get to higher leadership roles.
What makes you the most hopeful about the future for animals and our planet?
Love it or hate it, social media can get a message out there quickly and widely. I feel people are more educated on what is good for our animals and planet... thanks to organizations like World Animal Protection, but even individuals who share information with their friends and family. We're in an age where people make small changes gradually, but because so many people are changing at the same time, it will add up to big advancements for the animals and planet.
Marina R. James has over 30 years of executive management experience in real estate development and asset management, community economic development, business investment attraction, and tourism development. She holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Guelph, a degree in local government authority administration and economic development from Dalhousie University along with certifications in climate leadership and ESG.
This year’s IWD theme is #InspireInclusion. What advice do you have for young women to inspire inclusion?
Every day we should champion inclusion, seeking to understand diverse perspectives so that together we elevate environments where everyone feels valued and empowered.
What message or advice would you like to share with other women aspiring to leadership roles within the non-profit sector?
Ensure you place trust in sharing deeply with your mentors and sponsors to gain wisdom and polish your authentic self to fully self-actualize.
Can you share any personal experiences or insights that have shaped your commitment to promoting inclusion and equity?
I have 30 years of executive leadership, often being the first woman in C-Suite roles, blazing a trail of inclusion for others. I believe in the 7 Sacred Indigenous Teachings of love, respect, courage, honesty, wisdom, humility, and truth. I always seek to understand and share my perspectives openly and with respect.
Looking ahead, what impact do you hope World Animal Protection will have for animals, people and the planet?
At all times it is my hope that World Animal Protection advances and encourages a world where animals are treated with compassion and respect, and where animal protection is a priority within every organization’s ESG accountability lens.
What makes you the most hopeful about the future for animals and our planet?
We are shifting from personal awareness to active practice when it comes to improving how we treat animals and our planet. Surely, our collective voices will encourage others to learn and grow and inspire change being persistent when required.
My passion for brand building stems from a deep belief in the power of compelling narratives to forge lasting connections with consumers. My commitment to innovation and a keen understanding of consumer behaviour have helped to propel strong Canadian brands with resonant and impactful campaigns that not only elevate their market presence but also contribute to their enduring legacy in the Canadian landscape.
This year’s IWD theme is #InspireInclusion. What advice do you have for young women to inspire inclusion?
I believe there is power in perspectives. Exposing yourself to new ideas and ways of thinking helps us challenge preconceived opinions and biases and develops empathy. I think it’s incredibly important to encourage leaders to foster an environment where all voices are heard, valued, and celebrated to create a more inclusive society and business environment.
What message or advice would you like to share with other women aspiring to leadership roles within the non-profit sector?
1. Own Your Ambitions: Your goals are valid, and your ambitions deserve recognition. Be confident in pursuing leadership roles.
2. Build a Support System: It’s so important to build connections and surround yourself with mentors, allies, and a strong support network. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and guidance.
3. Speak up: Don't be afraid to think differently and push boundaries. Your willingness to question and innovate can lead to positive change and pave the way for future leaders.
Can you share any personal experiences or insights that have shaped your commitment to promoting inclusion and equity?
I have come to appreciate the profound significance of active listening and the commitment to continuous learning. In a rapidly changing world, where one cannot fully comprehend the intricacies of others' experiences, it becomes more important than ever to lead with empathy and understanding.
Looking ahead, what impact do you hope World Animal Protection will have for animals, people and the planet?
I think it’s important to build a stronger connection between people and animals. By raising awareness of real issues in a relatable way with solutions that feel achievable, you have a huge potential to bridge the gap and genuinely change the way the world thinks about our relationship with food, animals and the planet.
What makes you the most hopeful about the future for animals and our planet?
The passionate engagement of younger generations in environmental and animal activism is inspiring. The conversations, content and advocacy I’m seeing on social platforms is shaping a more responsible future which is incredibly admirable.
