Reflecting on the incredible women I've had the honour of supporting throughout my journey, I am reminded that this work has never been about personal accolades. It has always been about helping others, about ensuring that women—particularly those whose voices are often overlooked—have the opportunities, the mentorship, and the encouragement they deserve. From championing young women in STEM and STEAM fields to standing alongside queer women in global advocacy, my commitment has been to uplift, support, and advocate for those around me.
Early in my career as a CIO, I recognised the importance of creating tangible opportunities for women and girls in tech. I worked to support initiatives to empower them in STEM and STEAM industries. Through co-op and work experience programmes, I ensured that young women starting their careers gained real-world experience, bridging the gap between education and the workplace. I took great pride in writing letters of recommendation and elevating their CVs to my network of IT leaders, locally and globally. Using the privilege of being named one of CXO magazine’s Top 20 Influential CIOs in 2016, I helped these young women access the opportunities they deserved.
My feminist advocacy expanded beyond tech. I’ve worked with Women's March Canada, supporting queer women through Outright International, and volunteered with GiveOut on their queer women's initiatives. Alongside these efforts, I’ve continually brought attention to intersectional and inclusionary issues impacting women in my writings and public speaking engagements. I proudly wear the banner of a fourth-generation feminist, honouring the legacy of those who came before and ensuring that my work embraces the full diversity of women today.
This commitment extends into the mentorship space, where I guide women in various industries, helping them achieve their goals. Whether through formal mentorship programmes or casual advice, I believe in lifting as we climb, ensuring women have the support they need to succeed.
Tonight, at the ISG Women in Digital Awards, I am honoured to be shortlisted for the Women’s Advocate category. This award programme recognises the work being done to advance women’s roles in digital spaces and beyond, and it feels significant to me. This acknowledgement stands apart from all the honours I have received over the years. As a woman with a trans+ history, this moment carries a deep resonance. It is the first time my work as a feminist is being formally recognised, and it feels like an acknowledgement not only of the impact I’ve strived to make but of the journey that brought me here.
While this recognition holds personal significance, it also reinforces the truth that the work is far from over. The acknowledgement tonight is not just about what has been achieved—it’s a reminder to continue pushing forward, to keep elevating others, and to stay committed to creating a more inclusive world for all women.
For those who resonate with this message and may seek mentorship or support in their journey, I am honoured to offer guidance through platforms such as Involve People, Gotara, and Powerful Women. Together, we can continue this essential work.
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