Celebrating 18 Exceptional Women in Urbanism

International Women's Day (IWD) globally celebrates women's achievements across society, the economy, culture, and politics. It reminds us of the progress we have made towards equality and calls for continued efforts to create a world where women are respected, thrive, and hold influential roles.

This year's theme, "Inspire Inclusion," resonates with Women in Urbanism Canada’s (WIUC) mission, emphasizing the importance of inclusion in creating equitable, enjoyable, and sustainable cities. The Government of Canada echoes this with the "Invest in women: Accelerate progress" theme, urging everyone to play a role in building gender equality, and healthier, more prosperous, and inclusive communities.

WIUC proudly highlights 18 remarkable women and gender-diverse people who have significantly impacted Canada's urbanism sector, driving positive change in various categories, including housing, mobility, climate, public space, safety, equity, and accessibility. Our selection process involved nominations from board members, members, and the public. The criteria for selection focused on diverse expertise, impactful contributions at various levels, dedication to advocacy and innovation, inclusive representation, and regional diversity across Canada.

Housing

Marie McGregor Pitawanakwat

Daawganing, ON

Position: Chair of the National Indigenous Women’s Housing Network 

Highlight: An advocate for Indigenous women's housing rights.

Marie McGregor Pitawanakwat, founder of Szhibeegen Training Services, is an Anishinaabe woman from Daawganing on Manitoulin Island, Canada. Marie’s organization offers valuable training to First Nation communities and NGOs in Northwestern Ontario and has been recognized with a Northern Ontario Business Award,  Marie is also Chair of the National Indigenous Women’s Housing Network (NIWHN). 

Marie brings a storied past of eviction, homelessness, and resilience to her work with NIWHN, improving the living situation of women and girls, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse people and working to end incidents of becoming unsheltered.  

Learn more about Marie’s work at the National Indigenous Women’s Housing Network. 

Khulud Baig

Ottawa, ON

Position: Director of Policy and Community Engagement at Women’s National Housing & Homelessness Network

Highlight: A champion in gender equity and housing, amplifying the voices of those with lived experiences in decision-making processes.

Introducing Khulud Baig, the Policy and Community Engagement Director at the Women’s National Housing and Homelessness Network (WNHHN). With a Masters in Global Development Studies from Queen’s University, Khulud specializes in community-based research, emphasizing gender analysis and Indigenous methodologies. Previously championing gender equity in housing at the City for All Women’s Initiative and the Native Women’s Association of Canada, she's dedicated to amplifying lived experience voices in decision-making.

Learn more about Khulud’s work at the Women’s National Housing and Homelessness Network.

Cheryll Case

Toronto, ON

Position: Founder & Executive Director at CP Planning 

Highlight: An urban planner specializing in human rights and community well-being.

Cheryll Case, a dedicated urban planner, specializes in a human rights-based approach to community planning, with a focus on enhancing urban conditions for affordable, sustainable, and healthy living. As the Founder and Principal Urban Planner of CP Planning, a nonprofit organization, Cheryll leads comprehensive community planning services encompassing strategic planning, facilitation, collaborative design, and research. 

Simultaneously, she serves as an Urban Design Coordinator within the City of Brampton's Urban Design team, excelling in inclusive conversations addressing housing, sustainability, and well-being challenges. Cheryll's impactful work extends to facilitating strategic community consultations for the Poverty Reduction Strategy Office in Toronto, contributing to actionable steps in the Poverty Reduction Strategy 3rd Term Update (2023-2026). Her commitment to human rights, inclusive processes, and sustainable development is instrumental in shaping better cities for all.

Learn more about Cheryll’s work at CP Planning. 

Adriane Salah

Halifax, NS

Position: Planner at The Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia

Highlight: A standout advocate for affordable housing in Nova Scotia.

Adriane Salah is a dedicated advocate for affordable housing in Nova Scotia, making significant contributions through her role at the Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia (AHANS) since 2017. As an accredited professional planner, she addresses housing challenges and provides crucial advice to local non-profits. Adriane's commitment extends to her role with the Housing and Homelessness Partnership, where she focuses on improving housing accessibility and addressing homelessness. Adriane's impact is widely recognized in the province, contributing to more equitable and sustainable communities.

Explore more of Adriane’s work with the Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia. 

Mobility

Jaimy Fischer

Toronto, ON

Position: Postdoctural Researcher in Human Geography at the University of Toronto/CHATR Lab

Highlight: An accessibility and justice researcher with a focus on urban planning and sociospatial equity analysis. 

Dr. Jaimy Fischer, a Postdoctoral Researcher in Human Geography at the University of Toronto, specializes in transportation equity, geospatial data analysis, and mobility justice. As a Michif/Métis and settler researcher, their work delves into Indigenous transportation equity. With a Ph.D. from Simon Fraser University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Victoria, Dr. Fischer's research plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing issues of transportation accessibility and justice.

Jaimy is also part of the INTERACT research team. INTERACT is a team across Canada with over 50 researchers, collaborators, and partners, and nearly 3000 community members contributing data for healthier cities.

Learn more about Jaimy’s work with CHATR Lab.

Najia Zewari

Greater Toronto Area, ON

Position: Co-Founder of the Women’s Cycling Network

Highlight: A prominent community figure who actively champions protected bike lanes and empowers women to embrace cycling. 

Originally from Afghanistan, Najia has long been dedicated to community service. In 1993, she served as the managing director at the Afghan Women Resources Center in Pakistan, offering support to refugee women.

Arriving in Canada as a refugee in 2013 with her eldest daughter, Najia faced the heartbreaking loss of her other daughter to pneumonia in Kabul due to lack of medical care. Despite these challenges, she remained active and in 2017 founded the Global Women's Network , providing a supportive platform for female refugees and immigrants.

Additionally, Najia embarked on personal projects, including working on a book about women's rights in Afghanistan and earning a college diploma in business administration in Toronto.

Now, as a prominent community figure and co-founder of the Women’s Cycling Network, Najia advocates for accessible cycling. She champions protected bike lanes, prioritizing safety in Flemingdon Park, and empowers women to embrace cycling through advocacy, education, and connecting those in need with bikes through BikeMatchWCN.

Learn more about Najia’s work with Women’s Cycling Network.

Climate

Lauren Castelino

Toronto, ON

Position: Co-Executive Director of Regenesis

Highlight: A skilled grant writer, advocate for youth-led environmental initiatives, and regenerative community projects.

Lauren Castelino emerges as a dynamic force in environmental leadership, holding the roles of Co-Executive Director at Regenesis and Founder of Pitch It Green. Beyond her academic pursuit of a Master's in Environmental Studies at York University, Lauren has orchestrated impactful initiatives, such as the Green Career Centre, raising over $350,000 for various causes. 

As an advocate for green jobs and equity in the environmental sector, she delves into research and was selected as a delegate to the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. 

Lauren's commitment extends to Regenesis, where she spearheads efforts to empower youth, especially those from underrepresented communities, fostering employment opportunities in the emerging clean economy. Her commendable dedication to sustainability and social impact sets Lauren Castelino apart as a formidable leader shaping the future of environmental activism.

Learn more about Lauren’s work at Regenesis and Green Career Centre.

Public Space

Desirée Thériault

Winnipeg, MB

Position: Landscape Architect and Environmental Designer at Narratives Inc.

Highlight: An environmental and landscape designer who infuses a cultural perspective and a commitment to social reconstruction and reconciliation to her work. 

Desirée Thériault, an acclaimed Red River Métis designer, brings a wealth of experience in Landscape Architecture and Environmental Design. Her endeavors are deeply intertwined with social and cultural resurgence, addressing pivotal issues like Indigenous representation, spatial justice, and trauma-informed design. With over a decade of consulting expertise encompassing project visioning, storytelling, and public engagement, she passionately champions the dialogue surrounding design's role in social reconstruction and reconciliation. 

Desirée's dedication lies in harmonizing the connection between land and people, leveraging landscape architecture and city building to cultivate inclusive, restorative, and regenerative spaces. As an Indigenous woman, she imbues her work with a profound respect for the Earth's ancient systems, integrating a holistic lens to craft resilient and equitable environments. Through the art of storywork, Desirée unveils these transformative and inclusive systems within the fabric of design.

Explore Desiree’s work on public parks, at Narratives Inc., and on her website.

Nina LaFlamme

Squamish, BC

Position: Co-President at OurSquamish

Highlight: An artist and positive force for the environment and community leveraging photography and photojournalism. 

Nina LaFlamme, an accomplished photographer hailing from Squamish, British Columbia, combines her artistic expertise with a commitment to environmental and community causes. Her impact echoes through a multi-faceted approach: Through candid photojournalism, she illuminates the endeavors of non-profit organizations, using her lens as a catalyst for raising awareness and inspiring positive change. 

On a global scale, Nina volunteers her photographic skills in countries like Ghana and Sri Lanka, capturing projects focused on empowering women and youth, thereby amplifying the voices advocating for constructive solutions to global issues. Locally, as the Co-President of OurSquamish, Nina extends her influence to environmental and social initiatives, transcending photography to actively contribute to her community. Nina LaFlamme's passionate visual storytelling not only captures the essence of people and projects but also serves as a source of inspiration for others to cherish and safeguard the natural world.

Learn more about Nina’s impactful art at OurSquamish and Squamish Arts.

Nawal Ateeq

Toronto, ON

Position: Founder and Chair of Flemingdon Community Support Services

Highlight: An influential leader focused on building community, shared purpose, and social cohesion among newcomers. 

In the heart of Toronto, Nawal Ateeq stands out as an influential figure, wielding her role as the Chair of Flemingdon Community Support Services to combat isolation and champion environmental education. Her unique approach to outreach challenges the conventional paradigm, viewing everyone in the community as potential "insiders" yet to realize their connection. 

Emphasizing shared purpose and transparent communication, Nawal transforms events and activities into collective efforts, reinforcing the interconnectedness of the community, especially in high-density neighborhoods like Flemingdon Park. Beyond her organizational role, Nawal prioritizes trust and understanding, actively participating in meetings, supporting partners, and building relationships to enhance community cohesion. Through her trusted presence, Nawal fosters a sense of belonging and shared responsibility, exemplifying how redefining outreach can spark meaningful connections and drive positive change within a community.

Learn more about Nawal’s work at Flemingdon Community Support Services.

Safety

Lise Martin

Ottawa, ON

Position: Executive Director at Women’s Shelters Canada

Highlight: A committed gender justice advocate with a legacy marked by a commitment to ending gender-based violence in Canada.  

Lise Martin, the Executive Director at Women's Shelters Canada, announces her retirement in April 2024 after a remarkable 37-year career dedicated to gender justice. Joining WSC in 2013, she led the organization from its modest beginnings to significant milestones, including advocating for a National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence. Under her guidance, WSC secured vital federal grants and efficiently channeled over $120 million in emergency COVID funds to shelters in 2020. Lise expresses deep gratitude to shelters nationwide and leaves behind a legacy marked by advocacy, resilience, and a commitment to ending gender-based violence in Canada.

Learn more about Lise’s work at Women’s Shelters Canada and her lasting legacy. 

Alice Kendall

Vancouver, BC

Position: Executive Director at Downtown Eastside Women's Centre

Highlight: A transformative leader tackling systemic challenges in Vancouver. 

Alice Kendall, a champion for women's rights and safety, has spent nearly 25 tireless years as the Executive Director of the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre (DEWC) in Vancouver. Originally a legal advocate, Alice's unwavering commitment extends far beyond the organization's walls, tackling systemic issues like poverty, gender-based violence, homelessness, and healthcare access. 

Under her leadership, DEWC has become a vital lifeline, providing essential services ranging from safe respite spaces to specialized programs for housing outreach, advocacy, victims' assistance, and cultural enrichment. Alice's impact reverberates throughout the Downtown Eastside community and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of women. Her enduring dedication serves as a beacon, inspiring and empowering those dedicated to gender equality and safety.

Learn more about Alice’s work at Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre and her impact.

Equity & Accessibility

Daniella Levy-Pinto

Toronto, ON

Position: Manager of the National Network for Equitable Library Service

Highlight: A groundbreaking expert in digital accessibility and inclusive urban design informed by her firsthand experience as a visually impaired individual. 

Daniella Levy-Pinto is a pedestrian advocate, and serves as the Manager of the National Network for Equitable Library Service (NNELS), spearheading digital accessibility initiatives and advocating for born-accessible content and inclusive design practices. With over 25 years of experience using assistive technologies in academic and professional settings, Daniella, who is visually impaired, brings a wealth of expertise to her role. 

Holding a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Toronto, her dedication to accessibility and digital inclusion positions her as a valuable advocate within the library community. Additionally, Daniella is recognized as a Toronto-based expert in both digital technology and accessible urban design, actively contributing to the promotion of inclusive spaces through her volunteer work with the Toronto Community Bikeways Coalition and her committee role with Walk Toronto.

Learn more about Daniella’s work at BC Libraries Cooperative and Toronto Community Bikeways Coalition. 

Heather McCain

Vancouver, BC

Position: Founder and Executive Director of Live Educate Transform Society (LET’S)

Highlight: A dedicated proponent of accessible neighborhoods and disability justice principles

Heather McCain is a trailblazing figure in disability advocacy, serving as the Founder and Executive Director of Live Educate Transform Society (LET’S) since 2005. Their work focuses on creating accessible spaces and promoting disability justice principles across North America. As an openly aromantic, asexual, crip, disabled, mad, neurodivergent, non-binary, queer, and trans individual, Heather mentors others and leads by example. 

They also serve as a Crip Doula, supporting disabled individuals, and as the Executive Director of Citizens for Accessible Neighbourhoods (CAN), advocating for inclusivity in communities. Heather's dedication to social justice and empowerment is truly commendable.

Learn more about Heather’s work at Live Educate Transform Society and Heather McCain : Policy Note.

Diana Kamau

Vancouver, BC

Position: Policy, Dialogue & Civic Education Manager at Women Transforming Cities (WTC)

Highlight: A force for good, blending decolonial perspectives and grassroots activism to foster inclusive cities and promote gender justice.

Diana Kamau emerges as a dynamic force shaping positive change across diverse sectors, with her impact reverberating through grassroots initiatives and community-driven advocacy. Currently serving as a Community Organizer at Women Transforming Cities (WTC) in Vancouver, Canada, Diana’s efforts are deeply rooted in decolonial and anti-oppression frameworks, aiming to dismantle intersecting systems of oppression while championing gender justice and equity.

Collaborating closely with Clara Prager, Diana spearheads workshops at WTC, empowering individuals to demystify local government structures and actively engage with decision-makers. Her advocacy extends beyond workshop settings, empowering communities to influence policies crucial to equity, climate resilience, and overall well-being. Anchored in her Kenyan heritage and her profound connection to the traditional lands of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations, Diana’s work stands as a testament to the transformative power of grassroots activism and community-driven change, inspiring cities to evolve into inclusive and thriving spaces for all.

Learn more about Diana’s work at Women Transforming Cities. 

Delvina Bernard

Halifax, NS

Position: EDIA Advisor at Mount Saint Vincent University

Highlight: Dedicated advocate fostering social change and championing equity, diversity, and inclusion in higher education.

Delvina Bernard, the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) Advisor at Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU), is a passionate advocate for transformative social change. As a sixth-generation African Nova Scotian, her lineage connects to the Black United Empire Loyalists of 1783 and the Black Refugees of 1812. Delvina's impactful journey includes trailblazing efforts in the Canadian Afrocentric education movement, championing Indigenous rights, gender equality, and broader social equity. 

With over two decades of experience as an institutional change strategist across various sectors, she brings substantial expertise to MSVU, aligning seamlessly with the university's commitment to EDIA. Her work is integral to creating an inclusive and accessible environment, contributing to a richer higher education and workplace experience for all. Additionally, Delvina's rich background includes co-founding the acclaimed acapella quartet Four the Moment and receiving numerous awards for her activism, songwriting, and performance, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in African Nova Scotian culture and identity discourse. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Saint Mary’s University, her research focuses on Caribbean Reparations for Enslavement, showcasing her unwavering dedication to scholarly pursuits alongside her impactful advocacy.

Learn more about Delvina’s work on public parks and at Mount Saint Vincent University.

Fae Johnstone

Ottawa, ON

Position: Executive Director of Wisdom2Action and the Society of Queer Momentum

Highlight: A renowned expert combating gender-based violence, advancing mental health services, and breaking barriers as the first openly trans person on the board of directors for YWCA Canada.

Fae, a dynamic force in the 2SLGBTQ+ advocacy landscape, is an influential trans woman, small business owner, feminist, and award-winning advocate. Hailing from a military family, Fae found her anchor in Ottawa, her home base, but extends her influence across Canada. As the Executive Director and Co-Owner of Wisdom2Action, Fae has transformed a boutique consulting firm into a nationwide leader, renowned for its commitment to 2SLGBTQ+ issues, gender-based violence combat, and mental health service enhancement.

A captivating speaker and educator, Fae seamlessly blends lived experience with years of practical expertise, challenging institutions to address the crises faced by women, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and trans folks. Notably, she is the first openly trans person and trans woman on the board of directors of YWCA Canada, contributing a critical lens to strengthen feminist policy and movements in the country. Fae's infectious energy and unwavering commitment shine through as she champions the rights of 2SLGBTQ+ communities, relentlessly pushing for societal, political, and economic equity. 

Learn more about Fae’s work at Wisdom2Action and her website.

Michelle Friesen

Whitehorse, Yukon

Position: Councillor at City of Whitehorse 

Highlight: A distinguished leader within local government, as the first Indigenous Yukoner to secure a city council seat since 1991.

Michelle Friesen, a champion in representation and diversity within Whitehorse, Yukon, recently secured a significant victory as one of the city’s new councilors in the municipal election. Her election holds particular importance as she becomes the first Indigenous Yukoner to hold a city council seat since Ed Schultz’s tenure in 1991, underscoring a pivotal moment for inclusivity in local governance. 

Michelle's candidacy was driven by a resolute purpose: to emphasize the importance of representation and to inspire women and Indigenous youth to engage in decision-making processes. Her commitment to cultural diversity is palpable within the new Whitehorse city council, where she stands out as a member of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, showcasing her Indigenous heritage. Beyond her role in governance, Michelle actively contributes to her community, serving as the Youth Representative for the Whitehorse Aboriginal Women's Circle and founding ShredHERs, a mountain biking group that empowers women while also connecting them to mental health resources. Through her involvement with 'Lead As You Are', an organization promoting representation in leadership and politics, Michelle empowers women to embrace their potential and seek roles of influence within their communities.

Learn more about Michelle’s work on Whitehorse’s city council. 

Beyond International Women’s Day

There is a great deal to celebrate on IWD 2024, but the work must continue beyond today. The incredible women and gender-diverse people we have recognized require resources and support to continue making positive impacts in their communities - and you can help.

We encourage you to invest in women and the organizations that are working to advance gender equity across the country. You can show your support for them (and us!) by learning more, subscribing/following, becoming a member, making a donation, and/or volunteering your time. 

We look forward to seeing many more women, gender-diverse people, and allies advancing gender-equity in their communities between now and IWD 2025.