There’s an old proverb: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. The Business and Professional Women’s Club of Edmonton (BPW Edmonton) brings together proactive, ambitious, and talented women so they can go far, together. It’s a unique platform for sharing expertise, advancing careers, and supporting professional growth. In this article, we look at the club’s history and its vital role in the city’s community of women. Read more on edmontonka.
The Club’s Mission and Vision
BPW Edmonton is a supportive network for women across various sectors, dedicated to fostering and developing their leadership potential. The club drives social change both in Edmonton and globally. Through various tools and advocacy efforts, BPW Edmonton works tirelessly to improve the economic, employment, political, and social conditions for all working women.
Club members represent all walks of life, bringing diverse experiences and spanning different age groups. They collaborate on the common goal of creating better opportunities and conditions for women everywhere.
Club History: A Legacy of Empowerment
The network of similar clubs in Canada was founded back in 1930 as the ‘Canadian Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs.’ The Canadian clubs are part of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women, also founded in 1930, which has held consultative status with the United Nations since 1947.
Mentorship and Connection: What the Club Does
The club focuses on several core areas, with mentorship being a vital component. At BPW Edmonton, members can gain guidance from high-achieving and influential women within the business community.
One unique mentorship tool is the book club. Every fall and winter, members read inspiring and challenging books, then meet collectively for insightful discussions. These sessions are incredibly productive and meaningful, giving participants a chance to feel heard and deeply connected to the community.
Resolutions: Driving Major Policy Change
Advocacy is a crucial part of BPW Edmonton’s mandate. Annually, members help develop resolutions, some of which directly impact the highest levels of government. For example, in 2021, the BPW Edmonton team, in collaboration with the University of Alberta, drafted a resolution focused on combating gender-based violence in rural and remote areas. The club is extremely proud that this resolution was approved for consideration by the federal government.
Resolutions are a powerful tool the club uses to effect change at the highest government levels. Each year, resolutions proposed by local clubs are selected at the Annual General Meeting to be officially presented to the Government of Canada. This means the vital work being done in Edmonton is mirrored by other clubs globally.
Leadership Development in Action
Another key focus of the club is leadership development. Annually, the club hosts its ‘Leadership in Action’ event series, where women leaders gather for dynamic panel discussions to share their expertise. Given that members represent a wide spectrum of industries, valuable and insightful experience is guaranteed for all attendees.
Through various networking events, BPW Edmonton offers members the chance to connect and socialize with other businesswomen. These gatherings allow women to learn from one another, find crucial support, expand their opportunities, and sometimes, simply be inspired and share a good laugh.
Ultimately, BPW Edmonton is more than just an organization. It is a dedicated space where proactive women inspire, support, and stimulate real social change. Through its activities, the club empowers women to grow professionally, hone their leadership skills, and confidently assert themselves in the world of business.