From coast to coast to coast, women are at the forefront of leadership at Pathways and at the community partner organizations we work with. They are changemakers who bring diverse experiences in social justice and a deep commitment to creating more equitable communities.
Across the 31 Pathways Program locations in the country and at Pathways Canada, women make up more than 80% of our collective leadership. Their shared strength fuels our progress toward a more just and inclusive world.
This International Women’s Day, hear from some of the incredible leaders across our community partner network and at Pathways on why building a brighter future means ensuring young women have a seat at the table.
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Safia Ahmed
Executive Director, Rexdale Community Health Centre, Pathways’ Program Partner in Rexdale, Toronto
”Rexdale Community Health Centre believes in the transformative power of empowering women and girls. Our collaboration with Pathways to Education Canada removes obstacles and creates opportunities for young women to succeed. The impact extends beyond individuals—when women advance, they lift up their families and strengthen entire communities. By prioritizing women’s health, education, and leadership development, we’re building a more equitable society where every woman and girl can flourish.”
Marilyn Junnila
Executive Director, Shkoday, Pathways’ Program Partner in Thunder Bay
“Women have a thirst for knowledge both academically and from our traditional teachings. These Teachings hold promises for future generations and influence how people treat one another, care for their children, the land, water, our communities and our world. After all, young women are our future life-givers and caretakers of life whether it be the two, four or multi-legged creatures who live on, below or above the ground or those who live in the home and community.”
Maude Lagacé
Director, Youth Development and Student Success, Les YMCA du Québec, Pathways’ Program Partner in City of Québec and Pointe-Saint-Charles
”As Director of Youth Programs at The YMCAs of Québec, the inclusion and empowerment of women is at the heart of our mission. Seeing young girls blossom and reach their full potential fills me with pride. My team, 80% of whom are women in leadership roles, is a source of inspiration and innovation. Together, we are strengthening communities, improving social cohesion and creating a better future for everyone. The inclusion of today’s and tomorrow’s women is essential to building prosperous and resilient communities, where every young person can succeed and shine.”
Sewit Tamene
Program Director, Unison Health & Community Services, Pathways’ Program Partner in Lawrence Heights, Toronto
“Empowering girls and women in Lawrence Heights and Neptune creates future leaders who drive positive change. With access to education, mentorship, and opportunities, they break barriers, uplift families, and strengthen communities. Their leadership fosters safety, equity, and innovation, ensuring a brighter, more resilient future for the next generation.”
Debbie Engel
Director, Programs & Services, Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health, Pathways’ Program Partner in Kitchener
“Including girls and women in community initiatives drives innovation, strengthens resilience, and fosters equity. When women have access to leadership, resources, and decision-making, entire communities thrive. Their inclusion accelerates progress by amplifying diverse voices, addressing systemic barriers, and creating sustainable change for future generations. Equity isn’t optional—it’s essential.”
Firoozeh Radjai
Chief Development Officer, Pathways to Education Canada
“Supporting the inclusion of women and girls, especially those facing multiple forms of oppression, drives social and economic justice, enhances diverse leadership, improves community well-being, and empowers future generations. As such, when women, girls and gender diverse people are included, it leads to a more equitable, just, and resilient society for all.”
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By breaking down the barriers to education and opportunity, we can #AccelerateAction in every community.
Happy International Women’s Day from all of us at Pathways to Education!