Purpose

Women and Girls Empowerment Program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at advancing gender equality by empowering women and girls socially, economically, and politically. The program is designed to remove systemic barriers, promote equal opportunities, and foster leadership and self-confidence among women and girls, particularly those from marginalized communities including Indigenous women, racialized individuals, newcomers, youth, and women with disabilities.

Rooted in Canada’s Gender Equality Strategy and aligned with global commitments such as the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), the WGEP seeks to build an inclusive society where all women and girls can thrive and contribute to national development.

Objectives

  1. Enhance Self-Esteem and Confidence
    Build personal empowerment through mentorship, leadership training, and life skills development for women and girls.
  2. Promote Economic Independence
    Provide access to financial literacy education, entrepreneurial skills, and employment opportunities to increase women’s economic participation.
  3. Encourage Civic and Political Participation
    Support greater involvement of women and girls in decision-making roles, community leadership, and public policy engagement.
  4. Strengthen Social Support Networks
    Create safe, supportive environments for women and girls to share experiences, build community, and access mental health resources.
  5. Raise Awareness and Challenge Gender Norms
    Educate communities to break down gender stereotypes and promote gender-sensitive practices across sectors.

Key Activities

  1. Leadership and Mentorship Programs
    Implement structured mentorship programs pairing girls and young women with female leaders in business, academia, and government.
  2. Skills Development Workshops
    Conduct regular training sessions on digital literacy, resume building, public speaking, entrepreneurship, and career planning.
  3. Support Circles and Counseling Services
    Facilitate peer support groups, trauma-informed counseling, and wellness workshops to address mental health and social isolation.
  4. Community Outreach and Education Campaigns
    Organize public forums, media campaigns, and school programs focused on gender equality, anti-violence awareness, and healthy relationships.
  5. Advocacy and Policy Engagement
    Partner with local governments and NGOs to promote inclusive policies, lobby for gender-responsive budgeting, and address barriers in education, healthcare, and employment.

Expected Outcomes

  1. Increased Self-Confidence and Leadership Among Participants
    Participants develop stronger self-esteem, decision-making abilities, and readiness to lead in their communities or workplaces.
  2. Greater Economic Empowerment
    Women and girls gain the tools and resources needed to become financially independent, start businesses, or access better employment opportunities.
  3. Stronger Representation in Civic and Political Arenas
    More women and girls engage in civic duties, run for office, and participate in leadership roles at local and national levels.
  4. Improved Mental Health and Social Well-Being
    Through support services and peer networks, participants experience a reduction in stress, anxiety, and social isolation.
  5. Shift in Public Perceptions and Cultural Norms
    Increased awareness and acceptance of gender equality principles within communities, reducing discrimination and promoting respect and inclusion.

By investing in the empowerment of women and girls, the program fosters resilient, inclusive, and equitable communities across Canada. The Women and Girls Empowerment Program is not only a response to gender-based inequities but a proactive step toward a more just and thriving society.