Speakers to address challenges women face in business world

Photo: CFUW

To recognize International Women’s Day, the Canadian Federation of University Women is holding a public discussion on the challenges women face in the workplace, community and business.

Spokesperson Barbara Van Sickle says organizers have assembled a panel of successful businesswomen for the event, March 9 at the lecture theatre of Okanagan College's Vernon campus.

Speakers include:

• Retired Vernon city councillor and entrepreneur Juliette Cunningham.
• Biologist, entrepreneur and community volunteer Michele Hill.
• Politician and industrial electrician Alice Brown (Crombie).
• Professor of accounts and finance Narita Edwards, CPA CGA, CFA.
• Retired pharmacist and hospital administrator Audrey Pope.

The free event begins at 6 p.m. and, following speeches, will include a question and answer session.

Organizers encourage attendees to: "Go forth and create a gender equal world ... The simple act of talking about behaviour patterns makes the subconscious, conscious. Start talking.

"A gender equal world can be healthier, wealthier, and more harmonious."

Hill is chair of the board of directors for Community Futures in the North Okanagan and owner of Hill Environmental Ltd. Being a woman in a traditionally male dominated field has been both fulfilling and challenging, she says.