Markham Celebrates International Women's Day

Today, Social Services Network in partnership with the City of Markham gathered at the Markham Civic Centre for a celebration of International Women's Day. The event featured guest speakers who shared their life experiences on the topic of "Being Bold for Change" from local to the global level.

On March 8 every year, International Women's Day is celebrated to mark women and their achievements. This year, the campaign theme is 'Be Bold For Change' calling on the masses to help forge a more gender inclusive world and to encourage women to be bolder, stronger and more powerful in all spheres of life.

"I am pleased and proud that the City of Markham joins the worldwide celebration of International Women's Day," said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. "Today's event recognizes the important role women have played, both past and present, and their economic, political and social contributions to building our society."

"On International Women's Day, we celebrate the inspiring and bold work women are doing to securing the path to equality," said Regional Councillor Nirmala Armstrong. "It's great to play a role in supporting today's event and connecting women in our community."

Speakers of the event included:

• Keynote address by Dr. Dionne Duncan, Senior Manager, Development and Advancement International Missions
  
• Mayor Frank Scarpitti
  
• Regional Councillor Nirmala Armstrong
  
• Markham Fire & Emergency Services Training Officer Nicole Brugger
  
• Executive Director of Social Services Network Sumi Pradaharan
  

The event also recognized champions of gender parity in the community. Award categories and recipients included:

Be Bold for Change Award:

• Grace Medland
  
• Michael Bowe
  
• Shakir Rehmatullah
  

Be Bold for Change Youth Leader Award:

• Riva Patel

Canada 150 - Women of Distinction Awards:

• Ileen Pat Howell
  
• Marion Matthias
  
• Pamala Agawa
  
• Dr. Shobana Ananth
  
• Lorris Herenda
  
• Captain Andrea Beneteau
  
• Linda A. Doggett
  
• Daisy Wai