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CE0'S MESSAGE

Empowering Progress: The

Rise of Women in Leadership

Women are increasingly breaking Politicians like MPPs Jess Dixon, Catherine
through the glass ceiling and Fife, and Aislinn Clancy, who, despite

different political affiliations, are out there
reshaping leadership dynamics every day trying to make their communities
across the board in all sectors. a better place.
The traditional image of boardrooms That same commitment is being shown by "The Chamber will create
dominated by men is evolving, giving way their female counterparts at the municipal
to a more inclusive and diverse leadership level thanks to the likes of mayors Jan the necessary momentum
landscape. Liggett, Sue Foxton, Sandy Shantz, Natasha to nurture and champion
One driving force behind this change is Salonen, Dorothy McCabe, and Regional
Chair Karen Redman – not to mention success by bringing together
the recognition of the unique qualities
women bring to leadership. Studies the many women who serve on our local the elements – on all sides
clearly demonstrate the positive impact councils alongside them. of an issue – to successfully
of diverse leadership, with women often However, despite progress, challenges
excelling in collaboration, empathy, and persist. Gender bias, both implicit and cultivate all that is good,
communication. This diversity, in many explicit, remains a barrier. Stereotypical and can be good, in our
circumstances, fosters innovation and rhetoric about women's leadership abilities,
adaptability, elements essential in today's work-life balance concerns, and the notion community."
fast-evolving business environment. that leadership is inherently masculine
Women in leadership roles frequently needs to be dismantled, sooner rather We are seeing this on a local level, both in
exhibit a collaborative style, prioritizing than later. Companies and societies must business and politics, and must do all we
teamwork, and consensus-building. This actively work towards equal opportunities can as a business community to support
departure from, essentially what was through policies, mentorship programs, and nurture that shift.
tradition, creates a more inclusive work and fostering a culture of valuing merit At the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce,
culture. Women-led companies and over gender. we’re proud of the many programs and
businesses tend to emphasize diversity The responsibility for change doesn't events we provide to assist women
and inclusivity, recognizing the strategic rest solely on men or women. We must business leaders, such as our Salute to
advantage of a varied workforce, and the all actively support breaking gender Women in Business Luncheon which also

benefits of differing views and ideas. norms and fostering an environment raises money for the breast reconstruction
that champions diversity and equity, for unit at Cambridge Memorial Hospital, our
In this edition of Insight, we profile sustained growth and progress of our Women Leadership Collective, and our

six incredible women who are doing economy. Women Take Charge breakfasts. As well,
all of this in their businesses and The leadership landscape is undergoing our Chamber Circles for Women program
companies representing a variety of a profound transformation with women is in place to encourage women business
industries including steel, finance, assuming infl uential roles. Beyond leaders to grow not only professionally,

hospitality, manufacturing, energy, breaking gender barriers, women redefine but personally by creating an environment

and real estate. leadership, foster inclusivity, and drive of learning and networking with other
innovation. While we should be celebrating leaders.

Despite the fact they operate in different our achievements in this area so far, it is However, we realize more needs to be
sectors, they share many similar views crucial to acknowledge that true progress done to create as many opportunities as
and principles when it comes leadership, requires ongoing efforts to eliminate possible to ensure women leaders can

including a commitment to creating a gender and in fact, all biases. flourish and prosper and are here to help
better landscape in the workplace for all our business community in any way we
employees. They are a true inspiration to can.
all. The rise of women in leadership To find out more about what the Chamber

signifies a milestone and a guide to
We can also draw even more inspiration eliminate all biases and embrace a can offer, please visit our website –

from the women who lead in the political culture of inclusivity, diversity, and www.cambridgechamber.com – or call us
arena, not only on a national and global equity as we drive toward a more at 519.622.2221.
scale, but right here closer to home at the equitable and prosperous future. Greg Durocher
provincial and municipal levels. President & CEO
Cambridge Chamber of Commerce

6 Winter 2024 www.cambridgechamber.com