The International Women’s Day 2024 was observed by the Canada India Foundation (CIF) in the presence of a large number of guests including the most accomplished women from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) at Holiday Inn, Toronto.
Since its launch four years ago, the CIF event has continued to grow in stature and participation with each passing year.
Expressing delight at the evolution and impact of the celebration over the years, Ritesh Malik, CIF Chair commenced the event with a welcome address emphasizing the importance of fostering quality discussions, which have been a hallmark of CIF’s International Women’s Day events.
A highlight of the celebration was the engaging panel discussion centered around the theme of “Inspire – Engage – Empower,” moderated by Ms. Manjula Selvarajah, a CBC Columnist.
The panel featured accomplished professionals from diverse sectors:
- Neha Kovach, Vice President, Canada Goose Tech-enabled experiences
- Supreet Warna, Chief Operating Officer, HSBC
- Shreya Gupta, Technology and privacy Lawyer, Norton Rose Fulbright
- Dr. Pearl Behl, Service Medical Director, Trillium Health Partners
- Anu George, CEO, International Justice Mission Canada
Delving into various challenges faced by women in their respective fields, the panelists highlighted the strategies employed to navigate these challenges with a positive and professional approach.
The conversation, included topics ranging from social media usage to the importance of mentorship and work-life balance, was skillfully guided by the moderator Manjula.
Sharing their own experiences, each panelist addressed concerns including the impact of emerging technologies, coping with workplace dynamics, and the significance of resilience in the face of rejection and offered invaluable advice to the professionals.
Besides the panel discussion, CIF also organized earlier in the day specialized sessions of mentoring graduates for success in their careers.
A keynote address delivered by Lisa Sohanpal, Founder & CEO of Nom Noms World Food, sharing personal experiences of struggle and triumph, with emphasis on the importance of a learning attitude in achieving long-term success.
Following the keynote, a career coaching session was conducted, for the benefit of the attendees, by a seasoned professional and Executive Coach, Larysa Grant, aimed at empowering graduates with essential skills for entering the job market.
Sunita Vyas, National Convener of CIF extended, in her closing remarks, gratitude to volunteers and sponsors for their support in making International Women’s Day 2024 a success.
Distinguished dignitaries, including Nina Tangri, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business, and Deepak Anand MPP, graced the event, by commending CIF for its dedication to empowering women.
CIF Board Members, including Mr. Chetan Handa, National Co-Convener, Ms. Vase Sarmah, Secretary, Mr. Sanjay Makkar, Treasurer, and Directors Mr. Girish Kekre and Pradyuman Jhala, along with CIF Board of Governor Members were also in attendance, highlighting the organization’s commitment to advancing gender equality.
