Women in Alberta earn significantly less than men for the same or substantially similar work. Something needs to change. This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, “Accelerate Action,” emphasizes the importance of collective action to break down systemic barriers and serves as a rallying cry for change through advocacy, education and awareness.
United Way of Calgary and Area is pleased to share a few events happening in our city where you can learn more and help do your part to #AccelerateAction.
March 4 – Women in Safety Summit Calgary 2025
This summit, dedicated to empowering women safety professionals, features a program exploring topics such as career advancement strategies, personal development and workplace safety innovation. Attendees will engage with industry experts and peers through discussions and presentations.
March 6 – YWHISPER Gala 2025
The YWHISPER Gala, hosted by YW, has raised more than $5 million in the past twelve years to help women and their families achieve safety and economic stability. This year’s event features keynote speaker Kimberlé Crenshaw, a pioneering scholar in critical race theory and the creator of the concept of intersectionality. The evening will also include a panel discussion with acclaimed Indigenous journalist Brandi Morin, moderated by producer, hosted by Jenny Steele and emceed by Global News Calgary’s Leslie Horton.
March 7
She is… An International Women’s Day Event
This event, held at Calgary Petroleum Club, celebrates IWD and raises funds to support families working with Discovery House to recover from domestic violence. The morning includes inspiring conversations and breakfast, featuring author and advocate Michelle Horton sharing her family’s story of bravery and survival in the face of domestic violence.
International Women’s Day: Leadership and Empowerment for ALL Women and Girls
Join the University of Calgary in collaboration with Calgary Public Library for “International Women’s Day: Leadership and Empowerment for ALL Women and Girls”, with a panel of inspirational leaders, innovating in their respective fields.
International Women’s Day Art Showcase
Celebrate IWD with the University of Calgary’s Women’s Resource Centre and enjoy an evening of reflection, sharing, and learning through mixed media art. All participating artists have drawn inspiration from this year’s theme for IWD: Accelerate Action. In the spirit of activism, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the services and programming offered by the Centre, and support local UCalgary student artists by participating in the showcase.
March 8
International Women’s Day: Women’s Health Symposium
This full-day event at the Central Library focuses on women’s health with expert presentations, a resource fair, an art exhibition and a documentary film screening from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Emceed by Global News reporter Leslie Horton, the event features a keynote address by Dr. Alison Shea from McMaster University. The first 300 attendees will receive a complimentary boxed lunch.
International Women’s Day at the Art Gallery of Alberta
This event at the Art Gallery of Alberta celebrates IWD with a High Tea followed by a panel discussion titled “Festival City and the Women that Make Them”, highlighting the contributions of women who coordinate Edmonton’s famous festivals.
Women & Wealth Inc. is hosting an event to empower, inspire and support women across Canada. The event features a keynote address from actress, model and TV host Ashley Callingbull, along with a speakers panel. Attendees will enjoy a three-course meal and access to a welcome reception.
International Women’s Day Exhibition at VIVO
This exhibition, held at Country Village Link NE, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., includes informative, cultural and educational exhibitions, free Henna, nail art, kids activities, local organizations information booths and much more.
March 9
International Women’s Day: STEM Stars of Tomorrow
This family-friendly event at the Central Library celebrates women in STEM through interactive, hands-on activities. Kids (ages 4-10) can explore science and engineering with engaging activities from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., while teens can enjoy exciting robotics demonstrations from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
High Heels & High Tea YYC 2025 Women’s Day Celebration
This elegant event at the Wingfield Golf Club will be featuring food, fun and empowerment. It is an opportunity to connect with like-minded women and celebrate the day in style.
April 9 – United She Can: Rising Voices, Building Hope
United She Can is an inspiring evening celebrating women, philanthropy, leadership and using our voices to build hope in our community. Join us at The Pioneer to enjoy creative food stations, uplifting entertainment and inspirational networking with United Way’s Women United initiative.
April 16 – Calgary Influential Women in Business (CIWB) Awards
Organized by Axis Connects, the CIWB Awards recognize Calgary’s outstanding women business leaders who have demonstrated professional excellence and a commitment to advancing diversity. The event celebrates individuals who have set the bar for leadership and inclusivity in the business community.
June 7 – Fearless Women’s Summit Calgary 2025
This summit being held at Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel, unites women who are letting go of fear to create the life of their dreams. The event includes inspiring speakers and meaningful connections, aiming to empower attendees to drive impactful change in their lives and communities.
These events give Calgarians a chance to embrace the IWD 2025 theme, Accelerate Action, by joining conversations, building connections and supporting initiatives that advance gender equality and empower women. Looking for another way to engage in IWD? Check out our International Women’s Day Content Package. Here you’ll find social media images and text you can customize to #AccelerateAction!
Every one of us holds the power to create positive change and inspire hope within our community. Let’s come together to inspire change and show how our actions make a difference.