LUSU Wants to #BreakTheBias for International Women’s Day 2022
March 8th is International Women’s Day (IWD), a day that celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women across the globe. It is also an important day to acknowledge the many challenges faced by women and advocate for gender equality. The theme for International Women’s Day 2022 was #BreakTheBias.
Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU) hosted a Women in Leadership Panel to celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day. The event was held at The Study Coffeehouse Tuesday, March 8th and featured a panel discussion with four inspiring women leaders.
Image courtesy of Epica Pictures.
The panelist included Dr. Moira McPherson (Lakehead University’s President & Vice-Chancellor), Denise Baxter (Vice-Provost, Indigenous Initiatives), Dr. Maheen Cassim (former president of the Ontario Dental Hygienist Association and owner of Natural Smiles), and Stephanie Drost (Lakehead Alumna, Thunder Bay firefighter and member of Team Canada Bobsleigh).
L to R: Dr. Moira McPherson, Denise Baxter, and Dr. Maheen Cassim
Image courtesy of Epica Pictures.
L to R: Denise Baxter, Dr. Maheen Cassim, Stephanie Drost, and Lahama Naheem.
Image courtesy of Epica Pictures.
Around 45 students, university staff, and community members came out to hear from the panelist of inspiring female leaders. The discussion was guided by a series of questions posed by Lahama Naheem, LUSU president and event moderator. There was also the opportunity for members of the audience to ask questions.
The panelists shared stories from their professional and personal lives, touching on various obstacles they’ve faced along the way and offering advice for future young female leaders.
Image courtesy of Epica Pictures.
After the talk, attendees had the opportunity to socialize, meet with the panelists and enjoy snacks provided by local, women-owned businesses.
L to R: Stephanie Drost, Denise Baxter, Elder Ma-Nee Chacaby, Dr. Maheen Cassim, Dr. Moira McPherson, Lahama Naheem, Taylor O’Brien and Emma Pineau.
Image courtesy of Epica Pictures.
The Women in Leadership Panel event showcased the power of women coming together to support one another.
L to R: Taylor O’Brien, Emma Pineau and Lahama Naheem.
Image courtesy of Epica Pictures.
This event would not have been possible without the powerful women that make up the LUSU events team; Taylor O’Brien, Emma Pineau and Lahama Naheem (pictured above).