Celebrating International Women’s Day: Empowering and celebrating women from different walks of life | Extendicare West End Villa embraces inclusion

International Women's Day encourages us all to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women globally.

In 2024, the theme, Inspire Inclusion, emphasizes the importance of inclusion to achieve gender equality. It encourages us to take action by dismantling barriers, challenging stereotypes, and fostering environments where every woman is valued and respected.

In honour of this day, we chatted with three of the many exceptional women who provide care and support to residents at our West End Villa home in Ottawa, ON.

Q&A

Q1) What does ‘Inspire Inclusion’ mean to you?

Meseret, Dietary Manager, Extendicare West End Villa:

“Inspire Inclusion on International Women’s Day means empowering and celebrating all women from different backgrounds and walks of life. I am grateful that I get the opportunity to work in a leadership position with amazing women from different backgrounds.

I truly believe that our leadership team is an example of this in action. At our home, the Administrator, the Director of Care, and the two Assistant Directors of Care are all amazing women from diverse backgrounds.”

For me, this is about respecting and empowering each other. When we do this, we become more productive and creative, feel a sense of belonging, and learn from each other.”

Mariama, Director of Care, Extendicare West End Villa:

“We can actively listen to and amplify the voices of women from marginalized communities, advocate for policies and practices that promote diversity and equity, mentor and support women in their career development, and challenge stereotypes and biases in our workplaces and communities.

By fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all women to thrive.

In health-care settings, it means ensuring equal opportunities for career advancement, providing support for work-life balance, and fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among colleagues.”

Anissa, Administrator, Extendicare West End Villa

“It is a time to reflect on progress made, celebrate success, identify ongoing issues or gaps, and continue to work for a more inclusive and equitable future for all women, regardless of their racial or ethnic background.

We need to recognize and acknowledge the challenges faced by different groups of women, including those of different ethnicities, backgrounds, abilities, and orientations.

I am proud to be part of an organization that actively celebrates and honours women!”

Q2) Is there a woman that has inspired you in your career or personal life? If so, why?

Anissa, Administrator, Extendicare West End Villa:

“Many women inspired me (and continue to inspire me!) throughout my life and career: my mother, aunts, my sister, cousins, colleagues, even my nieces inspire me every day! My mother was smart and brilliant. She treated all her children the same, regardless of whether they were boys or girls.”

Mariama, Director of Care, Extendicare West End Villa:

“My mother. She stands as a radiant thread, weaving determination, resilience, and boundless inspiration into the very fabric of who I am. Through her actions, she taught me the value of hard work, dedication, and the importance of forging one's path, regardless of the circumstances.”

Meseret, Dietary Manager, Extendicare West End Villa

“My mother. She is a hard worker and strong woman. She taught me that hard work is a key to success.

When it comes my career, our very own Anissa's story is an inspiration for me and any woman. She is one of the best leaders I have ever worked with.”