By Vanessa Ybarra

TRU Empower Conference aims to increase gender equality

Mar 8, 2017 | 2:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — Thompson Rivers University held its first ‘Empower Conference’ Wednesday in honour of International Women’s Day. 

More than 100 students and numerous community members attended the all-day event where key note speakers spoke on a variety of topics including women’s health, wellness, gender equality and leadership.

Organizers say the main focus of the event is opening attendees eyes to the struggles women still face around the world.

“Opening the conversation on gender equality is something I’m really passionate about,” said event organizer Emiko Ohama. “”Living in a developed nation such as Canada, we aren’t always aware on how gender equality interplays into our lives or how we’ve been socialized to perceive things. The point behind this event is to bring together people of all professions, all ages, and really unite the community to create a positive ripple effect through the conversations of gender equality.” 

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Keynote speakers at the event included award-winning international speaker Courtney Kirschbaum and United Nations policy advocate Steve S.J. Lee.

Along with speaker sessions, the day also included a community lunch where local entrepreneurs, Kiwanis, and rotary members paired up with TRU students to provide advice and mentorship on a variety of different topics.

Based on this year’s attendance and enthusiasm, organizers say the conference is likely to become an annual event.