It used to be that students or workers that missed entering academically driven career paths ended up in the skilled trades. This second choice often carried a subtle – and sometimes not so subtle – stigma of mediocracy and separated potential leaders from perpetual subordinates. It also separated men from women, as women were not […]

A lot can happen when women lace up steel-toed boots. For Sheila Martinez, a graduate of YWCA Toronto’s Pre-Apprenticeship Carpentry program for women, entering the skilled trades has been a life-changer. As a single mom who has always loved to do her own plumbing, work outdoors and solve problems with her hands, carpentry was a […]

Last week, we hosted the 34th annual YWCA Toronto Women of Distinction Awards (presented by Sun Life) to honour seven extraordinary women and raise essential funds for YWCA Toronto programs and services. In case you missed this remarkable event, check out our Storify recap of guests’ tweets and Instagrams throughout the evening. The ceremony was […]

Last night, YWCA Toronto hosted our 34th annual Women of Distinction Awards at the historic and elegant Carlu in downtown Toronto. The evening was a resounding success: inspiring women, charming host Anne-Marie Mediwake, a beautiful venue, delicious food, a silent auction, and fantastic live performances by Megan De Lima, graduate of The Honey Jam. None […]