BPW Canada was founded in 1930, at the same time as the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (IFBPW or BPW International). BPW Canada is one of the six founding federations of BPW International which has had Consultative One Status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council since 1947 with affiliates in more than 115 countries comprising of almost 30,000 members around the world. Membership in a local club includes membership in the provincial, national and international Federations thereby encouraging participation at any and all such events.
BPW Canada has been recognized for its many projects over the years, from the Women’s Empowerment Principles to Equal Pay awareness campaigns and submission of Resolutions including the need to declare Equal Pay Day Nationally, the fight against human trafficking and being a voice for the Indigenous people. Organizations such as the United Nations and other foreign governments from all over the world have acknowledged and applauded BPW’s efforts to improve conditions for all women globally. Our mission, vision, values and principles guide us to our ultimate goal which is to improve conditions for all women.
For more information, visit BPWCanada.com.
BPW Canada National Convention, 2016, Calgary, Alberta.
In 2016 BPW Canada held its National Convention in Calgary. BPW Calgary was delighted to welcome BPW sisters from across the country for a weekend filled with resolutions sessions, workshops and business meetings.
The highlight of the weekend was the Centennial Gala and Awards night with 250 attendees, 10 members of the legislative assembly, a member of parliament and leaders from businesses and civil society. BPW Canada paid tribute to 100 Organizations across Canada to mark the 100 years of Women’s Suffrage. The gala evening featured a keynote address by the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, The Honourable Lois Mitchell. In addition, video greetings were presented by Governor General of Canada David Johnston and Madame Sophie Grégoire Trudeau. You can watch the video greetings below. BPW Calgary’s Past President Jenny Gulamani-Abdulla was installed as the 43rd National President of BPW Canada.
Prior to this, it was Una Maclean Evans from BPW Calgary that served as National President at BPW Canada from 1960 to 1962.
Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Lois Mitchell (2nd from right) with Incoming BPW Canada National President Jenny Gulamani-Abdulla (2nd from left), 2016. BPW International Vice President (Membership) Dr. Amany Asfour (left) and Outgoing BPW Canada National President Colleen Allan (right).