Womanact

WomanACT is heartbroken and outraged by the recent femicides of Navneet Kaur and Thi Nguyen in Toronto. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, loved ones, and communities as they grieve these unimaginable losses.

These deaths remind us that responding to intimate partner violence requires more than individual interventions after violence has escalated. It requires systems that recognize patterns of coercive control, respond proportionately to escalating risk, and work together to prevent lethal violence before it occurs.

Read WomanACT's full statement: https://womanact.ca/womanact-statement-on-recent-femicides-in-toronto/

In this episode of WomanACT’s STEM podcast series, we explore how technology is shaped by human choices, workplace culture, data, and power, reminding us that AI and digital products are never truly neutral. We also delve using technology to solve social challenges and create safer, more supportive spaces for girls and women.

Featuring:
🔹 Sarah Saska, PhD, co-founder and CEO of Feminuity
🔹 Aisha Addo, founder of the Power to Girls Foundation and creator of My Power App

We want to extend our gratitude to Sarah and Aisha for sharing their experiences and expertise.

👉 Listen now on Spotify or Youtube, and join the conversation on building a more equitable future in engineering. https://open.spotify.com/episode/55GCz3ot4e8zKAyijiy332?si=D7M_CoRySW6WDkNDTmsZ1g https://youtu.be/iKyuPKKVw5A?si=GLpIIg66t2p6Lvoq

As technology continues to shape our world, it is critical that diverse voices are included in designing the tools, systems, and innovations of tomorrow.

💡 Learn more about WomanACT's STEM initiatives and resources at https://womanact.ca/projects/supporting-safe-stem-workplaces/

Today is World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

Human trafficking is a form of gender-based violence that disproportionately impacts women, girls, and marginalized communities. Ending exploitation requires prevention, survivor-centred supports, and collective action.

If you or someone you know is experiencing human trafficking, support is available. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline provides confidential support, information, and referrals: **1-833-900-1010** or visit: https://canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca/

You can also access WomanACT’s crisis services and safety planning resources for information and support options: https://womanact.ca/publications/crisis-services-and-safety-planning-resources/

Together, we can work toward a future where everyone can live free from violence and exploitation.

Be a part of change, become a WomanACT member and join a strong and collective voice for systems change.

When you join WomanACT, you'll have access to exclusive resources, events, and networking opportunities.

🔹 Advocate & Collaborate
Connect with cross-sector partners, participate in consultations, and stay informed on emerging issues and policy changes.
🔹 Build Capacity
Access exclusive trainings, events, and a community of practice to share knowledge and resources.
🔹 Amplify Your Work
Gain opportunities to showcase your initiatives and connect with a network of organizations.
🔹 Shape the Future
Contribute to WomanACT’s priorities through strategic engagement, voting opportunities, and leadership roles.

Join us in the fight against gender-based violence. Become a member today at https://womanact.ca/get-involved/become-a-member/

Intimate partner violence does not impact all survivors equally. Experiences of intimate partner violence are shaped by systemic and structural factors, resulting in different impacts and barriers to safety.

Indigenous, racialized, disabled, and other marginalized gender minorities continue to
face disproportionately higher exposure to gender-based and intimate partner violence
while also facing greater barriers to care.

Addressing violence means more than responding to individual cases—it requires
dismantling the systems that create unequal risk in the first place. Safety, dignity, and justice must be for everyone.

Your workplace can be part of the solution. Whether you're an employer, manager, or employee, WomanACT in the Workplace offers practical tools and expert support to help create safer and more inclusive workplaces. Learn more at https://womanact.ca/womanact-in-the-workplace/

Being made to feel guilty, fearful, or ashamed about how you spend your own money can be a form of economic abuse. In WomanACT's 2026 survey, 59% of respondents said their partner got angry about how they spent their money (WomanACT, 2026).

Economic abuse is a form of intimate partner violence that can limit a person's autonomy, financial security, and ability to leave an abusive relationship.

Learn more about economic abuse through WomanACT's Impact of Financial Abuse Infographic: https://womanact.ca/publications/the-impact-of-financial-abuse/

🎙️ Listen Now: Engineering

We're excited to partner with the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies - Ontario (ACEC-Ontario) on Episode 2 of WomanACT's STEM Podcast Series: Engineering!

In this episode, three engineers at different stages of their careers share their experiences navigating the profession and advancing equity in engineering. From mentorship and leadership to allyship, workplace policies, and systemic change, they offer valuable insights on creating a more inclusive future for the field.

Featuring:
🔹 Emily Secnik, P.Eng., Civil Engineer, Dillon Consulting Limited
🔹 Beatrice Sze, Professional Engineer, lawyer, and public servant
🔹 Marina Maciel Soares, Senior Structural Engineer, JLR

A heartfelt thank you to Emily, Beatrice, and Marina for generously sharing your stories, expertise, and leadership.

👉 Listen now and join the conversation on building a more equitable future in engineering. https://open.spotify.com/episode/0YqVbiyzbfzs5u4oD8UphY

As we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in engineering, we encourage you to explore our campaign. The campaign sheds light on the ongoing gender gap in engineering and highlights meaningful actions that can help drive change across the profession.

💡 Learn more and access campaign resources at https://womanact.ca/campaigns/buildequity-campaign/

Nearly half (47%) of Latin American women in Canada have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV). (WomanACT, 2025).

Understanding gender-based violence requires looking at the intersections of identity, history, and systems of oppression that shape people’s lived experiences. Factors such as racism, discrimination, and internalized oppression can create additional barriers to safety, support, and healing.

Read our Issue Brief, “Latina Women in Canada: A Glimpse into Their History and Experiences,” to learn more:
https://womanact.ca/publications/latina-women-in-canada-a-glimpse-into-their-history-and-experiences/