Blog - Page 3 of 462 - Women of Rubies

In Career Gems February 12, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Hosna Kadary: Advancing Financial Equity and Access to Capital for Women Entrepreneurs in Canada

In a business landscape where access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers for underrepresented founders, leaders like Hosna R. Kadary are changing the narrative.

With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Hosna serves as the National Market Leader for Zero Barriers to Business at BMO, where she leads initiatives designed to expand financial access, mentorship, and opportunity for entrepreneurs across Canada. Her work is rooted in one powerful belief: economic empowerment is foundational to true inclusion.

Leading Zero Barriers to Business at BMO

At BMO, Hosna leads the national strategy for Zero Barriers to Business, a program focused on removing structural obstacles that prevent women, racialized founders, and underrepresented entrepreneurs from accessing capital and scaling their ventures.

Her leadership goes beyond traditional banking. It integrates financial literacy, mentorship, community partnerships, and ecosystem collaboration to create real pathways for sustainable business growth.

Through her work, countless founders have gained access to the tools, capital, and networks required to move from idea to scale.

A Recognized Leader in Financial Empowerment

Hosna is a recipient of the Woman of Merit Award, recognized for her commitment to equity, inclusion, and economic empowerment. She is widely respected for her visionary leadership in financial advocacy and mentorship.

Her influence extends beyond the financial sector. She serves on the Advisory Council of the Niffy Wellness Foundation, where she champions economic confidence and financial literacy for girls and women. Her approach recognizes that wellness is multidimensional and that economic independence plays a critical role in long-term stability and dignity.

Championing Access to Capital for Women and Racialized Entrepreneurs

Access to funding remains one of the most significant challenges for women founders and racialized business owners in Canada. Hosna’s work directly addresses this gap.

By building bridges between financial institutions and communities, she helps create opportunities that are not only inclusive but sustainable. Her leadership ensures that entrepreneurs are not just given capital, but also education, mentorship, and ecosystem support.

This systems-level approach aligns closely with the mission of Women of Rubies to amplify women’s stories and provide strategic visibility platforms that help founders grow.

Building a Future Without Barriers

Hosna’s career reflects a broader shift in how financial institutions engage with underrepresented entrepreneurs. By centering equity and opportunity, she is helping redefine what inclusive banking and financial leadership look like in Canada. Her work demonstrates that when systems evolve, communities rise.

In Editor's Choice February 7, 2026 By Women of Rubies

How Women of Rubies Amplifies Women Through Editorial Features

For many women doing impactful work, the challenge isn’t a lack of excellence; it’s a lack of exposure. At Women of Rubies, we believe stories are powerful tools for change, credibility, and connection. That belief shapes how we design our editorial features: intentionally, thoughtfully, and with long-term impact in mind.

Our platform exists to amplify women-led stories, spotlight leadership, and create meaningful visibility opportunities, not just momentary attention.

Below is a breakdown of our editorial offerings and how we support women through storytelling.

Our Editorial Features at Women of Rubies

Each feature is designed to meet women where they are in their journey, from emerging voices to established leaders.

Woman of the Week (Top Tier Editorial Feature)

Woman of the Week is our highest editorial offering and most in-depth spotlight. This feature is crafted for women whose work, leadership, or advocacy deserves deeper storytelling and sustained visibility. It goes beyond a highlight; it tells the why, the impact, and the journey.

Woman of the Week features include:

A long-form editorial spotlight
Strategic storytelling that positions the featured woman as a thought leader
Promotion across our platforms
Evergreen visibility through our website and archives

This feature is intentionally limited to preserve quality, depth, and editorial integrity.

Woman in the News

Woman in the News highlights timely achievements, announcements, milestones, and career moments.

This feature is ideal for women who:

Are launching a project, initiative, or campaign
Have recently received recognition
Want to share newsworthy updates with a wider audience

It offers concise visibility while maintaining editorial credibility.

Women Who Inspire

This feature celebrates women whose stories spark motivation, resilience, and reflection.

Women Who Inspire focuses on:

Personal journeys
Purpose-driven work
Community impact
Lessons that resonate with other women

It is storytelling rooted in connection and shared experience.

Why Our Editorial Features Matter

Visibility alone is not enough. How a story is told determines how it’s received, remembered, and respected.

Our editorial approach prioritizes:

Narrative clarity
Authentic voice
Context and credibility
Long-term discoverability

By centering women’s stories with intention, we help shift conversations and expand representation across media spaces.

Who Our Editorial Features Are For

Our features are ideal for:

Women founders and entrepreneurs
Advocates and community leaders
Creatives and professionals
Women-led organizations and initiatives
Brands looking to align with women-focused storytelling

If your work centers on impact, leadership, or meaningful change, our platform is designed to support your voice.

How to Be Considered

Editorial features at Women of Rubies are offered on a paid basis, with limited complimentary opportunities extended at our discretion for community impact stories.

To learn more about our editorial features or request our full rate card, email us directly at info@womenofrubies.com. Our team reviews all inquiries carefully to ensure alignment with our mission and editorial values.

Storytelling is not about noise; it’s about presence. At Women of Rubies, we remain committed to amplifying women who are shaping culture, leading change, and redefining what visibility looks like on their own terms.

We look forward to telling more stories that matter.

In Career Gems February 7, 2026 By Women of Rubies

All You Need to Know About the Women of Rubies Media Pitch Challenge

This February, in celebration of Black History Month, Women of Rubies is hosting the Media Pitch Challenge, a Black woman–led visibility and media empowerment initiative designed to amplify the voices, stories, and impact of women founders, creatives, and changemakers.

Building on the success of our Media Visibility Bootcamp, this challenge creates a direct pathway from preparation to exposure. It was designed to address a critical gap: women are doing powerful work, yet many still lack access to the platforms, media opportunities, and decision-makers needed to scale their impact. The Media Pitch Challenge exists to bridge that gap while welcoming more women into a growing ecosystem of visibility, support, and access.

What Is the Women of Rubies Media Pitch Challenge?

The Media Pitch Challenge is a curated visibility opportunity where women are invited to pitch their story, brand, or initiative for media exposure and strategic amplification.

Unlike traditional pitch competitions focused solely on funding, this challenge centers visibility as currency, because being seen creates access to funding, partnerships, credibility, and long-term growth.

Why This Matters, Especially During Black History Month

Black History Month is not only about reflection, but it is also about recognition, representation, and elevation.

This initiative:

Celebrates Black women’s leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship
Highlights underrepresented voices doing meaningful work
Aligns with broader goals of economic empowerment and inclusion
Creates tangible visibility opportunities, not just conversations

The Media Pitch Challenge positions Black History Month as a moment of action and amplification, not symbolism alone.

How the Media Pitch Challenge Works

The process is intentionally structured to be accessible, fair, and impactful.

Step 1: Registration
Participants register to secure their spot in the challenge.

Step 2: Video Pitch Submission
Each participant submits a 2-minute video pitch sharing:

Who they are
What they do
Why their story or work deserves visibility

Step 3: Review & Shortlisting
All video pitches are reviewed in advance by a panel of media and industry experts.

Step 4: Live Pitch Event
A select group of shortlisted participants pitches live during the virtual event on February 28, 2026 and receives feedback.

Step 5: Winner Selection
One standout pitch is selected to receive a premium media visibility package.

What the Winner Receives

The selected winner will receive a $2500 worth of Premium Media Visibility Package, including:

Feature spotlight on Women of Rubies and other top media platforms like Guardian, Associated Press, Canada News Journal, Business Insider, podcasts, and strategic visibility amplification across partner platforms.

This package is designed to elevate visibility, credibility, and reach, long after the event ends.

Who Should Apply? This challenge is for:

Women founders and entrepreneurs
Creatives and storytellers
NGO leaders and social impact builders
Women-led brands and initiatives
Changemakers ready to be seen

If visibility, credibility, and access are part of your 2026 goals, this opportunity is for you.

Media & Community Partners

This initiative is delivered in collaboration with visibility and community partners, including Montreal Vendors, WinTECH Community, Leading Ladies Connect, Audaz Magazine, Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, and other aligned media and ecosystem platforms committed to advancing women-led stories and impact.

Event Details at a Glance

Event: Women of Rubies Media Pitch Challenge
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Format: Virtual
Theme: Black History Month, Visibility, Leadership & Impact
Registration: womenofrubies.com/mediapitch

The Women of Rubies Media Pitch Challenge is more than a pitch event. It is a visibility accelerator. A platform for stories that matter. And a step toward ensuring that women’s work is not just done, but also seen.

Coaches and Judges to be announced soon!!

In Career Gems February 7, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

How to Pitch Your Story: A Practical Guide for Women Doing Impactful Work

Many women are doing powerful, impactful work, building businesses, leading organizations, creating change, yet remain unseen, not because the work isn’t good enough, but because the story isn’t landing clearly.

Pitching your story is not about bragging or exaggerating. It’s about communicating your impact in a way people understand, remember, and want to support.

If you’ve ever struggled to explain what you do, felt nervous reaching out to media or partners, or wondered why opportunities pass you by, this guide is for you.

What Does It Mean to Pitch Your Story?

A pitch is a short, clear explanation of:

Who you are
What you do
Who you serve
Why your work matters

It can be used for:

Media opportunities
Panels and speaking engagements
Funding and grants
Partnerships and collaborations
Visibility platforms and features

A strong pitch helps others quickly understand your value, without confusion or oversharing.

Why Many Women Struggle With Pitching

Women often:

Over-explain instead of clarifying
Focus on credentials instead of impact
Minimize achievements to avoid sounding “too much”
Assume people already understand their work

The result? Missed opportunities, weak visibility, and stories that get overlooked.

Pitching is not about shrinking yourself. It’s about owning your work with intention.

The 5 Key Elements of a Strong Story Pitch

1. Start With Clarity, Not Background

Avoid long introductions about how you started.
Instead, lead with what you do now and why it matters.

Example:
“I help women-led businesses position their work for media visibility and growth.”

2. Define the Problem You Solve

People connect faster when they understand the problem.

Ask yourself:

What challenge does my audience face?
What gap does my work address?

This gives your story relevance.

3. Highlight Impact, Not Just Activity

Don’t just say what you do, say what changes because of it.

Instead of:
“I run workshops for women entrepreneurs.”

Say:
“I help women entrepreneurs gain the clarity and confidence needed to attract funding and visibility.”

4. Keep It Human and Relatable

Your story should feel grounded, not rehearsed.

You don’t need perfect language; you need authenticity and intention.

5. End With Purpose

Every pitch should have a direction:

An invitation to learn more
A call to collaborate
A reason to follow up

Never end your pitch without a clear next step.

How Long Should Your Pitch Be?

Written pitch: 150–250 words
Video pitch: 1–2 minutes
Live pitch: 60–120 seconds

Shorter is often stronger; clarity beats complexity.

Common Pitching Mistakes to Avoid

Trying to impress instead of connecting
Using too much jargon
Listing every role you’ve ever had
Apologizing for your work
Assuming people already “get it”

Your story deserves intention and structure.

Why Pitching Matters More Than Ever

In today’s digital world, visibility is currency.

Media platforms, funders, and collaborators are not just looking for ideas — they’re looking for clear, confident storytellers who can articulate impact.

If you can pitch your story well, you open doors.

Pitch Your Story with Impact: Join the Media Pitch Challenge

Many women are doing powerful, impactful work, building businesses, leading organizations, creating change, yet remain unseen. Not because the work isn’t good enough, but because the story isn’t landing clearly.

Pitching your story is not about bragging or exaggerating. It’s about communicating your impact in a way people understand, remember, and want to support.

If you’ve ever struggled to explain what you do, felt nervous reaching out to media or partners, or wondered why opportunities pass you by, our Media Pitch Challenge is designed to guide you from preparation to exposure. This initiative gives women founders and creators the tools, feedback, and platform to craft a pitch that opens doors to media features, partnerships, funding, and visibility opportunities.

Through this challenge, you’ll:

Learn to communicate your value clearly and confidently
Connect your story to audiences that matter
Practice pitching in a supportive environment
Gain direct access to media, decision-makers, and collaborators

Your story deserves to be heard. The Media Pitch Challenge is your opportunity to step into visibility and ensure your work is seen, recognized, and celebrated.

Learn more and register for the Media Pitch Challenge →

In Inspiration February 6, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Amanda Parris Is Redefining Black Storytelling in Canada

Storytelling shapes memory, culture, and power. When Black stories are told with care, context, and intention, they become tools for preservation, resistance, and transformation. Few voices in Canadian media embody this responsibility as thoughtfully and consistently as Amanda Parris.

Amanda Parris is an award-winning Canadian broadcaster, writer, playwright, and cultural curator whose work has helped reshape how Black stories are told and received across Canada. Through journalism, television, theatre, and documentary storytelling, she has created space for Black voices to be heard without dilution or compromise.

A Career Rooted in Culture and Curiosity

Amanda is an arts reporter and producer with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Over the years, she has hosted and contributed to several CBC platforms, including The Filmmakers, Exhibitionists, From the Vaults, and the CBC Music radio series Marvin’s Room. Her work spans television, radio, digital media, and live cultural conversations, positioning her as one of the most respected cultural commentators in the country.

She also writes Black Light, a weekly column for CBC Arts that explores Black creativity, identity, and cultural expression with depth and insight. In 2016, she co-hosted the Polaris Music Prize ceremony alongside Tom Power, further cementing her role as a trusted voice within Canada’s arts and music landscape.

Storytelling Beyond the Screen

Amanda’s impact extends far beyond broadcasting. In 2017, her debut theatrical play, Other Side of the Game, was staged by Toronto’s Obsidian Theatre and Cahoots Theatre. The play offered a deeply nuanced exploration of Black womanhood, ambition, and identity. After being published in book form, it went on to win the Governor General’s Award for English-language drama in 2019.

Her work continued to evolve across mediums. Other Side of the Game was later adapted into a three-part release for the theatre podcast PlayME in 2021, expanding its reach to new audiences.

Another notable work, The Death News, written by Amanda and directed by the late Charles Officer, is a filmed stage monodrama set in a near-future where premature Black death is treated as inevitable. Commissioned as part of 21 Black Futures, an anthology series for CBC Gem, the piece responds to the question of what the future of Blackness looks like. Inspired by radio death announcements in Grenada, Amanda envisioned the work as a form of resistance to mainstream media’s failure to tell nuanced and humane Black stories.

Education, Advocacy, and Cultural Leadership

Before joining CBC, Amanda co-founded Lost Lyrics alongside Natasha Daniels, an arts education initiative that used theatre, poetry, dance, music, and film to engage youth at risk of dropping out of school. This early work reflects a consistent thread throughout her career: storytelling as a tool for empowerment and social change.

In 2022, Amanda was recognized with the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television’s Changemaker Award, alongside Kathleen Newman-Bremang and Kayla Grey. She has also received multiple accolades for her work, including recognition for Best Writing in a Web Program for The Death News.

That same commitment to innovation continued with projects such as Revenge of the Black Best Friend, a comedy web series she created in 2022, and the launch of For the Culture with Amanda Parris in 2024. The documentary series profiles pressing issues within Black culture, continuing her mission to center Black voices with honesty and care.

Honouring Her Impact This Black History Month

Women of Rubies celebrates Amanda Parris for her unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling and cultural preservation. Her work reminds us that representation is not just about visibility, but about intention, integrity, and truth.

By centering Black stories across platforms and generations, Amanda Parris continues to redefine what it means to tell stories that matter, stories that endure, and stories that truly belong to the people they represent.

In Career Gems February 25, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

The Art of Pitching: A Comprehensive Guide To Securing Media Features

Securing media features can be a game-changer for individuals or businesses looking to boost their visibility and credibility. Crafting a compelling pitch is the first step toward grabbing the attention of journalists and editors. In this guide, we’ll explore the strategies and best practices for effectively pitching for media features.

Know Your Target Media Outlets

Understanding the media outlets you’re targeting is essential. Research their focus, audience, and the types of features they typically run. Tailor your pitch to align with the publication’s tone, style, and content preferences.

Craft a Captivating Subject Line

The subject line of your pitch is the gateway to getting noticed. Craft a concise, intriguing subject line that encapsulates the essence of your story. Make it clear why your feature is newsworthy or resonates with their readership.

Research and Personalize

Address the journalist or editor by name and reference their previous work or recent articles. Show that you’ve done your homework and understand their interests. A personalized pitch demonstrates your genuine interest in their platform.

Start with a Compelling Hook

Open your pitch with a strong hook that immediately engages the recipient. Clearly state the unique angle or story your feature offers and why it matters. Journalists are drawn to pitches that promise a fresh perspective or highlight a compelling narrative.

Clearly Outline the Value

Explain why your feature is valuable to their audience. Clearly articulate the benefits and relevance of your story. Whether it provides insights, addresses a current trend, or offers a unique perspective, emphasize what makes your feature stand out.

Showcase Your Expertise

Highlight your credentials or the unique insights you bring to the table. Journalists are more likely to feature stories from credible sources. If applicable, share any notable achievements, awards, or relevant experience that adds weight to your pitch.

Keep it Concise and Focused

Journalists receive numerous pitches daily, so keep yours concise and focused. Provide a brief yet comprehensive overview of your feature, emphasizing key points without overwhelming the reader. Make it easy for them to grasp the essence of your story quickly.

Include Supporting Materials

Enhance your pitch with supporting materials that add depth to your story. Include high-quality images, relevant statistics, or links to additional resources. Ensure all materials align with the publication’s guidelines and contribute to the overall appeal of your feature.

Below are two example pitches for Esther Ijewere and Oprah Winfrey that can serve as helpful guides:

Pitch for Esther Ijewere, Founder of Women of Rubies:

Subject: Empowering Women Globally: A Story of Resilience and Impact

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [XXX], and I am reaching out to you on behalf of Women of Rubies, a dynamic organization founded by the inspirational Esther Ijewere.

Esther’s journey and the incredible work of Women of Rubies are a testament to resilience, empowerment, and the unwavering commitment to uplift women worldwide. With impactful initiatives ranging from education and media to advocacy for women’s rights, Women of Rubies is at the forefront of creating positive change.

I would love to offer you the opportunity to feature Esther Ijewere and Women of Rubies in [Publication Name]. Esther’s story, combined with the organization’s achievements, aligns seamlessly with [Publication Name]’s commitment to highlighting stories of empowerment and social impact.

Here are a few key points we can explore in the feature:

Esther Ijewere’s inspiring journey and vision behind Women of Rubies.
Notable initiatives and projects undertaken by Women of Rubies.
Impactful stories of women whose lives have been transformed through the organization’s efforts.

I believe this feature would resonate strongly with your readership and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on empowerment and social change. If you are interested, I am happy to provide more information, schedule an interview, or supply additional materials.

Thank you for considering this pitch, and I look forward to the possibility of collaborating on this impactful feature.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

Trailblazing Philanthropy: Unveiling Oprah Winfrey’s Impactful Initiatives

Pitch for Oprah Winfrey:

Subject: Trailblazing Philanthropy: Unveiling Oprah Winfrey’s Impactful Initiatives

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you in good health. My name is [XXX], and I am reaching out to you with a compelling story that I believe aligns seamlessly with [Publication Name]’s commitment to showcasing influential figures making a positive impact.

Oprah Winfrey, a global icon and trailblazer in media and philanthropy, continues to inspire millions with her unwavering dedication to creating positive change. I am eager to propose a feature that delves into Oprah’s philanthropic endeavors, shedding light on the transformative initiatives that have made a profound impact on communities worldwide.

Key points we can explore in this feature include:

Oprah Winfrey’s journey from media mogul to influential philanthropist.
Insightful details on Oprah’s notable philanthropic initiatives and organizations.
Personal stories of individuals whose lives have been positively influenced by Oprah’s philanthropy.

I believe a feature on Oprah Winfrey’s philanthropic legacy would be of great interest to [Publication Name]’s audience, adding a unique and impactful narrative to your esteemed publication.

If this proposal aligns with your editorial vision, I am happy to provide additional information, arrange an interview, or share supporting materials.

Thank you for considering this pitch, and I look forward to the possibility of collaborating on this compelling feature.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

Conclusion

Pitching for media features requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of your target publications. By crafting personalized, attention-grabbing pitches and clearly showcasing the value of your story, you increase the likelihood of securing media features that can significantly impact your visibility and credibility. Remember, each pitch is an opportunity to tell a compelling story and make a lasting impression on the media landscape. Good luck!

Grab our free PR guide E-book here for enhanced visibility!

In Career Gems January 30, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Intentional Presence: Boost Credibility and Influence as a Leader or Professional

In today’s fast-paced world, showing up isn’t just about being visible; it’s about being seen with intention. Whether you are a manager guiding teams, a professional building your online presence, or an entrepreneur navigating opportunities, intentional presence is the skill that shapes credibility, influence, and leadership impact. It ensures that the energy, voice, and authority you bring to every interaction align with your values and goals, so you are remembered for what matters most.

What is Intentional Presence?

Intentional presence is the conscious practice of how you show up, choosing alignment over reaction.

For managers: It’s about setting the tone in meetings, guiding teams, and leading with confidence and authenticity.
For public-facing professionals: It’s about communicating clearly and consistently across platforms, projecting credibility, and engaging intentionally with your audience.

Presence is not about being the loudest or most visible voice. It’s about being clear, grounded, and purposeful, even in moments of quiet.

Why Unintentional Presence Can Undermine Influence

Many women are encouraged to “be seen” without first clarifying how they want to be perceived. Visibility without intention can lead to:

Mixed messages about your values or authority
Overcommitment and burnout
Being remembered for busyness rather than impact

Intentional presence acts as a filter, helping you decide which opportunities, interactions, and platforms deserve your energy, and which do not.

The Three Pillars of Intentional Presence

1. Clarity

Identify what you want to be known for. Understand your values, goals, and the legacy you want to leave. Without clarity, presence becomes reactive and inconsistent.

2. Consistency

Credibility grows when your actions, communication, and decisions consistently reflect your values over time. Consistency builds trust and reinforces influence.

3. Connection

Influence is relational. Presence is strongest when people leave interactions feeling seen, respected, and understood. Connection amplifies credibility more than visibility alone.

Applying Intentional Presence in Real Life

For Managers and Leaders:

Prepare for key meetings and team interactions
Lead with authority without overexplaining
Set boundaries to protect focus and energy
Align actions with your team’s needs and your strategic goals

For Public-Facing Professionals:

Post and engage on social media with clarity and purpose
Build a consistent online identity aligned with your values
Pause before saying yes to every opportunity, and choose visibility intentionally
Use storytelling to strengthen influence and credibility

A Weekly Reflection Tool

Regardless of your role, a simple weekly check-in helps build intentional presence:

Where did I feel most aligned this week?
Where did I feel drained or reactive?
Which actions reinforced my credibility and influence?
What one intentional adjustment can I make next week?

Small, consistent reflection compounds into measurable confidence and influence.

Presence Evolves With Your Leadership Season

Intentional presence is not static. Your leadership style, visibility, and energy investment will shift with roles, responsibilities, and life seasons.

Some weeks call for visibility and assertiveness
Other times, influence comes from quiet, strategic action

Recognizing and adjusting to these shifts is part of the skill of intentional presence.

The Takeaway

Intentional presence is not about doing more, being louder, or constantly visible. It’s about showing up with purpose, clarity, and authenticity, whether you are leading a team, building an online profile, or navigating professional opportunities.

Presence is not accidental.
Credibility is not automatic.
Influence is built, one intentional choice at a time.

Author Bio

Esther Ijewere is an award-winning facilitator, media strategist, and founder of Women of Rubies, a platform dedicated to amplifying women’s voices and leadership. She supports women in developing intentional presence, visibility with purpose, and leadership credibility.

In Career Gems January 30, 2026 By Women of Rubies

WCT Leadership Excellence Awards 2026: Give to Gain

Women and allies across Canada are invited to celebrate leadership, diversity, and opportunity at the 35th annual WCT Leadership Excellence Awards (LEA). Building on the theme of International Women’s Day 2026, Give to Gain, the awards honour women, men, and organizations that actively champion women’s advancement in the workplace.

This prestigious gala is a must-attend event for Canada’s vibrant business sectors, bringing together the country’s most influential leaders and rising stars to recognize outstanding contributions to women’s empowerment and inclusion in the communications and technology industries.

WCT Leadership Excellence Awards 2026: Give to Gain — Photo: WCT website

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, April 14th, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Fairmont Royal York, 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J 1E4
Tickets & Tables:Here
Sponsorship Packages: Here

About the Leadership Excellence Awards

The WCT Leadership Excellence Awards (LEA) celebrate individuals, teams, and organizations who champion diversity, opportunity, and inclusion for women in Canada’s communications and technology sectors. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the awards, with eight prestigious categories recognizing exceptional leadership.

Nomination deadline: February 6, 2026

Award Categories

1. Woman of the Year
The highest individual honour, celebrating extraordinary leaders who have materially advanced the roles and influence of women in the digital economy.

2. ERG of the Year
Recognizes Employee Resource Groups that demonstrate exceptional commitment to women’s advancement, using best practices to foster inclusion and measurable workplace results.

3. Ally of the Year
Honours men who have made significant contributions as mentors, sponsors, or advocates, empowering women within organizations and across the economy.

4. Innovator of the Year
New for the 35th anniversary, this award celebrates women leading in disruptive or emerging technologies, turning bold ideas into transformative solutions.

5. Champion of the Year
Exclusive to WCT sponsoring partner leaders, this award recognises those championing WCT’s cause and advancing women within their organizations.

6. Mentor of the Year
Honours exceptional mentors from WCT programs — including Pods and career accelerators — who guide and develop women leaders through insight, encouragement, and dedication.

7. Rising Star of the Year
Open to WCT program alumni, this award celebrates emerging leaders making a meaningful impact early in their careers and shaping the future of leadership in Canada’s digital economy.

8. Regional Leader of the Year
Recognizes outstanding volunteer leaders across WCT chapters in Canada whose advocacy, mentorship, and dedication strengthen local networks and empower women in the digital economy.

Why Attend

The WCT Awards Gala is not just a celebration; it is a networking and learning opportunity. Attendees will connect with influential leaders, rising talent, and organizations dedicated to inclusion, equity, and innovation.

Whether you’re nominating, attending, or sponsoring, the event is a chance to:

Celebrate achievements in leadership and diversity
Recognize role models shaping Canada’s digital economy
Build connections with the country’s top business and tech leaders

How to Participate

Submit Nominations: Here
Buy Tickets & Tables: Here
Explore Sponsorship Packages: Here

Celebrate the women, allies, and organizations who give to gain in leadership. Together, we can continue to create a future where women thrive across Canada’s technology and communications sectors.

General enquiries: info@wct-fct.com

In Career Gems January 28, 2026 By Women of Rubies

Funding Masterclass with Sola Oluwole (Replay)

Many women-led businesses and initiatives have incredible ideas and impact, yet often struggle to access the funding and support needed to grow. The Women of Rubies Funding Masterclass, facilitated by Sola Oluwole, tackled exactly this challenge, providing actionable strategies, clarity, and tools to help women founders position their work for funding success.

🎥 Replay Available Now

The full masterclass is now available as a replay for just $30. Watch and learn at your own pace, and revisit key insights shared during the session. Access the Replay Here

Inside, we break down:
✔️ What funders actually look for
✔️ How to prepare your business for funding
✔️ Common mistakes that block access
✔️ Practical steps you can apply immediately

Optional Add-On: Spotlight Feature

For those interested in amplifying their work even further, selected participants will be featured on the Women of Rubies platform. Share your bio, photo, and social links when you get the replay to be considered for this exclusive visibility opportunity. Send to – Info@womenofrubies.com

Take the step today to grow your impact, gain clarity on funding, and expand your visibility.

In Inspiration January 27, 2026 By Esther Ijewere

Cynthia Mwangi Is Redefining Strategic Communications Across Media, Brands, Public Influence

In an era where visibility, trust, and narrative control define brand success, Cynthia Mwangi stands out as a force shaping how stories are told, received, and sustained across Africa’s media landscape.

A multifaceted PR, Marketing, and Communications expert, Cynthia brings nearly two decades of experience spanning broadcast journalism, digital marketing, inbound strategy, and high-impact communications. Her career reflects not only longevity, but evolution, adapting with intention as media, audiences, and platforms continue to shift.

Leading Brand Strategy in Broadcast Media

Cynthia currently serves as Brand Manager at Hot 96 and Deputy Radio Digital Manager at Royal Media Services Ltd, Kenya’s leading media house. In this role, she operates at the intersection of content, operations, revenue, and digital growth.

Her responsibilities include overseeing programming and station operations, driving revenue generation, and leading the development and execution of station-specific digital and social media strategies. Through her leadership, Cynthia ensures brand consistency, relevance, and audience engagement across both traditional broadcast and digital platforms.

Her work reflects a deep understanding that modern media success is no longer siloed,it requires cohesion between on-air storytelling, online engagement, and measurable business outcomes.

Building Brands With Intention Through Cyn Communications

Beyond broadcast, Cynthia is the founder of Cyn Communications, a strategic communications firm dedicated to elevating brand reputation and driving meaningful engagement.

Through her consultancy, she partners with organizations, public figures, and institutions to design and execute innovative communications strategies that align visibility with purpose. Her expertise spans:

Media relations and brand positioning
Political campaign communications management
Crisis communications and reputation management
Social media strategy and execution

What sets Cynthia apart is her ability to navigate both traditional and digital channels, using each strategically to amplify reach while maintaining message integrity.

Recognition Rooted in Impact

In 2024, Cynthia Mwangi was recognized as one of the Top Women in PR by the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK), an acknowledgment that reflects not just professional excellence, but her influence in shaping ethical, effective, and future-forward communications.

Her work demonstrates that strong storytelling is not about noise, but about clarity, strategy, and trust.

A Woman of Rubies

As a Woman of Rubies, Cynthia Mwangi represents leadership grounded in expertise, adaptability, and service. Her career is a reminder that communications is not just about visibility, it’s about shaping narratives that move industries, influence public perception, and create lasting impact.

Through media, strategy, and mentorship, Cynthia continues to redefine what it means to lead with purpose in an ever-evolving communications landscape.