A BOLD NEW DAWN IS ON THE HORIZON

Who are you? What do you stand for? What propels you forward? What holds you back?

These aren’t just questions. They’re ways in which we discover ourselves. Seeking the answers is a journey that tests our limits and rebuilds us as stronger individuals.

This is our journey at WXN, too, as we explore and reflect on our own business and brand. It’s an exercise in recognizing where we began, celebrating what we’ve become and dreaming of what’s next.

As the guardian of WXN, this illuminating process has given me a unique chance to reflect on why we press onward as warriors on a quest to support bold women on their epic journeys. As we congratulate the 2023 Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award winners and everything they’ve accomplished on their own epic journeys, I also want to celebrate what the future holds, united together as we step into a new dawn.

We’ve set a new goal for bold representation

In 2013, we ignited a revolution, challenging Canada’s top companies to achieve 30 per cent representation of women on their boards. Today, women account for 34 per cent of the seats on FP500 boards. Yet women still account for fewer than one-quarter of all executive leadership positions within the FP500, and 39 companies on the list have no women on their executive teams.

What comes next? By 2030, we challenge Canadian corporations to reach at least 50 per cent representation of women in board roles and 40 per cent in executive leadership roles. And among women of colour, women who are Black, Indigenous women, women living with disabilities and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, we’re calling for at least 30 per cent representation on boards and 20 per cent representation in executive leadership positions.

We’re leading the equity, diversity and inclusion conversation

Two years ago, we launched the Canadian Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (CEDI) Summit and Awards. Ever since, CEDI has become a crucible for conversation and action, tackling big questions and pressing problems that Canadian organizations face when it comes to the representation of women and underrepresented groups. Our future holds continued focus on these crucial discussions, from tokenism to effective allyship.

Talking about these issues is important. But it’s not enough. We need to act in a meaningful way. We’re taking up that challenge with our three-part Research Series exploring the representation of women in corporate Canada, the unique kinds of burnout experienced by EDI professionals and improvements to EDI supports in Canadian organizations.

We’re helping women across North America find their calling

Imagine a space full of energy and ideas. A hub that brings together personal and professional development with engaging networking. A journey where you discover your calling and set out on a quest to realize it. This is the WXN Academy, where bold women will arm themselves with the skills and knowledge they need to excel.

It starts with our Master Coach Xcelerator Program, small-group coaching that connects professional women with coaches passionate about executive leadership, emerging leadership and entrepreneurship. It continues as we evolve our Virtual Event Series into the Leadership Learning Series, fostering great leaders and bold explorers through workshops and panels that are equal parts enlightening and inspiring. We’re also continuing our time-tested favourites, including our RAW Courage Coaching Program, our Book Club and our ever-inspiring Monday Mojo series.

We’re building a movement beyond borders

Last year, I announced the launch of WXN USA. This year, I’m thrilled to continue expanding our impact through our 2024 Summit and Awards program, connecting Arizona women with a vibrant and uplifting community where they learn from each other and recognize the meaningful and groundbreaking difference our award winners make.

In the same spirit, we’re also launching the Arizona Advisory Council, a group of thought leaders, changemakers and allies who collaborate and advocate on issues that impact women and equity-deserving groups.

This is the journey of WXN – but it’s so much more. It’s the story of women inspiring each other to be bold explorers on their epic journeys. With indomitable spirits and courageous hearts binding us in a collective force, a bold future is on the horizon, forged ever brighter with each legendary step we take.

I invite you to join us.

Sherri Stevens is Owner and CEO of WXN (Women’s Executive Network)