The Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF/FCE) Women’s Symposium is heading to Alberta this year, with the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) co-hosting for the first time.
Taking place in Banff from May 8–10, the symposium promises to be an empowering experience for women in the teaching profession.
“We’re excited to bring this event out west,” says Elissa Corsi, ATA associate executive secretary. “The symposium brings together women in education from across the country, creating a national forum to examine the opportunities and the issues women in the profession face.”
The symposium, held annually, represents an opportunity for teaching professionals from CTF/FCE’s member and associate organizations, as well as partner organizations, to gather to not only hear from experts, but also to share their experiences. This year, the symposium will feature two keynote speakers — with keynote Lisa Belanger, an expert in human behaviour and systemic change, confirmed — and offer workshops, interactive sessions and presentations centred around the theme “Stand in Your Power.”
“‘Stand in Your Power’ is not just about empowering women in educational leadership; it’s about owning who you are as a woman in leadership,” says Corsi. “Being a leader is not about a title but is really about what you believe and what you stand for.”
Though this theme transcends professions, Corsi adds that “Stand in Your Power” specifically resonates within the teaching profession, as women make up approximately 75 per cent of teachers but are under-represented in leadership roles. She adds that the concept of owning your power is also timely given where Alberta teachers are in the bargaining process.
“Women in the educational world need to stand in their power,” she says.
The symposium is open to all CTF members who identify as women, and Alberta teachers, leaders and aspiring leaders are encouraged to attend.
“Leadership takes different forms and, in many different ways, we are all leaders, perhaps in work that we do or in other aspects of our lives, whether in our families or in our communities,” Corsi says. “This event is a unique chance to learn from each other and build connections with women educators and leaders from across Canada.”
