Our International Women’s Day Conference is a focused day of insight, strategy, and meaningful connection. Gain valuable perspective through research, data, and lived experience exploring the role of women in business and the economy. Leave informed and equipped with practical knowledge you can apply to your leadership, career, and organization. This event brings women from across our community together to connect, share experiences, and support one another in both personal and professional ways.
Whether you are looking to build new relationships, exchange ideas, or simply be part of a supportive and inspiring environment, this gathering is a chance to celebrate women uplifting women.
Speakers
Marwa Abdou is Senior Research Director at the Business Data Lab, Canadian Chamber of Commerce, where she leads national research on trade, business conditions, and inclusive growth. With over 15 years of global experience, she has advised governments and institutions including the World Bank and OECD. Marwa is a leading voice on women’s entrepreneurship, and will join us to explore opportunities for women-led growth and the role of philanthropy.
Cheryl Sutherland is an entrepreneur and founder of PleaseNotes, a globally recognized personal growth brand featured in Forbes, Fast Company, and InStyle. What began as a personal journey toward clarity and confidence has grown into an international movement rooted in mindset, intention, and bold action. Through four successful crowdfunding campaigns, Cheryl has built and scaled product-based businesses while cultivating deeply engaged communities.Today, she empowers founders and leaders to move beyond self-doubt, clarify their vision, and take aligned action — proving that when women invest in themselves and support one another, they create momentum that extends far beyond business.
Colleen Falco is the Vice President of Human Resources at Niagara Casinos, where she leads with a strong commitment to people, culture, and community. With extensive experience in organizational leadership and talent strategy, she is passionate about creating environments where associates feel supported, empowered, and inspired to grow. Colleen is equally dedicated to strengthening community partnerships, recognizing that meaningful impact extends beyond the workplace. She brings a thoughtful, authentic leadership perspective grounded in both business insight and heart.
Cara Krezek is the Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of The Talent Strategy Collective, where she partners with complex organizations—particularly in higher education—to design purpose-driven strategies, strengthen leadership, and align career education with the evolving future of work. She is also the Founder of The Apiary Co-Work, a female-focused coworking space in Niagara that champions collaboration and community. Cara also serves as Chair of the Women in Niagara (WIN) Council.A certified CliftonStrengths coach, published author, and award-winning leader, Cara has been recognized nationally and internationally for her impact in experiential education and strategy, including receiving the 2025 Award of Excellence in Experiential Education. She is passionate about helping organizations and individuals unlock their “why” and thrive.
Trisha Romance is an internationally celebrated artist whose luminous watercolours capture the spirit of home, place, and everyday grace. Through decades of giving to her community and the arts, she has helped shape the cultural and economic vitality of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Her work embodies this year’s IWD theme, Give to Gain, showing how generosity creates lasting impact.
