International Women’s Day at WINS: Gaining Momentum for Women and Families

Today, on March 8, we recognize International Women’s Day (IWD) — a global moment to celebrate the achievements of women and renew our commitment to equity, opportunity, and progress.

At Women in Need Society (WINS), International Women’s Day is deeply connected to our mission. Every day, we walk alongside women who are working to overcome barriers, rebuild stability, and create brighter futures for themselves and their families. Through community support, employment training, and accessible resources, we help women gain the tools they need to move forward with confidence and dignity.

Gaining Momentum

Our 2026 theme, Gaining Momentum, reflects the journeys we see across our programs and communities. Momentum often begins with a single step - access to employment training, support during a challenging moment, or the encouragement of a community that believes in a woman’s potential.

Through programs such as Retail Ready and Warehouse Ready, women develop practical skills and hands-on experience that prepare them for the workforce. Through our House to Home program, women and families starting over or rebuilding their lives receive essential household items and support to help create safe, stable homes. At our Community Resource Hubs, individuals and families can access a range of services and supports in welcoming spaces designed to foster connection, stability, and growth.

At WINS, we meet women at their point of need, offering practical support and meaningful opportunities that help them move forward on their own terms.

A Community That Gives So Women Can Gain

This year’s global International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” highlights the power of collective action. When communities invest in women through support, opportunity, and resources, the benefits extend far beyond the individual.

At WINS, we see this every day.

When a woman gains employment skills, she gains confidence. When she gains stability, her family gains security. When she gains momentum, her entire community benefits.

The generosity of our supporters makes this possible. Every donation, thrift store purchase, and volunteer hour helps remove barriers and create pathways toward self-sufficiency.

Celebrating International Women’s Day Together

On March 2, WINS proudly hosted our annual International Women’s Day event, bringing together community leaders, partners, and supporters for an inspiring evening of reflection and connection. The event featured remarks from Honourable Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women, an inspiring keynote address from Nadine Niba, CPA, MBA, and remarks from Karen Ramchuk, President and CEO of WINS.

The evening was a powerful reminder that advancing women requires collaboration, community, and a shared commitment to building opportunities.

Stories of Women Gaining Momentum

Throughout the month, WINS will be spotlighting stories of women who have gained momentum - women whose journeys reflect resilience, courage, and the transformative power of community support.

One of these stories belongs to Nadine Niba, who first connected with WINS as a new immigrant navigating the challenges of building a life in Canada. Today, Nadine is an award-winning business leader, bestselling author, and respected voice in corporate leadership and immigrant success.

Her journey is a powerful reminder that when women receive support at the right moment, the impact can last a lifetime. Nadine Niba’s Story | Gaining Momentum with WINS

How You Can Help Women Gain Momentum

Creating opportunity for women is a collective effort, and there are many ways our community can help build momentum.

• Shop at WINS thrift stores: Every purchase supports programs that help women build skills, stability, and independence. https://www.winsyyc.ca/shop 

• Donate gently used goods: Clothing and household donations give items a second life while helping fund programs and provide essential items to families in need. Donate Goods | WINS Calgary 

• Give a financial gift: Monetary donations allow WINS to expand programs and respond to the evolving needs of our community. Donate Funds | WINS Calgary

• Volunteer your time: Individuals and groups can volunteer across WINS locations, helping support our stores, programs, and services. Volunteer | WINS Calgary

Every action - big or small helps remove barriers and create pathways for women to move forward.

When Women Rise, Communities Thrive

International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a call to action. It reminds us that progress happens when individuals, organizations, and communities work together to create opportunity.

At WINS, we remain committed to amplifying women’s voices, meeting women where they are, removing barriers, and creating pathways toward economic independence.

Because when women gain momentum, communities rise.

#GainingMomentum