International Women’s Day is taking place on Monday, March 8th. The theme this year is #Choosetochallenge. Choose to challenge the world, and with that comes change. International Women’s Day was first honoured in 1911 by Austria, Denmark, Switzerland, and Germany. Men and Women attended rallies that campaigned for Women’s rights to work, vote, and end discrimination. On the eve of WWI, Russian Women campaigned for peace and observed their first International Women’s Day. In 1975, International Women’s Day was celebrated for the first time by the United Nations. Fast forward to 2021, the world has witnessed a significant change in society’s view on Women’s emancipation and equality. We have Female astronauts, Prime Ministers, and beyond that, Women have rights!

In our village, we have a web of Female owned businesses, a majority of Women sitting on boards, Volunteering, and a plethora of opportunities for young girls to pursue their dreams with strong Female role models as guides. It is incredible to see the shift in the world's perspective on Women, and how far Women have come since 1911. I believe the biggest change starts at home, and what is truly inspiring is the number of Women who have grown our village and strengthened our community in outstanding ways. This article is to highlight some of the amazing Women in Fenelon Falls who have all contributed to the advancements Women have made in society over the years. Our Women thrive each and every day. This progress will continue if we “think globally, act locally, and make everyday International Women’s Day”!