Mapleton’s EmpowerHER-Elevated event inspired girls

MAPLETON – The township here is working to empower young women and unlock their potential for leadership. 

This year’s EmpowerHER Day brought 64 girls to the Alma Community Centre on June 13 to show them there is space for them here to grow, dream and lead, officials say.

Mapleton’s first EmpowerHER Day took place on Aug. 21, 2024, with activities, workshops and networking for girls aged 13 to 16, led by local female leaders. 

The event has now expanding to include girls as young as six years old, “reflecting Mapleton’s commitment to fostering confidence, leadership and connection across every stage of youth development,” township staff state in a July 14 report. 

“For the first time this year, staff unite all age groups of a transformative, full-day event designed to ignite ambition and celebrate the power of young women,” the report continues. 

The initiative aims to build skills, inspire confidence and foster mentorship connections. 

Guest leaders included 15-year-old Cali, whose cookie business Cali’s Bath of Hope raises money for cancer research; Mapleton councillors Marlene Ottens, Amanda Reid and Lori Woodham; female first responders including a paramedic, fire fighter and a nurse; and local female business owners.  

There were 22 local businesses involved. 

Each participant received a T-shirt, drink tumbler, notebooks, local goodies and small-business promotions meant to foster a sense of belonging and connection and encourage active learning and reflection.  

“Every detail was thoughtfully curated to ensure participants felt valued and supported by their community,” officials stated. 

There was also a dedicated parent information session led by life coach and stress management consultant Deborah Cherrey this year, to help families continue to empower their girls at home.  

“Rural communities often present unique challenges for women and girls, including fewer opportunities to share experiences, access supportive environments, and see themselves represented in leadership roles. This under-representation makes it more difficult for young women to envision themselves in positions of influence and impact.” 

According to township officials, “EmpowerHER Day has demonstrated the transformative power of collective action in rural communities ... (and) continues to drive positive change and unlock the limitless potential of the next generation of female leaders.”