Toronto, ON - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, congratulated recipients of Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Awards™ of 2012, hosted by the Women's Executive Network (WXN) at the VIP Reception and Gala Dinner.
"The Government of Canada is committed to the advancement of women in leadership and decision-making roles. Indeed, all of Canada benefits when women can participate fully, as leaders across society – in communities, in business, in government,"
said Minister Ambrose. "The Government of Canada salutes the outstanding women named by WXN as being among the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada."
Founded in 1997, WXN is Canada's leading organization dedicated to the advancement and recognition of women in management, executive, professional and board roles. WXN is a Founding Member of the Canadian Board Diversity Council, dedicated to increasing the diversity of Canada's corporate boards.
"In Economic Action Plan 2012, our government announced the creation of an advisory council of leaders from the private and public sectors to promote women's participation on corporate boards,"
Minister Ambrose added. "By working together, we will see a more equitable representation of women and men on boards, championing women's leadership, and linking corporations to a network of women with professional skills and experience."
"The Government of Canada's decision to establish an advisory council to promote women on boards is definitely a major step forward,"
said Ms. Pamela Jeffery, Founder of The Jeffery Group Limited, the Women's Executive Network and the Canadian Board Diversity Council. "As we celebrate women in leadership roles, we can look forward to seeing others follow their outstanding examples."
Through Status of Women Canada, the Government of Canada has nearly doubled funding to the Women's Program since 2007 to $19 million – its highest level ever. Since 2007, through the Women's Program of Status of Women Canada, more than $16.5 million in funding has been approved for projects that promote women's leadership and democratic participation.
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