When I first learned about the Canadian Celebration of Women in Computing (CAN-CWIC), I saw an incredible opportunity for women in tech at Western University. However, I also noticed a significant barrier: there was no established pathway for students to attend this transformative conference. That’s when I decided to take action and create change from the ground up.
Vision
My goal was to create a sustainable sponsorship program that would enable Western’s women in computing to attend CAN-CWIC, connecting them with industry leaders, mentors, and peers across Canada. I believed that providing access to this conference could spark lasting change in our tech community and inspire more women to pursue and persist in computing careers.
Building Support Through Advocacy
Taking the initiative forward required strategic advocacy and persistent communication. I:
- Researched the conference’s impact and benefits
- Prepared a comprehensive proposal
- Scheduled meetings with key stakeholders
- Made compelling presentations to decision-makers
The turning point came through successful meetings with both the Faculty of Science Chair and the Computer Science Department Chair. By clearly articulating the long-term value of supporting women in tech, I secured not just one-time funding, but a commitment to establish an annual sponsorship program.
Impact
The results exceeded our initial expectations:
- Secured $2000 in total funding
- Sponsored 16 women to attend the conference
- Established an annual funding commitment
- Created a sustainable framework for future sponsorships
But the numbers only tell part of the story. The real impact lies in the opportunities created for these students to:
- Network with industry professionals
- Learn from leading tech innovators
- Connect with peers from across Canada
- Gain exposure to cutting-edge research and technology
- Build confidence in their technical abilities
Creating Lasting Change
Perhaps the most significant achievement wasn’t just in the number of students sponsored, but in establishing a lasting legacy. By securing annual funding commitments, we’ve ensured that future generations of women in computing at Western will have access to this valuable opportunity.
Looking Forward
The program’s success demonstrates what’s possible when institutions invest in diversity in tech. It shows that with dedicated advocacy and support, we can create meaningful pathways for women in computing to thrive and succeed. Thank you to Mike, our CS Chair and the faculty and staff at western university for their continued support.
Join the Movement
CAN-CWIC continues to grow and inspire. This year’s conference was held at York University on October 25-26, bringing together leaders in research, education, and industry from across Canada. For students interested in attending or universities looking to establish similar sponsorship programs, visit CAN-CWIC’s website for more information.
To Western students interested in applying for sponsorship or getting involved in organizing future initiatives, please stay updated with the Computer Science Department and the social media at Western Google Developer Student Club. Your participation can help strengthen and expand this important program for years to come.
Remember: Building an inclusive tech community isn’t just about creating opportunities - it’s about ensuring those opportunities are accessible to everyone who wants to pursue them.