The 2024 “Inspiring Women Among Us” (IWAU) event at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) proved to be a powerful demonstration of empowerment, inclusivity, and community engagement. Under the theme “Caring in a Time of Polycrisis,” the event successfully addressed the multifaceted challenges facing individuals and communities today. Behind its success were two dedicated planning assistants, Kiara Mills and Zehra Zawawi, whose behind-the-scenes efforts were instrumental in bringing IWAU to life.
Making Connections Through Leadership
Kiara Mills, a student in English and Environmental Sustainability Studies, managed social media and created compelling posters that effectively spread the word about IWAU. “It was about more than just informing people,” she reflected. “It was about creating a space where everyone feels they belong.”
For Zehra Zawawi, an international student in her second year with IWAU, volunteer engagement was the primary focus. Her efforts to involve both returning and new volunteers paid off significantly. “Seeing many volunteers come back was inspiring,” she noted. “It showed that people were thinking about important issues and were eager to contribute.”
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
The organization of IWAU 2024 presented various challenges that required creative solutions. Zehra successfully coordinated the week-long series of events, managing complex scheduling requirements and ensuring accessibility for all students. “We had to consider the best timings and venues, and sometimes adjust when unexpected changes occurred,” she explained.
Kiara tackled the nuances of effective communication head-on. Her work on social media proved particularly impactful, as she crafted content that was both engaging and accessible. “Writing captions seemed simple, but making them meaningful and inclusive was a challenge,” she shared. Both planners prioritized accessibility in their design choices, from color combinations to font selections.
The Impact of “Caring in a Time of Polycrisis”
The event’s theme resonated deeply with both organizers and participants. In addressing global challenges like climate change, social unrest, and the ongoing effects of the pandemic, IWAU 2024 emphasized the importance of extending care beyond individuals to encompass community and environment.
Kiara’s vision of using care as a catalyst for community building proved successful. Following periods of disconnect due to the pandemic and faculty strikes, IWAU 2024 effectively bridged gaps between academia and community life. “We brought people together again, creating communities where we uplift each other,” she explained.
For Zehra, the theme held personal significance as an international student. Her understanding of the need for support in unfamiliar surroundings enhanced the event’s inclusive atmosphere. “Care was crucial, especially when adjusting to a new culture and environment,” she reflected. “IWAU provided a space where we could share our experiences and support one another.”
Creating Lasting Change
The event successfully fostered an inclusive environment where conversations about important issues were open to all, regardless of gender or background. Zehra’s emphasis on welcoming participation from all genders contributed to the event’s inclusive nature. “Creating an inclusive society means everyone is involved,” she asserted.
Kiara’s hope for attendees to feel empowered to engage with the community was realized throughout the week. “Don’t hold yourself back because you think you won’t know anyone,” she had encouraged, and many participants took this advice to heart, forming new connections and relationships during the events.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Care
The success of IWAU 2024 demonstrated the power of student involvement in creating meaningful campus events that address global challenges while strengthening local communities. Through accessible platforms and collaborative efforts with various campus groups, the event’s impact continues to resonate throughout the UNBC community.
Students interested in getting involved with future IWAU events can stay connected through social media platforms, where “Inspiring Women Among Us” maintains an active presence on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
The dedication of individuals like Kiara and Zehra showed how community care can thrive even in challenging times. Through their work with IWAU 2024, they not only organized successful events but also helped nurture a supportive network that continues to grow within the UNBC community.
