On Friday, a group of young women from Calgary convened at city hall to explore the intricacies of municipal governance and the pivotal role women play in the political arena.
This gathering marked the sixth year of the Equal Voice She Governs program, which united 30 young women from Grades 9 to 12 in engaging discussions through a simulated council setting. The pressing issues on the agenda included the city’s noise bylaw and strategies for drought resilience.
Sarah Rimbey, the chair for Equal Voice Calgary, emphasized the program’s commitment to promoting female representation in politics across various parties and levels.
“Equal Voice is dedicated to encouraging more women to participate in politics—irrespective of party affiliation or governmental level,” Rimbey stated.
She expressed pride over Calgary’s rich history of female participation within the city council, highlighting the involvement of several women who attended the event.
“Having a woman mayor is crucial for the program, as it allows young women to visualize themselves in such roles. Representation matters immensely—seeing someone like them in leadership positions can be profoundly impactful,” she asserted.
Many participants are experiencing political engagement for the first time, while others are returning contributors. Rimbey noted the positive blend of fresh and familiar faces.
“We appreciate seeing newcomers; it signifies our success in getting more women involved in the dialogue,” she added.
The event featured two mock council sessions where attendees took on the role of city councillors, debating, amending, and voting on the designated issues. Following this simulation, participants engaged in a panel discussion with four current female Calgary councillors: Sonya Sharp, Jennifer Wyness, Jasmine Mian, and Kourtney Penner.
Along with Mayor Jyoti Gondek, this assembly represents the highest level of female representation in Calgary’s council history.
Sharing Wisdom and Experiences
Ward 11 Councillor Kourtney Penner highlighted the importance of participating in the program to exemplify leadership and approachability as elected officials.
Penner observed that as the young women debated the issues, they grasped the complexities inherent in policy-making, recognizing that decisions are influenced by a myriad of factors.
“It was enlightening for them to think critically beyond the policies themselves and understand the potential unintended consequences of these decisions,” she explained.
Ward 1 Councillor Sonya Sharp articulated the event’s value in offering a glimpse into the realities of municipal work, stressing that it is far more complex than a single meeting in council chambers.
“I observed them conducting their motions and amendments; it was cordial and evident that they were enjoying themselves,” she shared. “While it is essential to have positive interactions, challenging discussions also arise, and not everything is passed unanimously. However, witnessing their collaboration and willingness to listen to one another is crucial—this is what we, as council members, should emulate consistently.”
During the panel discussion, several memorable anecdotes were shared, including Councillor Sharp’s experiences with mannequins, Councillor Wyness’s time as a pirate in the Caribbean, Councillor Mian’s advocacy for gender equality in her high school flag football team, and Councillor Penner’s volunteer journey.
Councillor Wyness encouraged participants to embrace their diverse experiences, as they shape their identities and futures. “I wouldn’t alter any of my past experiences, as they have shaped who I am today as a councillor. Trying to erase them would only diminish my strength in this role. So, enjoy life’s journey—you cannot control its course, but you can certainly learn from every moment,” she expressed.
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