By Jud Dudley
Women only comprise 15% of corporate board members. 65% of the student body of NorQuest College is female and its entire executive committee is made up of women. To raise awareness on gender inequality, on March 8, 2018, to celebrate International Women’s Day, the college invited Keynote speaker, Rana Bokhari, a Winnipeg based lawyer, former politician, and first minority female leader of any political party in Canada to NorQuest College Downtown Edmonton campus, Singhmar Centre for Learning.
NorQuest College in their new facility has included daycare to make it easier for women students to succeed. One student was quoted as saying “The daycare being right here at school has really reduced the stresses in my life, as I know my child is right here near and if anything happens I can get there quickly.”
Keynote Speaker Rana Bokhari, gave a powerful and challenging speech. When we spoke afterwards she said, “It is really good to be out of politics, out of the box, and have my voice back. In and out of politics, women are still marginalized and need to be encouraged to find their own voice.” She added, “It was such a privileged to be a part of the International Women’s Day here at NorQuest College. They were such a wonderful host and everyone has been so welcoming”.
President and CEO of NorQuest College, Jodi Abbott, also spoke of the schools commitment to advancing women. When we visited after, Jodi said, “Rana made me think what do I do as a female leader, Mentor, and Friend? Any choice is possible. We need to support every choice and both collaborate and compete; not just compete!”
I also spoke with 2 female students attending NorQuest College that where helping at the event. Rickiesha White , new GED Student and Single Mother of 3 year old Gyptian, ” I really liked Rana’s speech, it encouraged me that I could be a Lawyer, Politician or even a Doctor. I know I can overcome the obstacles I face in my life!” The daycare here at NorQuest makes it much easier for Rickiesha to be in school as a single Mom.
Nozipho Hazel Moyo, first year Social Work Student, Hazel speaks 6 six languages. She learnt French in her six years in High School Grade 8 to 13, and learned Turkish while getting her degree in Cyprus in Human Resources Management. She plans to get her Law Degree as well. Hazel plans to work for social justice and fairness policies and legislation. Hazel’s Sister graduated from NorQuest and now works as a nurse at the Royal Alex Hospital. Her Father graduated from NorQuest and was a teacher for 38 years. She is following in their footsteps. She believes what her father always said, “Education is the great equalizer!” “Education, Dedication, and Consistency are all needed”. Hazel really liked Rana’s speech and is encouraged and inspired to reach her goals and use her voice to make a meaningful and lasting difference. She is happy to be part of International Women’s Day and a RBC Student Ambassador at NorQuest.
