An event designed to celebrate, empower and inspire women will coincide with International Women’s Day. 

On Thursday, March 7, from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. at the Jasper Activity Centre, the Jasper Local Immigration Partnership (LIP), in collaboration with Jasper Settlement Services, is organizing a lunch filled with vigorous discussions, engaging workshops and meaningful networking. 

Organizer Monica Rodriguez, the Municipality of Jasper’s LIP Coordinator, said the day will bring together local women from different backgrounds and social groups. 

The informal conversation will help attendees realize their stories may not be so different than others’ in the community of Jasper. 

“We want to encourage more inclusivity moving forward and, hopefully, help build connections and a sense of belonging,” Rodriguez said.

Monique van der Waal is participating in the event. She and her family arrived in Jasper a year ago looking for a different life and an adventure. 

van der Waal, who is originally from Cape Town, South Africa, has lived all over the world. Lately she said she has been interested in academic research which suggests living with authenticity is how people can achieve peak functionality within themselves. 

“Imagine being the best version of you as a woman is just to be your truest self?” van der Waal said.

van der Waal is one of several women whose stories will resonate with the International Women’s Day participants, Rodriguez said.

“This event is perfect for folks eager to connect, learn, and contribute to a more inclusive future.”

Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com