Written By Olena Riznyk
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - On September 14, the Middlesex Women’s Leadership Conference was held in London, organized by The Jean Collective. The conference focused on providing diverse role models and mentors for the next generation of girls and young women. With the overarching goals of encouraging women to embrace leadership roles, creating a well-informed electorate, and advocating for change in municipal government, this event marked a pivotal moment for women in Southwestern Ontario.
In expressing gratitude, Helen Cole, the founder of The Jean Collective and Women Who Lead, extended her heartfelt thanks to the sponsors whose generous support made the event possible. Burnbrae Farms, Middlesex Egg Farmers, PARO Centre, The Branding Firm Inc., Community Futures Middlesex, and Home Instead played a crucial role in facilitating a space where passionate women could come together to inspire change.
Emceeing the event was Joanne Vanderheyden, former mayor of Strathroy and past president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), who guided attendees through a lineup of engaging speakers and discussions. Keynote speaker Margaret Hudson, CEO of Burnbrae Farms, set the tone for the day by sharing insights from her extensive career and emphasizing the importance of women in leadership positions.
The success of the conference also stemmed from the contributions of speakers, including Deb Crowe, author and executive leadership coach, and panelists Emily Melo Pacheco, owner of Orchard Clothing; Nicole Crosby, owner of Dryve Delivery; Mayor Cathy Burghardt-Jesson of Lucan Biddulph; and Councillor Amy Choi of Southwest Middlesex. Their stories of resilience and leadership served as powerful examples for all attendees.
Cathy Burghardt-Jesson emphasized the importance of women knowing their value. “It’s important because women need to know that they have value and a place at the table—whether that is the elected table, a board table of a company, or a volunteer organization. Women have a voice, and they have something to add,” she asserted. “The more events like this that lift women up and recognize our value, the stronger our contributions to the community become.”
The conference generated excitement, with attendees expressing their enthusiasm for engaging with fellow women leaders. “To be in a room with passionate women leaders is an amazing feeling. Highly recommend!” said one attendee, capturing the essence of the conference’s mission.
Aina DeViet, mayor of Middlesex Centre, echoed this sentiment, stating, “I believe everybody has a contribution to make… the more ideas we bring together, the better our world will be for everyone.” This spirit of collaboration and empowerment was central to the conference’s objectives.
