United Nations International Women’s Day - 2026

The 2026 Women’s Day Celebration gathered approximately 150 attendees at the St. Albert Community Hall, with many friends and guests joining the event. The program was guided by Kim Christensen and Nahmmy Taef, and opened with a land acknowledgement by Sue Hobson.

Indigenous contributions were led by Gary Gagnon, Indigenous counsellor with Edmonton Catholic Schools, who offered a blessing and reflected on the strength of the women in his family, including his 104‑year‑old Kokum. He acknowledged Hazel McKennit, Anishinabe Knowledge Keeper, and Councillor Amanda Patrick, who is Métis‑Cree.

Prominent community leaders attended, including Deputy Mayor Sandy Clark, who emphasized the importance of gender equality and the unifying role of Interfaith Connections. MLA Marie Renaud attended in support of honouree Dr. Vonda Bobart, and journalist Anna Boroweicki prepared a feature article on the honourees for the St. Albert Gazette.

The keynote speaker, Maria Drueco, shared insights from her Inclusion Journey and her book Unhide Yourself, speaking about belonging and visibility as a Filipina immigrant. Additional honourees included Reverend Janet Taylor, who urged celebrating—rather than tolerating—diversity; Emily Brady, librarian and literacy advocate; Ceres Yurkiw, who fostered over 50 children and serves the homeless; Donna Beeston, stage manager at St. Albert Dinner Theatre; Chandra Latchman, youth volunteer and mentor; and Dr. Vonda Bobart, anesthesiologist, community leader, and sustainable‑gardening advocate.

Musical guest Brittany Bloomaert moved the audience with You Raise Me Up. The event theme, “Give to Gain,” was reflected in the unique mugs presented to honourees. Lucille Mandin highlighted the Hand in Hand initiative supporting women and children in Togo and Kenya.

Closing remarks by Leasa Sulz recognized 27 years of Bahá’í leadership in hosting Women’s Day and four years of partnership with Interfaith Connections. Renie Zeitz offered a blessing, and guests enjoyed refreshments and fellowship.