A look back at an unforgettable evening: where commitment and inspiration come together

The hall was breathtaking, the energy in the room palpable, the pride and sense of purpose, unmistakable. The excitement in the room reflected something far greater than a celebration. It reflected a movement that is growing in reach, influence and determination.

The evening was elevated by the fireside chat with our remarkable co-chairs, Emily Heitman, President of Schneider Electric, and Scott Wood, President & CEO of Fairstone Bank. Their leadership embodies the conviction that parity is not a slogan but a measurable, strategic imperative for organizational excellence. You can click here to watch the fireside chat video from the Gala.

Nigel Branker, CEO of Securian Canada, opened the night with powerful remarks, followed by three engaged CEOs who shared the concrete actions they are taking to move the needle: Sonja Volpe of BNP Paribas, Sarah Robson of Marsh McLennan and James Guy of Sanofi. Their honesty, insight and resolve resonated deeply with an audience eager to see real accountability at the top.

But beyond the elegance of the evening lies the true purpose of our work. The Parity Certification™ is more than recognition; it is a rigorous, evidence-based framework that challenges organizations to examine every layer of their talent systems, culture and governance. It demands transparency, forces leaders to confront gaps, and creates structural change.

We do this because progress is not guaranteed. Because women still face invisible barriers, stalled career trajectories, biased systems and inequitable opportunities. Because parity does not happen organically; it happens through measurement, accountability and the courage to transform organizational cultures from the inside out. Every participating company contributes to setting a new standard for what leadership in Canada should look like.

Our heartfelt thanks to our brilliant MC Farah Nasser for her warmth, clarity and witt; and to all our guests who brought intellectual curiosity and genuine engagement to the evening. It was a real pleasure to share this special moment in your company.

This night would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors.

Platinum: Marsh McLennan, Mercer Canada

Gold: Saint-Gobain, Omerlo

Silver: Roche Bobois

Certification partners: Mercer Canada, WTW

Annual partners: Air Canada, La Caisse, The Globe and Mail

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Protocole, who crafted the beautiful trophies presented to our certified organizations.

We are delighted to share with you the photo album from this memorable evening! You can also have access to your photobooth pictures.

As we move forward into the next fifteen years, our mission has never been more urgent. Parity is not a destination but a discipline. It requires vigilance, bravery and a collective refusal to settle for symbolic gestures. Together, we are reshaping the workplace landscape for current and future generations, ensuring that talent, ambition and leadership know no gender.

Thank you for believing in our work, our impact and the future we are building.