A Season of Growth: February & March at Girls Inc.
February and March brought continued growth at Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta, as girls across the region engaged in programming designed to support their learning, confidence, and well-being.
In classrooms, facilitators built on the return to in-school programming, delivering evidence-based curriculum focused on mental wellness, financial literacy, online safety, and healthy relationships. These sessions continue to create consistent, supportive environments where girls can build knowledge, confidence, and critical life skills.
Beyond the school day, winter out-of-school programming gained momentum. From the continued growth of KidPreneur to mentoring sessions, workshops, and community-based programming, girls engaged in hands-on experiences that foster leadership, creativity, and resilience.
As we move further into 2026, this continued growth reflects our commitment to creating accessible, empowering spaces where girls can learn, lead, and thrive.
Message from the Interim Executive Director
As we reflect on the past few months, we are inspired by the continued growth and impact of our programs, partnerships, and community initiatives.
These months marked a period of strong engagement across both in-school and out-of-school programming. Girls participated in mentoring, entrepreneurship programming, STEM learning, and workshops focused on mental wellness, leadership, and life skills. It has been incredible to see participants continue building confidence, strengthening relationships, and exploring new opportunities.
We were also proud to launch our Champions Corner initiative, a space dedicated to celebrating individuals in our community who embody what it means to be Strong, Smart, and Bold. Recognizing these achievements allows us to uplift voices and highlight the incredible impact happening across our region.
March marked a meaningful milestone with the success of our Girls’ Empowerment Mini-Gala and Women of Inspiration Celebration. These events brought our community together to celebrate leadership, connection, and the power of investing in girls.
Looking ahead, we are excited to continue expanding our programming, strengthening partnerships, and creating new opportunities for girls to learn, lead, and thrive.
Thank you to our participants, families, partners, and supporters who make this work possible. Your continued support ensures that girls across Northern Alberta have access to safe, empowering, and life-changing opportunities.
In solidarity,
Welcome to the Champions Corner! We have updated this section of our monthly newsletter to recognize incredible achievements of our community which fall under the categories of STRONG, SMART & BOLD! We are now accepting submissions – nominate a Champion in the community today!
April’s Champion is Riley!
We’re proud to celebrate Riley, a Girls Inc. participant, on her incredible achievement at this year’s science fair!
Riley’s project explored innovative ways to support bone healing using advanced biomaterials designed to reduce inflammation and improve recovery. Her research highlights not only her passion for science, but also her commitment to solving real-world challenges.
After eight years of participating in the regional science fair, Riley has now advanced to her third national science fair — an incredible accomplishment that reflects her dedication, curiosity, and hard work.
“Participating in the science fair has enabled my growth as a researcher and deepened my passion for science.”
We are so proud to see girls like Riley pursuing their interests in STEM and showing what’s possible when they are supported to be strong, smart, and bold.
Highlights
A weekend of inspiration, leadership, and community impact. We’re proud to share the success of our Women of Inspiration Celebration 2026 and Girls’ Empowerment Mini-Gala, where we celebrated incredible women, connected with the next generation of leaders, and raised critical funds to support girls in our region.
From powerful stories to meaningful moments of connection, this year’s events truly reflected what it means to be strong, smart, and bold. The Girls’ Empowerment Mini-Gala brought together 82 girls ages 9–15 from Fort McMurray, Fort McKay, Anzac, and Janvier, for an evening of leadership, creativity, and connection.
This year, the event successfully raised over $54,000 in proceeds, directly supporting Girls Inc.’s ability to deliver free, life-changing programming for girls across the region!
We’re incredibly grateful to the Kinette Club of Fort McMurray for their continued generosity and support. 💛
Earlier this month, members of the Kinette Club stopped by for a cheque presentation and photo opportunity, donating $5,000 to support Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta programming.
As repeat donors, their ongoing commitment plays a meaningful role in helping us provide free, evidence-based programs that empower girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Contributions like this directly support safe spaces, leadership development, and confidence-building opportunities for girls across our region.
Thank you, Kinette Club, for investing in girls and in the future of our community!
Did you miss the 2026 Women of Inspiration Celebration?
It’s not too late to get in on the excitement and celebrate this year’s winners!
An hour-long special of the WOI Gala will be airing on Rogers TV this week, featuring a stunning Indigenous Fashion Show organized by our partner Athabasca Tribal Council and curated by Ger Carriere, and the incredible 2026 Women of Inspiration receiving their awards, all emceed by the delightful Jenna Huber!
Tune in:
- Wed, April 15th at 9 PM
- Thurs, April 16th at 7:30 PM
- Fri, April 17th at 12:30 PM
Thank you to Neville Video Productions for producing this amazing special!
This Month
April is Stress Awareness Month
Stress can affect how girls learn, grow, and navigate everyday challenges. That’s why Girls Inc. programming focuses on building healthy coping strategies, emotional awareness, and resilience. Through programs like Mind+Body, girls learn practical tools to manage stress, express their emotions, and take care of their mental health. 🧠
Small steps, like taking a break, talking to someone, or practicing mindfulness, can make a big difference!
Upcoming Events
Spring Program registration is now open!
Register today
PlayON Space Day
Friday, April 24, 2026 | Ages 5-15 | 9:30 – 11:30 AM | PlayON Space
Calling all adventurers! Join Girls Inc. at PlayOn Space to climb, play, make friends, and have a great time! This fun and active session is designed to get girls moving while building teamwork, confidence, and a positive connection to physical activity.
#MMIWG2S+ Red Dress Day Workshop
Friday, May 1, 2026 | Ages 9–15 | 5:00 – 6:30 PM | Unifor Hall
Join Girls Inc. in bringing awareness to Canada’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People through sharing circles & hands on activities.
Learn to Drive Workshop
Friday, May 29, 2026 | Ages 14-18 | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM | Unifor Hall
L2D is a hands-on, interactive learner’s license test preparation program designed to help you pass your class 7 written learner’s test, with a focus on safety. Participants will explore real-life driving situations through practice tests, flashcards, videos, and interactive intersection simulations using model cars. In partnership with Safe Community Wood Buffalo.
DONATE & GIVE GIRLS
Your Support Makes Her Growth Possible
Because of you, Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta continues to create safe, empowering spaces where girls can explore their interests, build confidence, and challenge stereotypes. Your generosity directly supports programs that introduce girls to new skills, leadership opportunities, and future pathways.
Every donation strengthens our ability to deliver cost-free programming that equips girls with the tools they need to thrive — today and into the future.
February & March Programming Recap
In-School Programs: Continued Growth & Engagement
February and March saw strong momentum across in-school programming, with facilitators delivering evidence-based curriculum to students throughout the region. Programs focused on key areas such as mental wellness, financial literacy, healthy relationships, and online safety—creating safe, supportive environments where girls can build confidence and critical life skills.
Across both months, hundreds of girls participated in programming delivered in Fort McMurray, Janvier, Fort Chipewyan, and through Northlands Online School. These sessions continue to play a vital role in ensuring girls have access to consistent, high-quality learning opportunities that support their overall well-being and development.
Out-of-School Programming: Building Confidence, Creativity & Leadership
Winter out-of-school programming continued to engage girls in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences designed to foster confidence, creativity, and leadership.
Staying Strong Mentoring (Ages 5-8 and 9-15)
Mentoring sessions in February and March focused on building self-awareness, confidence, and positive habits. Younger participants explored identity and self-esteem through activities like “I Am a Rainbow of Strength,” while older groups engaged in curriculum from CTRL Your Scroll, reflecting on how daily habits and online behaviours impact emotions and well-being.
March sessions also introduced creative activities such as keychain painting and self-portrait puzzles, allowing girls to express themselves while strengthening peer connections in a supportive environment.
KidPreneur (Ages 9–12)
January saw the launch of the winter KidPreneur cohort, with the first session welcoming 10 participants eager to begin their entrepreneurial journeys. The session opened with icebreakers and introductions, including a welcome to new Program Coordinator Kianna.
Participants explored business concepts, brainstormed product ideas, and discussed what it takes to bring a small business to life. By the end of the session, each girl committed to refining her business idea ahead of Session Two, building excitement for the upcoming youth market. The evening wrapped with a fun round of bingo, blending relationship-building with creative exploration.
Girls Leading Change Advocacy Project (Ages 15-18)
Following a pause in February, sessions resumed in March with participants diving deeper into their advocacy projects. The group is preparing for the Girls Leading Change Summit in St. Louis, focusing on addressing educational gaps within their community.
Participants began developing resources aimed at supporting teachers, identifying root causes, and creating meaningful, community-driven solutions. The program continues to empower participants to think critically, lead confidently, and advocate for change.
Workshops & Events
Pink Shirt Day Workshops (Ages 5–8 & 9–15)
Pink Shirt Day workshops created space for meaningful conversations about bullying, kindness, and empathy. Participants explored what it means to stand up for others and signed personal pledges committing to positive actions.
Hands-on activities such as friendship bracelet-making and compliment-based exercises encouraged connection and reinforced the importance of kindness both within the program and beyond. Smaller group sizes allowed for deeper conversations and stronger relationship-building among participants.
Programming in Fort Chipewyan
Programming in Fort Chipewyan provided an opportunity to connect with youth through Power of Stories and Mind + Body workshops. Despite a shortened visit due to community circumstances, facilitators engaged 48 youth in sessions focused on wellness, storytelling, and self-expression.
Girls Empowerment Mini Gala (Ages 9-15)
The Girls’ Empowerment Mini-Gala took place on March 6 at SMS Equipment Place, welcoming 82 participants for an evening of celebration, creativity, and connection.
Participants enjoyed interactive activities, a scavenger hunt, music, and a cultural fashion show presented in partnership with Athabasca Tribal Council. The event created a vibrant space where girls could connect with one another, celebrate their identities, and build confidence in a fun and engaging environment.
Flood Workshop (Ages 9-15)
The Flood Workshop provided a hands-on STEM learning experience focused on climate awareness and emergency preparedness. Participants explored the causes and impacts of flooding, including a discussion on the 2020 Fort McMurray flood.
Through interactive activities, girls designed and tested their own flood barriers and practiced building emergency kits, helping them develop practical problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of environmental challenges.
#GirlsToo / Mind + Body Workshops (Ages 16–18)
Programming in partnership with the Autism Society was scheduled to resume in March; however, sessions were postponed. Plans are underway to continue this partnership with a new session anticipated in the spring.
Thanks To Our Partners
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our program partners — RMWB, Government of Canada, Government of Alberta, Syncrude operated by Suncor, TC Energy, Finning Canada, Pembina, TD, BizKids, Canada Post Foundation, Ted Rogers Foundation and Imperial. Your unwavering support is essential to delivering these impactful programs, ensuring our girls are empowered to be strong, smart, and bold.
