Building Momentum: September at Girls Inc.
September was a month of growth and preparation at Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta. Our team attended the ASPIRE 2025 Conference in Indianapolis, connecting with affiliates from across North America and gaining new tools to strengthen programs like Character Development and advocacy. These experiences have fueled our work as we head into a new season of learning and leadership.
Locally, fall programs are now underway, and while the ongoing school strike continues to affect in-school delivery, our team remains flexible in providing empowering opportunities through after-school and community sessions
Message from the Interim Executive Director
As we move into October, we are filled with gratitude and pride for the continued energy and resilience of our team and participants. September was a month of transition — filled with professional development, preparation, and purpose — setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Our program staff had the opportunity to attend the ASPIRE 2025 Conference in Indianapolis, where they connected with Girls Inc. affiliates from across North America. Through hands-on learning and collaboration, the team deepened their understanding of program frameworks like Character Development and returned inspired to implement new ideas that continue empowering girls across the region.
Locally, September marked the beginning of our fall programming season. While in-school programming was set to resume in early October, we continue to monitor the ongoing school strike and its impacts on delivery. Our team remains flexible and committed to adapting as needed to ensure girls continue accessing meaningful, empowering experiences through after-school, community, and virtual opportunities.
Finally, we want to remind our community that nominations remain open for the Women of Inspiration 2025–2026 Series, presented by Bouchier. This year’s theme, Innovators & Pioneers, celebrates women making an impact in STEM, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries. If you know a woman whose story deserves to be shared, we encourage you to nominate her by October 30th.
Thank you to our staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters for walking alongside us in this important work. Together, we’re continuing to build a community where every girl knows her voice, her worth, and her power.
In solidarity,
Our Champions
At Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Each partnership helps us create new opportunities for girls to learn, lead, and grow — both inside and outside the classroom. From mentorship and movement to STEM and self-defense, these organizations and individuals have shared their time, expertise, and passion to strengthen our programs and expand our impact across the region.
We’re grateful for every partner who helps us empower girls across the RMWB.
Highlights/Upcoming Events
Fall program registration is open!
Register today
Women of Inspiration 2025–2026: Third Nomination Deadline October 30th, 2025
The search is on for our next incredible Women of Inspiration! For the 2025–2026 series, Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Bouchier are thrilled to explore the theme “Innovators & Pioneers.” This year, we proudly shine a spotlight on local women who are making remarkable contributions in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), entrepreneurship, and the creative industries.
We are seeking nominations across five exciting categories:
- Brilliance in STEM – Celebrating a woman who embodies curiosity, intellect, and transformative innovation.
- Innovator in Enterprise – Celebrating a fearless woman who is turning bold visions into thriving ventures.
- Creative Luminary – Celebrating a woman who paves new paths through imagination and artistic expression.
- Renaissance Pioneer – Celebrating a woman whose work bridges science, business, and creativity.
- Rising Star – Celebrating an emerging leader in STEM, entrepreneurship, or the creative arts.
For more information and to access the application form, visit: Women of Inspiration Series. Help us honour the women whose innovation and resilience inspire the next generation of girls to be strong, smart, and bold!
DONATE & GIVE GIRLS
Your Support Creates Confidence That Lasts
Because of you, Girls Inc. continues to provide spaces where girls feel welcomed, supported, and celebrated. One parent shared, “Girls Inc. makes my daughter feel special and confident in a way that she’s no longer scared of who she is. She’s more outgoing than ever, and she loves every game and activity.”
Your generosity helps girls discover their voices, embrace their strengths, and step boldly into the world. Together, we’re building a community where every girl knows she matters.
September Programming Recap
In-School Programs: A Season of Transition and New Beginnings
Our team worked closely with partner schools this month to finalize logistics and scheduling for the upcoming year. While in-school programming was set to resume in early October, we continue to monitor the anticipated school strike and are ready to adapt to any delays or changes that may arise. Regardless of the circumstances, our commitment remains the same — ensuring girls across the RMWB have access to programs that build confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging.
Out-Of-School Programming: A Season of Transition and New Beginnings
September marked an exciting return to regular programming at Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta! As summer came to a close, our team focused on re-engaging participants, welcoming new faces, and introducing refreshed activities designed to build confidence, curiosity, and connection.
Operation SMART (Ages 9–15):
Our fall session of Operation SMART kicked off with energy and enthusiasm! Led by facilitator Jayna, participants began by setting group guidelines and exploring key scientific concepts through interactive activities. Guest presenter Elizabeth introduced the girls to polymerization and spherification, guiding them through a fun, hands-on experiment to make popping boba. The girls learned how different molecule sizes impact elasticity and flexibility — blending science with creativity. The session wrapped up with games and reflection, reinforcing teamwork and curiosity in a supportive environment.
Orange Shirt Day Workshop (Ages 5–8 & 9–15):
On September 30th, 18 participants came together for our annual Orange Shirt Day workshop, led by Robin, Katlin, and Rhonda. The session began with the story of Phyllis Webstad and the history behind Orange Shirt Day, followed by thoughtful discussions about truth, reconciliation, and empathy. Participants then created posters highlighting one message they wished others knew about Orange Shirt Day, and collaboratively designed a garland of orange shirts now displayed in the Girls Inc. office. This creative and reflective workshop encouraged understanding, compassion, and action through art and dialogue.
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.
