Nature Canada’s Board and staff were delighted to gather with Parliamentarians, Women for Nature members, and supporters on October 22, 2025, to celebrate women’s leadership and Indigenous-led conservation at the Women for Nature reception. The evening brought together environmental champions, mentors, and emerging leaders to honour women making a lasting impact on nature protection across the country.

The celebration opened with a warm welcome and Indigenous land acknowledgement by Emcee Meg Beckel, Chair of Women for Nature, followed by expressions of gratitude to Parliamentary sponsors and event partners whose ongoing support made the evening possible.

The Hon. Rosa Galvez, Honorary Chair of Women for Nature, offered opening remarks reflecting on the critical importance of protecting nature and the transformative role Women for Nature plays in elevating diverse youth voices through grants and mentorship.

Guests then heard from Senator Michèle Audette, who shared thoughtful reflections on Indigenous-led conservation and stewardship, setting the stage for the presentation of the Douglas H. Pimlott Award. This year, the award was presented to Valérie Courtois, Executive Director of the Indigenous Leadership Initiative, in recognition of her leadership advancing Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas and supporting Indigenous Guardians. Valérie’s remarks underscored the pivotal role of women and Indigenous peoples in guiding environmental stewardship.

The evening continued with inspiring words from The Hon. Diane Griffin, Chair Emeritus of Women for Nature, and the Hon. Hedy Fry, emphasizing that by empowering young women from diverse backgrounds, we unlock new perspectives, bold ideas, and creative solutions.

Dr. Diana Beresford-Kroeger, acclaimed botanist and author, was honoured with the Mabel Frances Whittemore Award for Women’s Leadership. She shared her lifelong connection to Nature Canada and highlighted the essential role of trees and forests in sustaining a healthy, green future. Dr. Beresford-Kroeger encouraged attendees to take action by planting one tree each year for the next six years.

Through this inspiring evening, Nature Canada celebrated the remarkable women leading efforts to protect wildlife and wild spaces, while empowering the next generation of leaders for nature.

Nature Canada, board and staff are so thankful to our sponsors, Parliamentarians, Women for Nature members, and all supporters who make Nature Canada’s work possible. 

We invite professional women to get involved with Women for Nature, champion biodiversity conservation, mentor youth, and help nurture future leaders for nature. Contact us at evaicoussis@naturecanada.ca to learn more.

To support female leadership and mentorship through Women for Nature, please visit our donation page here.

Nature Canada acknowledges our generous sponsors, without their support this evening could not be possible.

Thank you to our Whittemore Award sponsor:

Special thanks to:

With appreciation to our Youth Education Sponsors:

Guests were treated to exceptional wines from Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, savoring every sip of their crisp, aromatic Pinot Gris and bold, velvety Merlot. We’re deeply grateful for their generous sponsorship and for bringing such unforgettable flavour to our event.

Some photos from the evening’s celebrations:

(more to be added soon)