SDG 5 - Gender Equality

The Impact Project

Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls

Sonya Malone – Inclusive Health Care Leader

Sonya’s work in establishing gender-affirming care at Western University directly supports SDG 5’s targets on eliminating discrimination, ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and empowering gender-diverse individuals. 

Sonya's Story

 


Katreena Scott – Gender-Based Violence Researcher

Katreena’s leadership at the Centre for Research & Education on Violence Against Women and Children addresses SDG 5’s goals of eliminating violence against women and girls, and strengthening policies and legislation for gender equality.

Katreena's Story

 

Lauren Sano – Stem Cell Equity Advocate

Lauren’s advocacy for greater diversity in stem cell registries supports SDG 5 by promoting representation and equity within health and science. Through her leadership with the Western Stem Cell Club, she has helped organize donor drives, educate students and raise awareness about disparities in the stem cell registry. As a young woman taking on a leadership role in health advocacy, Lauren also demonstrates the importance of empowering women to lead, speak publicly and drive meaningful change in science and health-related fields.

Lauren's Story

 


Kalley Armstrong – Indigenous Youth Mentor through Sport 

Kalley’s work with Indigenous girls in hockey promotes confidence, leadership and cultural pride, aligning with SDG 5’s goal of empowering women and girls. Through Armstrong Hockey, she creates opportunities for Indigenous girls to develop their athletic skills while building a strong sense of community and belonging. By connecting participants with Indigenous Elders, traditions and role models, her programs also help young girls strengthen their cultural identity and see themselves represented in sport and leadership.

Kalley's Story

Chloe Grande – Mental Health Advocate 

Chloe’s advocacy for eating disorder awareness, which disproportionately affects women and girls, supports SDG 5’s focus on health equity and empowerment. Drawing on her own lived experience, she works to reduce stigma and encourage more open conversations about eating disorders and mental health. Through speaking engagements, workshops and peer support, Chloe helps individuals feel more comfortable seeking support while raising awareness among students, educators and health professionals.

Chloe's Story

 


Arun Jentrick – Researcher on Women-Headed Households in Sri Lanka

Arun’s work highlights the economic and social challenges faced by women-led households in post-conflict Sri Lanka, including barriers to financial stability, employment and access to resources. By bringing attention to women’s unpaid care responsibilities and advocating for policies that better support their economic independence and well-being, his research contributes to greater gender equity. This work aligns with SDG 5’s focus on equal rights to economic resources, recognition of unpaid care work and policy reform for women’s empowerment.

Arun's Story