Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
Research
GEMS Research Lab
The Gender, Equity, Media & Society (GEMS) Lab is a collaborative research space for scholars and students interested in exploring issues related to gender, equity, media, and society. Rooted in intersectional feminist values, the lab emphasizes inclusivity, care, reciprocity, and community-based approaches to research. Through regular meetings, members discuss academic literature, develop and share research, and engage in professional development. The lab envisions a future where critical, empathetic, and inclusive thinking drives meaningful scholarship and positive societal change.
Sexuality and Gender Research Group
The Sexuality and Gender Research Group brings together researchers from the Faculty of Arts and Humanities with scholars in other disciplines to discuss questions of sexuality and gender. Every year, the group hosts several academic talks as well as Queer Research Day every April, a full-day event involving both papers and poster presentations.
Teaching
Linamar Scholarship
The Linamar Scholarships at Western will support up to 10 female students in the dual degree program in Engineering and Business (BESc/HBA). The scholarship includes half of the tuition for all years of the dual degree program, summer co-op, and guaranteed employment.
Women of Ivey
The Ivey Business School supports and
celebrates women pursuing an MBA through a range of resources that encourage success in business education and leadership. The initiative offers mentorship, networking opportunities, scholarships, and dedicated support throughout the recruitment and application process. By creating a welcoming and collaborative environment, Ivey is committed to removing barriers and helping women thrive in their academic and professional journeys.
Women in Asset Management
Ivey Business School's Women in Asset Management program aims to boost female presence in Canada's asset management industry. This tuition-free program, subsidized by corporate sponsors, offers a combination of in-class training and a subsequent internship, designed for second-year female university students across Canada.
Outreach
The Learning Network
The Learning Network enhances the capacity of those working to end gender-based violence by connecting research, practice, and lived experience. Through accessible resources, webinars, podcasts, and community partnerships, it promotes trauma-informed approaches, evolving language, and best practices. The initiative supports service providers across sectors to prevent violence, support survivors, and advance gender equity.
Women in Science
Centre for Research & Education on Violence Against Women & Children
The CREVAWC was established in 1992 following a national study on violence against women, prompted by the 1989 École Polytechnique de Montréal tragedy. CREVAWC reflects Western’s commitment to public service and advancing knowledge. It collaborates with local, national, and academic partners to confront systemic barriers to the safety and well-being of women and children, addressing community-based issues and works to disrupt cycles of gender-based violence in homes, workplaces, and communities.
Girls in Engineering
Operations
Women's Only
Western’s Sports & Recreation offers Women’s Only programming and spaces to create safe, inclusive environments for female-identifying members. Developed in collaboration with the Western EDI office, these offerings support individuals’ right to participate in spaces that feel appropriate and respectful to them. The initiative encourages trust, inclusivity, and respect within the campus recreation community.Child Care
Western provides access to licensed childcare through the on-site University Child Care Centre, operated by the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, offering full- and part-time care for children aged 2 weeks to 4 years. Additional resources, including information on other licensed childcare centres, parenting support, and prenatal services, are available through the Child Care & Schooling and Resources for Parents platforms. Established by the Society of Graduate Students, the Western Day Care Centre continues to offer a safe environment tailored to the diverse needs of young children.
Gender-Based & Sexual Violence Advisory Committee
The Gender-Based & Sexual Violence Advisory Committee at Western aims to transform campus culture by addressing and preventing gender-based and sexual violence. The committee makes strategic recommendations to foster a safer and more inclusive environment. Western University values respect and diversity, providing a range of services under Wellness & Well-being to prevent harm, respond to reports, and support those affected by gender-based and sexual violence, ensuring a supportive campus community.
