Anishinaabe Elder, Josephine Madamin, was a revolutionary leader in the fight to protect water rights for Indigenous peoples.
Continue readingJosephine Mandamin
Ausma Malik
Ausma Malik is the first hijab-wearing woman in public office in Canada. Her dedication to Toronto’s wellbeing is prominent in her championship of affordable housing and racial justice.
Continue readingElizabeth “Elsie” MacGill
Canada’s first practicing female engineer, Elizabeth MacGill, advanced the field of Canadian aeronautics while leading a dedicated fight for gender equality.
Continue readingFlora MacDonald Denison
Flora MacDonald Denison, president of the Canadian Suffrage Association from 1911 to 1914, was an unwavering advocate for gender equality in Toronto and beyond.
Continue readingJean Lumb
Jean Lumb was the first Chinese-Canadian woman to receive the Order of Canada in 1976, honouring her efforts in changing immigration laws and helping save Chinatown.
Continue readingFrances Loring
Frances Loring was a community leader who opened her home to Toronto’s arts community. Her art haven was recognized as the “most fascinating gathering place in the country” by A.Y. Jackson.
Continue readingBlanche Lemco van Ginkel
Modernist architect Blanche Lemco van Ginkel was the first woman and Canadian president of the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture. She advocated for equal pay amongst male and female faculty members resulting in a 2002 University of Toronto pay equity settlement for female colleagues.
Continue readingCecilia Krieger
Cecilia Krieger was the first woman to graduate with a PhD in mathematics from a Canadian university. As a Jewish immigrant, she worked to translate Polish mathematics texts into English, making them available to wider audiences.
Continue readingKaren Kain
Karen Kain worked as the Artistic Director of the National Ballet for 16 years. Kain began her career showcasing her passion and dedication to ballet by starring as the Swan Queen in Swan Lake and quickly thereafter becoming a Principal Dancer.
Continue readingVerna Johnston
Between operating a boarding home for Indigenous youth in Toronto and playing a foundational role at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, Verna Johnston’s community leadership has shaped generations.
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