Believe, Build, Become: A Powerful Evening at WOO 2023
The Women of Oakwyn (WOO) event returned this year on Wednesday, October 18, at the iconic Permanent Library Ltd. in downtown Vancouver. Set against the elegant backdrop of Pender Street, the theme Believe, Build, Become called women to gather, celebrate, and inspire one another in a community built on connection and support. WOO has become a dedicated space to champion women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.
The Evening’s Highlights: Inspiring Speakers & Purposeful Networking
Attendees experienced an engaging evening, beginning with a warm reception featuring cocktails, canapés, and conversation. Co-founder Morgan Browne opened the event with remarks celebrating the spirit of WOO, followed by our first speaker, Andrea Hill of Cause We Care. Andrea shared insights drawn from her extensive work supporting single mothers and children in Vancouver, emphasizing the impact of community and generosity.
After Andrea’s talk, Paulina Cameron, CEO of The Forum, took the stage. As a leader in women’s entrepreneurship, Paulina shared an empowering message about the resources and support needed to succeed, alongside practical advice for today’s businesswomen.
The evening energy continued to climb with keynote speaker Meeru Dhalwala, co-founder of Vancouver’s renowned restaurant Vij’s. Known for her innovative approach to Indian cuisine and dedication to empowering women in the culinary industry, Meeru’s story of resilience, creativity, and commitment to her team and community left a lasting impression, inspiring all in attendance.
Finally, Co-Founder Arlene Chiang closed the event with visionary words that ignited excitement for the future. Each year, these speeches and shared stories bring renewed energy, reminding attendees of the strength found in shared journeys.
Beneficiaries: Cause We Care & The Forum
Beyond the inspiration and celebration of the evening, WOO 2023 held a greater purpose. The proceeds from this year’s event went to Cause We Care and The Forum, two organizations championing women’s empowerment. Cause We Care assists single mothers in Vancouver through programs designed to help them achieve economic security and a brighter future for their families. The Forum, Canada’s leading organization for supporting women entrepreneurs, provides education, mentorship, and community resources to empower women to thrive. With over 12,000 women reached since its founding in 2002, The Forum’s impact resonates nationwide.
A Movement of Empowerment and Change
Attending WOO 2023 was more than just participating in an event—it was becoming part of a movement that is sparking real, transformative change. WOO isn’t just about inspiration; it’s about action. Through initiatives like scholarships, mentorship programs, and strategic support, WOO has empowered countless women to break barriers, pursue their passions, and turn their dreams into reality. Each year, we witness the power of collective strength, where women come together to uplift one another and create tangible opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally.
The ripple effect of this event extends far beyond the walls of Oakwyn. The connections made, the lessons learned, and the partnerships formed are contributing to a wave of positive change that’s felt not only in our local community but across industries, organizations, and the lives of every woman touched by WOO. The Women Of Oakwyn organization is more than events, it’s a catalyst for growth, empowerment, and lasting transformation. As we continue to Believe, Build, and Become, we are creating a future where every woman’s potential is not just recognized, but actively nurtured and celebrated.
WOO 2023 was an unforgettable evening where we came together to Believe, Build, and Become, creating a lasting impact for women in our community and beyond.
