Recognized annually on March 8, International Women’s Day celebrates women’s achievements and raises awareness about equality, stereotypes and discrimination. The theme of International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. “When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment” (IWD 2024).

In recognition of International Women’s Day 2024, the City of St. John’s would like to recognize the nine female (self-identified) employees working on our Healthy City and Inclusion Team in the Department of Community Services, including:

• Krista Gladney, Manager, Healthy City and Inclusion
• Trisha Rose, Accessibility and Inclusion Facilitator
• Paula Soper, Program Coordinator, Inclusive Services
• Sarah Blackwood, Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion Program Specialist
• Merissa Bartlett, Healthy Neighbourhoods and Inclusion Fieldworker
• Jennifer McGrath, Healthy Neighbourhoods and Inclusion Fieldworker
• Tara Cumby, Healthy Programs and Inclusion Fieldworker
• Michelle Smith, Building Safer Communities Coordinator
• Tahira Tarique, Building Safer Communities Research Data Analyst

The team coordinates a broad range of programs, services, systems, initiatives, events and projects pertaining to health, equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility; both City run and in the community.

The team works with the community and supports City staff to identify, prevent, and eliminate barriers to community access in City programs, services, parks, and facilities.

Thank you to our Healthy City and Inclusion team for the work that you do and for inspiring inclusion.

For more information about Accessibility and Inclusion in the City of St. John’s, visit our webpage: Accessibility and Inclusion - City of St Johns.