Vision Statements:
- QWN is a self-governed community promoting growth and leadership through a decentralized model
- QWN challenges stereotypes and advocates for realized change through the creation of a community where diverse voices are heard and valued
- QWN creates a welcoming space that forges connections, builds knowledge, and expands spheres of influence among its membership
- QWN aims to amplify women’s voices and encourage development of all marginalized groups across campus
QWN - Â鶹¹ÙÍø's Women's Network (Formerly YWQ - Young Women at Â鶹¹ÙÍø's) is an Employee Resource Group that prides itself on being non-hierarchical and inclusive of our members and the Â鶹¹ÙÍø's community. More information on QWN is located in the "What We Do" section.
QWN is open to Â鶹¹ÙÍø's affiliates who self-identify as women; although our group is predominantly staff, we also welcome students, faculty, grad students, post-docs, etc.
What is an ERG?
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are voluntary, staff led groups within an organization that focus on the common goals/values of the group. They centre around the employees and aim to foster inclusivity and diversity within the organization.
"Â鶹¹ÙÍø’s Women's Network offers a great support system for staff. Not only have I been able to meet new colleagues from across campus, but I was also able to use some of these connections to conduct informational interviews to plan out my future goals. Everyone in the group is friendly, approachable and it’s been great to have conversations with like-minded people."
In the summer of 2025, the Matariki Network announced Â鶹¹ÙÍø would be the recipient of several of its Engagement Grants. One of which, ‘Stories of Belonging and Social Connection: A Micro-video Series Introducing Employee Resource Groups,’ was recently launched and features a series of videos spotlighting the university’s Employee Resource Groups (ERG) and how they connect to the broader themes of belonging, social connection, inclusion, and employee wellbeing at Â鶹¹ÙÍø’s. The video project, shot and edited by Â鶹¹ÙÍø’s students, was in conjunction with partners from the University of the Western Cape (Cape Town, South Africa).
Video production supported by Â鶹¹ÙÍø’s Film and Media student contributors Ataa Amoah-Bediako, Sophie Gill, Claire Judice, Elliot Norman, and Cherry Zhang.
Recent News
Date Published: Dec 16, 2025
2026 QWN Mentorship Program new accepting applications!
Applications for the 2026 QWN Mentorship Program is now open!
Apply to the QWN Mentorship Program
Date Published: Jan 14, 2025
2025 QWN Mentorship Program Deadline approaching
Application deadline for 2025 QWN Mentorship Program approaching this Friday
Apply to the QWN Mentorship Program