March 1st marks YWCA Canada’s second annual Day of Big Change. Economic equality, violence against women, sexual and reproductive rights, indigenous equality and rights: there is no shortage of BIG ISSUES to tackle in our world, but where do we start?

Last year, several readers sent us their plans for YWCA’s Day of Big Change. The range of ideas and action plans was totally inspiring. This year, we’re going to direct your attention towards three ways you can do something in the upcoming week that can make a difference in your life and the lives of others.

Remembering Loretta Saunders

The devastating murder of Loretta Saunders, a twenty-six-year-old student at St. Mary’s University, has made all of us question: how can we help prevent this? What patterns need to change? Our managing editor Haley Cullingham put together a list of organizations that you can support to help honour missing and murdered Native Canadian women.

Women Supporting Women on International Women’s Day

If you haven’t yet made a plan for International Women’s Day, consider calling a friend and hitting the second annual Women Supporting Women shopping event at The Park Hyatt. This is a fun way to support local female entrepreneurs, network and enjoy tea and treats with a friend at our favourite luxury hotel in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood. More details at www.wswgta.com

Pioneering Women: Raising The Barre at Canada’s National Ballet School

On Thursday March 6th, we invite you to attend Pioneering Women’s Raising The Barre at Canada’s National Ballet School. Held at a gorgeous venue, this professional development event will focus on the importance of mentorship. Optional movement class, inspiring guest speakers Mavis Staines and Emily Molnar, cocktail party and a very special performance! Pioneering Women was started by Canadian women in the Motion Picture Industry with the primary goal to address concerns that may restrict women’s personal and professional growth. Join us next Thursday! More details here.