March 8 marks International Women’s Day (IWD), a time to recognize and celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and girls. For the Defence Team, IWD is also an opportunity to reflect on our progress and reaffirm our commitment to addressing persistent gaps across the organization.
This year’s theme, Give to Gain, highlights the importance of taking meaningful steps to advance gender equality.
2026 is also the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF).
The United Nations declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026), spotlighting the essential roles women play across agrifood systems, from production to trade, while often going unrecognized. Women farmers are central to food security, nutrition and economic resilience. IYWF 2026 raises awareness and promotes actions to close the gender gaps and improve women’s livelihoods worldwide.
We invite you to celebrate these special occasions with us by taking advantage of upcoming events and other resources pertaining to women in agriculture.
EVENTS FOR WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE
- Advancing Women in Agriculture West 2026 (In person March 8, Calgary, Alberta)
- International Women’s Day Luncheon (In person March 8, Elora, Ontario)
- Women at the heart of agricultural wellbeing (Virtual March 10 @ 2p.m. EDT)
- Farm Women’s Conference: “Farm-hers are Essential” (In person April 9, Olds, Alberta)
- Manitoba Farm Women’s Conference (In person November 16-18, Winnipeg, Manitoba)
