There is still time to apply for a position on a City of Calgary Board, Commission or Committee!
Did you know women make up only one third of the members of the City’s boards, commissions and committees? Diverse representation is one of the first steps in ensuring women’s voices are heard in the local decision-making process. But before that can happen, women need to apply to these positions!
A Hewlett-Packard review of personnel records found that “women working at HP applied for a promotion only when they believed they met 100 percent of the qualifications listed for the job. Men were happy to apply when they thought they could meet 60 percent.” We’re sharing the city volunteer positions far and wide, in the hopes that women and people of diverse backgrounds will recognize their skills, and take this opportunity to add their perspectives.
The City is recruiting for a variety of positions, which include anything from a public member of the Calgary Police Commission to the Social Wellbeing Advisory Committee. The later may be a good fit for many members of the Women’s Centre community, as it aims to “remove barriers to access and inclusion” and “provide equitable services.”
We asked recent Women Lead YYC participant Cathy Lynn about her experience volunteering on the Calgary Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee.
How did you get involved with CAUC?
I was looking for a volunteer opportunity and while doing an online search the City of Calgary committee opportunities came up. The CAUAC committee caught my interest as I have a Metis background and a strong understanding of the challenges Indigenous people are currently facing. I filled out the application and received notification that I was selected to be part of the committee. This is my 4th year with the CAUAC Committee.
What has your experience been like? Your biggest learning?
My experience has been very positive and fulfilling. My learning curve has been discovering the importance of relationships building. Being part of a city committee has given me the opportunity to;
- Learn how City policy frameworks are created.
- Develop my communication skills
- Contribute to meaningful work in a collaborative effort between the City of Calgary and Indigenous community to address social issues in the indigenous community.
What would you say to encourage women to apply for these kinds of leadership positions?
It’s an empowering opportunity and I encourage other women to get involved, use their voice, connect with others and be a role model for others.
If you’re interested in applying, you can find the full list of positions here. The deadline to apply is September 14th.