Celebrating International Women's Day

Celebrating International Women's Day

Friday, March 6, 2026

What does leadership look like when empathy, care, and authenticity are treated as strengths rather than liabilities? 

Join us for a thought-provoking program on contemporary leadership, inspired by the experiences of former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and the film Prime Minister

Office of the President and Vice-Chancellor

Redefining leadership: Lessons from the film Prime Minister

March 6, 2026 at 4:30 pm
B101, Abbotsford campus

 

Leadership does not emerge fully formed. It is shaped by experience, values, and responsibility. Like paper boats, leaders are folded through moments of pressure and care, gaining strength as they learn to navigate uncertain waters.

In recognition of International Women’s Day, join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion exploring contemporary leadership through the experiences of former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, as seen in the documentary Prime Minister.

Using curated film clips and guided conversation, this program invites participants to rethink traditional leadership narratives and consider more compassionate and caring approaches to leadership.

Through themes of crisis leadership, moral decision-making, caregiving, burnout, and values-based leadership, panelists will reflect on how leadership systems are shaped, who they serve, and what needs to change. Rather than debate, the program centres lived experience, reflection, and dialogue.

The full film is available to watch for free on CBC Gem. Participants are encouraged to view the documentary before attending the event. However, if you are unable to do so, the film will be screened in full following the formal program for those who would like to stay.

 

This program is open to students, faculty, staff, community, and Abbotsford Chamber members.

 

Program details

 

Date & time

Friday, March 6, 2026

4:30 pm

Location

Building B, Room 101
Abbotsford campus

Tickets

UFV students, faculty, and staff are provided a promo code for tickets. Log in to my.ufv.ca to access your code.

 

 

 

This International Women’s Day program is presented as part of the President's Leadership Lecture Series, in partnership with the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, bringing together campus and community to celebrate leadership and equity.

 

About the film

Prime Minister - Official Trailer | Jacinda Ardern Documentary


 

Learn more about International Women's Day

Did you know this initiative began in the United States in 1909? The United Nations officially recognized International's Women Day in 1977. This day is now observed worldwide to recognize women's achievements and acknowledge the challenges they continue to face in the quest for gender equality.

Visit the International Women's Day website to learn more about #GiveToGain, the worldwide theme for IWD 2026.

Visit the official IWD website

 

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