March 8 is International Women’s Day, and Canadian architects have much to be proud of – and much still left to do in promoting diversity and balance in the profession. Here’s our round-up of events from coast to coast.

1. Follow the BEAT in Toronto.
On Saturday, March 9, BEAT (Building Equality in Architecture, Toronto chapter) is hosting its 5th annual Leadership Seminar. The event aims to expose students and young practitioners to leaders in the architectural profession.
From sole practitioners to partners in Toronto’s leading design firms, the seminar speakers?Canadian Architect editor Elsa Lam, Studio AC co-founder Jennifer Kudlats, PLANDFORM‘s Nina-Marie Lister, Williamson Williamson senior associate Sonia Ramundi, and Smoke Architecture‘s Eladia Smoke?are architects and academics who have established successful careers. They’ll present talks and tours that showcase the breadth of the profession and speak to the numerous ways to navigate a career in the built environment. While the event is geared to women, all are welcome to attend. BEAT believes that it is critical to have inclusive discussions surrounding issues of pay equity, gender bias, and the pressures of balancing work with a family life. Free tickets can be reserved here.
 
Government of Canada Visitor Welcome Centre, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, by IBI Group and Moriyama & Teshima. Photo by James Brittain.
2. Visit the newest women-led projects in Ottawa.
The ...