International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women's social, economic, cultural and political achievements. Marked annually on March 8, this day recognizes the progress made towards gender equality, while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done.

Bridging the leadership gap with the next generation of girls and young women

Around the world, millions of girls and young women face unjust barriers and discrimination due to their age and gender. Female leadership is underrepresented across all industries, and programs like Girls Belong Here – including the powerful young women leading them – are working to change this disparity.

The World Economic Forum estimates that it will take a staggering 132 years to achieve gender equality. It’s time to support girls’ full participation in society, listen to their voices and invest in their skills – until we’re all equal.

Only 10% of youth in Canada picture a woman when they think of a CEO.
(Plan International Canada survey, 2019).

Full-time and part-time women working in Canada make 88 cents of every dollar that men make.
(Statistics Canada, 2022)

Global gender parity for leadership roles reached almost 43% in 2022, but women hold only 23% of senior positions worldwide.
(World Economic Forum, 2021) .

Just over 50% of women have participated in the paid labour force around the world, compared to 82% of men.
(World Bank, 2022)

Get Involved

Girls Belong Here

Our longstanding youth leadership program equips girls and young women aged 14-24 with the skills and support they need to step into decision-making roles and make their voices heard.

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Support girls and young women worldwide to break down barriers and pave their own way to equal representation and leadership.

Stories from our global work with women and girls

girl with mobile device

Tech For All: Why access to digital tools is a right, not a privilege

Access to digital tools is a right, not a privilege. Just ask Ruth. This young woman from Malawi uses a smartphone to earn a living and help close the gender gap in tech. Learn more about Plan International Canada’s efforts toward digital equity.

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