​​​​BRAMPTON, ON (February 24, 2026) – On March 7, the City of Brampton is celebrating International Women’s Day, honouring the achievements and contributions of women, whose leadership and resilience continue to shape Brampton into a thriving, inclusive and compassionate community. 

This year’s global theme, Give to Gain, highlights the power of generosity, mentorship and collaboration in accelerating gender equity. When individuals and organizations give their time, talent, resources and support, opportunities for women grow, strengthening the entire community. 

Save the date | Celebrate International Women’s Day at The Rose with the City of Brampton

Join the City of Brampton for a special International Women’s Day event at The Rose, featuring a free panel discussion, followed by a mainstage performance by NEWCHOIR presenting Women Who Rock, featuring Brampton’s own Lee Aaron. Tickets are only required for the mainstage performance. 

Moderated by Cristina Howorun, Broadcast Journalist for CityNews Toronto, the panel will explore mentorship, leadership and the power of giving to create opportunity. Panelists include: 

• Addy (Ridhima) Budhwar, Technology Professional and International Cricket Council (ICC) - Certified Cricket Umpire
  
• Andrea Wilson, Entrepreneur and Founder, Achieve™ 
  
• Annie Bynoe, Executive Director, Knights Table; Recipient, Brampton’s Key to the City 
  
• Dr. Ashley Sebastian, Family Physician and Community Health Advocate 
  
• Lee Aaron, Vocalist, Songwriter, Producer; Inductee, Canada’s Walk of Fame and Brampton Arts Walk of Fame 
  

Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with Brampton-based women’s advocacy and empowerment groups and enjoy complimentary refreshments provided by It’s Not Easy Being Green, a Brampton women-owned business. For event details and to learn how you can Give to Gain, visit brampton.ca/IWD. 

Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026 

Time: 5:30 to 10 pm – main stage performance begins at 8 pm (tickets required) 

Location: The Rose, 1 Theatre Ln., Brampton, ON 

The City of Brampton thanks Toronto Pearson for its generous sponsorship of this year’s International Women’s Day event. 

City of Brampton’s commitment to gender equity 

The City of Brampton remains committed to advancing gender equity through initiatives such as the Women Empowerment Network (WEN) and the Brampton Women’s Advisory Committee. These initiatives support mentorship, leadership development and inclusive decision-making across the organization and community. 

International Women’s Day serves as both a celebration and a call to action, encouraging residents to attend events, support women-owned businesses, volunteer with community organizations, provide mentorship and uplift women’s voices. 

Quotes

 “International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable women who contribute to Brampton’s success every day. This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain,’ reminds us that when we invest in one another through mentorship, collaboration and support, we build a stronger, more equitable community for all.” -Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton 

 “Gender equity requires meaningful action. Through initiatives like the Women Empowerment Network and the Women’s Advisory Committee, Brampton continues to create opportunities for women to lead and thrive. I encourage everyone to join us on March 7 and be part of the conversation.” - Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 and 5; Chair, Community Services Section, City of Brampton​

“This year’s event brings conversation and culture together in a powerful way. The panel and performance highlight the impact of mentorship, leadership and artistic excellence – demonstrating how giving back helps us all gain.” - Navjit Kaur Brar, Regional Councillor, Wards 2 and 6; Vice-Chair, Community Services Section, City of Brampton