My name is Maria Paula, and I am originally from Colombia, now residing in Ottawa. During the previous months I worked on the first community-based social innovation lab at Incubator13, focusing on developing projects that address local social challenges and empower marginalized communities. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s in Design at Carleton University, blending my background in business with a strong emphasis on community impact; and I have the opportunity to serve on the Boards of Directors for both the City for All Women Initiative (CAWI) and Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO), where I actively promote gender equality and foster inclusive practices within our communities.

Joining the Leadership for Systemic Change program at IWSO holds profound personal significance for me. As a woman who has navigated significant barriers, I was drawn to the program’s focus on mentorship, learning from inspiring women leaders, and building a supportive community. I sought to connect with other women who, like me, are dedicated to making a difference—not just for ourselves, but for future generations. The opportunity to explore topics such as intersectionality, Canadian systems, and not-for-profit governance has equipped me with essential tools to advocate for broader change. This program has been a pivotal step in my journey as a young leader.

As I navigate personal and professional challenges, the skills I’ve developed through my cohort have been transformative. Public speaking, in particular, has empowered me to step confidently into spaces I once found intimidating—especially while speaking in my second language. These skills have not only helped me secure promotions and leadership roles in youth programs but have also strengthened my ability to advocate for gender equality in crucial forums. For instance, at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario’s Women’s Forum 2024, I proudly represented my riding in Toronto and engaged with MPPs and former political leaders about the importance of gender representation.

I want to emphasize the importance of this program because it empowered me, and every woman in Ottawa should have the opportunity to experience similar growth. This program is a powerful step toward building stronger, more inclusive communities, and I believe that together, we can drive real change. Let’s collaborate, mentor, and advocate for a world where every voice is heard and every individual has the opportunity to lead

Meet our board of Directors