YWCA's Walk a Mile In Their Shoes Event Raises Over $38,000 to Support Those Who Experienced Gender-Based Violence

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To maintain support for victims of gender-based violence, the YWCA’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event raised $38,341.71.

Men and Women participated in the downtown walk on Friday Afternoon. Several men sported red high heels in solidarity for the cause. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“This is more than we ever could have hoped for and we are beyond grateful to all who helped make this possible,” said Sarah Perkins, YWCA philanthropy communications coordinator.

Groups or individuals could sign up and raise funds for the YWCA prior to the march. The funding supports the YWCA’s Journey of Care which covers its signature programs and services offered.

“(It covers) The shelter —which is open 24 hours a day, — supportive counselling, transitional housing support, our family court support program and a hub on Mondays that a lot of organizations participate in,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director.

Roughly 70 people joined in the downtown march on Friday afternoon. It started at Confederation Square and circuited back after turning onto King and Water Street.

@ptbo_canada The YWCA’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event raised $38,341.71 to support its programs for those who have experienced gender-based violence. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #women ♬ Strong Woman Stand Up - Chris B Harris & Jasmine T Harris & Daniel Kenneth Solovitz

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PHOTOS: YWCA's Walk a Mile In Their Shoes Event Marches Through Downtown For Awareness For Gender-Based Violence

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To raise awareness and funds for gender-based violence, the YWCA held its annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes and marched through Downtown Peterborough on Friday afternoon.

Roughly 70 people joined in the downtown march. It started at Confederation Square and circuited back after turning onto King and Water Street.

“It takes a community to end violence against women; it takes all of us,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director.

Groups or individuals could sign up and raise funds for the YWCA prior to the march. While a final tally has yet to be released, the top team had raised over $4,400, while the top individual had raised just under $1,700 at the time of publication. The funding supports the YWCA’s Journey of Care which covers its signature programs and services offered.

“(it covers) The shelter —which is open 24 hours a day, — supportive counselling, transitional housing support, our family court support program and a hub on Mondays that a lot of organizations participate in,” said Dolan.

While most of the march was composed of women, several men were part of the downtown walk, sporting red high heels in solidarity with the cause.

“The men who are here today are representative of a larger group of men who understand that violence against women are happening and largely men who are responsible for that violence,” explained Dolan.

Donations are currently being accepted and can be made online.

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Seven Ladies Honoured at the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber's Luminary Awards For Women In Business

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Seven women in business had the spotlight during the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Luminary Awards at Trent University’s Great Hall on Thursday afternoon.

The Awards celebrated women who reflect the diversity and strength of women in business throughout Peterborough and the area, according to Susan Dunkley, Luminary Committee Chair and Chamber Board Chair.

“The Luminaries are about shining a light on the women who are not only building businesses but shaping our communities and redefining what leadership looks like,” she said. “Their courage, vision and generosity create ripple effects far beyond their own success. When we celebrate women in business, we don’t just recognize achievement; we ignite possibility for others.

The following are this year’s recipients:

  • One to Watch: Michelle Nguyen (New Canadians Centre)

  • Emerging Entrepreneur: Chasley Keepfer (Cheeky Duck Vineyard)

  • Trailblazer: Leanne Crump (Kawrtha Family Health Clinic)

  • Barrier Buster: Ashley Flynn (Blackrock Developments)

  • Community Catalyst: Lois Tuffin (Volunteer Peterborough)

  • Legacy: Dr. Jenny Ingram (Kawartha Centre – Redefining Healthy Aging)

“To be chosen as the recipient of the Legacy award this year just made my day and it’s wonderful,” said Ingram.

@ptbo_canada Seven women were honoured at the Peterborough & Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Luminary Awards for women in business! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #women ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

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City of Peterborough Honours Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women With Ceremony On Red Dress Day

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The City of Peterborough hosted a ceremony to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People (MMIWG2S) at City Hall on Tuesday morning.

Singing and drumming were performed as the red flag was raised at City Hall to mark Red Dress Day. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Commonly known as Red Dress Day, May 5 is held annually and acknowledges missing or murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited people, recognizing the disproportionately high rates of violence the Indigenous community faces. 

The ceremony had speeches, drumming and a smudging ceremony.

“This day is an important opportunity for our community to come together in remembrance, reflection and solidarity,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “We honour the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People, and acknowledge the ongoing impacts of violence and injustice faced by Indigenous communities. I encourage residents to join us at City Hall for this meaningful ceremony as we listen, learn and stand together in support of truth, healing and reconciliation.”

Red dresses are hung in the windows of City Hall until Friday. 

Kelli Marshall of Hiawatha First Nation performs a jingle dress dance (also known as the healing dance) during the Red Dress Day ceremony at Peterborough City Hall. The dance is meant to cure sickness and bestow positive energy to those around the dancer. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The red dresses displayed in the windows of City Hall are a powerful symbol of the Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirited people who are missing or who have been taken too soon,” said Shelley Knott, City of Peterborough Indigenous Advisor. “They also represent the families and loved ones who continue to carry grief while searching for truth and justice. We invite the community to reflect on their meaning and join us in showing support, solidarity and a shared commitment to ending violence.”

The Urban Indigenous Working Group hosted additional activities in Confederation Square after the ceremony.

@ptbo_canada The City of Peterborough hosted a ceremony is to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People on Red Dress Day. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #indigenous ♬ original sound PTBOCanada

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PHOTOS: The Tiffany Show's International Women's Day Party

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Host of The Tiffany Show Tiffany Arcari hosted her third annual International Women’s Day Party on Sunday; celebrating local women, uplifting their stories and collecting menstrual products for the Period Promise initiative.

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Celebrate International Women’s Day in the City of Peterborough

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City of Peterborough residents are invited to an event to recognize and celebrate International Women’s Day at City Hall on March 7.

Photo by david tuan bui.

International Women’s Day, which is held annually on March 8, is dedicated to acknowledging the achievements, contributions and leadership of women and girls. 

Mayor Jeff Leal has issued a proclamation in support of International Women’s Day.  

“International Women's Day is a day to celebrate achievements, leadership and resilience of women and girls in our community and around the world. It is an opportunity to recognize the countless ways women contribute to our families, workplaces and neighbourhoods, often while overcoming barriers and inequities,” Mayor Jeff Leal said. 

The day begins with a rally and march that begins at City Hall (500 George St. N.) at 11:30 a.m.  

City Councillor Joy Lachica will read the International Women’s Day proclamation. The rally will also include drumming from the group Naandewegaan (Healing with Drums) and a poem from Peterborough’s Poet Laureate, Ziysah.  

The rally will be followed by a march downtown with an afternoon of activities in Friends of the Library Community Room at the Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St. N.) Events include music, light refreshments and a discussion with Kat Owens from the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund.  

The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre, the Kawartha World Issues Centre and the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton have also organized events on March 7.

All events are free to attend, though registration for the events at the library is encouraged. Registration can be done online.

"This day invites us to reflect on the work that remains to advance fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity for all. By marking International Women’s Day, we reaffirm the importance of recognizing women’s contributions, amplifying their voices and continuing efforts toward a more equitable future for current and future generations,” said City Councillor Joy Lachica. 

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Rebecca van Staalduinen Named Head Coach of Excalibur Women’s Volleyball 

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Director of Athletics and Recreation at Trent University Nathan McFadden announced the appointment of Rebecca van Staalduinen as the new head coach of the Excalibur women's volleyball program. 

Photo courtesy of trent university.

A longtime member of the program, van Staalduinen becomes the first female head coach in the history of Trent women's volleyball. Van Staalduinen '10 (Champlain College) brings more than a decade of experience with the Excalibur to her new role. After completing 10 seasons as associate coach, she begins her 11th season with the program as head coach.

A graduate of Trent's Biology program with a specialization in Health Sciences, she has been a dedicated contributor to Excalibur volleyball both on the court as a student-athlete, and on the sidelines as a coach. 

"Rebecca's commitment to Trent women's volleyball and her passion for our student-athletes and their holistic development make her an outstanding choice to lead our women's program," said McFadden. "Her experience as both a student-athlete and coach at Trent gives her a deep understanding of our values and how we want to continue to build a successful program." 

Van Staalduinen first joined the Excalibur coaching staff during the 2014–15 season and has played a key role in the program's growth and development ever since. 

"I've been part of this program since 2010; as a student-athlete, an alum, and an assistant coach, and it has shaped who I am," said van Staalduinen. "I'm honoured to now step into the role of Head Coach, building on the strong foundation Colin has established over the past three seasons while continuing to move the program forward. This program means a great deal to me, and I'm excited about the future and the opportunity to continue growing it alongside our student-athletes and staff." 

Prior to her coaching career, van Staalduinen enjoyed a decorated playing career. She competed for one season at Fleming College, where she earned National Scholar recognition, before continuing her career with the Excalibur at Trent. During her four seasons as a student-athlete, she was named an Ontario Colleges Athletic Association First Team All-Star twice and a Second Team All-Star once. She helped lead Trent to an OCAA bronze medal in the 2013 to 2014 season and was named an OCAA Championship All-Star. Van Staalduinen was also a two-time team MVP and represented the program at the OCAA All-Star Game on three occasions. 

Her development as a coach has also included national-level training opportunities. In 2022 to 20223, van Staalduinen was selected to participate in the U SPORTS Female Apprentice Coach Program, an initiative designed to increase the number of women in coaching roles across Canadian universities by pairing developing coaches with experienced mentors.

As part of the transition, former head coach Colin Walker will remain with the program in a mentorship and senior advisory capacity with the women's team while continuing in his role as head coach of the men's volleyball program.

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The Tiffany Show’s International Women’s Day Event Returns March 8

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The Tiffany Show’s 3rd annual International Women’s Day Party event returns to inspire and uplift local women at The Venue March 8.

Photo by Felicia Massey.

The event aims to celebrate local women, share authentic stories and foster connection, confidence and empowerment.

Host of the Tiffany Show Tiffany Arcari announced prizes, partnerships and vendors for the event at a press conference Friday.

@ptbo_canada @The Tiffany Show’s 3rd annual International Women’s Day event is back; celebrating women in our community on March 8th at @The Venue! 🩷🚺 The free event has limited tickets still available, for more information visit ptbocanada .com #ptbocanada #internationalwomensday ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

Event attendees are encouraged to bring a menstrual product donation as the United Way’s Period Promise aims to collect 25,000 menstrual products for Kawartha Food Share. Arcari says her own health issues encouraged her involvement in this initiative.

“I remember thinking ‘thank God I can afford period underwear, diva cups, ultra tampons and ultra pads because these things are not inexpensive,’” reflected Arcari. “‘What do women that do not have funds and access to resources do?’”

arcari unveiled her event’s partnership with the united way’s period promise, aiming to combat period poverty in our community. Photo by Felicia Massey.

Last year’s event hosted hundreds and shared stories from local women that inspired and uplifted attendees.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and limited tickets are still available online.

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Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Announces 2026 Luminary Awards Nominees for Women in Business

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The Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has unveiled the nominees for the 2026 Luminary Awards for Women in Business, celebrating women whose leadership, innovation and generosity are strengthening the region’s economy and community.

Photo by Felicia Massey.

Established to shine a light on women whose contributions are often overlooked, the Luminary Awards recognize leadership across entrepreneurship, employment, community service and long-term impact. The awards honour women who lead visibly and behind the scenes in business, non-profit and community settings, and who create opportunities for others through their work.

The inaugural Luminary Awards sold out in 2025, drawing more than 200 attendees and recognizing five outstanding recipients: Sheena Howard, Jenisha Sanjit Arora, Rachel Stark, Tiffany Arcari and Jeannine Taylor. Taylor received the first-ever Legacy Award, which recognizes a lifetime of excellence, generosity and community impact.

“The Legacy Award reflects the heart of what the Luminary Awards stand for,” said Chair of the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Board Susan Dunkley. “It honours women whose careers have not only achieved success but have changed lives and strengthened our community over time.”

The following five categories introduced in the inaugural year return for 2026:

Legacy

Honouring a woman whose career is defined by excellence, generosity and community impact. Her vision and success have created opportunities for others through employment, mentorship, philanthropy or long-term influence; leaving an enduring mark.

Nominees:

  • Judy Byrne

  • Monika Carmichael

  • Dr. Kristy Hiltz

  • Vanessa Oake Hogan

  • Dr. Jenny Ingram

  • Jenni Johnston

  • Cathy Olley

  • Anne Ryan

  • Susan Tung

  • Wendy Kelly

  • Betty Halman-Plumley

Trailblazer (Entrepreneur)

Celebrating a business owner whose leadership, ingenuity and boldness have sparked success and inspired others.

Nominees:

  • Winter Barringer

  • Kinjal Shukla Clement

  • Lisa Couture

  • Leanne Crump

  • Marsha Gaulton

  • Richa Grover

  • Catherine Hanrahan

  • Tracy Minnema

  • Ashley Flynn

  • Danielle Turpin

  • Rebecca O'Rourke

Emerging Entrepreneur

Celebrating a rising business owner who has launched a fresh, innovative venture that is already making its mark and shows exciting potential for the future.

Nominees:

  • Kara Ainsworth

  • Chasley Keepfer

  • Karen Kerr

  • Erin Shannon

  • Elena Thomas

  • Ashley Woollacott

  • Ashley Flynn

  • Marsha Gaulton

One to Watch (Employee)

Recognizing an emerging leader whose innovative ideas, meaningful contributions and proven success show outstanding potential for the future. Nominees may hold entry to mid-level management roles.

Nominees:

  • Allison Adam

  • Bethan Bates

  • Amanda Bedford

  • Lindsey Brodie

  • Michelle Nguyen

  • Rosalea Terry

“It still continues to be a big deal for women to be recognized and I think the Chamber’s doing an amazing thing with this,” said The Ten Spot’s Lindsey Brodie. “When you are being validated by other women it is so much more impactful.”

Barrier Buster

Celebrating a remarkable woman who has excelled in her field by breaking through barriers. She has faced challenges, whether gender-based, systemic, cultural, language, disability-related, or otherwise; and risen above them with skill, creativity and perseverance.

Nominees:

  • Ashley Flynn

  • Bridget McCluckie

  • Jane Bischoff

  • Jordan Lyall

  • Kayley Duggan

  • Nour Mazloum

  • Stephanie Wilson

  • Tori Silvera

  • Marsha Gaulton

New for 2026, the Chamber has expanded the awards to include two additional categories:

Building Belonging

Celebrating a woman whose inclusive leadership and equity-driven innovation has reshaped how business is done, demonstrating that building for belonging is not just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic advantage. Nominees may focus on workplace culture, employee experience and/or customer-facing innovation.

Nominees:

  • Mackenzie Annis

  • Akshana Katoch

  • Jennifer Lawson

  • Peggy Shaughnessy

  • Danielle Turpin

  • Patricia Wilson

  • Marsha Gaulton

Community Catalyst

Celebrating a woman whose leadership, collaboration and vision have sparked positive change in the community. A Community Catalyst brings people together, builds partnerships and drives meaningful progress on local priorities. Nominees can be paid staff or volunteers of a not-for-profit organization, or be an employee or owner of a business or enterprise.

Nominees:

  • Ashley Woollacott

  • Abby Zotz

  • Ashley Collins

  • Betty Halman-Plumley

  • Chelsey Carberry

  • Dana Hetherton

  • Emma Featherstone

  • Michelle Ferreri

  • Sheridan Graham

  • Tonya Kraan

  • Kat McCartie

  • Amy Muir

  • Marcia Steeves

  • Meryn Steeves

  • Rosalea Terry

  • Lois Tuffin

  • Susan Zambonin

  • Rebecca O'Rourke

  • Nour Mazloum

“I’m a female-owned business in the boxing industry, which isn’t the norm,” said Marsha Gaulton of Eastside Boxing and Wellness, who was nominated for four Luminary Awards this year. “This is a huge honour for me to be recognized for what I’m doing. Just to be seen like this in the community, it feels like my heart is exploding.”

The 2026 Luminary Award Ceremony will take place on May 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Great Hall, Trent University (1600 West Bank Dr.).

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Red Dress Art Installation Leads To Residency In France For Peterborough Artist

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A community art project that began at the Peterborough Public Library has led to an international opportunity for local artist Ash Street, whose Red Dress installation has been selected as part of an artist residency in France. 

photo courtesy of peterborough public library, facebook.

Street has been accepted into the Atelier Artist in Residency program, a two-week international residency running from Feb. 2 to 16 in Normandy, France.

Created in recognition of Red Dress Day, Canada’s National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people (MMIW), the Red Dress installation invites the public to pause and reflect on the lives lost and the voices that continue to call for justice.   

Working in partnership with the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, Street created the initial piece in the Downie Wenjack Legacy Space at the Peterborough Public Library. Street invited community members to fill in open spaces on the dress with donated textiles and materials on hand. The exhibit is now on display in the main foyer of City Hall at 500 George St. N. 

“Inviting people to share in the process and engage in conversation has been at the heart of this work. That collective experience is what carried this project forward and ultimately opened the door to sharing these stories on an international stage,” Street said. “I am grateful to the City of Peterborough and the Peterborough Public Library for offering me a space and the opportunity to create and share my work with the community. I would also like to thank Jaime Black-Morsette, a Métis artist, activist and creator of the MMIW red dress movement, who has inspired me to create the pieces I have made thus far.”

The residency program expressed interest in both the artistic merit of Street’s work and the broader community conversations it has generated, particularly around what MMIW means to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous audiences. 

“The Red Dress installation is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to honour the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people, and to continue the work of listening, learning and acting,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “By supporting this exhibit and the artist behind it, the City is helping create space for truth, reflection and community dialogue. We are proud to see a project rooted in community care and participation reach an international audience.”

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