The Jean Collective is proud to host the annual Middlesex Women’s Leadership Conference on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Caradoc Community Centre. This year's theme, "Lift & Lead: Real Talk on Resilient Leadership," aims to bring together community-builders, business leaders, and emerging changemakers for a day of candid conversation and practical insight. The conference, […]
The Jean Collective is proud to host the annual Middlesex Women’s Leadership Conference on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Caradoc Community Centre. This year's theme, "Lift & Lead: Real Talk on Resilient Leadership," aims to bring together community-builders, business leaders, and emerging changemakers for a day of candid conversation and practical insight.
The conference, which runs from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., will feature a powerful lineup of speakers and panelists dedicated to discussing the challenges and triumphs of leadership.
This year's event boasts a dynamic roster of accomplished women. Bonnie Crombie, former mayor of Mississauga and leader of the Ontario Liberal Party, will deliver the keynote address. The day’s events will be emceed by Joanne Vanderheyden, the former mayor of Strathroy and past president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
Attendees will also hear from an inspiring panel featuring:
Elyssa Rose, Executive Director of the Women’s Rural Resource Centre of Strathroy & Area
Kelly Elliott, Marketing & Communications for the Association of Ontario Road Supervisors
Donna Pammer, Executive Director of the Strathroy & District Chamber of Commerce and Councillor for Strathroy-Caradoc
Danielle Zapfe of the London Police Service
According to Helen Cole, founder of The Jean Collective, the day is all about "candour, community, and courage." Attendees will participate in small-group conversations, sharing real-life strategies for navigating adversity and building new connections. The goal is to leave with a renewed sense that leadership is stronger when women lift each other up.
"Women lead in every corner of Middlesex County & beyond – business, public service, nonprofits, neighbourhoods – and when we share what’s real, we all rise," Cole said.
Tickets for this community-accessible event are $35. To secure your spot, register at this link before the October 10 deadline.
The Jean Collective and the event’s sponsors, including Community Futures Middlesex, Strathroy & District Chamber of Commerce, and Enbridge, are committed to empowering women and keeping the dream of female leadership alive in the region.
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