WEST’s March 2024 International Women’s Day Gala
Gathered under the banner of equality and diversity, Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) is gearing up to host its 18th annual International Women’s Day Gala on March 8, 2024 at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor.
This year’s theme is Inspire the Future Generation, #CountHerIn.
“The gala will be a beacon of celebration, advocacy and recognition,” indicates Rose Anguiano-Hurst, Executive Director of WEST. “This much-anticipated formal dinner event promises an evening dedicated to honouring the remarkable women and community partners shaping the Windsor Essex community.”
Embracing the spirit of inclusivity, the night is poised to encompass a myriad of engaging activities, from a captivating keynote speech to vibrant entertainment, a delectable gourmet dinner, prestigious awards, and an enthralling silent auction.

For over three decades, WEST has been a cornerstone and guiding light in the region, dedicated to uplifting and empowering newcomer women from diverse backgrounds with invaluable skills crucial for personal and professional growth.
With a steadfast commitment to fostering employment opportunities, imparting new skills, and providing crucial orientation services for newcomer women, at the heart of WEST’s mission lies the aspiration to lead the charge in positioning women for success.
For numerous years, WEST has enjoyed a strong partnership with St. Clair College and its esteemed President, Patti France who has been selected as the keynote speaker for the gala.
Throughout this alliance, the college has provided invaluable support to various WEST programs, notably the Women in Skilled Trades initiative, among others.
“Dr. France, a distinguished and revered leader in our community, embodies a wealth of experience and expertise,” states Anguiano-Hurst. “Her profound insights and visionary leadership are poised to inspire and enlighten all attendees at this prestigious event.”
Another highlight of the evening is the presentation of the Journey Towards Success Awards, which stand as a hallmark of recognition.
Each year, these prestigious awards serve as a tribute to exceptional women who embody inspiration and unwavering commitment, as well as to dedicated supporters whose steadfast encouragement propels the journey towards women’s empowerment.
The 2024 awards include the Phenomenal Woman Award, Innovation Award, New Partnership Award, Sisterhood Award, Youth Community Leadership Award, Visionary Award, Allyship Award, Influencer Award, Perseverance Award, Daphne V. Clarke Trailblazer Award, DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) Award, VIP — New Business Partner Award, and the Equity and Inclusion Award.
The countdown is now on to a night of inspiration, camaraderie, and the collective pursuit of a more equitable tomorrow.
The 2024 International Women’s Day gala on March 8 promises an evening of celebration and empowerment and it’s an event you don’t want to miss. The team from Biz X will be in attendance and we hope you will be too!

