Work-life balance remains a global conversation. Some countries are piloting shorter workweeks, while others are introducing new tools and resources to support employees. Celebrating mothers in May is a timely reminder that inclusion for women in business should be a year-round effort to recognize the additional responsibilities many mothers carry throughout their career. With a new Canadian government promising more affordable childcare, some companies are going further to enhance inclusion. Canada's Top Family-Friendly Employers list celebrates organizations offering direct support towards women’s work-life balance. CHFA member Danone is one of the 2025 winners, pioneering initiatives to support women and families through life changes, while enhancing the workplace experience with recognition programs and education funds.
Of course, family changes aren’t the only longstanding barriers to women’s advancement. To truly accelerate progress, creating spaces where women can thrive is essential to finding new ways to accelerate growth and remove barriers. Whether through special events, targeted programs, or product innovation focused on women’s health, more companies are finding ways to celebrate and directly empower women in business. CHFA member YSpace offers programs to directly support women-led ventures that give founders at several stages of maturity a space to grow their business. Aruna Revolution, another CHFA member, has reimagined menstrual products by providing pads made of plant-based materials that are designed to compost over time. A prime example of a brand prioritizing both women’s health and sustainability in a category that is often overlooked.
CHFA encourages organizations committed to inclusivity to explore the 50-30 challenge – a government initiative that challenges businesses to provide opportunities in the workplace for senior leadership to reach goals of gender parity and significant representation. Joining the challenge is a great and powerful first step for companies to recognize and identify where they can eliminate the barriers to success for women and minorities in business.
Sources:
- https://www.canadastop100.com/national
- https://reviews.canadastop100.com/top-employer-danone?_gl=1*1sm3rbt*_ga*MTQ3MjY5MDE2MC4xNzQ2Nzk5Mjcw*_ga_H481FDLVWD*czE3NDY3OTkyNzAkbzEkZzEkdDE3NDY3OTk3NTIkajAkbDAkaDA.#ct100
- https://arunarevolution.com/
- https://www.yorku.ca/yspace/programs-streams/
- https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/ised/en/50-30-challenge-your-diversity-advantage
