Women in Defence & Security Committee

Mandate and Purpose

WiDS is an operating committee of CADSI dedicated to empowering, equipping, and celebrating women in Canada’s defence and security industries. Its mission is to champion diversity and inclusivity by providing opportunities for women from all backgrounds to grow, lead, and thrive.

The committee is a community of people of all genders united by a shared goal: amplifying women’s voices, transforming workplace culture, and celebrating success across the sector.

WiDS operates under three strategic pillars:

Creating connections

Building meaningful relationships, opening doors, and creating pathways to leadership through events and networking opportunities.

Developing talent

Growing future leaders through Speed Mentoring events and the National Mentoring Program.

Recognizing Excellence

Honouring the achievements of women who inspire change at the annual WiDS Awards Breakfast, one of the most inspiring events of the year.

Women in defence and security professionals talking around a table during a mentorship session.

Group of women posing together at an industry networking event wearing CADSI-branded shirts.

Diverse group of industry leaders standing side by side at a Women in Defence & Security event.

Woman operating a simulation control panel during a hands-on defence technology training session.

History and Evolution

WiDS began in 2005, when five women gathered in a living room to imagine a better future for women in Canada’s defence and security community. What started as a grassroots effort to connect and support peers has evolved into a national platform for mentorship, celebration, and advocacy.

Community and Engagement

While WiDS is a membership organization, there are no fees, barriers, or prerequisites to join. Signing up connects individuals to a network of allies and professionals who believe in empowering women and advancing equity in the defence and security industry.

Strategic Priorities

WiDS is focused on expanding its national reach, growing mentorship programs, and creating leadership pathways for women at all stages of their careers.

Programs and Initiatives

WiDS delivers programming that inspires, empowers, and connects professionals across Canada’s defence and security community. By increasing women's participation and representation, WiDS's initiatives contribute to a more inclusive and resilient global security landscape.

WiDS Annual Awards Breakfast

The flagship event celebrates outstanding women and allies across Canada’s defence and security industries. It has become one of the most anticipated and inspiring events of the year.

National Mentoring Program

A first-of-its-kind trio mentoring model that connects students, emerging professionals, and senior leaders for a nine-month journey of shared growth and learning.

Speed Mentoring Events

Held in cities across Canada, these events bring together women and allies for mentorship and networking opportunities designed by the community, for the community.

Scholarship and Fellowship Program

Through the WiDS Scholarship Fund and the CGAI Fellowship, students pursuing higher education in fields related to Canada’s defence and security receive support and recognition. The Remarkable Leaders Campaign highlights these future trailblazers.

Awards and Recognition

Networking events connecting women across the sector

Mentor of the Year Award honours those who dedicate time and expertise to supporting others.

Allyship Award recognizes individuals who amplify underrepresented voices and champion inclusion throughout their careers.

Community involvement

WiDS builds connection through community activities that foster teamwork and shared purpose. From Canada Army Run to local Dragon Boat festivals and charity events, these initiatives strengthen relationships across the defence and security community while encouraging wellness, collaboration, and collective participation.

Leadership and Governance

WiDS operates as an official committee of CADSI under the leadership of an Executive Director, who provides strategic direction, oversees national initiatives, and represents the organization within Canada’s defence and security community.

Supporting the Executive Director is a volunteer committee composed of professionals from across the sector. Together, they bring diverse experience and insight to advancing the WiDS mandate and strengthening its national impact.

The committee meets quarterly, or as needed, to plan programs, guide initiatives, and extend WiDS’s presence across Canada. This collaborative structure ensures the committee remains both visionary in leadership and rooted in the voices of the community it serves.

Resources and Partnerships

WiDS partners with organizations that share its commitment to advancing diversity and leadership in defence and security.

Through collaboration with the Canadian Global Affairs Institute (CGAI), WiDS award recipients are offered fellowship opportunities that deepen expertise and expand professional networks.

Learn more about the Scholarship and Fellowship Program

Explore the Remarkable Leaders Campaign.

Get Involved

Participation in WiDS is open to anyone who believes in advancing women’s leadership in Canada’s defence and security industries.

Signing up is free, quick, and the best way to stay informed about upcoming events, mentoring opportunities, and community initiatives.

CONTACT WiDS

For questions or general inquiries, contact WiDS at wids@wids.ca.

For sponsorship opportunities or partnership inquiries, reach the sponsorship team at sponsorships@defenceandsecurity.ca.

Championing Women in Defence and Security Leadership in Canada

Programs and Initiatives

Leadership and Governance