{"id":789499,"date":"2023-03-08T10:43:03","date_gmt":"2023-03-08T15:43:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/forests.org\/?p=789499"},"modified":"2023-03-23T12:01:12","modified_gmt":"2023-03-23T16:01:12","slug":"sfi-celebrates-international-womens-day-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/forests.org\/fr\/sfi-celebrates-international-womens-day-2\/","title":{"rendered":"SFI Celebrates International Women\u2019s Day"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"SFI<\/span><\/div>

Meet the women of SFI<\/h4>\n<\/div>

For International Women\u2019s Day 2023, SFI<\/a>, Project Learning Tree<\/a> (PLT), and PLT Canada<\/a> (PLTC) are highlighting how we #EmbraceEquity<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The words equity and equality are often used interchangeably. Both words share the root word \u201caequus,\u201d which means even, fair, or equal. But despite this shared root, equity and equality are fundamentally different.<\/p>\n

The International Women\u2019s Day 2023 #EmbraceEquity<\/a> campaign seeks to help forge a worldwide conversation about what we mean when we say \u201cequity\u201d and \u201cequality.\u201d At SFI, we know that equal opportunities are no longer enough and that despite people\u2019s best intentions, focusing on equality without considering equity can be exclusionary, rather than inclusive.<\/p>\n

This International Women\u2019s Day, let\u2019s remember that each of us has different circumstances, and that resources and opportunities must match individual needs if we are to reach an equal outcome.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>

Shaping a Forest Sector That Delivers on the Promise of Equity<\/h3>\n<\/div>

We at SFI truly believe in building an equal and inclusive world where everyone fully understands the difference between equity and equality.
\nWe also believe that SFI is strengthened by the diversity of its team. We represent diverse cultures, disciplines, educational backgrounds, and work and life experiences.<\/p>\n

Below are a few SFI testimonials on how women can succeed in the forest and conservation sector in ways that will make it more equitable and welcoming for all. <\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cTake the front row! Be curious. Believe in yourself. Learn from others and pass it on. And when you succeed, help others do the same. Share your voice for good!\u201d
\n\u2014 Kathy Abusow<\/strong>, President and CEO<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cYou can do anything you put your mind to\u2014the sky is the limit. There are many diverse and rewarding opportunities in the forest and conservation sector. Learn from others but create your own path and future, and you will make a difference.\u201d
\n\u2014 Bettina Ring<\/strong>, Chief Sustainability and Diversity Officer<\/p>\n<\/div>

Find your voice. Don’t be afraid to try new things and express your opinions. Work collaboratively with your team to find practical solutions and celebrate your achievements together. This will give you a sense of purpose and inspire you to contribute to something greater.\u201d
\n\u2014 Nadine Block<\/strong>, Senior VP, Community and Government Relations<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cSeek out female mentors in forestry to get a better understanding of your career options. We\u2019re always happy to support and uplift the next generation!\u201d
\n\u2014 Carley Archibald<\/strong>, Coordinator, GIS and Conservation Research<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cSeek opportunities related to your field of interest as those experiences will help bolster your resume and help shape your career.\u201d
\n\u2014 Rachel Hamilton<\/strong>, Sr. Coordinator, Conservation Partnerships<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cCreate and expand your professional network by actively seeking formal and informal mentors. Don’t hesitate to approach individuals, especially women, who hold positions that interest you. Many people will welcome the opportunity to share their experience with an enthusiastic individual new to their forestry career. \u201c
\n\u2014 Julia Hershberger<\/strong>, Director, Human Resources<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cLearn to have confidence in your abilities and understand the value you contribute to the sector. Forestry is not just for trees but also for communities and people who depend on it.\u201d
\n\u2014 Shuya Huang<\/strong>, Coordinator, Education Systems<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cReach out and connect with other women in the forest and conservation field by networking or joining focus groups on social media. Explore and figure out what interests you and then apply for the job\u2014even if it scares you. It will be worth it!\u201d
\n\u2014 Madhuri Jani<\/strong>, Senior Coordinator, Green Jobs<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cFind a mentor and take every opportunity available to you. If something doesn’t feel right or someone is treating you in a way that is not appropriate, speak up.\u201d
\n\u2014 Alix Olson<\/strong>, Coordinator, Statistic, Urban and Community Forestry<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cJump right in and be proud of what brings you joy, both personally and professionally. Reach out and get involved in organizations that support your goals. There are other women and girls who share your passion. Seek out mentors!\u201d
\n\u2014 Annie Perkins<\/strong>, Senior Director, Green Building and Supply Chain<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cConnect with someone working in a forest and conservation career and chat with them to learn more about what the day-to-day aspects of a particular job look like and ask them to help you expand your network.\u201d
\n\u2014 Danika Strecko<\/strong>, Senior Manager, Education<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cGirls and women need to see themselves in forest and conservation roles to believe they can have careers in the sector. Exposure and experience are crucial, including having women speakers and mentors who look like the youth and have similar barriers and raising awareness among families. It takes a community effort to support youth and help them recognize and achieve their potential in the sector.\u201d
\n\u2014 Jerri Taylor<\/strong>, Director of Diversity in Career Pathways<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cFind mentorship programs like the PLT Green Mentor Program and the PLT Canada Green Mentor Program. They are great ways to improve your networking skills and grow your professional connections. There are also many scholarships available for young adults to attend conferences\u2014apply, apply, apply!\u201d
\n\u2014 Mira Williamson<\/strong>, Senior Manager, Communications<\/p>\n<\/div>

Hear from some of the women who work at SFI on what they love most about working in the forest and conservation sector.<\/h3>\n<\/div>

\u201cThis work of advancing sustainability through forest-focused collaboration is important work. When we do it right, it can make a positive difference in our health and well-being. Plus, it supports communities, addresses climate change, provides renewable products, and addresses many challenges positively.\u201d
\n\u2014 Kathy Abusow<\/strong>, President and CEO<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cI love that our work advances forest-focused collaboration while balancing environmental, social, and economic considerations. Connecting with the people and communities we serve is a highlight, and I’m inspired by our efforts to drive positive change at the intersection of these three areas.\u201d
\n\u2014 Bettina Ring<\/strong>, Chief Sustainability and Diversity Officer<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cI love that forestry is a rapidly evolving sector. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by individuals who share a deep commitment to our forests and recognize the importance of making climate-smart decisions about our resources. Although forestry is a long-term endeavor, it demands continual reflection and adaptation as we strive to enhance our understanding and integrate new information into our decision-making processes.\u201d
\n\u2014 Nadine Block<\/strong>, Senior VP, Community and Government Relations<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cI love knowing that the work I’m doing today to help bring environmental education to youth will have a positive impact on not only their future but our climate. I’m passionate about leaving this world a better place for future generations and instilling a love of nature in kids.\u201d
\n\u2014 Megan Annis<\/strong>, Director, Sales and Marketing<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cThe forest and conservation sector is full of smart, passionate people who dedicate their lives towards a greener future. I’m constantly inspired by colleagues who care deeply about the future of people and the planet, and am energized by the fact that I’m always learning!\u201d
\n\u2014 Jennifer Byerly<\/strong>, Director, Communications<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cI love working in forestry and sustainability because it helps build stronger communities. Trees and forests have a way of bringing people together while combating environmental issues.\u201d
\n\u2014 Lydia Kidane<\/strong>, Coordinator, Education Programs<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cI love making a difference, finding sustainable solutions to real-world problems, and supporting youth in learning about green career pathways and making change\u2014that means the world to me.\u201d
\n\u2014 Brittany Lodge<\/strong>, Coordinator, Youth Programs<\/p>\n<\/div>

“I love combining my passion for education with my love of nature and being outside. I truly believe that empowering the next generation of environmental stewards is the greatest path to change.”
\n\u2014 Kate Nagle<\/strong>, Director, Education & PLT Network<\/p>\n<\/div>

“The forestry and sustainability community is just that\u2014a community of learners and practitioners. Forestry (and the education surrounding it) is a practice, and we must practice it to become proficient. It’s a joy to do so alongside other women who so fundamentally care about the future of our planet.”
\n\u2014 Jaclyn Stallard<\/strong>, Curriculum Advisor<\/p>\n<\/div>

\u201cI graduated with a Master’s in Environmental Engineering from the University of Windsor with a strong knowledge base in sustainability. I was always drawn to working in the environmental sector. With climate change becoming a stronger reality, forests are a crucial ecosystem and fundamental for the environment’s well-being. I realized that forestry is not a secluded sector and does not only include working outdoors. I transferred my research and data analysis skills into my work and combined my passion and skills in my everyday life.\u201d
\n\u2014 Shwetha Kengasur Venkatesh<\/strong>, Coordinator, Green Jobs<\/p>\n<\/div>