Empowering Women in Recreation: Building Tools, Building Change
Women working in male-dominated areas of the recreation industry face unique challenges every day. From being the only woman on the team to navigating conflict and exclusion, the road to success often requires more than technical skills, it requires resilience, support and community.
That’s why the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (AARFP) has launched a Lean in Circle for Women in Recreation. A monthly gathering for peer mentorship, leadership development and real conversations about the challenges and triumphs women face in the field.
These sessions are designed to be inclusive, confidential, judgment-free and true to RFP, fun. Each month, we explore topics ranging from transformational leadership, conflict resolution, setting boundaries and how to find mentors. Participants will have access to tools, challenges and resources to support their growth as well as opportunities to connect between sessions, too.
This initiative is already making waves. We’ve hosted three virtual sessions so far, with over 30 women from across Alberta and Canada actively participating. Together, we’re shaping a future where women in recreation are equipped not just to survive but to thrive. One of our long-term goals is to develop these peer-informed tools into resources that can be used by both employers and employees across the sector.
Join us for a session on October 9, 2025 at 2:00 pm via Zoom. This month’s discussion will focus on how to recognize and intervene with microaggressions in the workplace and beyond, together we will build strategies, confidence and create tools to help you respond effectively.
