WOMEN GENERAL COUNSEL CANADA QUASI-QUARTERLY Issue No. 7, July 2025

Une version française suivra dans un envoi séparé

Embracing the Ease of Summer: Connection, Reflection and Quiet Momentum

As the days grow longer and the pace softens, summer offers us a welcome pause—a chance to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and take stock of where we’ve been. Whether you’re catching up on long-overdue reading, spending more time outdoors, or simply enjoying quieter inboxes, this season invites us to blend rest with reflection.

At WGCC, we’re leaning into this slower rhythm while still moving forward with intention. The first half of 2025 was filled with inspiring conversations, meaningful milestones, and bold ideas. Now, as we settle into summer, we’re continuing to build community and offer thoughtful programming—designed to meet you where you are, whether that’s lakeside, laptop-side, or somewhere beautifully in between.

This season isn’t about urgency—it’s about connection, renewal, and making space for what matters most. Let’s soak it in, together!

MESSAGE FROM YOUR PRESIDENT AND CHAIR | HEATHER MULLEN

Dear WGCC Members,

On behalf of the WGCC Board, a huge thank you for showing up, speaking up, and keeping WGCC thriving through the first half of the year. We couldn’t do it without your brilliance (and your heroic tolerance of our relentless calendar invites).

We’re lining up exciting programs for the rest of 2025—and we’d love for you to be part of it. Got ideas for sessions? Interested in joining the 2026 Summit Committee or helping out here and there? Drop us a line at info@womengc.ca!

I’m looking forward to catching up this summer—whether it’s during a virtual Summer Circle or over a drink at the Toronto Summer Social on August 13. Let’s make the most of the season together.

On a personal note: we’ve welcomed a new puppy to the household. Between him and our senior dog, sleep is minimal, but the mischief is next-level.

Wishing you a sunny, joyful, memory-filled summer—see you soon!

With appreciation,
Heather Mullen
WGCC Board Chair

WHAT HAVE WE BEEN UP TO LATELY

Spring 2025 was packed with engaging events that struck just the right balance between connection and content. From energizing discussions to meaningful networking moments, the season brought together fun, inspiration, and real takeaways. It was a reminder that professional growth can be both substantive and enjoyable—and that our community thrives when we learn and laugh together. 

WGCC & McCarthy Tétrault: WGCC Industry Forums | Navigating U.S. – Canada Developments | April 8, 2025

Our April Industry Forum on U.S.–Canada trade developments delivered timely, high-impact insights at a moment when change was unfolding in real time—literally. With trade policy updates emerging just minutes before the session began, attendees received the most current perspective available on the shifting cross-border landscape. Expert speakers offered both broad and sector-specific analysis, helping general counsel understand how these developments affect industries from digital goods to construction, health care to infrastructure. The session included rich roundtable discussions where members shared challenges, exchanged strategies, and explored how to navigate uncertainty with clarity and confidence. It was an important reminder that in a rapidly evolving regulatory climate, staying informed—and connected—is essential to thriving in our GC roles.

A sincere thank you to our valued sponsor:

WGCC & Stikeman Elliott: Breakfast & Insightful Session with Chantelle Courtney | April 28, 2025

At our April breakfast session, attendees gathered for a delicious and engaging morning hosted by Stikeman Elliott. Chantelle Courtney of Inflection Point Coaching and Consulting delivered a compelling keynote focused on how women GCs and legal leaders can strengthen their leadership presence in today’s climate of complexity and change.

Chantelle offered actionable strategies grounded in self-awareness, communication, and interpersonal acumen—skills essential to influencing stakeholders, leading with impact, and building resilient teams. Attendees left not only well-fed but well-equipped, with practical tools and fresh perspectives to navigate uncertainty and lead with purpose. It was a morning of meaningful insights, great company, and lasting takeaways.

Heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsor:

WGCC Annual Summit 2025 | May 29, 2025

On May 29, WGCC members from across the country came together for our most well-attended Summit yet—and what a day it was! WGCC Summit 2025 was a vibrant celebration of leadership, learning, and community, all wrapped in bold ideas, empowering conversations, and yes—fabulous WGCC-branded swag!

With the theme “Empowering Minds, Leading Forward,” the day was packed with dynamic sessions and thoughtful takeaways, but also plenty of fun: from delicious food and buzzing coffee chats to surprise gifts and an energy that only comes from being surrounded by powerhouse women general counsel.

We kicked off the day with a keynote speaker sponsored by Blakes: Lynn Posluns, Founder of the Women’s Brain Health Initiative. Lynn opened our minds to the vital science behind women’s cognitive health—connecting brain wellness directly to our performance, resilience, and longevity as leaders. She walked us through the six pillars of brain health—and reminded us (kindly, but firmly!) that no, we can’t just double down on leafy greens and skip the rest. From physical activity to social connection, sleep, stress management, cognitive stimulation, and nutrition, every pillar counts. The takeaway? If we want sharper thinking and less anxiety, we might need to stop doom-scrolling at midnight and actually get some sleep.

Next, Professor Dusya Vera of Ivey Business School brought deep insight and heartfelt reflection to her session, “Leader Character: Who Am I Becoming While I Am Busy Doing?” Grounded in the Leader Character Framework, her talk encouraged us to look beyond skills and competencies, and instead examine the character traits—like courage, integrity, humility, and humanity—that shape who we are as leaders. In the rush of day-to-day demands, it's easy to focus on what we’re doing; Dusya challenged us to consider who we’re becoming in the process. The session resonated with our theme of leading forward, offering a powerful reminder that great leadership isn’t just about execution—it’s about character in action.

From there we shifted gears to consider where “Law Meets Bot”, a panel that was both eye-opening and refreshingly practical, guiding attendees from the fundamentals of AI to the frontier of what’s possible in legal practice today. Al Hounsell (Gowling WLG), Andrea Alliston (Fasken), and Lauren Nickerson (Torys) broke down the basics—what AI is (and isn’t), where it’s already showing up in our day-to-day, and why general counsel need to be paying close attention. The discussion also covered cutting-edge applications, highlighting how legal teams can thoughtfully integrate new technologies to enhance efficiency and insight. Just as importantly, the panel tackled how to identify and manage the unique risks and opportunities AI presents—from governance and data privacy to reputational and ethical considerations. Attendees walked away empowered to ask sharper questions, engage proactively with innovation teams, and begin mapping out what AI readiness looks like in their organizations.

Later in the day, Sabita Singh brought the energy with a lively, fast-paced workshop that had us all rethinking our digital presence. Her session on building an all-star LinkedIn profile delivered practical, actionable advice on how to sharpen your online brand, tell your leadership story with clarity, and make your profile truly stand out. From headline hacks to content tips and connection etiquette, members walked away with smart, immediately usable strategies to boost visibility, grow their networks, and amplify their voice as modern legal leaders. A reminder that in today’s digital landscape, your LinkedIn profile isn’t just a résumé—it’s your reputation in motion.

We wrapped the afternoon with a compelling insider’s look at how growing uncertainty is reshaping everyday life and political discourse in Canada, thanks to the sharp insights of Caroline Stauffer and Rinaldo Huriptyo from Reuters. Their data-driven briefing explored how economic pressures, shifting public sentiment, and global events are filtering into boardrooms, legal strategies, and decision-making at the highest levels. It was a powerful close to the day—zooming out from the personal and organizational to the national and global, and reminding us that effective leadership means staying attuned not just to what’s happening inside our organizations, but all around them.

As a special treat for our in-person attendees, the Summit offered a chance to step in front of the camera for amazing new professional headshots, courtesy of the talented Jenn Grachow. With on-site hair and makeup touch-ups available, members were camera-ready and confident—making it the perfect opportunity to refresh those LinkedIn profiles with a polished look that matches their leadership presence.

We capped off the day with cocktails and canapés, where conversation flowed as easily as the wine. Members mingled, debriefed the day’s sessions, and deepened connections in a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere. It was the perfect finish to a dynamic and empowering Summit.

Thank you to everyone who joined us—whether in person or online—for making this our biggest and boldest Summit yet. The energy, generosity, and shared wisdom in the room was nothing short of electric. Here's to continuing the momentum—together.

Sincere thanks to all our WGCC sponsors and partners, with special appreciation to our keynote and venue sponsors:

Fireside Chat with Stephen Poloz: Resilient Legal Strategies in a Highly Volatile Environment | June 10, 2025

On June 10, WGCC members joined Stephen Poloz—former Governor of the Bank of Canada and resident economic futurist—for a fireside chat that pulled no punches on what it takes to lead through volatility.

Drawing from his book The Next Age of Uncertainty, Poloz unpacked the macro forces rattling global markets and reminded us that unpredictability isn’t a phase—it’s the new normal.

Joined by Elisabeth Demone (Symcor) and Wendy Gross (Osler), the panel explored how GCs can help CEOs steer through chaos with calm, clarity, and a good dash of speed.

The session wrapped with cocktails, canapés, and conversation—because if we’re going to tackle a riskier future, we may as well toast to it first.

Deepest thanks to our generous sponsor

WGCC Emeritus Cocktail Soirée | June 16, 2025

Leave it to our Emeritus members to host a gathering that’s equal parts meaningful and memorable! On June 16, they welcomed the WGCC Board for an evening of warm connection, thoughtful conversation, and effortless style. Set against a backdrop of great cocktails and genuine laughter, the event sparked ideas around mentorship, community building, and continued collaboration. It was the kind of night that reminds us: when our Emeritus members get together, purpose and fun are always on the menu.

WGCC Summer Social: The Fragrance Edition | June 19, 2025

On a picture-perfect summer evening, WGCC members gathered on the lush patio at Chotto Matte for an unforgettable night of connection and creativity. With delicious bites, vibrant cocktails, and skyline views setting the scene, the atmosphere was warm, relaxed, and buzzing with conversation.

The standout moment? A custom perfume-making experience that invited members to create signature scents as unique as their leadership style—bringing out everyone’s inner alchemist and adding a fun twist to the evening.

It was the perfect mix of mingling, memory-making, and summer magic—reminding us that some of the best networking happens with a drink in hand and a little fragrance in the air.

Proudly hosted by:

Happy Hour with WGCC | June 19, 2025

While our Toronto members were crafting custom scents, WGCC members on the West Coast were raising their glasses at El Gato Gab Gab for a Happy Hour that was every bit as memorable. With vibrant conversation, cozy ambiance, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe, the Vancouver chapter gathering proved that great networking comes in many forms—sometimes with a signature fragrance, and sometimes with a perfectly poured glass of wine. Cheers to connection, coast to coast!

LOOKING AHEAD - MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE SUMMER AND EARLY FALL!

• Summer Networking Circles (Virtual): Join us this summer for a series of networking circles focused on the theme From Cost Centre to Value Creator, and discover the need for legal leaders to demonstrate value and effectively tell their story. | Click here for more information and to register - August 12 & 14, 2025 (CPD)
  
  
• WGCC Social (In-Person): Celebrate the season at the WGCC Summer Social, proudly sponsored by Alexa Translations! Enjoy an evening of casual networking, refreshing drinks, and great company as we connect and unwind on the patio of Jump. | For more information and to register, click here - August 13, 2025
  
  
• Summer Social with WGCC (In-Person): BC members! Join us on the rooftop patio at the Workshop Building in Mount Pleasant for wine and appies! For more details and to register, click here | August 21, 2025
  
  
• GCU Alumni Summer Social (In-Person): WGCC and Torys warmly invite you to an evening of cocktails and connection on the rooftop of SOCO (Bar Caña)! Please note: This event is exclusive to GCU alumni, Emeritus members, and the WGCC Board of Directors | Click here for more information and to register - September 10, 2025
  
  
• A Panel Discussion with Leading HHR Litigators (In-Person): September 16, 2025 - Keep an eye on your inbox for upcoming details (CPD)

We’re looking forward to an exciting lineup of events this fall—packed with opportunities to connect, learn, and engage—including Women GCs on Board, sponsored by Blakes on October 3, an event sponsored by Osler on October 22, a McMillan-sponsored event in November, and much more!

Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox for updates and registration details for these and other events coming soon!

Whether you're lakeside, patio-bound, or simply taking five between meetings, summer is the perfect time to recharge your leadership mindset—one page (or podcast episode) at a time. We asked WGCC board members to share what’s currently fueling their thinking, sparking ideas, and helping them stay grounded this season.

Here’s what made the cut:

Books that Lead the Way

From strategy insights to page-turning fiction, your summer reads are as varied and dynamic as the leaders behind them.

• When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Gabor Maté: A powerful exploration of how suppressed emotions and chronic stress silently shape our health – and what we can do to reclaim it
• Atomic Habits by James Clear: A practical and proven guide to building habits, breaking bad ones, and mastering the tiny behaviors that lead us to results
• Let Them by Mel Robbins: A reminder that you are not the CEO of everyone else's behaviour - so if someone wants to exclude you or ignore your emails - let them!
• All the Colours in the Dark by Chris Whitaker: A tightly plotted thriller that grabbed attention as an “unputdownable” pick
• Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams: A gripping insider account that exposes how power, ambition and moral compromise collided behind the scenes of one of the word’s most influential tech giants
• Weyward by Emilia Hart: A lyrical, multi-generational tale of three women connected by a mysterious legacy of witchcraft, resilience and reclaiming their power across centuries
• Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout: A poignant and introspective novel that unravels the quiet complexities of human connection, truth, and the stories we choose to share—or withhold while dealing with a shocking crime
• Isola by Allegra Goodman: Inspired by the real life of a sixteenth century heroine, this novel tells the timeless story of a woman fighting for survival 

Kathleen’s Pick: A Must-Read for Summer

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans | Review by Kathleen Flynn, Emeritus Lead and Former GC of Indigo

Let me start off by saying “I loved this book.”

In this debut novel Virginia Evans tells the story of Sybil van Antwerp—a strong-minded septuagenarian. Sybil is a mother, grandmother, divorcée and retired lawyer. She’s also an inveterate letter writer—her life unfolds for the reader through her handwritten letters and a few emails to her friends, family, and certain people she feels need a piece of her mind. Sybil even strikes up a friendly correspondence with a few of her favourite authors including Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry.

It’s a moving novel that explores themes of forgiveness, identity, debilitating grief, the solace of friendship and the joy of having wonderful people in one’s life. Looking for a great read this summer? I recommend The Correspondent to you!

Podcasts with Purpose

Whether on morning walks or between meetings, here’s what our Board is cueing up on their airwaves:

• Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett: Hailed for its range of guests and deeply engaging interviews—perfect for leaders seeking fresh perspective and self-reflection
• Good Hang with Amy Poehler: This podcast is a witty, unfiltered, laid-back podcast where celebrities and fun people share stories about career, friends, enthusiasm and what’s making them laugh – it’s just about a good time!
• On Purpose with Jay Shetty: A podcast filled with practical wisdom designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed
• Making Sense with Sam Harris: A thought-provoking podcast that explores complex topics – from neuroscience to philosophy to politics and ethics – through deep, rational conversations with leading thinkers
• Wiser than Me with Julia-Louis Dreyfuss: A heartwarming and insightful podcast where extraordinary older women share the life lessons, laughs and wisdom they have gathered over the years
• Soul Boom with Rainn Wilson: Explores life’s biggest questions – spirituality, purpose and human connection – through deep, often humorous conversations aimed to spark personal and cultural transformation (check out the interview with Steve from Blues Clues!)

• Simply Cinda with WGCC member Cinda Serianni: Explore the real experiences of menopause and perimenopause while navigating career transitions, caregiving, aging and living with humor and heart.
• Wonk with Amanda Lang (sister of WGCC board member, Adrian Lang): A sharp, insightful podcast that dives into big ideas in business, economics and policy, with a dose of wit!

Screen Time with Substance (and a Little Escapism)

Even the sharpest legal minds need to press pause. Whether you're decompressing post-deposition or powering down after a marathon of meetings, these GC-approved shows deliver the drama, comedy, and clever twists we secretly (or not-so-secretly) live for.

• Acapulco (Apple+): Fun for the whole family, with a retro flair and heartwarming energy.
• The Four Seasons (Netflix): A warm-hearted comedy that turns seasonal getaways into laugh-out-loud lessons on friendship, love and the chaos of midlife.
• The Perfect Couple (Netflix): A suspenseful drama that unravels secrets, lies and murder at a picture-perfect wedding where no one is as innocent as they seem.
• Your Friends and Neighbours (Prime): A dark comedic drama that dissects the toxic undercurrent of modern relationships with razor-sharp dialogue and unsettling honesty.
• Alone: South Africa (History/Prime): A gripping reality series where contestants face the wilds of the Eastern Cape entirely solo – battling nature and themselves.
• The OC (Crave): Re-watching this series is like flipping through your favorite old diary – full of drama, heartthrobs and just the right amount of nostalgic chaos to remind you how far you’ve come (and how good the soundtrack still is!!).

Final Word

Summer is for slowing down—yes—but also for tuning in to the little joys: a quiet coffee before the day begins, sandy toes at the lake, the tug of a dog on a morning walk, or the crisp refreshment of lemonade after tending to the garden. Whether you’re escaping on vacation or just stealing a sunny moment between meetings, the WGCC community has you covered with inspiration, entertainment, and rituals worth savoring. Special thanks to our board members for sharing their favourite indulgences with us.

Got a pick we should feature next time? Keep them coming—we’re already curating Fall’s Fireside List. Email us at: info@womengc.ca!

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

We’re excited to welcome our newest WGCC members to our community of over 200 talented, driven, and future-focused women leaders! We can't wait to get to know you better - and to learn from all the expertise and fresh perspectives you bring!

CANADIAN GENERAL COUNSEL AWARDS

Congratulations to the outstanding women recognized at the 20th Annual Canadian General Counsel Awards (CGCA) on June 3, 2025!

We’re proud to celebrate Patrice Walch-Watson, Shara Roy, Kristin Taylor, and Michèle Lefaivre for their achievements and well-earned honours. Your leadership continues to shape and inspire Canada’s legal landscape.

We also extend heartfelt congratulations to the inaugural recipients of the WGCC Hall of Distinction & Annual Vanguard Award sponsored by ZSA: Heather Mullen, Lara Speirs, Alexa Abiscott, Elspeth Hagan, Cheryl Foy, Bindu Cudjoe, and the Honourable Justice Julia Shin Doi. This prestigious recognition, presented in collaboration with Women General Counsel Canada (WGCC) and ZSA Legal Recruitment, honours remarkable past and present trailblazing women General Counsel for their outstanding contributions to advancing women GCs across Canada.

To the honourees: thank you for blazing trails, lifting others, and leaving an indelible mark on the profession. You continue to redefine leadership—and inspire the next generation to follow your path.

Stay tuned for more information on how to nominate someone for next year’s Annual Vanguard Award. We look forward to continuing this celebration of leadership, advocacy, and excellence in our legal community!

WLAO PRESIDENT'S AWARDS GALA

Congratulations to WGCC members Ratika Gandhi and Pam Hrick on receiving prestigious awards at the 2025 WLAO Awards Gala, held on May 8th, 2025.

Ratika was awarded the 2025 Women General Counsel Award, a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional leadership and accomplishments.

Pam was honoured with the President’s Award in recognition of her brilliant work and meaningful contributions to the legal profession.

At WGCC, nothing makes us happier than sharing hacks, tips, and must-know recommendations. Whether it’s a brilliant speaker for your next event, a legal app that could save the day, a can’t-miss book or podcast, or celebrating someone who has recently won an award, we’ve got you covered.

Have you had an amazing speaker, service, podcast, resource or tool that your fellow GC's may benefit from? If so, please share and contribute to our curated recommendations for WGCC members! Whether it's announcements, awards, or upcoming speaking engagements, allow WGCC to amplify your news and spread the word by emailing: info@womengc.ca!

Exclusive Member Benefit | Preventative Health Assessments with TELUS Health

WGCC, in partnership with TELUS Health, is pleased to offer exclusive pricing on Preventative Health Assessments (PHAs) for all members and their guests. These comprehensive assessments are designed to support both physical and mental well-being—because maintaining optimal health is key to sustained performance, sound decision-making, and long-term success.

With increasing strain on our public healthcare system, proactive, preventative care may be something you’re considering for yourself and your loved ones. Visit our webpage for details on how WGCC members—and their friends and family—can take advantage of this special offer.

Women Get On Board (WGOB) | Upcoming Events & Exclusive Discounts

WGOB is proudly celebrating 10 years of getting women on boards! With a growing network of over 1,000 members across Canada, WGOB continues to champion the next generation of women leaders—one board seat at a time. They stand by the power of three: one woman in the boardroom is a token, two is a presence, and three is a voice.

Looking ahead to a busy and exciting spring, WGOB is pleased to share a lineup of upcoming events and programs—along with exclusive discount codes available to WGCC members. Don’t miss these opportunities to learn, connect, and take your board journey to the next level!

WGOB Membership Discount
$50.00 off
Click here for more details and to apply, click here

Community Hub: Events & Programs
Click here for further details

WGOB Membership Information Session | August 12, 2025Click HERE to join

BMO Celebrating Women On Boards 

Click here for more information

WGOB 10th Anniversary Celebration

September 25, 2025 | For more information, click here

WGOB Chairs Forum - Cohort 4 (Virtual & In-Person) | September 17, 2025

The WGOB Chairs Forum aims to provide a community to connect, promote and empower women chairs to excel in their boardroom leadership.

For more details and the link to register, click here. Please use discount code: WGOBPAP for 20% off!

OUR SINCEREST GRATITUDE TO OUR SPONSORS & PARTNERS

WGCC would like to thank its generous sponsors and partners for their ongoing support of the women general counsel community!

SPONSORS

PARTNERS

This message was sent to you by {Organization_Name}

If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you can unsubscribe at any time 

{Organization_URL}