Girls’ Vision for the Future and the Future of Canadian Rail
On October 11th, we celebrate International Day of the Girl Child with a theme that resonates deeply: Girls’ Vision for the Future. This year, the focus is on amplifying girls’ voices and empowering them to shape the world they want to see. Their dreams and ambitions, though often hindered by global crises such as climate change, conflict, and poverty, remain fueled by a deep sense of hope and action.
For the Canadian rail industry, this day is an important reminder of the critical role young women and girls play in shaping not only the future of rail but also the communities and industries that rely on it. Girls envision a future where gender equality is the norm, and industries like ours must actively work to ensure that the opportunities for leadership, innovation, and progress are within reach for every girl who dreams of it.
A Future Fueled by Girls' Ambitions
Around the world, too many girls are still denied basic rights and opportunities, limiting their choices and constraining their futures. Yet, despite the odds, today’s generation of girls is showing remarkable courage and resilience. They are standing up and pushing for change in their communities and beyond, driven by a vision of a world in which all girls are protected, respected, and empowered.
In Canadian rail, we can look to this vision and take action. Girls today are the leaders, engineers, and innovators of tomorrow, and the potential they bring to the industry is immeasurable. But they can’t get there alone—they need the support of industries and organizations that are committed to diversity and inclusion.
What the Rail Industry Can Do
At the Canadian Association of Railway Suppliers (CARS), we are committed to playing a role in realizing this future. By listening to girls, responding to their needs, and offering them the resources and opportunities they need to thrive, we can build an industry where their ambitions are not only welcomed but celebrated. Here’s how we can all contribute:
Encourage STEM Education: One of the most effective ways to invest in girls' vision for the future is by promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. The rail industry relies on innovative solutions, and fostering an interest in STEM from an early age can open doors for girls to enter fields where they are currently underrepresented.
Mentorship and Representation: Representation matters. Creating mentorship programs where girls can connect with women already thriving in the rail industry will provide them with role models and tangible proof that their dreams are achievable.
Advocacy and Support: We must continue to advocate for policies that ensure girls have equal access to education and career opportunities. By supporting gender equality within our industry, we are not only fostering fairness but also ensuring a stronger future for Canadian rail.
Inspire with Real Stories: Sharing stories of women in rail who are leading with innovation and excellence will inspire the next generation of girls. When girls see women who are breaking boundaries and making an impact, it helps them envision a similar path for themselves.
Investing in Girls, Investing in the Future
Girls’ visions for the future extend far beyond their personal ambitions—they are leading movements for climate action, human rights, and global equality. Their leadership is not confined to one industry or one cause, but their drive for change ripples out, impacting families, communities, economies, and industries like ours.
The future of the Canadian rail industry is tied to the future of today’s girls. If we support them, their dreams, and their visions for the world, we are building a future where rail is more innovative, more inclusive, and more dynamic.
Time to Listen, Time to Act
As we mark this International Day of the Girl Child, let us commit to listening to the voices of girls and acting on their vision for a better future. The potential of more than 1.1 billion girls worldwide is vast and untapped. When girls lead, the impact is immediate, and the future becomes brighter for everyone.
For those of us in the Canadian rail industry, it’s time to step up and become the allies they need. Together, we can create an industry that reflects their vision and offers them the platform to fulfill their potential.
Let’s invest in girls. Let’s invest in the future of rail.
Learn more at: https://www.un.org/en/observances/girl-child-day