“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”— Ruth Bader Ginsburg

The Women Who Lead Governance Fellowship is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. Designed for women across Canada working in health and social care, this prestigious program supports emerging leaders who aspire to serve on non-profit healthcare boards and step confidently into governance roles.

About the Fellowship

The Women Who Lead Governance Fellowship is a free professional development program offering foundational training in healthcare governance, board recruitment processes, and leadership. Through sessions delivered by leading governance faculty, board recruitment experts, and women currently serving on healthcare boards, participants gain practical skills, strategic direction, and a clear roadmap into board service.

Program Structure & Time Commitment

The Fellowship spans four months, requiring approximately 10 hours of total participation. It includes three core sessions and one optional session:

Session 1: Boardroom Basics

Tuesday, March 3rd | 8:00–10:00 am | Virtual

A governance “Legal 101” introducing the fundamentals of non-profit boards and the responsibilities of Directors.

Session 2: Rise to the Top

Tuesday, April 21st | 12:00–2:00 pm | Virtual

A practical workshop on navigating the board recruitment process—crafting a board bio, strengthening applications, and preparing for interviews.

Session 3: Leadership and Influence

Wednesday, June 17th | 4:00–6:30 pm | In-person, Toronto

A panel discussion with women leaders currently serving as board directors and officers in the healthcare sector.

Program Cost

Thanks to the generosity of program partners Mirams Becker and Miller Thomson LLP, the Fellowship is offered at no cost to participants.

Applicants are responsible only for travel expenses for the in-person Toronto session. A letter confirming enrollment can be provided for those seeking employer support.

Who Should Apply?

The Fellowship welcomes applications from:

• Women in healthcare or social care, at any career stage
• Those interested in board governance and eager to make a strategic impact
• Women seeking their first board role, or early in their board journey
• Canadian applicants only (nationwide)

The program is ideal for women who want to better understand board dynamics, strengthen their governance capabilities, and contribute meaningfully to organizational leadership.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the online application form by Tuesday, January 6th.

Selection will be based on authenticity, motivation, and commitment to creating impact in health and social care. Only 30 spots are available.

All applicants will be notified of the outcome after review.

Get more information: Click Here

If this Fellowship resonates with you—or with a woman you know who is ready to lead—please share widely and help grow this impactful community of governance leaders.