The Board of Directors at iWIST are delighted to bring a wide variety of events to its membership, and the wider STEM community on Vancouver Island
However, if you are interested in co-hosting an event with us or have an idea for an events, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch using the buttons below:
Future Innovators: Empowering Women in STEM
Join our panel of women in STEM for a candid conversation about their experiences, challenges, successes, and career journeys. The panel brings together future innovators from middle school, high school, and post-secondary education, along with professionals from a variety of STEM fields. Presented in partnership with School District 61 and generously sponsored by Quicksilver Business Innovation Group.
Event details:
Date: Wednesday 14th October, 2026
Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Location: Reynold’s Secondary (3963 Borden Street, Victoria, BC)
Register for free!
The panel represents women from different STEM disciplines and at different points in their careers. Our panelists are:
Alyne Araujo, a Civil Engineering Design Technologist working in municipal Infrastructure
Mahum Azeem, a Software Engineer and certified Scrum Master
Sabrina Lakhdhir, Computer Science PhD Candidate at UVic, studying the Design of Customized Wearable Technology
Sara Salem Hesari, A Radio Frequency Engineer, and Adjunct Professor at UVic
Sydney Goodwin, MSc Biochemistry and Microbiology Candidate at UVic, and recipient of the 2025 iWIST Woman in STEM Scholarship award
iWIST presents Geeky Girls Patio Party 2026!
This year we announce recipients of 3 scholarships for women in STEM! Our friends & partners at Redbrick and Shift have joined iWIST to fund these awards. Come and meet the students who will shape our future!
iWIST Members Only Solstice Celebration
Join us for this special members-only event as we welcome in the summer solstice and celebrate women in STEM. The evening will feature drinks, appetizers, music, networking, and, of course, iWIST fun!
Launching Your Canadian STEM Career: Practical guidance on licensing, networking, & job markets
Are you an international student or internationally trained STEM professional struggling to enter the Canadian job market, position your international experience, obtain a license, or build a meaningful career?
Join us for a practical, strategy-focused webinar based on lived experience, not theory. Our guest speaker is UVic MBA Alumni and P.Geo Urnaa Yondon, Founder of YGEOSCIENCE LTD and licensed Geoscientist with 15+ years integrating mineral exploration, financial and strategic analysis. Urnaa will share practical tips on strategies that work, followed by a Q&A.
iWIST Book Club: Unlocking Leadership Mindtraps
This month, the Book Club is reading “Unlocking Leadership Mindtraps” by Jennifer Garvey Berger, where they will explore 5 pervasive leadership mind traps identified by the authors background in adult development, complexity theories, and leadership consultancy, and the suggested approaches to escape these patterns.
Don’t miss this lively 90-minute discussion which will explore key skills: listening to learn, disagreeing to expand, resolution to deepen relationships.
This is a welcoming space for conversation, curiosity, and reflection. New members are always welcome!
Register to receive the Zoom link and come ready to connect.
WHEN: Thursday, May 7th, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
iWIST Casual Drinks at Grad House
A casual affair - enjoy a beverage and appies while connecting with old...and new friends!
We're hanging out at the Grad House on the UVic campus this month so feel free to drop by, and bring a friend!
We have reserved the patio so here's hoping the weather cooperates.
WHEN: Tuesday, April 23rd, 4:30-6:30 pm
WHERE: Grad House Restaurant, 3800 Finnerty Rd, Victoria, BC V8N 6K8
FEE: $8 for iWIST members (with exclusive discount code), $18 for future-members ;)
Get your ticket early as capacity is limited!
iWIST Book Club: Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World
Tyson Yunkaporta invites readers in his thought-provoking book to see the world through Indigenous knowledge systems, offering new ways to understand connection, sustainability, and how we solve complex problems.
Whether you’ve read the book before or are diving in for the first time, this is a welcoming space for conversation, curiosity, and reflection.to see the world through Indigenous knowledge systems, offering new ways to understand connection, sustainability, and how we solve complex problems.
iWIST Casual Drinks at Glo
Interested in expanding your network within Victoria's STEM community? Then join us at Glo Restaurant and Lounge - your ticket includes one happy hour drink and tasty appies!
Your special host for this evening is the Royal Roads University department of Professional and Continuing Studies, who along with Dean Zoe MacLeod, is excited to continue their historic support for iWIST.
Sign up and bring a friend! iWIST members pay just $8 while future members pay $18. *Member codes will be sent out by email to current members!
WHEN: Tuesday, February 10th, 4:30-6:30 pm
WHERE: Glo Restaurant and Lounge, 104 - 2940 Jutland Road, Victoria, BC, V8T 5K6
FEE: $8 for iWIST members (with exclusive discount code), $18 for future-members ;)
Get your ticket early as capacity is limited!
iWIST Book Club: Playing Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead
In our first Book Club of 2026, we explore Tara Mohr’s, Playing Big - a guide to bridging the gap between what others see in you and what you see in yourself.
This is not just for leaders - everyone can benefit from Mohr’s practical tips to help them step into their potential.
Even if you haven’t read the book, you are welcome to join the discussion.
Lunch & Learn: When the Media Calls - Own your Story
Kick off 2026 with our first Lunch & Learn of the year.
Join us as communications expert and iWIST Board Member Robyn Quinn of Big Bang Communications leads a practical online workshop to help you build confidence when speaking to the media. With more than 20 years of experience as a journalist and media trainer, Robyn will share her top three tips for responding to media inquiries with clarity and confidence.
iWIST Annual General Meeting & Holiday Party
Don't miss this annual celebration with fellow iWIST members and allies.
Join us for our 2025 Annual General Meeting and Holiday Breakfast at Hatley Castle on the Royal Roads University Campus and start your day by celebrating iWIST's past and future surrounded by STEM friends!
Pay parking is available in lower parking lot and RRU is on several bus routes
WHERE: Hatley Castle - Royal Roads University, 2005 Sooke Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 5Y2
WHEN: Friday Dec 12, 2025 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM PT
(Breakfast from 7:30, Meeting starts at 8:00am)
FEE: $8 for iWIST members (watch out for your special email to claim your spot, coming soon!), $45 for non-members, with option to purchase a membership with your ticket to get member rates :)
iWIST Book Club: Abundance
In a world where innovation moves faster than policy, how can governments keep up?
This month, the Book Club is diving into Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, an exploration of how modern societies struggle to craft long-term strategy while constantly reacting to short-term pressures.
Using U.S. case studies with global relevance, the tension between rapid technological change and the slow-moving gears of public policy is explored.
Don’t miss this lively 90-minute discussion on the future of governance, innovation, and the choices shaping our world.
New members are always welcome! Register to receive the Zoom link and come ready to connect.
WHEN: Thursday, December 4th, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
Technical Tour and Mixer at Reliable Controls
WE’RE SOLD OUT FOR THIS EVENT!!
Join Us for an Exclusive Industry Tour & Mixer at Reliable Controls!
Island Women in Science and Technology (iWIST) and the Vancouver Island Chapter of ASHRAE invite you to a dynamic evening of connection and discovery with our corporate member, Reliable Controls. Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the region’s leading building automation and controls manufacturers, followed by a casual mixer with fellow professionals in engineering, science, and technology.
Whether you're looking to expand your network, explore innovative technologies, or simply enjoy an engaging evening with industry peers, this event is not to be missed!
🗓️ Date: November 20, 2025
📍 Location: Reliable Controls, Victoria, BC
🕔 Time: 3:30 - 6:30 pm
💵 Cost: $10.00
Space is limited. Register today to secure your spot!
Presented by iWIST & ASHRAE Vancouver Island Chapter
Empowering professionals. Building connections. Inspiring innovation.
Unmasking & Conquering Imposter Syndrome
Did you know that an astonishing 70% of us have a thief living inside us? Imposter syndrome steals our confidence and causes us to constantly second-guess ourselves. This pervasive phenomenon is not exclusive to any gender, with both men and women falling prey to its insidious whispers.
Sue Maitland PCC, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in IT, has navigated the labyrinth of imposter syndrome herself. Now, as a distinguished coach for over a decade, she empowers her clients to comprehend, manage, and ultimately triumph over this insidious phenomenon.
Embark on a transformative journey with us as Sue shares her personal story, shedding light on the true nature of imposter syndrome. Discover the telltale signs that may be lurking in your own life and grasp the profound impact it can wield on your personal and professional growth.
Sue will help you understand the underlying causes of imposter syndrome and equip you with proven strategies to counteract this phenomenon, enabling you to regain control and build your confidence. An interactive Q&A session will provide an opportunity to delve deeper into this topic.
Remember, awareness is the catalyst for positive change. Join us for this enlightening lunch and learn event. Walk away with invaluable insights that have the potential to revolutionize your presence in the workplace and beyond. Let’s conquer imposter syndrome together!
🗓️ Date: November 17, 2025
📍 Location: Zoom
🕔 Time: 12:00 - 1:00 pm
Future Innovators: Empowering Women in STEM
Join us for an inspiring evening with our panel of women in STEM. We are bringing together future innovators from middle school, high school, and post secondary along with professional women in STEM for a candid conversation about their STEM careers. All are welcome.
Event details:
Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Location: Vic High (1260 Grant Street, Victoria, BC)
Register for free!
The panel represents women from different STEM disciplines and at different points in their careers. Our panelists are:
Urnaa Yondon, P.Geo, Geoscientist, and Manager, Project and Business Development, Artisanal Gold Enterprises
Sherry Rumbolt, Senior Cybersecurity Strategist, Treasury Board Secretariat
Jovana Vukadinov, Data Scientist, Electronic Arts
Sandra Khalifeh,P.Eng., Project Manager, Island Technical Installations
Emily Robinson, Civil Engineering Technology student, Camosun College
Jennifer Clark, Chief Scientist, Cascadia Seaweed
iWIST Book Club: You're The Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be (and Others Need)
Whether you’re a C-suite executive or a new manager, you’re likely succeeding—but are you reaching your full potential? Many top performers suspect they aren’t, and Sabina Nawaz, former Microsoft executive and Fortune 500 coach, agrees. In You’re the Boss, Nawaz draws on her experience and data from advising leaders at organizations like Amazon, Microsoft, and the UN to help managers recognize and overcome obstacles to success.
New members are always welcome! Register to receive the Zoom link and come ready to connect.
WHEN: Thursday, October 2nd, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
iWIST Wellness Wander at UVic
Step Outside with iWIST and UVic STEM Students!
Take a break from your day and join us for a relaxed, one-hour walk along the scenic Alumni Chip Trail at UVic. We’ll be joined by students from UVic Women in Science and Women in Engineering & Computer Science - making this a wonderful opportunity to connect, share stories, and enjoy fresh air together.
After the walk, stick around for a casual coffee chat on campus (optional, but highly recommended!).
Free to attend but registration required
Register to receive the meeting location and help us plan for numbers.
The Art of Thriving in Workplace Relationships
In organizations, success is rarely just about what you know, it’s about how you connect, communicate, and advocate for yourself. In this engaging and practical session, we’ll explore the three keys to mastering interpersonal dynamics: confident self-advocacy, building healthy relationships that work, and skillfully navigating the tricky conversations and power dynamics that can derail careers. You’ll leave with fresh tools, memorable strategies, and a healthy dose of courage to help you speak up without burning bridges, strengthen your professional network, and handle those “uh-oh” moments with poise and impact.
New members are always welcome! Register to receive the Zoom link and come ready to connect.
WHEN: Thursday, Sept 18, 12 pm - 1 pm.
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
Quantum Mechanics and The Nature of Reality with Goksenin Sen PhD
What is our universe really made of? This talk will begin by introducing the fundamental building blocks of the universe as described by the Standard Model of particle physics; the elementary particles and the four fundamental forces that shape the cosmos. From there, we’ll explore how quantum field theory reveals a deeper, more subtle layer of reality: a world where particles are excitations of underlying fields and where the boundaries between “empty space” and “something” become blurred.
Designed to be accessible to anyone curious about science, this talk will weave together physics, philosophy, and big questions about what it means to say something “exists.”
Why participants might be interested:
Whether you’re fascinated by physics or simply by the question “What is reality?”, this talk offers a journey beyond everyday intuition into the strange but beautiful fabric of the quantum world. You’ll gain a clearer picture of the hidden layers that shape our universe; from the tiniest particles to the vast, dynamic fields beneath them, and see how these ideas connect to modern technology, cosmology, and our understanding of existence itself.
What participants will learn:
The fundamental particles and forces in the Standard Model
The key ideas behind quantum field theory and why it matters
How these scientific frameworks challenge and deepen our view of reality
Reflections on how ancient philosophical questions echo in modern physics
About the Instructor:
Goksenin Sen, PhD: Physics Engineer • Quantum Educator • Curriculum Developer
Skye Goksenin Sen is a physics engineer and educator specializing in making quantum physics accessible and meaningful for learners of all backgrounds; from K‑12 students to physics teachers and adult audiences. Drawing on over a decade of experience, she designs and leads innovative programs that blend science, philosophy, and creativity, helping participants explore quantum physics concepts like superposition, entanglement, and quantum field theory without requiring advanced math. Dr. Sen is known for her engaging, playful teaching style and her ability to translate complex ideas into relatable stories and hands-on activities. Her work inspires curiosity about the fundamental nature of reality and our place within it.
New members are always welcome! Register to receive the Zoom link and come ready to connect.
WHEN: Thursday, August 21, 12 pm - 1 pm.
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
iWIST Book Club: How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen
This month’s Book Club pick: “How to Know a Person” by David Brooks
What does it really mean to know someone? In his latest book, David Brooks, bestselling author and New York Times columnist, explores the power of deep connection. Blending research, storytelling, and personal insight, Brooks offers a thoughtful guide to moving beyond small talk and surface impressions to truly understand what makes each person tick. The result? More meaningful relationships and stronger communities.
Whether you’ve read every page or just dipped your toe in, we’d love to have you join us. Our Book Club meets online for a lively 90-minute conversation where the discussion often ventures beyond the book itself.
New members are always welcome! Register to receive the Zoom link and come ready to connect.
WHEN: Thursday, August 14th, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
iWIST presents Geeky Girls Patio Party 2025!
Time for another epic summer celebration!
The annual Geeky Girls’ Patio Party brings us all together to connect, share summer adventures, and discuss fall plans.
Our 2025 GGPP event sponsor is Avalon Mechanical—truly committed to supporting women in STEM on the island.
This year, we are excited to announce three recipients of scholarships for women in STEM! Our friends and partners at Redbrick and Shift have joined iWIST in this great program. Meet the students who will shape our future!
When: Wednesday, August 13. From 4:30 to 7:30 pm
Where: Bill Mattick’s Restaurant, Cordova Bay Golf Course, 5333 Cordova Bay Rd, Victoria
Parking: Is available onsite and next door at Mattick’s Farm
Get your Ticket Today!
What you get: Your ticket includes 2 drinks of your choice, tasty appetizers, and plenty of chances to win fun prizes.
Ticket Prices: Are you an iWIST member? If so, pay just $25, while colleagues who haven't joined iWIST yet pay $40 for their ticket.
Did you know, an annual iWIST membership is just $75 and includes many discounts as well as complimentary access to the VIP member Solstice Party. Become a member!
Black Holes and Beyond: Peering Into the Universe’s Most Extreme Phenomena with Dr. Chelsea Spengler
What you will learn:
What lurks at the heart of galaxies? How can we study something we can’t even see? Join Chelsea Spengler for a journey into the cosmos, where we’ll explore a career in astronomy and some of the astonishing objects astronomers study, like supermassive black holes and their cosmic cousins. A lifelong space enthusiast, Dr. Spengler earned her PhD from the University of Victoria in 2018 and has since worked at research institutes in Santiago, Chile and Victoria, BC. She’s been fortunate to observe at world-class observatories in Chile and the U.S., and has worked extensively with data from the iconic Hubble Space Telescope.
Blending personal stories with cutting-edge science, Dr. Spengler will offer a behind-the-scenes look at how astronomers use powerful telescopes and clever techniques to study the universe’s most extreme phenomena. Along the way, we’ll dive into some of the exciting topics in modern astronomy. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or totally alien to astronomy, this is your invitation to glimpse the extreme and awe-inspiring Universe we call home.
WHEN: Thursday July 10, 12:00-1:00 pm
WHERE: Virtual
FEE: Free
iWIST Book Club: Turning to One Another: Simple Conversations to Restore Hope to the Future
Join us as we review the book: Turning to One Another: Simple Conversations to Restore Hope to the Future.
Author, Margaret Wheatley, proposes that people band together with their colleagues and friends to create the solutions for real social change, both locally and globally, that are so badly needed. Such change will not come from governments or corporations, she argues, but from the ageless process of thinking together in conversation. Turning to One Another encourages this process.
WHEN: Thursday, June 19th, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
iWIST Members Only Solstice Celebration
This event has sold out. Stay tuned for information about our Geeky Girls Patio Party in August!
Join us for this special members-only event as we welcome in the summer solstice and celebrate women in STEM. The evening will feature drinks, appetizers, music, networking, a fireside chat with our sponsor, Redlen Technologies, and, of course, iWIST fun!
Limited tickets available - members will receive an invitation and secret promo code closer to the event. Contact communications@iwist.ca if you did not receive yours!
Not a member? Sign up here
Location: Magnolia Room, Magnolia Hotel
iWIST Wellness Wander at Swan Lake
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
Come join us for a beautiful Wellness Wander at Swan Lake! We will meet at the Tim Hortons in Saanich Plaza at 3501 Ravine Way (across from Uptown Shopping Mall) to start. Don't forget to bring your sturdy hiking shoes and water, and dress for the weather!
*weather dependent - if conditions are unfavourable, registrants will be contacted*
WHERE: Meet at Saanich Plaza - Tim Hortons, 3501 Ravine Way, Victoria, BC V8X 4Z1
WHEN: Saturday, May 24th, 10:00 am
FEE: Free for all!
iWIST Casual Drinks at Glo
Are you interested in expanding your network within Victoria's STEM community? Then join us on the beautiful patio at Glo - your ticket includes one happy hour drink and tasty appies!
Your special host for this evening is Zoe MacLeod, who is excited to continue her historic support for iWIST. As head of Royal Roads University Professional and Continuing Studies, Zoe is also offering a prize of $500 towards any of the amazing programs in her department.
Sign up and bring a friend! iWIST members pay just $8 while future members pay $18. *Member codes will be sent out directly.
WHEN: Thursday, May 12th, 4:30-6:30 pm
WHERE: Glo Restaurant and Lounge, 104 - 2940 Jutland Road, Victoria, BC, V8T 5K6
FEE: $18 for non-members, $8 for iWIST members. Get your ticket early as capacity is limited!
iWIST Lunch & Learn: Living in an Earthquake Zone: How to Prepare & What to Expect.
What you will learn:
Alison Bird is the expert you want to hear from when it comes to earthquakes. She’s been an Earthquake Seismologist for nearly 30 years, and is also the Liaison & Outreach Officer for the Earthquake Early Warning programme at Natural Resources Canada.
She’ll provide those living in our earthquake-prone area with essential knowledge on preparedness, earthquake hazards, and debunk common myths. Alison will also share more about the innovative Canadian Earthquake Early Warning system, highlighting its potential to enhance safety. There will be a Q&A session at the end.
WHEN: Thursday May 8, 12:00-1:00 pm
WHERE: Virtual
FEE: Free
Breakfast With The Honourable Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development, and Innovation
Breakfast Session with The Honourable Diana Gibson, Minister of JEDI
Join us for a vibrant breakfast with JEDI Minister and MLA Diana Gibson, representing Oak Bay-Gordon Head. This is a unique opportunity to hear about her future plans for the riding and British Columbia, while engaging in meaningful discussions with constituents, future business leaders, and women in STEM.
While iWIST members and the UVic Gustavson community have special access, everyone is welcome! Don’t miss this chance to connect and stay informed.
Special thanks to the University of Victoria for their support.
For more details, contact: communications@iwist.ca
Event Details:
Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
Time: 8:15 AM — 9:30 AM
Location: University of Victoria, University Club, West Campus Way, BC V8N 4V3
Cost:
Members: $8 (A promotional event code will be sent separately via email to all current Members.)
Non-Members: $20
iWIST Book Club: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
In our next Book Club, we will explore Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown. The author challenges us to rethink how we approach our time, energy, and focus. In a world that constantly demands more from us, McKeown argues that the key to success and fulfillment lies not in doing more, but in doing less — but doing it better. Through a blend of practical tips and thought-provoking insights, he shows us how to cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters. This book is a call to embrace simplicity, prioritize with intention, and ultimately, live a life that’s both purposeful and meaningful. Perfect for anyone looking to reclaim control over their life!
WHEN: Thursday, April 10th, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
WHERE: Online. Zoom meeting link provided with registration.
Future Innovators: Empowering Women in STEM
Join us for an inspiring evening with our panel of women in STEM. We are bringing together future innovators from middle school, high school, and post secondary along with professional women in STEM for a candid conversation about their STEM careers. All are welcome.
Event details:
7:00 - 8:30 pm: STEM presentation & panel discussion
8:30 - 9:00 pm: Mini career fair with STEM professionals and post secondary STEM students
Location: Royal Bay Secondary School, 3500 Ryder Hesjedal Way, Victoria, BC V9C 0J6
Cost: Free
Our panelists represent a variety of STEM disciplines and are at different points in their careers:
Karin Skapski, Senior Cloud Solutions Architect (Copilot), Microsoft
Cynthia Johnston, Intermediate Civil Engineering Technologist & UVic Civil Engineering Bridge Student
Jena Wheeldon, Hardware Developer, Digital Energy Division, Schneider Electric
Michelle Mahovlich, Engineering Consultant & Past Board Chair, EGBC
Madeleine Bouvier-Brown, Marine Operations Lead, Open Ocean Robotics
Rasha Maal-Bared, Principal Environmental Scientist, CDM Smith