Accelerating women and gender equity
Gender equity isn’t a problem to be solved. It’s a solution to the world’s most complex issues.
At EY, we’re taking bold actions, both big and small, to forge positive change that goes beyond equality to uplift social equity and further women’s social, economic, cultural and political advancement.
The world is changing at light speed. From technology to geopolitics to supply chains: tackling today’s complexity requires a diverse chorus of perspectives — including women’s voices. Still, global events and divisions are pushing gender parity backwards.
- The World Economic Forum says at the current rate, it will take another 131 years for the world to reach gender parity.
- The Canadian Women’s Foundation ranks Canada 30th out of 146 countries on the Global Gender Gap Index.
Policies and procedures aren’t enough. We need dramatic change now. At EY, we’re using our voice and reach to foster belonging and advance women. In 2023, we were once again named among Canada’s Best Workplaces for Women. Why? Because we are continuously working to evolve our programs, policies and practices to progress gender equity in our organization.
- Our commitment to gender diversity starts with our leadership and permeates throughout our organization, with women representing 51% of all our people and 45% of our management.
- Our Professional Women’s Network connects professional women through allyship, mentorship, sponsorship and advocacy. This influential forum surfaces insights that shape our culture, policies and programs as we seek to create a working world grounded in equality in our organization and across the Canadian market.
- Our Canadian #YouBelong campaign celebrates the differences that make our people unique by sharing their stories and encouraging dialogue to ignite meaningful change.
This focus on equity extends beyond EY. It informs our actions with our communities as well as every person and organization we collaborate, align and work with across the value chain. We align our market-facing, gender-focused efforts through EY’s Women Fast Forward global platform, which seeks to accelerate gender parity in entrepreneurship, leadership and next-generation talent.
Learn how we’re driving tangible progress and fostering an inclusive environment where all differences are valued, practices are equitable and everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Featured articles
Stories of belonging videos
Dionne Allison is passionate. To her, belonging means that no one holds her back - or fears putting her forward because of the colour of her skin or her gender. At EY, Dionne says that she feels like she belongs and is deeply committed to amplifying that sense of belonging for Black professionals everywhere. Dionne joined EY’s Black Professionals Network to raise awareness, create development opportunities and empower others in the belief that whoever you are, whatever your background: #YouBelong.
Leona Liu is compassionate — with herself, and those around her. When diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) well into her EY career, Leona uncovered an entirely new aspect of herself that explained why she processed information differently and what would help her thrive. Today, as co‑chair of EY’s AccessAbilities professional network, she uses that insight to enable people of different abilities, destigmatize mental health in the workplace and celebrate the intersectionality that makes each of us unique. Culture builder. Inclusion advocate. Business leader. At EY, a sense of belonging empowers Leona to take down barriers, and build up understanding; the kind that bolsters progress for all.
Gabriella Doueihy is driven. Her determined pursuit of excellence in swimming has propelled her to the Olympic stage — twice. Now, Gabriella draws on EY Canada’s culture of belonging to ensure she never has to choose between building a rewarding career and pursuing athletic dreams. Free to be herself. Supported by her team. Gabriella balances professional and athletic success in an organization that supports even the boldest goals by reinforcing that #YouBelong.
Roxanne Israel is strong—even stronger than she thought. When a breast cancer diagnosis transformed her reality, she drew on EY’s culture of belonging and support to navigate the journey ahead. Now, she’s using her voice to help others find theirs. Because belonging is powerful. And it flourishes when we create space for authentic dialogue, empowering others to do the same.
