Women in Entertainment Canada 2025
The Canadian entertainment industry is home to countless talented women who continue to break barriers, inspire change, and redefine success. Women in Entertainment Canada 2025 (WIE CAN 2025) will return on May 29, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton in Toronto, marking the second annual summit dedicated to recognizing these trailblazers.
Organized by The Hollywood Reporter in partnership with Access Canada, this event builds on the success of its 2024 debut, which brought together industry leaders, creatives, and changemakers from film, television, and music. Featuring keynote speeches, dynamic panels, performances, and the prestigious Tribute Awards, WIE CAN 2025 is not just a celebration—it’s a platform for empowerment, mentorship, and meaningful discussions on gender equity in entertainment.
Building on the Success of 2024
The inaugural Women in Entertainment Canada Summit in 2024 set a high standard, bringing together some of the most influential voices in the industry. The event saw Lilly Singh, Kim Cattrall, and Devery Jacobs among its notable participants, engaging in discussions on leadership, representation, and career advancement for women in entertainment.
The success of the 2024 event not only highlighted the achievements of women across film and television but also emphasized the ongoing need for industry-wide conversations on gender equity and inclusivity.
The panels, keynotes, and networking sessions provided attendees with valuable insights into the evolving landscape of Canadian entertainment, fostering a space for meaningful connections and career growth.
For 2025, WIE CAN is expanding its impact by introducing initiatives such as the WIE CAN Mentorship Program, which aims to support the next generation of female talent. Additionally, The Hollywood Reporter’s Canadian Women in Entertainment Power List will return, continuing to spotlight the executives, creatives, and industry leaders who are shaping the future of entertainment in Canada.
Event Highlights
Women in Entertainment Canada 2025 promises a star-studded lineup of keynotes, discussions, and celebrations designed to honour and uplift women in the entertainment industry. This year’s event will feature an expanded program, offering new opportunities for learning, recognition, and networking.
Keynotes & Feature Interviews
Industry leaders, award-winning artists, and influential executives will take the stage to share their insights, experiences, and perspectives on the evolving landscape of Canadian entertainment. These sessions will provide valuable takeaways for both industry veterans and aspiring professionals.
Tribute Awards
Returning for its second year, the THR WIE Canada Tribute Awards will recognize outstanding contributions by women in film, television, and music. These awards celebrate individuals who have made a lasting impact, pushing boundaries and inspiring future generations.
Panel Discussions
Dynamic conversations with directors, producers, actors, musicians, and executives will explore critical topics such as:
- Breaking barriers in entertainment
- Gender equity and representation in Canadian media
- The future of storytelling and production
- Navigating career growth and mentorship
Performances
The event will feature exclusive performances, showcasing the depth of talent in Canada’s music and performing arts industries.
Canadian Women in Entertainment Power List
In conjunction with the event, The Hollywood Reporter will release its second annual Canadian Women in Entertainment Power List, celebrating the most influential female voices shaping the industry. This list not only recognizes success but also highlights the growing impact of women in entertainment leadership roles.
Networking Opportunities
Attendees will have the chance to connect with industry professionals, executives, and creatives through structured networking sessions, panel Q&As, and social events.
Gold Carpet Experience
Replacing the traditional red carpet, the Gold Carpet at WIE CAN 2025 will be a celebratory moment, bringing together honourees, guest speakers, and industry figures in a glamorous setting.
The WIE CAN Mentorship Program
One of the most exciting additions to Women in Entertainment Canada 2025 is the WIE CAN Mentorship Program, an initiative designed to provide meaningful support and guidance to emerging female professionals in the entertainment industry.
The program has already seen an overwhelming response, with nearly 200 applications received for just six spots in its inaugural cohort. This high demand highlights the growing need for mentorship and structured career support for women navigating the Canadian entertainment landscape.
Over the course of four months, selected participants will receive:
- One-on-one mentorship from established industry leaders.
- Monthly skill-building workshops covering career development, creative strategies, and industry insights.
- Exclusive networking opportunities with executives, creatives, and key figures in Canadian entertainment.
- A culminating experience at WIE CAN 2025, where mentees will have the opportunity to connect with top professionals and showcase their growth.
“The response to the WIE CAN Mentorship Program has been extraordinary,” said Ferne Cohen, Executive Director of The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada. “We’re thrilled to support the next generation of Canadian female trailblazers and grateful to the mentors and instructors who are generously giving their time to shape the future of our industry.”
Wrapping Up
As Women in Entertainment Canada 2025 prepares to welcome another year of celebration and empowerment, the event serves as a reminder of the progress being made—and the work still ahead in achieving true gender equity in Canadian entertainment.
With the introduction of the WIE CAN Mentorship Program, the continued recognition of trailblazing women through the Power List and Tribute Awards, and a platform for meaningful conversations on leadership and representation, WIE CAN 2025 is more than just an event—it’s a movement shaping the future of entertainment in Canada.