“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes…” These words of Maya Angelou, quoted by Sarah Tobias of the Women of Courage planning committee at ECS School, sum up the spirit of a new program designed to inspire passion, dedication, leadership, and community awareness in students.

After 18 months of preparations, the Women of Courage program was launched last week for parents at the junior and senior curriculum evenings.

The program is a year-long initiative that will have students working closely with 13 diverse and distinguished women from the Montreal area.

“Girls need to be connected to their school,” said head of school Katherine Nikidis. “They need to have confidence and know their own abilities but building that connection is a key to their success and this programme is remarkable.”

Some of the women were introduced at the junior Curriculum Evening last week, including former McGill Chancellor and journalist Gretta Chambers, Fauna Foundation founder Gloria Grow, cardiologist, Dr. Nadia Giannetti; social activist Sheila Goldbloom, and environmental activist Desiree McGraw. With a range of experiences, each woman will work directly with the different levels and impart their wisdom.

“It will be interesting to get to know these diverse women individually throughout the centennial year,” said grade 11 student Sarah Kitner.

Librarian Rennie MacLeod was enthusiastic about the program, citing it as a way to introduce authentic and different learning into the classrooms.

Dr. Giannetti echoed the excitement. “I hope that kids realize that anything is possible and that they should follow their passions and listen to their inner voice,” she said. “It’s important for women to see that they can be a mom and have a passionate career and be able to give beyond.”

The school has many events planned for its centennial year, culminating on May 4 with a benefit dinner to celebrate the Women of Courage and the work that the students will produce throughout the year.