Although women hold positions in high-powered jobs in both the private and public sector, advocates say there's still lots of work to be done -- particularly when it comes to women and politics.
At Ottawa City Hall, one-third of the city's councillors are women. However, that number shrinks when it comes to provincial and federal politics.
"It's considered you should reach 30 per cent to make a significant difference," said Coun. Marianne Wilkinson.
Although there are seven women who sit around the council table in Ottawa, some say that's still not enough.
"We haven't met the equality target I have set in my mind. It's important we continue to provide mentorship and leadership and inspiration to women in our community to continue to achieve more," said Coun. Diane Deans.
"It has been a problem for a lot of women to raise money," added Coun. Marianne Wilkinson. "It costs money to run in elections where we have a large population to serve."
Others say women need to be encouraged to seek seats in public office from a young age.
"We need to encourage women right from young women, high school or university to get involved in the political process," said Coun. Peggy Feltmate.
Feltmate will soon be resigning from municipal politics. She said she hopes her replacement will be another woman.
Meantime, it's hoped $360,000 in federal funding will help aspiring politicians address some of the hurdles that come along with running for office, such as fundraising. The grant will go towards workshops to teach women how to wage an election campaign.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Vanessa Lee
