The sixth annual “Opening Doors” event will be held in the Bracebridge Sportsplex Auditorium on Thursday, Oct. 18. This innovative program is designed to showcase careers in math, science and technology for young women in elementary schools across the District of Muskoka.

Since its launch in 2002, over 600 girls from grades 7 and 8 have participated in a fun-filled day to learn why it is important to stay in school and acquire a solid foundation in math and science. These subjects form the building blocks for a wide variety of careers where women continue to be significantly under-represented. While trades and technology jobs provide over one-quarter of all employment in Canada, fewer than 10 per cent of these workers are women.

Research shows that confidence in math and science skills is tied to overall self-esteem and ambition in career plans. Yet girls often see themselves as less able and less interested than boys in these areas. Math and science are labelled as “boy things”. Opening Doors tackles these myths and stereotypes by offering positive, hands-on experiences where girls are introduced to dynamic, local women with a wide variety of career experiences. They learn from these role models that math, science and technology skills can keep your career doors open — whether you choose to go to college or university, choose an apprenticeship program or go directly from school to work.

This year’s event will involve 140 young women representing 17 elementary schools, along with 19 role models and a team of over 40 volunteers. Thanks to generous funding from our sponsors and donors, we invite you to join us to celebrate the sixth anniversary of Opening Doors.