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Run Where You Are – Say Yes!
RUN WHERE YOU ARE — SAY YES! ENCOURAGES WOMEN TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP TOWARD MUNICIPAL LEADERSHIP
Virtual panel connects aspiring candidates with real-world insight ahead of the 2026 municipal election
As communities across Ontario prepare for the 2026 municipal elections, Run Where You Are – Say Yes! is calling on women and gender-diverse people to take the next step toward public leadership. The free, non-partisan virtual event is produced by six grassroots campaign schools across Ontario, including Grey Bruce’s electHER Now. The online event will take place on Tuesday, February 24, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. EST, and is open to participants across the province.
Building on the momentum of the 2025 Run Where You Are initiative, Say Yes! is designed for those who are curious about running for office, actively considering a campaign, or seeking clarity on what leadership could look like in their own community. The free event focuses on breaking down barriers, addressing self-doubt, and offering practical insight from those who have already said “yes” to leadership.
“Many women don’t always recognize just how ready they already are for leadership,” says Laura Wood, Co-Founder of electHER Now, “the Say Yes event will help people see that the skills they possess today have prepared them for leadership at the local political table tomorrow.”
The virtual panel will feature municipal leaders from across Ontario who will share candid reflections on their paths to public office, including lessons learned, challenges faced, and what they wish they had known before running.
Confirmed panellists include:
- Joan John, councillor, Township of Southgate
- Michelle Boileau, mayor of Timmins
- Marilyn Crawford, councillor, Town of Ajax
- Tammy Hwang, councillor, City of Hamilton
- Melanie Pilon, mayor of Wawa
Despite progress in recent years, women and gender-diverse people remain underrepresented in municipal leadership across Ontario. Run Where You Are – Say Yes! aims to help close that gap by offering accessible, community-driven entry points into politics.
Run Where You Are – Say Yes! is free to attend, with advance registration required