Communities across Durham Region are marking International Women’s Day by recognizing the achievements of inspiring women who continue to shape the region through leadership, creativity, business innovation, sports, and public service.
International Women’s Day, celebrated globally on March 8, highlights the contributions of women while encouraging continued progress toward equality and empowerment in every aspect of society.
Across Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and other Durham Region communities, several women are being recognized for their impact in fields ranging from arts and politics to health care and entrepreneurship.
Art – Dani Crosby
Artist and educator Dani Crosby has become a well-known creative presence throughout Oshawa. Her distinctive artwork can be found across the city in public murals, local businesses, and community art initiatives.
Crosby works in illustration, studio art, and public art, and her designs appear on products at local businesses such as Brew Wizards and Tastoria. One of her most notable projects is the “Turning the Wheel” mural, a large multi-floor artwork located at the McMillan parking garage in downtown Oshawa.
In addition to her artistic work, Crosby teaches at Durham College, where she helps inspire and mentor the next generation of artists.
Business and Entertainment – Diana Cerovich
Diana Cerovich, owner and Chief Operating Officer of The Biltmore Theatre in downtown Oshawa, has played a key role in maintaining the venue’s reputation as one of the city’s leading entertainment destinations.
Cerovich took over management of the historic theatre after the passing of her father in 2021 and has continued to grow the venue’s success while preserving its distinctive art-deco atmosphere.
Her contributions to the live music industry have earned nominations for Excellence in Live Music at the Women in Music Canada Honours awards and Business Person of the Year at the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.
Politics – Jennifer French
Jennifer French, the Member of Provincial Parliament for Oshawa, has served the community since being first elected in 2014.
Before entering politics, French worked as an educator and has been an advocate for workers, students, seniors, and environmental protection. She has also played a role in regional initiatives, including efforts that led to the removal of tolls on Highways 412 and 418 in Durham Region.
French currently serves as Deputy Speaker of the Ontario Legislature and the Opposition Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transportation.
Sports – Olivia Smith
Whitby-raised soccer star Olivia Smith has quickly become one of Canada’s rising international athletes.
Smith began her competitive career with Oshawa Kicks before moving on to play collegiate soccer at Penn State University. She later turned professional, first with Sporting Lisbon in Portugal, where she earned Player of the Year honours.
At just 21 years old, Smith made history with a million-euro transfer to Arsenal, becoming the first player in women’s football to reach that milestone. She also made her debut for the Canadian national team at age 15 and has already earned multiple international appearances.
Small Business – Jessie Johnson
Entrepreneur Jessie Johnson is a co-owner of Brew Wizards, a popular café, craft beer bar, and gaming hub located in downtown Oshawa.
Since joining the business in 2018, Johnson has helped turn Brew Wizards into a thriving community space that hosts gaming tournaments, art showcases, and live music events.
The venue has become a welcoming place for fans of gaming culture and craft beverages while supporting local artists and performers.
Equity and Inclusion – Allison Hector-Alexander
Allison Hector-Alexander serves as the director of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Durham College, where she promotes initiatives focused on social justice, anti-racism, and inclusive education.
Her leadership has earned recognition from PFLAG Canada Durham Region, as well as the Region of Durham Diversity Champion Award.
Health Care – Cynthia Davis
Cynthia Davis, President and CEO of Lakeridge Health, has played a major leadership role in strengthening healthcare services across Durham Region.
Since joining the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, Davis has overseen several key initiatives, including the development of Lakeridge Gardens Long-Term Care Home and the Jerry Coughlan Health and Wellness Centre.
She also helped launch the Queen’s University–Lakeridge Health MD Family Medicine Program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to address the shortage of primary care physicians across the region.
As Durham Region celebrates International Women’s Day, the achievements of these leaders serve as a reminder of the powerful role women continue to play in shaping stronger, more inclusive communities.
