This International Women’s Day, we’re pulling back the curtain on local government and the women who quietly keep democracy moving.

Julie Kirkelos, Director of Legislative, Enterprise and Information Services and Town Clerk, and Andrea Chambers, Executive Assistant to the Mayor and CAO, take us inside Town Hall to talk about the kind of leadership that shapes your everyday life.

We get real about the invisible load women carry: emotional labour, caregiving, menopause, and sometimes being the only woman at the senior table, while delivering excellence. We say the quiet parts out loud. And we talk solutions.

This isn’t just a conversation – it’s a roadmap...

If you care about your community, or you’re ready to lead in it, this episode will give you the language, clarity, and confidence to engage or step up.

Episode Links & Resources

If today’s conversation inspired you to get involved, run for office, or attend an upcoming event, here are the dates and links mentioned in this episode:

Municipal Election Day – October 26, 2026
Learn more about running, voting, and important deadlines.

Ministry Candidate Information Session – April 29, 2026 (Welland)
Hosted by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

Lincoln Candidate Information Night (Spring 2026)
Details coming soon - keep an eye on the Town's social media accounts for the announcement.

Mayor’s State of the Town – April 29, 2026
Hosted by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

Administrative Professionals Day – April 22, 2026

Mayor’s Golf Tournament – June 10, 2026
Registration now open

Civil Wedding Ceremonies in Lincoln
Planning your big day? Learn more here

Organizations Mentioned

International Women’s Day
This year’s theme: Gift to Gain

CAMEA – Canadian Association of Municipal Executive Assistants

Gillian’s Place
Providing safe refuge and support in North and West Niagara for over 45 years. 24/7 Support Line: 905-684-8331

Healthy Democracy Initiative & Elect With Respect

Send us a message

Have a topic you want us to cover?
Know a local business or organization we should feature?

Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at
SpeakUpLincoln.ca/Podcast

Thanks & Credits

With support from:

• Niagara Region Economic Development
• The Watering Can
• Second Chance Decor
• Verhoef Electric