Take Our Daughters to Work Day

Nova Scotia's fourth annual Take Our Daughters to Work Day is Thursday, April 23, and 11 to 15 year old girls across the province are gearing up for Mom or Dad's workplace rather than for school.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce girls and young women to a wide variety of career options," said Francene Cosman, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women. Too often, young women set their employment sights lower than young men; they're less likely to make specific career choices. We want to change that by showing them what's out there and giving them the encouragement and support they need to make good career decisions."

Sponsor and promoter of the event, the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women has sent information packages to hundreds of employers across the province and has received the usual positive response.

"It's very heartening to know that so many employers understand and are opening their doors to girls and young women who want to learn about the work world," said Patricia Doyle-Bedwell, Advisory Council chair.

She said that many employers have put together a special program for the day.

Ms. Doyle-Bedwell said 14 per cent of Nova Scotia women earn more than $30,000 per year, compared with 38 per cent of men and that fact calls for serious attention to be given to how and why women choose their job and career options. For instance, women are under-represented in mathematics, engineering and science programs in Nova Scotia universities.

"Much of it goes back to self-esteem and self-confidence which seems to decline in girls in early adolescence," she said. "Girls need support to boost their self-worth and ambition. They need to be aware of their own capabilities, take pride in their achievements and stand up for what they want. They need to know that having a successful career is a realistic option and Take Our Daughters to Work Day helps get that message through to a great many young women."