Photo-Research Exhibits

Starting in 2015, WinS Research & Programs Director Dr. Eden Hennessey began creating photo-research exhibits to highlight the experiences, challenges, and successes of women in STEM. These exhibits pair striking images of real-life women with evidence-based research regarding gender equity and representation.

The first exhibit from 2015, #DistractinglySexist, features participants from the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge area, known colloquially as "Canada's Silicon Valley". This exhibit focuses on the consequences of standing up to bias in science.

Pictured at left is Jennifer Moss, Co-founder & former CMO, Plasticity Labs.

The second photo-research exhibit from 2016 was #DistractinglyHonest. Along a similar theme to the first exhibit, this work focuses on standing up to bias, and the progress being made toward greater equity in STEM.

Pictured at right is Leanne Holland-Brown, former Dean of Students, Wilfrid Laurier University. 

The third photo-research exhibit, launched in 2019, is titled #TurningTablesinSTEM. This exhibit celebrates the successes of women in STEM careers, bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table.

Pictured at left is Dr. Emily Agard, immunologist and director of SciXchange at Toronto Metropolitan University.

The fourth and most current photo-research exhibit, launched in 2024 in partnership with Conestoga College, is entitled Building Equitable Trades. In Canada, women consist of less than 5% of the papered skilled trade workforce, which is even lower than the numbers in STEM fields. This exhibit highlights women from a wide range of trades, identifying their challenges and celebrating their victories.

Pictured at right is 313a Refrigeration Mechanic/Gas Fitter 1 and HVAC Instructor Brandi Ferenc.