The 52: Stories of Women Who Transformed Toronto
52% of Torontonians are women. It's time we tell their
Image: Myseum of Toronto.
A leading figure in Canada’s cultural life, Adrienne Clarkson has transformed broadcasting, journalism, the arts, and public service.
Born in 1939 | Governor General, Journalist, and Author
Adrienne Clarkson, the Right Honourable 26th Governor General of Canada (1999-2005), made history as the first racialized person, the first individual of Asian heritage, and the first without a political or military background to be appointed to the vice-regal position. Prior to her appointment, Clarkson had an award-winning career in broadcast and print journalism, notably as host and reporter of CBC’s The Fifth Estate. After leaving Rideau Hall, she co-founded the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, advocating for new citizens’ inclusion and engagement in Canadian life. Clarkson’s achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including Companion of the Order of Canada and 28 Honorary Degrees from universities worldwide.
Her legacy in Toronto is imprinted through her dedication to promoting multiculturalism, diversity, and inclusivity – shaping the city’s identity as a vibrant mosaic of cultures.
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The 52: Stories of Women Who Transformed Toronto
52% of Torontonians are women. It's time we tell their stories.
Marcus Garvey and the UNIA
Learn how --
Winners & Losers
Sports Histories of Toronto
Meet The 52
Explore the full list of 52 remarkable women that make up the foundation of our multi-year project.
Bianca Andreescu
Bianca Andreescu has raised the global profile of tennis for Canadians. As one of the youngest winners of a Grand Slam singles title, Andreescu is the highest-ranked Canadian in Women’s
Beatrice Worsley
Beatrice Worsley is recognized as Canada’s first female computer scientist. Her lifetime of research and work in the field were at the forefront of Canada’s burgeoning computer science sector.
Menaka Thakkar
Menaka Thakkar established Canada’s first professional Indian dance company in 1978. Thakkar blended different cultural dance styles to co-create a performance called “East Meets West” in which she bridged cultural
Kathleen Taylor
Kathleen Taylor breaks ground no matter what industry she stands in. An accomplished business leader, her career continues to break barriers and light the way for women at major corporate
Emily Stowe
Emily Stowe was a founder of the Canadian Women’s Suffrage Association and the first female physician to publicly practice medicine in Ontario.
Min Sook Lee
Min Sook Lee is an industry-recognized filmmaker who advocates for social justice at the intersection of art and social change through her films and professorship at OCAD University.