Twenty years ago, WiDS began with a spark; an idea that would bring women and men from the Canadian defence and security community together to recognize and celebrate women's contributions. This year, on March 12, 2026 we will celebrate all that WiDS has accomplished and begin to prepare for the next twenty years! This year's event will return to the Rogers Centre – and be broadcast virtually – and planning is well underway for another inspiring event that celebrates the many unique and empowering women in Canada’s defence and security industries. In 2026 we will announce a new Mentor of the Year and a new Allyship award in addition to providing one $10,000 scholarship, as well as the WiDS & Canadian Global Affairs Institute Fellowship.