Women Driven
Our mission is to amplify women to thrive in their automotive careers while cultivating a community of inspiration, innovation, inclusiveness and equity.
WOMEN DRIVEN EVENTS
Join us at our Women Driven Events – where community, growth, and inclusivity intersect!
At Women Driven, we’re committed to expanding our vibrant community through a series of engaging in-person events across Ontario. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the charming city of Barrie, and from the historic landmarks of Ottawa to the vibrant atmosphere of London, we’re bringing together professionals from all corners of the province to celebrate and empower women in the automotive industry.
All genders are welcome to Women Driven events. We believe that diversity and inclusivity are essential for driving innovation and progress in our industry. Your voice as an ally is a powerful force for growth and positive change. By joining us, you become an integral part of our community, amplifying opportunities for everyone and contributing to a more inclusive future for all.
Utilize this entertaining and educational evening as a team building opportunity and bring the whole team! Make sure to register soon as space is limited.
London Women Driven: Fall 2026
Join us for an empowering evening focused on personal development, leadership growth, and building a strong community of support within the automotive industry. Featuring guest speaker Tara Slone and an inspiring Industry Leaders Panel, this event will offer practical insights on overcoming obstacles, rejecting imposter syndrome, and uplifting others as we advance in our careers.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow—individually and as a team.
Registration will open soon!
Tara Slone - London Women Driven
Tara Slone is a celebrated Canadian broadcaster, actress, and Juno-nominated vocalist known for her dynamic, storytelling-driven presence in sports and entertainment media. As the guest speaker at MVRO’s Women Driven events, she brings that same energy to the automotive industry, championing a space where women can connect, lead, and grow.
A powerful advocate for women’s advancement in traditionally male-dominated fields, Tara uses her platform to spotlight the achievements of women across the sector and to inspire the next generation of female leaders in automotive retail.
Her presence at Women Driven reflects the series’ core mission: creating community, building confidence, and proving that women are a key driving force of the industry.
2025 Women Driven Leadership Award Winners
Executive Leadership Award Winner: Annie Deslauriers, Sym-Tech
Young Leader Award Winner: Carrie Leung, Downtown Hyundai
Community Leadership Award Winner: Anne Gilligan, WEINS Auto Group
Fixed Operations Leadership Award Winner: Ashley-Rose Brown, London Honda
Women Driven Leadership Awards
Celebrating excellence in our industry the Women Driven Awards were created to highlight individuals who inspire, lead, empower and uplift those around them.
Executive Leadership Award
Recognizing Visionary Women at the Top
This award honors senior leaders who drive innovation, lead with integrity, and create inclusive, empowering workplaces. It’s for women making a big impact in executive roles across the automotive industry.
Community Leadership Award
Honoring Women Who Give Back
This award celebrates women who make a difference in their communities through advocacy, mentorship, and service. It’s for those who promote inclusion, support others, and use their influence to create positive change.
Young Leader Award
Spotlighting Rising Stars in Automotive
This award recognizes women in the first 5–7 years of their automotive careers who show leadership, initiative, and passion—whether they work in engineering, marketing, sales, design, HR, or any other role.
Fixed Operations Leadership Award
Celebrating Women Who Keep Things Running Smoothly
This award honors women in fixed operations and aftersales—like service advisors, parts specialists, shop foremen, and managers—who lead with excellence, solve problems, support their teams, and make a real impact every day.
Resources
From leadership inspiration to career path advice, we have created the Women Driven magazine and resource centre.
Kelly Sheehan – a leader in the trucking industry
While attending McMaster University in 1990, Kelly Sheehan began helping out in the accounting department part-time at her parents’ truck dealership, Sheehan’s Truck Centre. Kelly enjoyed the business so much that she never left. In 1992, at 21, she started working...
Women Driven Career Spotlight: Lyne L’Esperance
How long have you been working in the automotive industry? I’ve been in the automotive industry for 8 years, and 6 years with CARFAX Canada. What initailly attracted you to pursue a career in this field? After more than 20 years in Advertising, I needed a new...
Women Driven Career Spotlight: Karen Woods
How did you get started in this industry? What initially attracted you to pursue a career in this field? I originally started in the Automotive Industry as a student in the Canadian Automotive Institute (Now called the Automotive Business School of Canada) as I was...
Thank you to our Women Driven Partners
Gold Partners
Silver Partners
Bronze Partners
Sponsorship Opportunities are available.
Contact Nicole: NicoleM@MVRO.ca
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