On September 20-26 it was Gender Equality Week in Canada. It is was a time when the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) honoured pioneering women who fought for gender-blind human rights, universal suffrage, employment equity, and many more causes that chipped away at privilege and challenged systemic discrimination. It was also a time to look around and acknowledge that subtle and glaring inequalities persist, both at in Canada and abroad. A time to ask the question: how we can be part of the solution? In this issue, FCM met with women who are making their communities more inclusive, equitable and prosperous - through creative initiatives, inspiring resilience and astute planning. From Eastern Europe to West Africa, South America and the Maghreb, these leaders are enhancing quality of life for their neighbours and driving economic development in their local areas. Find out more about the different programs here.