Women in Defence and Security’s Host Annual Golf Tournament to Raise Funds for Scholarships

Women in Defence and Security (WiDS) successfully held their tenth annual Memorial Golf Tournament on May 24 at the Hylands Golf Club in Ottawa. This sold-out event helps to raise money for the WiDS Memorial Scholarship.

“The golf tournament supports two of the WiDS key mandates… It’s a great networking opportunity, and the funds are in memory for a good cause,” said Kristine K. Osgoode Vice President Events, WiDS.

The tournament began ten years ago as a networking event but over the years has evolved into a memorial tournament to raise money for the WiDS Memorial Scholarship. The tournament typically raises somewhere between $10,000 and $20,000 each year.

Working in collaboration with Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries, the tournament kicks off CANSEC, Canada’s Global Defence Security Trade Show.

“With over 100 golfers and a supportive slate of corporate sponsors, the group enjoyed the wonderful weather and a terrific kick off to networking at CANSEC,” said Osgoode.

The day began bright and early at 6:30 a.m. with breakfast and registration. Golfers hit the course at 8:30 a.m. and played until lunch time.

“Our luncheon remarks were provided by Major General (ret) Mike Ward, COO/Associate Director General Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services, who shared examples of the good work being lead by the organization and discussed the goals and values WiDS and CFMWS have in common,” recalled Osgoode.

The WiDS Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to women pursuing a career in defence and security. Each year the organization alternates between honouring someone from the military and the police forces.

This year WiDS awarded a $10,000 scholarship in honour of Sergeant Margaret Eve, who was the first female O.P.P. officer to die in the line of duty. There have been nine honourees since 2008 with 14 recipients of the scholarship.

Each year the award amount varies.

WiDS is an organization that promotes the advancement of women leaders in defence and security professions across Canada.

“WIDS has three pillars: scholarship, networking, and professional development. So, this event really strikes with the scholarship and networking,” stated Osgoode.