The Graduate Women’s Council 2024-2025

Our Mission Statement

The Graduate Women’s Council aims to provide a safe space for women and allies to show up authentically, develop personally and professionally, and form meaningful connections in business. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for all to feel seen, represented, and respected regardless of gender, age, race, and ability.

About GWC

Founded in the fall of 2011, the GWC is an elected Beedie graduate student and alums volunteer-run club committed to greater diversity in leadership in British Columbia.

The GWC exists to enrich the Beedie experience for all students by offering career and personal development opportunities with a focus on gender diversity. We aim to develop and sustain a culture of support and encouragement and pledge to work toward a more inclusive and equal society.

The GWC organizes the following events to achieve their goals:

1. Networking events to bring Beedie graduate students and alumni together and form meaningful connections
2. Symposiums/speaking events to provide education and experience to the membership
3. Personal development workshops for Beedie students with a focus on diversity and inclusion in the workplace
4. Maintenance of a strong alumni network to support future club members in their career development.

Our Team

President – Natasha Thanasiriwatthana

Natasha is a healthcare professional dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for women in business.

As President of the Graduate Women’s Council, she is creating change by bringing forward her leadership experience in advocacy, mentorship, and diversity initiatives. With a background in clinical nursing, pediatric oncology, and public health, she brings expertise in working with people from all walks of life. Natasha’s mission is to create meaningful connections, advocate for women in leadership, and establish professional development opportunities that strengthen the business community.

VP Finance & Operations – Sarah Wheatley

Sarah joined the Graduate Women’s Council out of her passion for advancing female representation in traditionally underrepresented industries and sports.

Her background in Community Services, Recreation, and Health & Wellness has shaped her commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome and is given tools and opportunities to thrive. As a Kinesiologist and health advocate, Sarah has developed municipal-wide programs to improve accessibility in sport, fitness, rehabilitation, and recreation. Through her work, Sarah has partnered with local governments, health authorities, non-profit organizations, and other healthcare professionals to develop inclusive programming that removes financial, physical, and social barriers to participation. Her initiatives have created opportunities for individuals of all abilities and backgrounds to engage in active and healthy lifestyles. Sarah believes that fostering leadership opportunities for women, whether in business, athletics, or community initiatives, is essential to achieving sustainable, positive, and equitable opportunities.

VP Communications & Media – Freda Chiu

Freda is passionate about empowering people to thrive in their careers and creating opportunities where they can succeed. She advocates for equity and inclusion, focusing on creating spaces where underrepresented voices feel heard, valued, and supported. With over 7 years of experience as an HR professional in tech, Freda has led impactful DEI initiatives, including building a women’s leadership community at her previous companies. This initiative provided a safe space for women to tackle challenges such as mental health, imposter syndrome, and work-life balance, inspiring them to achieve their professional aspirations.

As the VP of Communications & Media at GWC, Freda brings the same drive to empower others. Her vision includes organizing events and workshops to connect female students with female business leaders that promote growth and development. Freda’s experience as an HR Business Partner and recruiter has also sharpened her expertise in content creation, particularly for platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. She collaborates closely with council members and engages with students to identify key priorities, ensuring impactful communication that strengthens and connects the GWC community.

VP Events & Engagement – Kompal Grewal

With experience in healthcare, education, and business, Kompal Grewal is dedicated to creating engaging and inclusive events that bring people together. As an MBA student at Beedie, she is passionate about empowering women, promoting diversity, and building a strong community. Her commitment to women’s issues and equity led her to join the Graduate Women’s Council, where she is excited to create opportunities for networking, leadership, and professional growth.

Kompal has previously coordinated fundraising events, organized volunteer initiatives, and led student engagement programs. From planning charity drives to supporting outreach efforts, she has worked on initiatives that create lasting impact. Alongside her volunteer work, her experience in client engagement and community outreach has strengthened her ability to lead initiatives, build relationships, and coordinate logistics, helping her create experiences that are valuable and well-executed. She looks forward to organizing meaningful experiences that celebrate and uplift women in business.