On August 26-30, 2018 I joined seven other female Police officers from the Moose Jaw Police Service and together we attended the International Association of Women in Policing (IAWP) Conference in Calgary, Alberta.

The IAWP was established in Los Angeles, California USA in 1915 by the first American policewomen as an international organization to provide professional development, mentoring, training, networking and recognition for female law enforcement officers and civilian support staff as well as to increase the numbers of women in policing. One-hundred years later, IAWP has members in more than 60 countries and continues the same traditions established by the founder.” (IAWP website)

My experience was nothing less than incredible and I want to share it with all of you;

On August 26th, delegates gathered to form a Parade of Nations and together we marched from the Hyatt to the BMO Centre in down town Calgary. This event showcased policewomen and civilian support staff wearing a wide range of dress uniforms from over 35 different countries. The colors and styles of uniforms were as diverse as the women wearing them.

Our mc’s Award winning Journalist Linda Olsen, Inspector RCMP Katie McLellan and Retired Calgary Police Chief Christine Silverberg, connected us and spoke from their hearts about the importance of women in Policing and the IAWP.

Our day ended by meeting Canadian Country music artist, Paul Brandt. He welcomed delegates by not only singing but by sharing his drive for change. His campaign, “NotinMyCity,” and partnership with the Calgary Police Service aim to raise awareness about human trafficking through education.

The evening was our first opportunity to mingle. We attended YouthLink Calgary Police Interpretive Centre. Designed by no other than Saskatchewan’s , Tara Robinson, this modern museum contains exhibits on true crime, police work and has an interactive forensics lab. It is truly a must see if you are in Calgary.

Throughout the week we were left motivated and empowered by listening to, The Honourable Kathleen Ganley, Alberta Minister of Justice and Solicitor General, Aftifete Jahjaga, President of the Republic of Kosovo 2011-2016, and RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki.

Further inspired with reverence, keynote speakers, Chief Jennifer Evans , Amanda Lindhout, Candian Ice Hockey Champions - Caroline Ouellette and Sheldon Kennedy (Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre) shared their experiences and choices that have made them a driving force of change. Each working through adversity they not only overcame their fearsbut they continue to mentor, educate and empower others.

Each day we were fortunate to choose 4/24 training sessions. These included presenters from around the globe about such topics as; Respect/bullying/harassment, Community Partnership and Engagement, Diversity/Inclusion, Leadership, Recruiting/Employee Retention, Organizational Change, Collorative/Investigative Approach to solving crime, Leading Change, Relationships with External Agency, Wellness and Mindfulness, Investment advice and words from Alberta Crown Prosecution.

We were treated to a hospitality night at Brewsters hosted by next year IAWP Conference hosts from Anchorage Alaska.

In the spirit of true western hospitality, we attended the Girletz Rodeo Ranch for our Gala. Delegates were taken back to the Wild West and experienced a cowboy bbq, rodeo including a female trick rider, line dancing, mechanical bull, strong man bell ring, and live entertainment. In addition, Calgary Police Service showcased HAWCS (Helicopter Air Watch for Community Safety) and their Canine Unit display.

This experience was truly world class.

We met many inspiring leaders from around the world and came to learn that each and every one of us can make a difference if we have the courage to try. I am sure I can speak for all delegates when I say that we left with the desire to put many ideas into action and to be the force that drives change for the betterment of our communities and our countries.

In the words of Sheryl Sanderberg, In the future there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders.

I am so proud to say that I have been an Officer with the Weyburn Police Service for nearly 20 years and have been given the privilege to work for all of you.

I hope to take what I have learned and help make Weyburn an even better place to live as it has truly been my Opportunity City.

Cst. Melinda Mintenko