Breaking barriers with Catherine McKenna

#RunLikeAGirl

On a snowy afternoon at Humber Polytechnic, students gathered for an event that was far more powerful than just another keynote. Breaking Barriers with the former minister of environment and climate change, Catherine McKenna, was the ultimate conversation about resilience, perseverance and what it really takes to create change.

From the moment she stepped onto the stage, McKenna set the tone to be humorous and relatable. Joking about not being able to “control the weather” despite her former role before focusing on the purpose of her memoir, Run Like A Girl.

A book that shows us how to make change in a world that often feels overwhelming.

Redefining “run like a girl”

Stage background with the screen displaying Canterine McKenna's memoir "Run Like A Girl" — *Photo by IGNITE*

One of the most memorable moments for me was McKenna’s reflection on a childhood experience. After being told that she “ran like a girl” as an insult, she felt that in order to achieve success she must strive to become more like her male peers.

“I guess if I want to win in life, I better run like a boy,” she reflected.

But over time she began to challenge that belief. And years later, she reclaimed that phrase and turned it into her campaign slogan and a personal philosophy.

In her process of redefining what it means to “run like a girl”, a quote by Mia Hamm, an American former professional soccer player, two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, helped too.

“My coach said I ran like a girl, I said if he could run a little faster he could too.”

— Mia Hamm

The “perfect” career path

Catherine McKenna on stage talking about her Memoir — *Photo by IGNITE*

If there was one myth McKenna consistently dismantled it was the idea of a perfect career path.

Seeing her journey from being a competitive swimmer to law student to working internationally and then entering politics, it’s safe to say that her path was anything but linear.

Her honesty in that moment stood out to me. Rather than highlighting only achievements, she acknowledged the setbacks, the uncertainty, and the times she struggled.

“I had a crappy job and I was crappy in my crappy jobs” she laughed.

But she also emphasized on perseverence and resilience in those uncertainties. To keep going even when the setbacks are overwhelming.

“Your first job will lead to the second job… and maybe it’ll lead to the job that you love the most,” she explained.

For students who feel pressure to choose the “right” career immediately, this message offered a lot of reassurance. There is no single decision that defines your future. Instead, it’s a series of steps that shape where you end up. And sometimes, it’s where you least expect.

Answering the tough questions

A Q/A session with Catherine McKenna on stage answering student questions — *Photo by IGNITE*

During the Q&A portion of the event, students asked questions that brought out some powerful insights.

When asked how she stayed resilient despite facing significant criticism, McKenna didn’t pretend it was easy. She acknowledged the challenges that came towards her and she emphasized the importance of staying grounded.

She did not let the negativity define her, instead she focused on the work she believed in and the impact she wanted to create.

Her message was clear: resilience comes from knowing why you are doing what you are doing.

Pushing back against pressure

Another question addressed the gender dynamics in politics and the challenges that come with it, particularly for women.

McKenna recalled facing criticism during her time in politics, including being labeled “Climate Barbie,” a term that reduced her hard work to misogynist stereotypes.

Her response? Address it directly and use it as an opportunity to call out unacceptable behaviour.

“This isn’t how we do politics…you can disagree on policy, but you can’t do personal attacks. That’s not okay.”

This response highlighted the challenges women in leadership often face that goes beyond their work. Her response underscored the importance of respect and accountability in leadership spaces. It also highlighted the reality that progress often comes with resistance.

She encouraged students to take action in ways that feel manageable.

“If you feel like you can’t stand up in class… just go to the person and say, “that’s not okay.”

This advice emphasized that creating change doesn’t always require a large platform. It can begin with small, everyday actions.

Advice for women in leadership

A group photo with Catherine McKenna and IGNITE studetn advocates: Selena Ferreira and Emily Edwards — *Photo by IGNITE*

Perhaps the most impactful question of the day was what advice she’d give to young women aspiring to lead, especially in spaces where they may not feel welcomed.

Her answer was both practical and empowering.

She emphasized the importance of building confidence over time, even if it doesn’t come naturally. Her story challenged the idea that confident people are simply born that way. Instead, she showed that confidence is something developed over time—through discomfort, practice, and persistence.

“I couldn’t even go to a microphone and ask a question,” she shared. “I was shaking… my voice was cracking… but I forced myself to do it.”

Her advice was to start small, take risks, and surround yourself with supportive people.

For many students, this was one of the most relatable moments of the event. Whether it’s speaking in class, attending networking events, or applying for opportunities, the fear of not being “ready” can be paralyzing.

Ultimately, her message was about self-empowerment. To take control of your voice, your space, and your potential.

And if you don’t feel ready, start anyway.

Closing notes

Picture of an audience of studnet at the event — *Photo by IGNITE*

As the session came to an end, McKenna left students with a message that felt both personal and encouraging.

“You guys have the world ahead of you… I have your back.”

It was a simple statement, but it carried weight. It reminded students that even those who have reached high levels of success once stood in the same place— uncertain, learning and figuring things out step-by-step.

More than just an event

Catherine McKenna taking a selfie with a student — *Photo by IGNITE*

Breaking barriers was a shift in perspective for a lot of the students in attendance, including myself.

It was a message that success isn’t ever something that is predictable or polished. It’s messy, nonlinear and full of challenges.

The event served as a clear reminder that not having a clear path does not mean you are falling behind, you are still in the process of discovering what truly works for you.

And most importantly, success starts to show when you take risks, challenge yourself and keep going even when you are unsure of what comes next.

Feature photo courtesy of IGNITE

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