George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
The visit began with a comprehensive tour of Limberlost Place, with particular focus on the on-site child care centre, Mary's Place, and the impact accessible childcare has on women in the workforce. The tour highlighted how the new facility supports student success by providing essential services and learning opportunities alongside academic programming, demonstrating the college's commitment to removing barriers to education.
Provincial investment drives program success
The Women in Fashion Technology program, now in its seventh year, has received significant provincial support from the Women’s Economic Security Program (WESP) totalling $2.6 million across multiple funding cycles. The current three-year grant continues to support this one-year certificate program that has successfully graduated 77 students to date, empowering women to gain tangible skills they can apply towards gainful employment in the sector.
“The Women in Fashion Technology program has genuinely transformed lives and careers,” said Rosa Fracassa, Associate Dean for the School of Fashion Studies. “Seeing our graduates confidently operate advanced technical equipment and build successful careers shows the impact of removing barriers and equipping women with the specialized skills they need to succeed in the Fashion sector in Ontario.”
Minister Williams expressed her enthusiasm for the program, highlighting how women’s economic empowerment enhances financial independence and builds entrepreneurial opportunities, strengthening not only individual families but also our province.
During a roundtable discussion, program graduates and current students shared their experiences and career outcomes, showcasing specializations in knitting, laser cutting, dye sublimation printing, and embroidery. Students highlighted their transitions to skilled employment with companies across Toronto, including Silver Crystal, Hot Pop, Hipster Laser, Myant, and Westend Offset.
The program, delivered through George Brown’s Fashion Exchange (F/X), combines digital and hands-on training with industry-based work placements, directly addressing the goal of improving women's economic security by removing barriers to employment in high-demand sectors.
The visit concluded with Minister Williams acknowledging the program's impact on women's economic empowerment and the college's innovative approach to integrating support services within modern educational facilities.
