25 Aug 2026

Women Support Women 2026

Gia Bantoc

We are excited to open registration for The Western ARIDO Community’s signature event, Women Support Women on October 1st in Cambridge, Ontario!

Date and Time: October 1, 2026 (12:30pm-5pm)
Location: Tapestry Hall in Cambridge, Ontario

About the Event

Following the success of last year’s event, Women Support Women returns in 2026 to explore the experiences of women across different generations, focusing on leadership, ageism, and the unique challenges and opportunities encountered at every stage of a career.

Featuring three keynote speakers and seven panelists from across the interior design industry, the afternoon brings together professionals at different stages of their careers to share their experiences, perspectives, and insights. Through open and engaging conversations, attendees will gain valuable takeaways, build meaningful connections, and celebrate the power of women supporting women.

Open to everyone — ARIDO members, industry partners, students and guests.

Attendance qualifies for 1 GE credit.

Buy Tickets

Tickets

Student – $40
ARIDO Member – $50
Non-Member – $60

Event Schedule

12:30 PM	Registration
1:15 PM	Introduction
1:30 PM	Melissa Tossell, ARIDO
2:00 PM	Susan Carey, Member of Canadian Association of Women in Construction
2:30 PM	Robin Fraser, ARIDO
3:00 PM	Break
3:20 PM	Panel Speaker Series: Susan Tienhaara, ARIDO Joanne Chan, ARIDO Tracy Ho, ARIDO Amanda Ens, ARIDO Amra Janjusevic Michele Gunn, ARIDO Daniella Rivard, Intern ARIDO
4:25 PM	Closing Remarks
4:30PM	Networking Session
5:00 PM	End

Melissa Tossell, ARIDO

Melissa Tossell is a registered interior designer and BCIN holder with a long history of supporting ARIDO as a volunteer. She owns Aurora Design Inc- a global luxury brand- where she designs spaces that bring powerful people back to themselves. She is a spiritual channel, empath, paid speaker, author and mentor. She has built communities, supported charities, and has a mission to bring light to leaders and powerful individuals around the world through design, speaking, and outreach.

Susan Carey

Susan Carey, President of BuildSafe – Construction Safety Services Inc., brings deep expertise and a strong passion for creating safer workplaces in the construction industry. With a healthcare background, she offers a unique perspective on injury prevention and safety practices, ensuring BuildSafe leads with excellence and innovation.

Robin Fraser, ARIDO

Robin Fraser is a self-described Interior Conceptualizer, Creative Strategist, and Collaborative Designer. This all-encompassing designation more accurately reflects her approach to design and her relationship with the built environment than the traditional title of Interior Designer.
With more than 30 years of experience, Robin has developed a distinctive practice grounded in curiosity, collaboration, process, and function. Her work brings together concept, storytelling, spatial experience, and technical understanding to transform ideas into meaningful environments.

Interested in Sponsoring?

Sponsorship opportunities are available at a range of levels, from Event Partner to Supporting Sponsor, each with branding, recognition, and complimentary tickets. To learn more, contact Gia Bantoc at [email protected].