Networking with Inspirational Women in Science in Kingston

By Christina Yeh

On October 24, 2023, the OBIO® Women in Health Initiative (WiHI) hosted “Networking with Inspirational Women in Science in Kingston”, sponsored by Kingston Economic Development and Queen’s University, and in partnership with Queen’s Partnerships & Innovation, WE-CAN, and Women in Science at Queen’s (WISQ). The event featured a panel discussion on “Understanding the Kingston Health Innovation Ecosystem and Its Impact on the Canadian Economy”, followed by a networking reception. 

Dr. Nancy Ross, Vice-Principal Research at Queen’s University, opened the event and spoke about Queen’s University’s vibrant health science ecosystem, strong women in science and leading research. Next, Dr. Maura Campbell, President & CEO of OBIO® and alumna of Queen’s University, outlined the Women in Health Initiative (WiHI), a program designed to increase the participation and advancement of women in the health science sector.  

Shelley Hirstwood, Director of Business Development at Kingston Economic Development, moderated the discussion with panelists Allison Turner (Co-Founder & Director of Product Development at PnuVax), Anne Vivian-Scott (President & CEO at Kinarm), and Dr. Irsa Wiginton (Co-Founder & Business Development Officer at mDETECT). The panelists shared their experiences as entrepreneurs leading health science companies and taking their technologies from research to commercialization. They discussed exit strategies, the importance of being assertive and open to opportunities, and the benefits of building their businesses in Kingston. 

Following the panel, attendees at all stages of their career were invited to meet the panelists, network and share their experiences. 

OBIO® WiHI is supported by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).