Ever thought about running for office? This panel is for women like you
Courtesy Barrie360.com
By Marie Gagne, April 16, 2026 Curious about women in local politics, there’s an event coming up in Barrie you won’t want to miss.
A conversation worth having
With a municipal election on the horizon, the Barrie Public Library is bringing together four women. Each of them stepped into public life and are helping shape this city’s future. The panel is called Your Community, Your Voice. It’s free, open to everyone, and promises to be a real conversation, not a rehearsed one.
“When all voices are included in decision-making, our communities are stronger,” says Lauren Jessop, CEO of Barrie Public Library. “This panel is about helping women better understand politics, the many ways they can influence change, and the power they have to shape the future of their communities.”
Meet the panelists
You’ll hear from four local leaders who know this world firsthand:
- Lauren Jessop, CEO of Barrie Public Library
- Ann-Marie Kungl, Ward 3 Councillor
- Amy Courser, Ward 4 Councillor and BPL Board Member
- Jennifer Armstrong, Co-Founder of Politics for Women and Honorary Colonel at Canadian Forces Base Borden
Together, they’ll talk about what motivated them to get involved, what the campaign trail actually looks like, and what they wish they’d known going in.
What you’ll take away
This isn’t just a lecture. It’s a chance to ask the questions you actually want answered. The discussion will cover:
- the challenges women face in politics
- the opportunities that exist
- the practical steps you can take if public service is something you’re considering
Even if you’re just curious about how local government works, this is a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look.
Event details
Thursday, April 30, 2026 6:30 to 7:30 pm Barrie Public Library, Downtown Branch 60 Worsley Street
Free and open to all. Learn more at barrielibrary.ca.