About The Feminist Conversations

The Feminist Conversations (formerly Ask Women Anything) is a federal non-profit organization that invites panels of women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ folks to share their expertise in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

We take a trauma-informed, intersectional, and anti-oppressive approach to this work.

The program, originally launched under the Media Action umbrella, has been in existence for about ten years.

Mission

At The Feminist Conversations, our mission is to support feminist individuals and initiatives, empower women, Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and celebrate feminist achievements that inspire future generations. We are dedicated to amplifying the voices of those from equity seeking groups, particularly within the Ottawa community, by raising awareness of the vital role feminism, Indigenous perspectives, and 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy play in societal progress.

As a community-led organization, we create safe, welcoming spaces where panels of women and 2SLGBTQIA+ folks share their expertise and lived experiences. Our discussions take a trauma-informed, intersectional, and anti-oppressive approach, fostering greater understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion within an atmosphere of education, community, and allyship.

Through our work, we strive to enhance opportunities for underrepresented voices to actively participate in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future. Our goal is to empower individuals to take on leadership roles, influence decision-making processes, and contribute meaningfully to societal development. Together, we aim to create a lasting impact by fostering a community where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered.

Vision

At The Feminist Conversations, we envision a future where feminists, Indigenous women, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are celebrated for their achievements and empowered to share their stories. By amplifying their voices, we highlight their strengths and inspire actionable solutions for decision-makers.

Through our community-led panels and discussions, we provide a safe and welcoming space where BIPOC women and 2SLGBTQIA+ people share expertise on topics such as STEM careers, politics, midwifery, identity, the impact of colonization, gender-based violence, and nonprofit leadership. These conversations foster critical knowledge-sharing, awareness, and empowerment, ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard and valued.

Our long-term goal is to create a society where equity, inclusion, and intersectionality are the foundation of progress, and women, Indigenous communities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are not just participants but leaders in shaping the future. Through education, advocacy, and allyship, we strive to build a world where feminism, Indigenous rights, and 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy drive meaningful change.

Values

At The Feminist Conversations, we stand for equity, equality, and justice. Our core values inspire us to:

Empower underrepresented voices, including women, Indigenous communities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, to become active contributors in their communities.
Create safe spaces for open dialogue, meaningful discussions, and intersectional advocacy, ensuring that all participants feel welcomed and supported.
Foster an inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of background, identity, or lived experience—is valued, respected, and given opportunities to grow.
Take an equity-driven approach to panel discussions, featuring experts, community-based service providers, and individuals from diverse intersecting identities, ensuring a well-rounded and representative conversation.
Enhance community education and critical knowledge by providing a platform to showcase the expertise and leadership of BIPOC women and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.

2024-25 Annual Report

Take a look at our annual report to see our work and impact in 2024-25.

View pdf

Our Team

The Feminist Conversations is powered by passionate volunteers.

Founder

Chair of the Board

Amanda Parriag

Amanda is a community leader and feminist who has been volunteering with the program since it began in 2014.

Board Member

Jennifer

Jennifer Jones is a data analyst working in program evaluation, research, and planning projects for organizations in Canada and internationally. She has been a volunteer with TFC since 2019.

Board Member

Vanessa

Vanessa is a scientist by training, and has experience in both the government and non-profit sectors. She is an enthusiastic supporter and participant in feminist and restorative justice community initiatives, and has volunteered with The Feminist Conversations since 2019.

Program Coordinator

Amira

Amira Nasser is a communications and community engagement professional with a background in journalism and multimedia storytelling. She has been the Program Coordinator at The Feminist Conversations since 2024, leading community events, partnerships, and outreach initiatives.

Board Member

Jocelyn

Jocelyn is a Financial Mathematics and Economics student at the University of Ottawa and a varsity athlete. She brings a fresh perspective and a strong analytical background to the organization. She has been volunteering with The Feminist Conversations since 2026 and is eager to contribute to its continued growth and impact in Ottawa.