Please note that the titles and descriptions that accompany each Trailblazers photograph are dated to the launch of the exhibit, March 2006, and will not be updated.
"The experience of young women today is very different than my own experience starting out in the 70s. Being the first is always hard. You just have to put your chin down and do what you can. The fact that there are now more women who can support each other is a really positive thing."
Kirby Chown '79
Ontario Regional Managing Partner, McCarthy Tétrault LLP
Whether travelling the world and learning new languages or rising to the top of a male-dominated profession, Kirby Chown excels when at the edge of her comfort zone. It's a quality that has served her well in both her personal and professional life - from the rolling hills and vineyards of Italy to the corner office of one of Canada's largest law firms. Her dual passion for travel and law tells the story of her double identity. Along the way to becoming one of Canada's leading litigation and family law lawyers, Kirby took risks and remained open to new experiences. One of her greatest adventures - giving birth to twin boys in her first year of practice - required managing her burgeoning career without the benefit of "flex time." Today, Kirby's past experiences have given her more understanding of women's special circumstances. She has put her beliefs into action, starting a women's network that has supported maternity leave, flex work hours, career development opportunities and business development training tailored to women's specific needs.
See more of the Trailblazers Exhibit
