We for She Conference highlights how Donald Trump is pushing young women into action

At a conference for women in Vancouver, the fight to break the glass ceiling in politics and beyond was a key topic and, not surprisingly, the words and actions of Donald Trump are spurring young women into action.

More than 600 high school girls from across the Lower Mainland and beyond descended upon the Convention Centre for the Vancouver Board of Trade’s We For She conference.

The annual event aims to inspire and empower women through mentoring and career development, encouraging them to break into fields that have long since been dominated by men.

Using the U.S. presidential election as an example, Premier Christy Clark said it’s no surprise women hesitate to enter politics.

“I think what you see happening in the states right now with how bad that’s gotten, how toxic and ugly it is, I just have to think that it’s going to scare a lot more women out of it,” Clark said.

By many accounts, even before the Access Hollywood tape surfaced, the election south of the border had already become toxic. Yet, despite Trump’s disparaging remarks, some young women say his comments are having an unexpected impact.

“It actually kind of encourages me a little bit to make sure that we’re getting women in politics,” said Emily Castle, a grade 12 student from Quesnel.

Fellow grade 12 student Gujree Sabbarwal echoes that sentiment.

“Especially with younger kids. It gives them a better outlook on the world. It gives them more confidence saying I could do that,” she said.

While this is the third year for the conference, this is the first year hundreds of high school students were invited to attend.