BC Women’s Health Foundation is bringing women’s health into the spotlight with its annual Illuminations Luncheon, presented by RBC Wealth Management. Celebrating International Women’s Day early, this year’s event takes place on Friday, February 27, 2026, at The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver and highlights the vital role of digital health in transforming the way BC women receive care, when and where they need it. For 25 years, this event has been elevating the conversation in women’s health research.
“With your support, we can advance research and deliver lasting improvements in women’s health. With only 7% of national research dollars supporting women’s health research, philanthropy is the only way to close the gap. Your commitment matters now more than ever.”
– Cally Wesson, CEO + President, BC Women’s Health Foundation
BC Women’s Health Foundation is thrilled to welcome Canadian media icon, fashion journalist and trailblazer, Jeanne Beker, as keynote speaker. Beker will lead an inspiring fireside chat, sponsored by Pollock Clinics, that also includes an expert panel of women’s health researchers, sponsored by Optima Living, who will share groundbreaking digital health innovations that are already transforming the way care reaches women, anytime and anywhere. Kicking off Women’s Health Research Month, Illuminations also aims to highlight the significant gap in women’s health funding and the power of philanthropy to drive change.
“RBC is proud to partner with BC Women’s Health Foundation to advance critical women’s health research. We believe that robust research leads to better care, strengthens families, and builds healthier communities. Together, we can drive meaningful progress across British Columbia and beyond.”
– Martin Thibodeau, Regional President, RBC Royal Bank
Each year, Illuminations celebrates groundbreaking work from the Women’s Health Research Institute (WHRI) and brings together community, corporate, government and medical research leaders who are committed to transforming the future of women’s health in British Columbia and beyond.
Illuminations tickets are available now, individually or you can purchase a table of eight. Women’s health affects everyone. With your support, we can deliver lasting improvements.
About BC Women’s Health Foundation
BC Women’s Health Foundation (BCWHF), British Columbia’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to advancing women’s and newborn health, drives impactful care and research through partnerships with BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre and the Women’s Health Research Institute (WHRI). BCWHF’s support ensures women have equitable access to high-quality healthcare whenever and wherever they need it. BC Women’s Health Foundation is committed to advancing women’s and newborn health through research, education and philanthropy. The Illuminations Luncheon is an annual event that champions investment in evidence-based innovation and empowers donors to make a measurable impact in women’s and newborn health research funding. Together with our Foundation supporters, the Foundation creates bright beginnings and better futures for women and families across British Columbia. For more information, please visit bcwomensfoundation.org or follow us on Instagram at @bcwomensfdn.
Media Contact:
Laura Denton, VP, Marketing + Communications
BC Women’s Health Foundation
Event Contact:
Stephanie Marron, Associate Director, Signature Events
BC Women’s Health Foundation