Building the Future: Women Shaping BC’s LNG Sector

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the ongoing achievements of women and recognize the ongoing journey toward gender equality. The theme for 2025, Accelerate Action, calls for deliberate steps and continuous momentum in advancing gender equity across all sectors.

To recognize IWD, we interviewed four remarkable women leaders who are helping shape the province’s LNG sector. Their stories highlight the importance of mentorship, resilience, and bold action with experiences that have shaped their careers as they help lead the way on the world’s first net zero LNG facility.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

Selena Basi, VP, Government and External Relations

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to pause and recognize the achievements of the women around us, those who came before us, and those shaping the future. Each year, I reflect on how we can continue advancing progress for women in our industry and beyond.

For me, it is also a reminder of the sacrifices and challenges that come with leadership roles and how every step forward helps pave the way for future generations. It is about showing young women that they do not have to accept the status quo, that their voices matter, their contributions are valuable, and they have the power to drive change.

Slisia Andrew, Indigenous Business Advocate

For me, International Women’s Day is a time to honor the Matriarchs who came before us, those who carried our people’s burdens and wisdom, ensuring that we could walk forward with strength and purpose. It is also a time to recognize the Women of today who are shaping the future, using their voices, knowledge, and lived experience to create a more equitable world.

In our Teachings, Women are the Life-Givers and the Protectors of Sacred Knowledge, carrying the responsibility of nurturing not just their families but entire communities. Through this lens, I see International Women’s Day not just as a celebration – but as a call to action to uphold these Teachings.

What excites you most about the future of women in the energy sector?

Marnie Yohemas, Director, Regulatory and Compliances Advocate

I’m the proud daughter of a mother who ran a pipeline construction business alongside my dad for over 40 years, but she was often dismissed as “just the secretary” while people asked to speak with my father instead. She would simply reply, “You can talk to him or you can talk to me, the one who actually knows what’s going on!”

I believe the energy industry holds incredible opportunities for women. The sector offers exciting and challenging work, with careers that allow women to contribute to their communities and the economy in meaningful ways. Women bring unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches that should be encouraged and embraced. The more diverse voices we have in the room, the stronger the industry will be.

Spring Zhu, Head of Procurement and Supply Chain

I am seeing more and more women in trades, construction, and engineering in the energy sector. While these fields may not have as many women as HR, finance, or administrative roles, we are moving toward a future where women are pursuing any profession without limitations.

 For me, that is exciting because it means a future where women have the freedom to thrive in any role, using their skills and expertise without having to compromise their natural abilities or capabilities.

What actions are required to continue accelerating progress toward gender equality?

Slisia Andrew, Indigenous Business Advocate, Woodfibre LNG

True progress requires systemic change. It is not enough to invite women into spaces, we must ensure these spaces are built with their voices in mind.

At Woodfibre LNG, we are creating a more inclusive work environment by integrating gender and cultural safety into our work. This includes recognizing the importance of Indigenous Knowledge Keepers in decision-making and ensuring that women, especially Indigenous women, feel safe, heard and valued.

Progress happens when workplaces commit to not just opening doors, but reshaping the structures within them.

Selena Basi, VP, Government and External Relations

Prioritizing the safety of women and girls, both in the sector and in communities near major projects, is critical. I’ve been honoured to be a part of raising that standard through Woodfibre LNG’s Gender Safety Advisory Committee and Gender and Cultural Safety Management Plan.

To keep moving forward, we need to ensure that policies, decisions, and opportunities for women are shaped by women. Building an inclusive workforce requires more than awareness – it requires action, commitment and the continuous effort to create workplaces where all perspectives are valued.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to leadership roles in major energy projects in BC?

Marnie Yohemas, Director, Regulatory and Compliance

Go for it. Get an education, develop your skills, and explore the many opportunities in BC’s energy sector. With three LNG projects moving forward and a renewed focus on streamlining regulatory approvals, the future is bright.

The best thing you can do is find a mentor and build a strong network of allies, both within and across industries. Male or female, these connections will be your biggest supporters, champions, and sounding boards. Your network is invaluable. Invest in it, nurture it, and it will pay dividends.

Selena Basi, VP, Government and External Relations

Hard work and perseverance transcend gender – there is a place for you in this sector!

It’s inspiring to see more women stepping into leadership roles in an industry that has traditionally been male dominated. But what excites me even more is how this is happening in a way that genuinely includes and supports women, rather than expecting them to conform to outdated norms.

My advice to young women aspiring to leadership roles is to embrace their unique perspectives and strengths, because the future of this industry will be shaped by diverse voices, and your contributions will be essential in driving meaningful change.

Slisia Andrew, Indigenous Business Advocate, Woodfibre LNG

Stand firmly in your truth and never compromise your values for the sake of fitting in. Leadership is not about conforming to existing structures but about reshaping them to create spaces where our voices are heard and respected. Know who you are, where you come from, and what you stand for, this will anchor you in moments of challenge.

Seek out mentors and allies who uplift you and remember that leadership is a collective journey.

Spring Zhu, Head of Procurement and Supply Chain

Major energy projects in BC are complex and challenging in every aspect. The reality is these challenges exist for everyone and, if you aspire to take on a leadership role in this field, be prepared.

You will need resilience to navigate the obstacles that will come your way. The key is to stay focused, push forward, and embrace the challenge, because the rewards of making an impact in this industry are worth it.