In celebration of CLGF’s 30th Anniversary, we are honoured to spotlight the inspiring stories of 30 trailblazing women in local government from across the Commonwealth, all members of the Commonwealth Women in Local Government Network. These interviews celebrate their groundbreaking contributions to gender equality and their transformative impact on building inclusive, empowered communities.

Rebecca Bligh (Canada)

Rebecca Bligh is a two-term councillor in the City of Vancouver, President of the Federation of the Canadian Municipalities (FCM), and a Director at Metro Vancouver Regional District. Rebecca has worked passionately on policy discussions related to the poisoned drug crisis, climate, community safety initiatives, and more significant investments in housing in all communities across Canada. She recognises that over the past 30 years, women have moved from being underrepresented voices to becoming key decision-makers in local government, but parity is still a challenge. She was inspired to enter local government by a commitment to create a city where equity and inclusion are foundational

Read her full interview here 

Ontiretse Tryphinah Bogatsu (Botswana)

Hon. Ontiretse Tryphinah Bogatsu is Chairperson of Tlokweng District Council, where she has made history as the first women to hold the post, and is currently the only woman chairperson across Botswana’s 31 districts. She is a pioneering force for women in politics to which she brings a dynamic background in entrepreneurship. As Chairperson, she is driving the timely, high-quality completion of major district projects, including new internal roads, community and business facilities, and crucial housing developments. Councillor Bogatsu is committed to elevating community services, with a focus on health, environment and education. Her passion for community development and desire to influence positive change inspired her to enter local government. As a young businesswoman, she is prioritising improving the ease of doing business and improving decision-making opportunities for citizens, particularly women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Read her full interview here

Lousie Gittins (England)

Cllr Louise Gittins was first elected to Cheshire West and Chester Council in 2011 and became Leader in 2019. She currently leads work on devolution, public service reform, climate emergency, and the local health economy. Nationally, Louise chairs the Local Government Association (LGA) Board, having previously chaired its Children and Young People Board. As Chair, Louise has endeavoured to build the LGA’s profile as the national voice of local government, and has sought to represent members of all regions, tiers, and political affiliations. A champion for inclusion and wellbeing, Louise continues to prioritise care leavers and health inequalities while strengthening local government’s voice, collaboration, and impact across the UK.

Read her full interview here

CLGF 30th Anniversary Commemoration

The Commonwealth Women in Local Government Network (ComWLG) is championing women leaders from all corners of the Commonwealth. You can also view the full set of interviews on the 30 for 30 page

We are active across social media, and we have a dedicated Facebook page where you can network with others interested in women in leadership and women’s political empowerment.