The third annual ‘Fight Like a Girl’ fundraiser was recently hosted by Sue McLay with Royal LePage Your Community Realty in Vaughan, ON. The event successfully raised $8,500, which will go to Yellow Brick House through the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation.

The female-focused self-defense class was hosted by Northern Karate Schools and led by McLay, who used to teach karate, and three female instructors. There were 36 participants, all girls and women ranging from 6 to 60 years old.

Inspired to help women

McLay says, “When I was young, I was very shy, and karate classes really brought me out of my shell. Later on, when starting my career in real estate, I saw how valuable the skills I learned were. I often work after dark, accessing lock boxes behind condo buildings and parking in poorly lit underground garages in big cities. Knowing I can protect myself allows me to walk confidently through my day.”

Supporting her local women’s shelter came naturally, as McLay formed ‘Fight Like a Girl’ after learning that many women – regardless of their profession or environment – are often very aware of danger. The event aims to help women avoid unsafe situations and confidently navigate the world around them.

Everyone deserves to feel safe

McLay expresses her strong belief, “Everyone deserves to feel safe – whether they are walking alone at night or in their own home.” She says, “Unfortunately, we know that far too many women are most afraid when they are returning home to an abusive partner. Helping these women find a safe way forward is so important for me.”