Yellowknife (Aug 29/03) - A group of women spent last weekend learning what it takes to become politicians.

Ten women, from around the North participated in the workshop, Women's Voices in Leadership, which went from Aug. 22 to 24.

For some around the table, they were looking for more information and for others this was their chance to learn some tips for the upcoming elections.

"I recently decided to become involved in politics and figured this workshop would really help me out," said Annemieke Mulders.

She said she is planning to run in the territorial election for Yellowknife Centre MLA.

Mildred Wilke, who has already thrown her hat in to the election for school board trustee, said she hopes to learn more about politics and the election process.

"I want to be able to improve my knowledge when I run for school board," she said. All the participants around the table agreed there needs to be more representation of women in all levels of government.

"It's difficult for women to be elected. Their roles have been defined outside the political arena," said Arleen Vuorela.

Ernestine Gladue said one of the things she hopes to get out of the workshop is to understand the challenges women face when they run in an election.

"I want to know how I can better support women in politics. It's not easy for them. I want to know where I can help," she said.

During the three-day workshop the women discussed topics from how government elections work and what some issues might be, to preparing campaigns and practising public speaking.

"This has been a very knowledgeable course," said Beckett.

Currently there are only two women who are MLAs in the territories.

The workshop was organized by the Status of Women of the Northwest Territories.