Yellowknife (Dec 06/04) - When I-WIN, everyone wins.

That is the message Darlene Burden wants to convey to women in Inuvik through the formation of a new group aimed at networking and information sharing.

I-WIN, an acronym for Inuvik Women's Information Network, was created as an outlet for women who want to share ideas and participate in workshops about a wide range of topics.

"It's an information session," says Burden, I-WIN's president.

Information collected through a survey about what topics of discussion are favoured will result in guest speakers during the regular Tuesday evening meetings.

From consumer rights to fitness and career planning, the possibilities are endless for information sharing, Burden says.

"When I become informed, my family and friends benefit," she says of the exchange of information. "You become proactive."

Pauline Lannon, a representative for the group, says it's important for women to feel they have a place to go to connect with others.

"It will empower each of us," she says.

Ruth Wright, another member, says teens will be included in workshops and discussions.

"This can be our melting pot of ideas for everyone. The more women joining, the better."