Angelina Caviedes, Yazareth Meneses Arrieta, Afrin Rahman, Leisi Carter, and Rukia Hassan host a fundraising bake sale during Enactus Windsor’s Market Day, Nov. 3, 2025, at the CAW Centre as part of the UWindsor Women in Business initiative. (VICTOR ROMAO/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
Seeing a need for more community and connection among women pursuing business careers, Yazareth Meneses Arrieta launched a new club to fill that gap—and inspire others to lead.
Today, her club is helping dozens of students gain confidence and professional skills.
Meneses Arrieta, a second-year student studying business and psychology, is working toward a Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) degree. She founded UWindsor Women in Business during her first year to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for women pursuing business-related careers.
The club now has about 60 members and offers networking, workshops and events aimed at empowering female students in business-related fields.
“As president and founder, my role is to make sure the club stays organized and delivers meaningful value to our members,” said Meneses Arrieta.
Her responsibilities include leading the executive team, setting goals, coordinating major initiatives and representing the club at university events.
The idea came during an involvement fair when Meneses Arrieta noticed a Women in Science booth.
“That was the moment I realized we didn’t have a Women in Business club,” she said.
“As a female student entering the business world, I felt there needed to be a space dedicated to women who want to grow professionally.”
Meneses Arrieta believes the club is more than a networking group. “We want to create a welcoming and empowering community where women can build confidence and explore leadership opportunities,” she said.
“It’s about giving students the tools they need to succeed.”
The club hosts events like the Women in Business Market, where students receive free tables to showcase their work, and provides access to local business leaders for networking.
“We’ve had incredible feedback from members who say these events help them feel prepared for real-world challenges,” said Meneses Arrieta.
Meneses Arrieta credits her education for shaping the club’s structure and leadership style.
University taught her the value of clear roles and organization, helping the club operate like a real organization. Her psychology courses also guide her approach, emphasizing team dynamics and communication so every member feels supported and valued.
Looking ahead, Meneses Arrieta hopes to expand the club’s reach.
“We’re planning more collaborations with local businesses and alumni,” she said.
“The goal is to open doors for students and show them what’s possible.”
With plans to strengthen partnerships and grow membership, UWindsor Women in Business is positioning itself as a hub for empowerment and leadership on campus.
Want to connect with other ambitious women?
Join the Women in Business Café Networking Event on Friday, Nov. 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Ciocco Café, 769 Erie St E.
This is a fantastic opportunity for female students to meet like-minded peers and professionals, gain valuable insights, and build relationships that can shape future careers.