Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) Partners with Women-Led Startup for Airport Period Care Initiative
For Immediate Release – March 8, 2024
Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) is pleased to announce a significant initiative aimed at supporting menstrual health and fostering inclusivity within the air terminal building at Victoria International Airport (YYJ) by partnering with a women-led company.
YYJ recognized the importance of addressing this essential need ahead of the December 2023 Labour Code mandate requiring federally regulated organizations to provide period care products and installed free period care product dispensers last November into primary pre and post-security washrooms. Today, International Women’s Day, is a fitting time to highlight this partnership and demonstrate a new standard for airport facilities across the nation.
“We are committed to creating a workplace and travel environment that prioritizes the well-being and dignity of all individuals,” said Elizabeth M. Brown, VAA President and CEO. “The installation of period care product dispensers reflects our dedication to supporting menstrual health and promoting inclusivity within our community.”
YYJ partnered with Victoria-based brand joni, a leading provider of biodegradable and organic period care products, for this initiative. By choosing joni, YYJ emphasizes its commitment not only to environmental sustainability but also supporting women-led companies. The decision aligns with YYJ’s ongoing efforts to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into its operations and to foster Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the organization.
“By installing joni freevend commercial dispensers, YYJ creates more equitable spaces for workers and travellers. As a woman-led business, we appreciate the partnership and YYJ’s commitment to sustainability and accessibility when it comes to menstrual care solutions in public washrooms,” said Linda Biggs, CEO and co-founder of joni.
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day under the theme #InspireInclusion, YYJ’s period care initiative and partnership with joni exemplifies its commitment to supporting menstrual health and local women-led businesses.
About Victoria Airport Authority
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the 11th busiest airport in Canada and has been rated one of the top ten most-loved airports in the world by CNN Travel. Winner of the Best Regional Airport in North America award by Airports Council International in 2012, 2014, and 2020, YYJ provides a safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient airport that creates prosperity for our region by connecting Greater Victoria with the world. Victoria Airport Authority has managed the operations at YYJ on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.
Media Contact Victoria Airport Authority
Rod Hunchak – Director, Business Development and Community Relations
Phone: 250-953-7514