Fort McMurray (Nov. 10, 2020)— Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Bouchier are excited to announce the fourth nominee in the 2020-21 Women of Inspiration Series.

Chithra Udayashaukar will be honoured with four other women at the Women of Inspiration Celebration in March.

Chithra has been a member of Fort McMurray for 16 years. She has a strong background in math and science, including a Masters’ in Mathematics and a Master’s in Education from the University of Madras in India. She also has diplomas in computer programming and painting. She is also a motivational speaker, giving lectures about empowerment and emancipation of women. She has over 20 years of experience teaching various level of math, physics and chemistry. Chithra has co-authored a mathematics book that is sold at the Keyano College Bookstore.

Until 2015, Chithra was an instructor at Keyano College. One of her students fondly calls her “sunshine” and expresses that Chithra is a constant reminder to never give up.

Nine years ago, Chithra started Sai School of Arts that teaches children, teenagers and adults various art techniques such as oil painting, glass painting, collage and other art forms. Sai School of Arts has held exhibition with the proceeds being donated to various local charities such as the SPCA and Health Foundation. She was also conducting free classes for children to help them better understand the mythological values,
East Indian Culture, slogans and verses from ancient Hindu scriptures, call Bal Vikas. Chithra is an active community member, organizing Shishir Parva (winter festival) for the Santa Mandir Cultural Society of Fort McMurray (SMCS). An annual event that showcases and promotes Indian culture,

she also sits on the SMCS Executive Committee and is deeply involved in the Fort McMurray Hindu Cultural Society.

“Girls should not think that any field is not for them. They have to fight for it. I want more girls to go into STEM, that is why I volunteer with the science fairs in town and I make an effort to encourage and helps girls with their projects. Why do girls think they can’t do it? They can! Women are stronger and unstop-
pable,” said Chithra.

We are honoured to have Chithra as one of our Women of Inspiration. The fifth and final nominee will be awarded in January 2021.