Swinging The Doors Open: How Stephanie Lam Is Changing The Game For Women In Golf

Golf has long been a male-dominated sport, but Canadian trailblazer Stephanie Lam is proving that’s changing—fast. As the head of The Pulpit Club’s Women’s Program, Stephanie has not only grown female membership by an impressive 79% but has also made Ladies’ Day a must-attend event, increasing participation by 300%.

Through inclusive tournaments, leagues, and a welcoming community, she’s transforming the course into a space where women can thrive. In this Q&A, Stephanie shares how she’s breaking barriers, why representation in golf matters, and what still needs to change to make the sport more inclusive for all. —Noa Nichol

What inspired you to take on the challenge of leading the Women’s Program at The Pulpit Club?

I took on the challenge of leading the Women’s Program at The Pulpit Club because I know how difficult it can be for women to break into golf. Many take up the sport for their careers or to spend time with family but often struggle to find a welcoming environment beyond that. I was fortunate to have experienced golfers guide me when I started, and I wanted to create the same opportunity for other women—helping them build confidence, develop skills, and truly enjoy the game in a supportive community.

In your first year, membership grew by 79% and Ladies’ Day participation skyrocketed by 300%—what do you think has been the key to this success?

The success of the Ladies’ Section at The Pulpit Club lies in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where women, regardless of skill level, feel comfortable learning and playing golf. Whether a golfer is a beginner or a Club Champion, we cultivate a supportive community by offering a balance of structured events and social opportunities, ensuring every participant feels valued. Over the past four years, the program has become a space where lasting friendships are forged, adding depth and meaning to the experience. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a strong group of women in our Ladies’ Section—their enthusiasm and camaraderie are what truly drive the program’s success.

What are some of the biggest barriers still facing women in golf today, and how can clubs and organizations help to break them down?

Women often juggle various roles—whether as working professionals, mothers, or managing other responsibilities—that make it difficult to participate in Ladies’ Day, which typically takes place on weekday mornings. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to be involved, it is important to create a variety of events that cater to different schedules and preferences, so no one feels left out.

Women’s participation in golf is growing, yet many still feel intimidated stepping onto the course for the first time. How do you make the sport more welcoming and accessible?

I believe that no one should be excluded based on their skill level. In my first year at The Pulpit Club, I introduced a Clinic and 9-Hole Golf group during Ladies’ Day for golfers who prefer a more relaxed experience, away from the 18-hole competitive environment. These golfers are grouped according to skill level, allowing them to learn and play together in a comfortable setting. The focus is on having fun—players can opt for a scramble format and are encouraged to pick up at any time to keep the pace of play moving while still enjoying themselves. There are no strict rules, just a great time. I’m fortunate to have the support of other staff members who assist during these events.  We rotate and play golf with different groups each week, ensuring a chance to meet new people and enjoy varied experiences. In addition to Ladies’ Day, beginners are welcome to join our Ladies’ League, Solheim Cup and Ladies’ Member-Guest events, which offer a non-competitive division, an inclusive way to enjoy the game.

The Pulpit Club has launched Ladies’ Member Guest Tournaments and Ladies’ Leagues under your leadership. How do these initiatives foster community and confidence among women golfers?

Our Ladies’ Member-Guest and Ladies’ League feature both competitive and non-competitive divisions, ensuring that every woman, regardless of skill level, feels welcome. The non-competitive division still participates in on-course competitions, offering a fun and relaxed way to experience the spirit of competition. Earlier in my career, I’ve seen situations where a member or guest was turned away or given a 0 handicap simply because she didn’t have an official handicap. At The Pulpit Club, we take a different approach—we embrace women of all experience levels, even those who may only golf once or twice a year, and we never turn anyone away. Our goal is to make golf accessible, enjoyable, and inclusive for everyone.

Beyond golf, what do you think needs to happen in sports as a whole to make them more inclusive and welcoming for women?

Understanding that women often juggle multiple roles—whether as working professionals, mothers, or managing other responsibilities—time is always a precious commodity. It’s important for us to listen to their needs and accommodate their schedules. By being supportive and nurturing a friendly, stress-free environment, we can create programs that cater to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the sport and feel included.  

Have you noticed any shifts in the perception of women’s golf in recent years, and what do you hope to see next in terms of progress?

I have witnessed both ends of the spectrum—many women’s golf programs in the GTA have thrived by being inclusive and fun, while others have struggled with participation and eventually faded in recent years. With the impact of COVID and the rising success of the LPGA Tour, we have gained significant momentum in bringing more women into the sport. The growth of junior girls’ programs in Canada puts us in a strong position to develop future tour players. Now is the time to build on this momentum by fostering inclusivity and creating more opportunities for women to engage with the game.

What has been the most rewarding part of leading this movement for women in golf, and what challenges have you had to overcome?

The most rewarding part of leading this movement for women in golf is seeing a group of women—regardless of skill level or background—leave the golf course with smiles on their faces. Whether it’s after a round of golf, a practice session, a clinic, or simply gathering over a glass of wine, the joy and camaraderie they share make it all worthwhile. Each year, I strive to enhance the program based on ideas and feedback from our Women’s Section to make it even more enjoyable. While I know I can’t make everyone happy, I always do my best to create an inclusive and welcoming experience for all.

What advice would you give to women who are interested in taking up golf but feel hesitant or intimidated?

You are not alone. When I conducted my first ladies’ clinic at The Pulpit Club, I had a group of over a dozen beginner golfers. I asked them two simple questions: How many had swung and missed the ball? And how many had their significant other constantly reminding them to ‘keep their head down’ on every shot? We all raised our hands and shared a laugh, realizing that so many women have the same experiences and challenges. While golfing with family and friends is enjoyable, having a group of women who share your journey makes all the difference. In a supportive community, you can grow, learn, and encourage each other along the way.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, what message do you have for women who are looking to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated spaces—whether in sports or beyond?

Life is short, making it all the more precious. Believe in yourself and confidently take up space—you belong wherever your passion leads you. Challenges will arise, but resilience, perseverance, and a strong support system will help you navigate them. We all make mistakes, but don’t let them hinder you; instead, learn from them and keep moving forward. Surround yourself with those who uplift you, embrace opportunities to grow, and never hesitate to step outside your comfort zone. Progress happens when we push boundaries, and every tiny step forward helps pave the way for future generations.