Manager, Corporate Giving and Events
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day is a day to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of women and girls and what they add to society. It is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the many people that have taken action to increase equality globally, while committing ourselves more fully to empowering women so they can thrive. I truly believe that when women support each other, incredible things happen.
What has been the greatest achievement in your career?
The greatest achievement in my career is transitioning from my former role to my current one. I am fortunate to have built strong relationships with community and municipal leaders, charities, industry leaders, etc. in both roles and create a better environment with their partnership. There have been many times where I pushed myself to step out of my comfort zone – and this is when I learned and grew the most personally and professionally. I have also self-reflected and learned how to capitalize on my strengths and the things I enjoy; I love meeting new people, helping and engaging others, planning, organizing, being creative and imaginative, finding ways of making dull tasks fun, and making a difference every day. My new role enables all of these things and for that I am grateful.
I have learned that if you don’t ask, you don’t get. The worst thing they can say is “no” and that’s ok. I don’t consider myself fearless, but I am adventurous and resourceful and am ok feeling vulnerable. One of my favourite quotes is from Eleanor Roosevelt: “Well-behaved women rarely make history.” I will continue to grow professionally and hope one day I will have the opportunity to lead an inclusive team as a powerful motivator.
Why is it important to #InspireInclusion and to continue to work towards gender equality?
I want my daughter to constantly be inspired, and know that she herself inspires me every day. I want her to always have an equal voice and feel she belongs. I want her to be judged based on her capabilities, not her gender. No girl should grow up thinking she can’t do something based on her gender, she should feel inspired and empowered to be the best version of herself. I believe if we #InspireInclusion – we are taking things a step further and looking to be allies to women and people in different situations than our own.