Reflecting on this past International Women’s Day, we were excited to celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of women in our community! In honour of this special day, our Advisory Team at Nicola Wealth organized two empowering events for our clients, prospective clients, and women in the community aimed at recognizing and uplifting women in various spheres.
Our first event at Mine & Yours was designed to spotlight women-owned businesses, showcasing their creativity, innovation, diverse contributions, and unique experiences faced by women entrepreneurs. Hosting a special women’s event with colleagues who share the same passion in the spirit of International Women’s Day was a powerful experience that highlighted the profound impact of connecting our community together, supporting women-owned businesses, and fostering economic empowerment. Women entrepreneurs often navigate a journey where hurdles and triumphs are distinctly their own, and their fierce determination to succeed inspires others to pursue their dreams fearlessly. It was an opportunity to support and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of women who are driving economic growth and making a difference in our local community.
As we gathered to celebrate the achievements and contributions of all women, we were reminded of the strength and resilience that lie within each of us, and the transformative power of solidarity and sisterhood. Bringing women, young women, and young girls together under one roof was not only a celebration of our collective successes but also an opportunity to forge new connections and engage in authentic conversations. All of us, from seasoned professionals to young women to aspiring entrepreneurs, shared stories, insights, and aspirations, creating a vibrant tapestry of inspiration and empowerment.
Central to our event was the celebration and elevation of women-owned businesses, whose innovation, creativity, and determination enrich our communities and drive economic growth. Through showcasing their products and services, we not only amplified their voices but also demonstrated our unwavering support for their endeavours. Moreover, we celebrated each other – not just for our accomplishments but for our resilience, our compassion, and our unwavering commitment to lifting each other up. In a world often defined by competition and comparison, our event served as a reminder of the immeasurable power of collaboration and collective action.
The generosity of the women who contributed to our event with their services and products exemplifies the mantra of women supporting women and lifting each other with the aligned goal of fostering connection and community. With immense gratitude, we would like to acknowledge and thank these incredible women:
- Courtney Watkins, Owner and Founder of Mine & Yours
- Aeryon Ashlie, Owner and CEO of Aeryon Wellness Nutraceuticals
- Jennifer Zhang, Owner and Founder of Concrete Cashmere Designs; Owner and Co-Founder of Hello Nori
- Fiona Hepher, Co-Founder and CEO of Sansorium
- Jamie-Lee Fuoco, Owner and Founder of Jamie-Lee Fuoco Photography
A special thanks to Ravnoor Kirk and Dazle Gumabao from Young Women in Business (YWiB) BCIT Chapter for coming amidst a hectic school schedule and sharing with us more information about YWiB and how we can reach back and lift. Also, to Purebread for popping by to drop off a box of delicious treats for the event.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended to support our event. By coming together with purpose and intent, we hope to have ignited a spark of inspiration, fostered meaningful connections, and laid the groundwork for continued collaboration and growth.
Our second event was a small, intimate dinner at The Vancouver Club, significant on IWD, as the Club only started allowing women to join their membership in 1993. Our dinner focused on highlighting the inspiring stories of women who are making a positive impact in our community through their leadership, advocacy, and philanthropy, all of whom are driving positive change to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Through these events, our goal was not only to celebrate a day but to celebrate women everywhere, every day, by creating space for dialogue, connection, and empowerment. By coming together to celebrate and elevate women, we can effect meaningful change and continue to build a more inclusive and gender-equal world where everyone and all generations to come can thrive.
When we reflect on the significance of this day, we are reminded of the important role that community plays in the ongoing journey toward achieving a more inclusive and gender-equitable world for all.
When we come together as a community, it reaffirms our commitment to uplift young girls and women, creating a sense of solidarity that strengthens our shared resolve to build the right environments within which individuals will be empowered to thrive and succeed. As women, we know the powerful impact that mentorship, sponsorship, advocacy, and a listening ear have to cultivate a culture of empowerment.
As a community, we stand together, with our collective voice that is much more powerful together, and harness the strength of a unified community to uplift and empower generations of women.
