Special Features - Women of the Westshore 2015

Women o f the West shore

M A K I N G A D I F F E R E N C E I N Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y o f the West shore



Proudly Sponsored by:

Dr. Marjan GholizadehDr. Marjan Gholizadeh

Katharine HarroldKatharine Harrold

Julie Lawlor

Katharine Harrold

Fiona Hamersley Chambers

B2 • WOMEN OF THE WESTSHORE Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE

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GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Wednesday, April 29, 2015 LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE • B3

W.O.W. What a great acronym to describe Women of the WestShore!

Over the last few weeks I have had the distinct pleasure to speak with amazing women in some pretty amazing careers in our WestShore communities.

I feel incredibly humbled and fortunate to have been asked to write for the Goldstream Gazette’s second annual Women of the WestShore publication. Having a writing career spanning more than 25 years, I have had the opportunity to meet great people in many different roles. But this was a unique experience.

It was an opportunity to celebrate women. Not just women, but individuals with intelligence, talent, and a passion for their chosen careers and respective areas of experience.

Despite all coming from different backgrounds and working in diverse industries, all of these women have something in common. They all have this underlying belief in themselves and conviction to their careers and families.

They are all wonderful role models and mentors. They offer a bucket-load of inspiration to all women who want to just find their purpose or live up to their potential.

This journey has taken me from a professional board room at WestShore Chamber of Commerce to the hallowed halls of Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University. I explored the WestShore’s best-kept secret at Metchosin and discovered a smile is worth a thousand words at Pacific Rim Dental.

I even managed to indulge with the most incredible women at Purdy’s Chocolatier and learn about sustainable cocoa and what a company can really do to ensure the future of our planet. They have a captivating spirit of kindness!

In the same week I was able to lose myself in the relaxing atmosphere of Sante Spa at the top of Bear Mountain, overlooking a serene mountainous valley. Oh yes, who could forget the women that give so much back to our communities. I am truly humbled in their presence – the teams at Habitat Victoria and Pacific Centre Family Services Association.

All these women represent a belief that we can do anything. All that is needed is a solid, deep belief in oneself. There is Katharine Harrold putting a blended approach to her personal and professional life, and Mitzi Dean suggesting all women embrace their strengths, value courage, and have no guilt for having a career alongside raising a family.

These women are not only the faces behind the businesses on the WestShore. They are the faces of human success. I hope you enjoy meeting these women as you explore the pages of our feature and perhaps gained some motivation to achieve your own goals and aspirations. I know I did.

By Catherine MusgroveWriter and Photojournalist

LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

The Alpine Women of the Westshore.

1045 Dunford Avenue, Victoria, BC V9B 2S4 250-474-5145 TF: 1-800-647-9933 [email protected]

GROUP.caWE DO IT ALL!

Commercial and Residential Kitchen Scraps • Disposal & Recycling • Roll-Off Containers • Garbage & Recycling Drop-Off CentreEncorp Bottle Depot • Auto Detailing • Sidney Spit Ferry • Limousine Service • Hino Heavy Truck & Equipment Repair • Auto Sales • Transport

• Marine Sales & Service • Radiator Shop • Soil Mart & Slinger Service • Temporary Fencing & Storage Containers • Welding & Fabricating

GIVE US A CALL, WE’RE HERE TO HELP. SERVING YOUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 30 YEARS!


FIONA HAMERSLEY CHAMBERS ~ METCHOSIN FARM

Eagles fly, a fresh breeze wafts up from the nearby ocean, and the smell of well-kept farm animals drifts through the air. There is an engulfing softness, as the tender spring grass folds beneath our feet and plum petals settle in the orchard. There is a simple calmness that covers the body and mind.

That is exactly how it is, walking down the drive of the Metchosin Farm on Wootton Road. There is this inner peace that slowly drifts from your toes to your head, until you are completely relaxed and you feel as though you have just discovered the biggest secret on the WestShore.

Sitting at the centre of this discovery is Fiona Hamersley Chambers, owner and farmer of this unique piece of paradise.

Hamersley Chambers has been farming the land since 2004 after purchasing 10 acres from a log-time family friend Bob Mitchell who’s family has owned Metchosin’s SeaBluff Farm since the

1940’s. As a child, Fiona used to roam the shores of this same land, and the chance to work the property and have her children grown up here is something he is deeply grateful for.

But it is not a typical farm. Sure, there are pigs, goats, chickens, ducks, and even a road-side Farm Stand. But there is more than meets the eye. Metchosin Farm is a small organic farm with a unique field of expertise. The farm incorporates locally-grown seeds, plant starts, fruit bushes, animals, and educational programs as part of their offerings.

Working with her team of apprentices, Hamersley Chambers is able to offer the consumer and locals something that is not readily available elsewhere. They work from sun up to sun down looking after the animals and growing a wide range of organic products specializing in heirloom, local and indigenous vegetables, berries and other edible plant starts. She knows the genetics of every plant she sows and is adapting those plants from further away to our Pacific Northwest climate.

With Greater Victoria’s temperate Mediterranean climate, she is able to grow almonds, persimmons, peaches and figs, alongside the usual salads and tomatoes. The most unique offerings are the seeds. She

harvests, dries, prepares, and sells seeds from the farm. If you choose Metchosin Farm’s seeds, you are not only getting a plant adapted to organic methods, but one with a known genetic lineage. No GMO or multinational companies play a role in this equation.

Not only does Hamersley Chambers offer a uniquely top-grade product, but she teaches others to appreciate and connect to the landscape.

“When you teach people to grow plants, changes take place,” she says. “A sense of stewardship happens. They develop a connection to the landscape, there is less waste, and they start to look after themselves and their environment in a meaningful way.”

She was home-schooled for a number of years as a child living in “the bush”, in what is now Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, providing her with a strong affinity to nature. She also attended school in the UK and completed her high school at Brentwood College.

“I was fortunate to grow up in both the old Nuu-chah-nulth village site of Clo-oose and on the Penalakut Island Reservation,” she adds.

“My grandparents had a large commercial plant nursery in the UK countryside, where we would normally visit each year,” an experience that contribute to her dream of having a farm and her love of the smell of damp soil.

Hamersley Chambers has an undergraduate degree from the University of Victoria in Environmental Studies, and her Masters of Environmental Design from the University of Calgary. She also has a Masters of Science from

Our guest speaker will be Suzanne Williams from the

Internati onal Insti tute for Child Rights and Development.

Open to the public.”

West Shore Bett er at Home is a new program designed to help

West Shore seniors remain independent and connected

to their communiti es.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:Dori #[email protected]

#102 - 2220 Sooke Rd., Victoria, BC V9B 0G9Drop in hours: Tuesdays 9-3

Better at Home is funded by the government of British Columbia

Annual General Meeti ng will be held on June 25th at 12 noon

West Shore Child, Youth and Family Centre, 345 Wale Road, V9B 6X2

Green Party of Canada Candidate for Cowichan-Malahat-Langford

and Status of Women Critic

Contact [email protected] Free 1.855.653.0236

Fran Hunt-JinnouchiExperienced Leader - Entrepreneur - Community Builder

Authorized by the Of�cial Agent for Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi

Maureen E. McDowell

Maureen McDowell is an experienced family lawyer trained in non-adversarial dispute resolution and mediation. She prides herself in obtaining fair and cost-effective solutions for her clients during the dif� cult transition period of separation and divorce. “the most important thing for me is to provide a respectful process for my clients to reach a settlement that re� ects their unique needs” says Maureen who has been practicing law for 23 years.And “moving my family law and mediation practice to the Westshore made sense to me as I live in Colwood and enjoy the thriving Westshore community.”

She has worked closely with indigenous groups in the areas of human rights, anti-corruption, customary law and the family and public health law. Maureen spent many years working in the Canadian North, Africa and the South Paci� c before returning home to Victoria to work as a family lawyer.

Maureen is located at 317- 877 Goldstream Ave and can be reached at 250 391 7777.


Oxford University in Environmental Change and Management. She started her PhD at UVIC in September 2014 in Ethnobotany at under the supervision acclaimed ethnobotanist Dr. Nancy Turner.

Her research is investigating how First Nations

cultivated native berry gardens, which along with other research on estuary root gardens, crabapple orchards and clam gardens is changing our understanding of how First National managed their traditional territories to augment these

key food resources. For example, First Nations pruned, fertilized and transplanted fruiting plants among other management methods.

Her education doesn’t just come from the classroom, however. Hamersley Chambers is extensively travelled and has gained valuable hands on experience world-wide. At one point, she estimated having visited 35 countries. But she was always drawn back to the southern Vancouver Island, a place she has always called home.

Her commitment to education has her “paying her knowledge forward” by offering ethnobotany courses at UVIC, Pacific Rim College, Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre and, more recently, at Royal Roads University. In the fall, Metchosin Farm will also add to its list of products, a course and workshops for local schools covering planting through to harvesting. The theme of this 10-month children’s farming school is ‘from seed to seed’. Students will harvest seeds from mature plants in the fall, planting, and finally harvesting their own the following year. Thanks in part to the generous grant from to the Bauta Family Initiative on Seed Security and USC Canada, construction will begin in the fall on a dedicated Seed House. The house will help create this educational environment. It will provide a much needed space for seed saving, drying, and preparation, while also creating a teaching space.

The Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security is aimed at building a national movement to conserve and advance our national seed biodiversity, keep seed in the public domain, and promote ecological seed production.

“When did we stop taking our children to work with us, and what does this mean for us as a society and as families?” she says. By bringing her boys, Hayden 11 and Ben 9, into the gardens and giving them hands-on experience running the farm, she is hoping to give them practical skills and a strong ethic that will serve the, well in life.

Her vision for Metchosin Farm is that the activities will help pass the knowledge of growing food and stewardship of our landscape on to future generations.

Hamersley Chambers has chosen her profession with purpose and hopes to become one of the industry’s leaders in organic seed production. You can check out of her field guides: Wild Berries of British Columbia, Wild Berries on Ontario, Wild Berries of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, and Edible and Medicinal Plants of Canada.

“Ninety-seven to 98 per cent of the food industry’s seeds in Canada are imported!” she remarks. “Where are these seeds coming from? They are coming from China, South America, Brazil, the United States. These are all very different growing conditions fron ours here in coastal BC.”

By taking the lead in home-grown seeds that are open-pollinated we are ensuring the future of plant genetics. We are then in control of, not only what we grow, but what we eat.

At first glance, Metchosin Farm may appear as an ordinary farm, but when up close and personal, visitors will discover an extraordinary piece of WestShore seed and food security innovation.

www.metchosinfarm.cawww.seedsecurity.ca/en

Dale Collins CFP ECPCerti� ed Financial Planners | Elder Planning Counselors

O� ce: 250-818-2616 Fax: 590-5721Email: [email protected]

www.prosperity-planning.com

WomenEmpowering

Women Towards Financial

Independence

FAST FACTS

Retail Outlets where you can find Metchosin Farm’s seeds:

Gardenworks, BlenkinsopArt Knapp, Cordova BayCannore, Elk Lake,Dig This, Oak BayAubergine Fine FoodsDemi Tasse, Oak BayRed Barn Market, Latoria WalkIngredients Health Food Victoria

Metchosin Farm specializes in: Garden seedsEdible plantsHeirloom tomatoes (25+ varieties)

Annual vegetable starts (25+ varieties)

Perennial food plantsSoft fruits (17+ varieties)Native seeds and native edibles

To book a workshop or farm tour:[email protected]


If you can dream it, you can achieve it. That is exactly what the new Vice President of Communications and Advancement at Royal Roads University is doing. Living the dream and aspiring to reach new heights, professionally and personally, every day.

Katharine Harrold began her new post on March 30. For Harrold, it has felt like a homecoming. In 2000, she spent time at RRU as campaign manager and helped lead the university’s first fundraising campaign. It was an experience that launched her career into many interesting and challenging roles.

Before going to RRU in 2000, Harrold worked at Lester B. Pearson College. After RRU, she went on to be the director of advancement for the faculty of the environment at Simon Fraser University, director of philanthropy for the Nature Conservancy of Canada BC Region, and national campaign director for the David Suzuki Foundation. From 2011, she was Vice-President of Resource development and director of philanthropy for the United Way of Lower mainland (Burnaby).

After 15 years, she feels she has gained skills enabling her to contribute to the leadership table at the university.

“When I worked at Royal Roads in 2000, it struck me as having a powerful, innovative, flexible work environment with top quality leadership and people,” says Harrold. It was this leadership environment that prompted Harrold to return.

The impact the RRU team had on her career has spanned those 15 years. “Many of the people I worked with in the early days had continuing influence,” she says.

It was this leadership and mentorship that has helped her in her professional journey. She had many male and female role models. Those that helped her prepare for a leadership as a woman, were the women along three way.

“I was very fortunate early on to have intelligent women in leadership roles influence my career path, “ she says. “At RRU 15 years ago, some of those women took me under their wing, and over the years it is these women that have prepared me for a seat at the leadership table.”

Her immediate goals are to learn the ropes. “I plan to learn from the talented people on the team. They are all part of the spirit of the university,” says Harrold.

Royal Roads is celebrating its 75th anniversary and it is a perfect opportunity for Harrold to use that celebratory momentum to help propel the school into the future. She is excited to be part of such a landmark year.

Her most challenging role has been VP at the United Way. She was quick to point out “the role was as equally challenging as it was rewarding”.

“I was truly fulfilled at the end of the day. There was a huge weight of responsibility. Every dollar was needed. The importance of meeting our goals was real, with tangible outcomes.”

She said it was the talented team and partnerships with agencies, volunteers, and staff that put everything in motion. There really was a feeling of hope in motion.

“Work in Education represents hope on a grander scale…. I have been fortunate to cross paths with professionals in the workplace that were graduates of the leadership program at RRU. Anytime someone can plug into a graduate program or certificate program to increase their knowledge they should do so for lasting, positive impact.”

The university is changing lives. “When I was preparing for my interview for the position, the message of changing lives resonated

NORMA AND

HER GIRLS

250-474-2211www.saunders.subarudealer.ca

SAUNDERS SUBARU1784 Island Highway, Colwood

Serving Vancouver Islandfor over 35 years.

Proud Women of the Westshore

MADDIEMEAGAN

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ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY FAST FACTS:• Located in one of Canada’s most beautiful National Historic Sites, Hatley Park – Royal Roads is steeped in history.

• Royal Roads University was created as a special purpose public university by the BC Government in 1995.

• Its formal educational history stretches back even further to 1940 with the federal commissioning of

HMCS Royal Roads and continued for 55 years as a military college and institution.

• In 2015 Royal Roads is celebrating a 75 year legacy of learning and leadership with a series of events

that will highlight the powerful continuum of life-changing impact over seven and a half decades.

• For more information visit www.royalroads.ca/75

• Royal Roads offers a progressive balance of graduate, undergraduate and certificate programs, in an online,

blended or on-campus format designed with the new student, working professional and lifelong learner in mind.

with me,” says Harrold. “It is brilliant. It is this message that will be top of mind as the university grows and moves forward.”

For such a successful woman, it has taken insight to juggle her family and career goals. Harrold and her husband Brad have two boys; Benjamin, 9, and Logan, 7. They are actively lobbying for a dog and are settling into their new life in Victoria.

“I no longer search for that balance that everyone talks about. It can set you up for disappointment in yourself when it isn’t achieved. Instead, I look for a blend,” she states. “I was never one for rigid boundaries; I don’t compartmentalize well.”

As a previous competitive swimmer, Harrold spends time in the pool if she has a particularly tough problem to solve. Otherwise, she can be found walking out her thoughts on a daily trek.

She is looking forward to reconnecting to the community and acclimatizing herself to Island life. Although she has travelled extensively throughout her career, she said her best trips are yet to come. They are the ones she will enjoy with her family.

For all the young women launching their careers, Harrold has a solid piece of advice.

“Do you remember the saying, ‘Fake it, until you make it?’, well don’t do that,” she says. “Be curious, especially when things are not working. Take joy in the things that you know. This is the platform for success.”

We look forward to the future of Royal Roads University and the contribution that Harrold will make to the school community. The future is bright indeed.

“We connect people, ideas and experiences to change lives around the world”

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are a� liated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance products are o� ered through RBC Wealth Management Financial Services Inc. (“RBC WM FS”), a subsidiary of RBC Dominion Securities Inc. When providing life insurance products in all provinces except Quebec, Investment Advisors are acting as Insurance Representatives of RBC WM FS. In Quebec, Investment Advisors are acting as Financial Security Advisors of RBC WM FS. RBC DS WM FS is licensed as a � nancial services � rm in the province of Quebec. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 2014. All rights reserved.

Diana Frizell’s experience, expertise and credentials help ensure sound advice, expert execution and peace of mind for clients who need solutions for broad and complex wealth management needs.

Diana utilizes her 20 years of � nancial industry experience to provide access to a comprehensive range of services that help you build and protect your wealth. A � rm believer in ongoing education, she has acquired the advanced industry designations of Certi� ed Financial Planner (CFP) and Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU).

RBC Dominion SecuritiesAn investment advisor with RBC Dominion Securities, Canada’s leading provider of wealth management, Diana provides advice and solutions that can help families, businesses and organizations achieve their � nancial and investment goals, working in close collaboration with her team of professional advisors. Her services include investment advice and money management, � nancial and estate planning, tax-minimization strategies, and charitable foundations.To provide distinctly personalized service, Diana is supported by a team of service-oriented assistants.

DIANA FRIZELL, CFP, CLURBC DOMINION SECURITIESo. 250-356-4906c. [email protected]

RBC DOMINION SECURITIES INC.

Diana FrizellWealth Advisor & Financial Planner


PROVIDING FINANCIAL CLARITY FOR WOMEN IN TRANSITION

I believe financial knowledge brings empowerment, and I’m focused on providing my clients with financial peace of mind and security.

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Call me for a confidential discussion about your personal situation.

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SC S

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hyMitzi Dean ~ Pacific Centre Family Services Association

There are more than a thousand individuals served by the Pacific Centre Family Services Association every year. It might seem like a staggering amount but, despite the numbers, there are still many more that get turned away.

This is the reality for families in need that live in our WestShore community. The WestShore is one of Vancouver Island’s fastest growing communities.

“The community is bursting with growth but the funding is not growing at the same rate,” says the centre’s Executive Director Mitzi Dean.

Dean came to the centre in 2005 from the UK where she was the National Development Manager for children’s services with the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, the larg-est child protection charity in the UK. Dean also has an extensive volunteer history to add to her list of accomplishments including working in a Romanian orphanage and a transition house in the UK that provided refuge for women experiencing relationship violence.

The Pacific Centre Family Services Association, PCFSA, is a profes-sional organization that serves individuals who have experienced trauma and are considered at risk. The organization is well estab-lished, having been around since 1968, and works to maintain services for people in our WestShore communities. The services include education, counselling, and creative programming.

They are currently working on two capital campaigns that will increase their exposure in the community and expand their client base. One of those campaigns will be WestShore Wellness Village opening adjacent to their current location and face Goldstream

Ave. It will be nestled on two acres of inviting property and expand to connect to the Galloping Goose Trail.

They hope to break ground in the next year, depending on fund-raising dollars and support.

The second campaign is to expand their REACH program, aimed at young parents. Currently the program operates in Belmont High School and has room for 12 children between the ages of 0-3 years. The new program will have more than 20 spots and include children up to the age of 5 years.

They are in need of baby equipment, cots, blankets and indoor and outdoor play equipment.

PCFSA is a cradle to grave organization, meaning it serves all ages at any stage of life.

The Better at Home program was introduced last year and it is designed to keep seniors independent at home for as long as possible. It is a community based model and the staff, services and volunteers are all from our local community. The program is open to all seniors living in the communities it serves. They need to apply for the service and will receive help for simple day-to-day tasks.

The PCFSA is an active, vibrant organization in our community. It silently works behind the scenes to create a lasting impression for individuals in our neighbourhoods.

They seek to create a world where everyone gets the support ser-vices they need to be healthy, contributing members of our society. They encourage healthy patterns of living to enhance and promote the quality and dignity of life for individuals and families.

You can contribute in many ways! The two Capital Campaigns Currently under way: • REACH Program • WestShore Wellness Village www.pacificcentrefamilyservices.org to Donate!

Programs include: Alcohol and Drug programs, Community Outreach and Prevention, YouthTalk, Affordable and Fee for Service Counselling, Safer Families, REACH (young parents’ daycare) Youth Services, Stopping The Violence, Youth and Child Counselling and Expressive Therapy Program, Cob Bread Program, Better at Home program for Seniors.


Introducing the Women ofWestshore Dental Centre

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Dr. Lien NealeGENERAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Mandy McIntoshCERTIFIED PERIODONTIST

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317 Goldstream Ave • 250-478-3821

� e Women of Sands Colwood

• we provide a cost guarantee• we give warm down to earth service• we are friendly and compassionate• we care about our community• we work and live on the Westshore• we are Canadian family owned and operated.

SANDS OFCOLWOODFUNERAL CHAPELBy Arbor Memorial

“ Serving our Community for over 100 years”

Back Row: Sheril Hart, Debra Simpson Front Row: Julie Evans Managing Director, Kathleen Nelson

It is not what you expect from us … it’s the unexpected that sets us apart.

L INDACLARKFor over 8 years Linda Clark has been helping residents of Victoria and the surrounding areas � nd their perfect home. Specializing in all areas of residential Real Estate, Linda is there to help you through every step of the process.

“Helping a � rst time buyer � nd the perfect home, or a family move up to their dream home, while guiding them seamlessly through the process, is what I do best...a happy client is advertising that money just can’t buy!”

Linda’s enthusiasm is very apparent when you meet her. Linda prides herself in being empathetic to her clients needs and will go the extra mile to execute a hassle free transaction. Growing up in Victoria, Linda has a great appreciation for this unique market. With her years of top notch real estate services, and extensive knowledge of the latest real estate marketing techniques and trends, she will help guide you step by step, from your initial search, through the process of making an effective offer, and � nally handing you the keys to your new home.

“I love the Westshore. Having lived and attended schools in this area, I was lucky enough to watch it expand to the vibrant and exciting part of this Island that we are all so proud of! “

Contact Linda today at 250-213-7194 for a free market evaluation of your home or for any of your Real Estate needs. (mention this ad, and receive a gift of $1000.00 toward your legal fees on any Sale or purchase of a property)

Dr. Marjan Gholizadeh immigrated from Iran to Canada more than a decade ago but the reason for her move is still very fresh in her mind and heart.

“My husband and I moved to Canada because we were uncertain about our children’s future,” she says. “We wanted our family and to be safe and have more opportunities.”

The decision to move to Canada brought many challenges. First, she had to take additional university studies to ensure her eligibility to practise Dentistry in our country. She had a Dental practise in Iran before she left but Canada needed additional certification.

She attended the University of Western Ontario where she

completed the necessary courses. After her studies, she moved to BC’s WestShore and eventually opened her own practise, Pacific Rim Dental.

“Immigrating to Canada was very challenging. There are so many challenges associated with the immigration process. I met that challenge through perseverance and not giving

PACIFIC RIMDENTAL CENTRE


up on my goals and dreams of living in Canada,” says Dr. Marjan.

She has come a long way since then. Her son is grown and working in Vancouver. Her daughter is attending her first year of university at UVic. Her husband, a cardiologist, is about to start work in Calgary. He continued to work in Iran for a number of years and then, he too, re-entered the educational process to be eligible to practise in Canada.

Despite all this personal growth and change, Dr. Marjan has opened her own practise and it is growing and thriving.

“We are a friendly staff,” she says. “We offer a relaxing atmosphere and we all come to work with a smile and positive disposition.”

A smile is worth a thousand words and at Pacific Rim Dental it is Dr. Marjan and her team’s mission is to make sure your pearly whites speak volumes.

Dr. Marjan makes it her priority to ensure clients are happy and get top of the line service. They are devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of the client’s smile using conservative, state-of-the-art procedures.

“My children are grown up now so I have more time to expand my business and focus on creating a dental charity. I would love to give back to my community by developing or getting involved in community dental charity work for children who are in need,” says Dr. Marjan. “I am currently researching other business’s to get involved with this and come together as a community. I think it is important to give back.”

She has strong advise for young women thinking about their career and the direction they should take.

“As women I think we sometimes are so busy focusing

on our careers, juggling parenthood and home life that we forget to take care of ourselves,” she says. “Be true to yourself and never give up on your goals. I think as women we have to be strong and confident individuals in order to be successful.”

For a woman so well travelled and worldly, what does she

think of our WestShore?

“I am living in the best place in the world. We are so lucky to call Canada home. It is a beautiful, peaceful country that we should never take for granted.”

www.pacificrimdentalcentre.com

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colwoodcarmart.com2 LOCATIONS

1836 ISLAND HWY250-474-MART (6278)

D31034

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Ready. Set. Grow. That should be the new motto of the WestShore Chamber of Commerce. With new executive director Julie Lawlor at the helm, the organization is poised for membership growth and renewal.

Lawlor joined the Chamber team in January of this year, after leaving a 14-year career in the United Kingdom. Her main mission is to set the WestShore Chamber’s business community on a path of growth and prosperity by connecting people with solutions.

“It is time for financial stability within the organiza-tion. We are putting our house in order and I am keen to engage our members. We are in the process of formalizing our member support programs and forming more personal relationships. We are recon-necting with the community,” says Lawlor. One of those programs is to develop mentorship, internships and professional programs.

Lawlor joins the Chamber’s small dynamic team after spending time in the UK’s heritage field, including more than a decade with the National Trust, Europe’s largest conservation charity. “It had a very diverse portfolio and more than 3.7 million members. There was always so much to do,” says Lawlor.

For Lawlor it was no question to return to the west shores of Vancouver Island. She grew up in Colwood

and Langford where she attended John Stubbs, Glen Lake, and Belmont High School. She went on to study Art History at the University of Victoria and then her Masters in Museum Studies at the Univer-sity of Toronto. Memories of the WestShore are trea-sured. “I had great teachers, solid friendships, and a good family network.”

“I have family here and it feels good to be home,” she adds. The beauty of the west coast was never lost on her and she is enjoying reconnecting with family and friends. Her father was in the Air Force and spent part of his career working in Hatley Castle, before it was Royal Roads. She recently visited the castle and took the opportunity to rediscover the nooks and crannies of her childhood. Her husband and two children are set-tling into their new life on the west coast, and they too are exploring their Canadian heritage.

“The idea of coming to the Chamber was exciting. The organization resonated with me. It is about hav-ing the passion to connect with people,” says Lawlor. “Sometimes, although people have all this knowl-edge, they don’t connect with people in the right way. It is about the power of people and what can be achieved when they come together.”

Her previous role at National Trust prepared her for her new role by teaching her to develop and nurture

relationships in the business community. “It was a conservancy, a business that had to make money to achieve its goals. I appreciated the complexities of the organization.”

In her new role at the chamber, there is a clearly defined mandate and it is focused on defined objec-tives. Goals Lawlor has embraced.

She has valuable advice for women entering their educational careers. “You will learn valuable skills no matter where you are. Take time to discover and develop those skills,” says Lawlor.

Whether she was studying at a university library, or working in museums, heritage buildings, or archaeo-logical sites in Italy, Lawlor has done just that.

“Trying different things will hone your focus. It will help you move forward with purpose,” adds Lawlor.

With that in mind, a clear path has been set to move the WestShore Chamber forward in 2015.

“If you don’t know something or if you need some-thing, just ask,” says Lawlor. “We are about con-necting people. We are here to help with needs and share solutions.”

ready set grow


Why look back when the future appears so bright!

FAST FACTS

• Serves the municipalities of Colwood, Highlands, Langford, Metchosin, View Royal. • Hosts monthly mixers and breakfast meetings, as well as annual events such as the “Best of the WestShore” Awards. • Have an extensive online directory of its 400+ members. • Provides an online community calendar which is free and available for everyone to use. • Consumers are 63% more likely to buy from another Chamber member! • Special Rates to Members for things like employee health insurance plans, payroll processing, point of sale rates, and member2member discounts on products and services. • Engages with all levels of government on behalf of its membership, to promote the interest of businesses in our WestShore community! • Links business needs to business solutions through its extensive network which spans well beyond its membership base.

“The WestShore Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization advancing growth, prosperity and sustainability of business and community life on the West Shore. It is grounded in the fact that successful businesses and successful communities develop, grow and thrive through a common vision and united voice across all sectors.”


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Nestled in nature, in the quiet, serene hills of Langford’s highlands, you can find your inner groove while relaxing in the calming atmosphere of Sante Spa.

Spa Director Jen Spencer has brought Sante Spa to renewed heights since beginning her journey with the company five years ago. Since that time, the spa has a renewed vibrancy and increased business success.

The spa occupies 12,000 square feet on top of Bear Mountain, and Spencer leads a team of 25 women offering an escape from the daily stress in which we often find ourselves. Spencer has combined her experience as a Massage Therapist and business manager to increase the visibility of the spa.

“Achieving the Spa Quality Certification was a proud moment for all of us,” says Spencer.

The Spa Quality Certification is an internationally recognized program, considered one of the most rigorous processes for a spa around the world. Achieving this standard meant Sante Spa Victoria was only one of several recognized internationally for high standards and quality assurance.

The certification is very similar to the ISO 9000 standards used to recognize quality assurance in big

industry. Most of the requirements for the spa quality certification are adopted from the ISO policies.

Sante Spa Victoria was awarded their quality certification in December 2014. The standards provide a framework for everything the spa does. These include strategic planning, day to day operations, behind the scenes processes, leadership, teamwork, training, system evaluation, continual improvement and more.

What it means to the spa guest comes in many forms. It is difficult to think processes when you are enjoying a Signature pedicure or harnessing the therapeutic benefits botanical ingredients. At least you can relax knowing you have put yourself in the hands of the industry’s best.

Located only minutes from downtown, you will feel like you are in the middle of a mountain retreat. The spa draws from the elements of nature to inspire, nurture and create a sense of well-being. Spa treatments incorporate the surrounding nature to provide overall spiritual and physical wellness.

Originally from Calgary, Spencer worked in Tofino in a similar resort setting, making the Spa position an easy transition. Her dream was not always to go into the spa business, however.

“In high school I thought I would be a Phys Ed teacher or maybe go into business,” laughs Spencer, “then I went to Australia and worked on an organic farm and spent time on a spiritual retreat.”

At that moment, her career path changed. Massage therapy became a progressive interest. She began studying yoga, going as far as India to increase her skills.

“It gave me a different approach to life and management. It gave me a sense of meaning,” says Spencer. “It is so easy to get caught up in daily stress.”

People need to seek out their life’s passion and not just look for a job, she says. “Everyone needs love, hope and dreams to hold onto.”

She advises anyone that is starting an educational or career journey to continue to develop personally and professionally. Adopting the right attitude is key to success.

“Learn, continue to grow, and the skills will come,” says Spencer. “Put in your time, be enthusiastic and eager, and personal and professional happiness will follow.”

www.santespavictoria.com www.spaquality.org

“At Sante Spa Victoria you will find spa therapies inspired by natural elements waiting to restore your mind, body and spirit.”

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GALAXY MOTORS has been Island owned and operated since 1990 and Amy Jones has been an integral part of their growth

and presence on Vancouver Island, you could say she is the “Woman Behind the Wheel”.

Phil Dagger started the business with a $10,000 family loan and they have since

grown to be Vancouver Island’s largest and only independent used car dealership with island wide coverage. They have

recently opened their newest Island location in Courtenay and have made a foray onto the mainland with a dealership in Langley.

Amy has been working for her Uncle Phil since he called her to meet for lunch and offered her a part time job with Galaxy Motors doing the books. “It was a great opportunity for me” smiles Amy, “but at the time I was waitressing and going to Camosun; I was busy!!” By January of the next year Amy was working for Galaxy Motors full time and she has never looked back. “At that time I was doing everything, we did not have the facility that we have now and I was literally answering the phone and doing all the receivables and payables it was a hectic time” but one that she would not change for anything. She has essentially grown up and into the position she holds now for Galaxy Motors. With two young

children and a new direction in her personal life Amy is proud of the job she does and the communities she does that job in. “Being Controller and handling all of the staffing and accounts for our three island locations is a huge job and we have recently opened in Langley and Courtenay also. There is never a dull moment around here.”

Nearest and dearest to her heart is the community involvement that Galaxy Motors is part of every year. That is what Amy is the most keen to talk about. “We have given away two cars to families in need due to medical issues, and those were two of the best days here. To be able to reach out to members of the community and make a difference, that is what this is all about.”

Galaxy Motors supports a number of local charities and their involvement is very active. “We do the CIBC Run for the Cure and the JDRF Walk, we are a Gold Level Sponsor. We support the United Way and sponsor a number of World Vision children. Up island we do the Food Hampers every year through the Salvation Army and the Loaves for Fishes. Locally we try very hard to support as many groups as possible from dance studios to dry grad for the local high school.“

Galaxy Motors has built their reputation by providing quality cars with great financing offers, but more importantly they are good corporate citizens. “Drop by” says Amy “there is a very good chance that if we don’t have the car you are looking for here we will have it at any one of our other locations or we can find it for you.”

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Senior Living Condos & Rentals - Opening 2016 Call Micky Fleming

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Meet the caring partners behind Cherish:Micky Fleming President, & CEOand Dana Adams, CFO >

We are proud to bring �e Cherish Way™ to our newest building opening in 2016, Cherish at

Central Park. �e central location in Langford is superb with Westshore Town Centre shopping across the street and close to the new YMCA Aquatic Centre, bowling alley and recently proposed Performing Arts Centre. Cherish at Central Park o�ers home ownership, helping to ensure the preservation of your estate and the �exibility of all inclusive rental options for carefree living and peace of mind, truly inspired living. Learn more about investing in our expansion plans on Vancouver Island.Call us today. We listen.

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Decadence. Smooth. Comfort. Creamy. These are just some of the words that come to mind when stepping through the doors of Purdy’s Chocolate in WestShore Mall.

Your taste buds instantly start to dance and the smell of chocolate and delicious fillings wafts through the room. The room is decked out in cheerful colours that seem to sing. Every employee greets you with a genuine smile and warmth.

Eating Purdy’s chocolate is not just about having a little treat; it is about having an experience.

The team of women at this chocolate boutique is lead by store manager Nicky Brotherston and assistant manager Arielle

Moore. Nicky has been with the company since opening the WestShore location eight years ago. Arielle has been with the company for seven years, in an assistant management role for three.

Previous to joining the Purdy’s management team, Nicky owned her own floral business. She saw the Purdy’s opportunity to bring her entrepreneurial skills to a company with integrity and vision.

“At Purdy’s you can come to be an entrepreneur in your own way,” says Nicky. “They let you run with your ideas and encourage you to seek out your own creative flare.”

At Purdy’s their mandate is: fantastic people, fantastic chocolate, fantastic service.

But Purdy’s is about so much more than just these simple statements. Behind this mandate is a deep ethical commitment to the product it produces and the communities it serves. They are committed to sourcing not only the best raw materials but doing so with a clear vision for the future of farmers and the planet.

Purdy’s prides itself on its Sustainable Cocoa Program. The cocoa used is purchased only from farmer co-ops meeting the two pillars of the program. The company pays a premium for cocoa to ensure partners and co-ops are supported with programs aimed at improving the farms’ profits and the livelihoods of the farmers’ families.

They believe it is their responsibility to do the right thing for their farmer partners, customers and suppliers, and to lead the way in the chocolate industry.

The two pillars are Sustainable Farms and Sustainable Living. The first pillar aims at educating farmers. They have helped build Farmer field schools and a Cocoa Centre for Excellence for the farmer to learn basic and advanced agricultural methods, improved agricultural practise such as increased crop yield and quality, and environmental sustainability.

Carolin Roussel is a familiar face on the Westshore, between owning and operating her thriving business in Millstream Village; Eye Etiquette and her involvement in charitable events she is an active member of this com-munity.

Carolin is a mum to Paige and is happy to let everyone know that she is expecting once again. “ I love being a business owner on the Westshore I have so many cus-tomers who continue to come back to us year and year and for that I am very grateful. But I love being a mum even more.”

The reason customers favour Eye Etiquette over the larger box stores is simply put selection and service. “That is what keeps our customers coming back time and time again,” says Carolin, “You would be surprised that our prices, when comparing product for product are close to or cheaper than you would think”

Carolin is happy to be a part of the thriving Westshore community, and with Dr Gurpreet Leekha, who is their on-site optometrist they can offer eye exams and the � nest in eye wear for everyday to evening to sunglasses.

Be sure and drop by and meet Carolin.

189-2401C Millstream Rd, Victoria BC

250-474-1941

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FAST FACTS

• Founded in 1907 by Richard Carmon Purdy

• Home-grown company, born in Vancouver, BC.

• The leading chocolatier in Canada with 70 stores across Canada in BC, Alberta, and Ontario.

• Since 1963, the company has been run by the Flavelle family.

• Voted by employees as one of Canada’s 50 Best Employers in 2002, 2004, 2008, 2009 and 2014.

• Purdy’s Chocolates CEO Karen Flavelle is active in the business world receiving many awards. The most recent was in 2014 for the WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, for the second time.

Nicky Brotherston and Arielle Moore Purdy’s Chocolatier WestShore Mall

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Meet the fabulous women of Jenner!


Are you from the WestShore? “Yes, WestShore has always been home to me and I am proud to see the changes over the years.”

How long have you been with the Sheraton? “I am approaching my firth year.”

Why Sheraton at this point in your career? “Sheraton and Starwood as a whole are phenomenal for providing learning and growth opportunities and it’s a great feeling to know that I am part of a global community too.”

What was your previous position/ job? “I’ve held various jobs that had a strong customer service element so when I joined the team here as a Front Desk Agent it was a natural fit to deliver great experiences.”

What is special about the company you work for? “I love the team dynamic and work with some amazing people with unique backgrounds and experiences that have challenged me to rise to their level.”

What are your professional and personal goals for 2015? “Professionally, continuing to grow and expand my knowledge and skills. Personal goals for 2015 are to complete renovations on my home here in the WestShore.”

What are your long-term goals, personally and professionally? “Professionally and personally I’d like to further my learning and become active within the WestShore community.”

What do you do to relax? “Work life balance is key, I enjoy playing tourist and rediscovering the many great attractions Victoria has to offer. The WestShore has so many wonderful outdoor activates.”

Are you married/ children/ pets? “If you are married with family, do you find it difficult to juggle everything and how do you keep on top of it all? I find balance comes from spending time with those who in one way or another remind you to take a step back and appreciate life.”

Advise for other young women starting university and their careers? “Find what you are passionate about. I feel you can always find something to drive you in every aspect. You may be surprised where it leads you.”

What is the most challenging role you have ever had? How did you meet that challenge? “I’ve had a few roles that challenged me. Stepping into this one was one of them. I had some great advice from a co-worker who encouraged me to meet the challenge rather than look back wondering what could have been.”

Where is the most exciting place you have ever traveled? “Ireland is an amazing place. It’s a different kind of green there but the charm of the cities and the people is very distinctive. “

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? “ This is a question that has come to mind several times. I think living anywhere for a year would be an exciting opportunity but nothing beats Greater Victoria.”

4 Points Sheraton Gateway ~ Amanda Crook

We had the distinct pleasure of hearing from the Front Line Manager at Four Points Sheraton Gateway Amanda Crook. Amanda shared with us her journey with the company and offers some great advise to other young women.


Janice

Working together, Verity Construction and Keycorp Marketing are Keycorp Development & Marketing is in the business of creating beautiful homes. KeySigni� cant to the process are two long-time members of the design team, Kory Elliott and Janice Brennand.

With a background in architectural building technology, Kory has built a career in the local design industry over more than 20 years. Having worked with owner Jim Hartshorne Keycorp previously, when the opportunity to join the Company arose four years ago, it was the perfect � t.

“As the Architectural Design Co-ordinator, I’m involved with the projects from inception right through completion,” Kory says. “It’s fast-paced – my day just � ies by – and I like the diversity,” she says.

“Our goal throughout our projects is to create a home people will be happy in, and want to come home to for many years a space they are excited about to call home”

Having grown up in the West Shore, and to now be raising her family here with her husband, Kory is excited about the many projects shaping her community, and to have a hand in many of them. Not only does it keep her neighbourhood growing, but on a personal level, she is also able to grow her own skill-set, she says, pointing to the recently launched McCormick Meadows where she created three-dimensional marketing renderings unseen rarely used in single family residential in other projects. “We wanted to create something special and new that would di� erentiate it from what has previously been done” for this project that really has Jim’s stamp on it,” she explains.

Once a client has chosen their Verity-built home, Keycorp home they have the option of truly making it their own, and that’s where Janice Brennand comes in.

Janice joined Keycorp as Options Coordinator for the team’s projects 5 1/2 years ago and hasn’t looked back.

“My role is to co-ordinate between the purchasers, the builder and suppliers, and to help the new homeowners choose their options, colours and upgrades .colours, patterns and options. I like to say that we build homes that are ready to walk into but we have the � exibility to customize it to your likes,” explains Janice, who estimates she has helped more than over 500 families make their new house their home. at Westhills.

“Your home is your sanctuary, so when you open your front door your spirit should be lifted and your stress should be eased,” she re� ects.

And as a Keycorp homeowner herself, Janice knows � rst-hand about the myriad choices and possibilities available, and she enjoys walking her clients through the process, all the way to move-in day. “It’s a great job. I love getting out and kicking dirt and I love working with people to see how their enthusiasm sparks my enthusiasm – and vice-versa!”

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Owner ofEvedar’s Bistro

www.evedarsbistro.com

Hunt-Jinnouchi Enterprises Contracting/Consulting

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Contact: [email protected]

FRAN HUNT-JINNOUCHI

Are you from the WestShore? No, I’m actually from Kelowna originally, but moved to Victoria just over 6 years ago. I used to live close to Oak Bay, but recently bought a house in the Saanich area just past Uptown. It’s a lot closer to the WestShore, which is nice! I definitely go to the WestShore more often now to hike, shop, and eat.

How long have you been with Thrifty’s? I have been with Thrifty Foods for just over a year now. I started with the company in January 2014.

Why Thrifty Foods at this point in your career? I think it’s really important to find a company that aligns with your core values. I am super passionate about food, so it’s really amazing to get to talk about food all day, every day with others who are equally

as passionate! It has also been a great experience to learn about marketing and advertising from a small agency perspective with multiple clients in my previous role to becoming the client as part of a larger organization in my current role. I’ve learned a lot so far being on both sides of the creative process.

What was your previous position/ job?My previous position was a Strategic Services Coordinator at a local advertising agency in Victoria. I was in that role for almost two years before starting with Thrifty Foods.

How has your previous experience prepared you for this role? Working for an advertising agency was a valuable experience. As a part of a small agency, you get to wear a lot of hats and it is very fast-paced, so you’re always learning. Every day

is very different and the clients you work with are all sizes, industries, needs, and budgets so you get a lot of exposure to various types of advertising. This experience has been helpful in preparing me for my current role in social media and digital at Thrifty Foods as it is also very dynamic. Since my area is so integrated within the business, I now work with many different “internal clients” with various online needs from our Store Teams to our Category Managers.

What is special about the company you work for? Thrifty Foods’ mission statement is “to be Canada’s better food destination by helping Canadians eat better, feel better, and do better.” I think this is such a big, powerful goal for a company and addresses an important need in our society. Thrifty Foods

Meet Ciara Capozzi, an integral part of the advertising, social media, and web services team at Thrifty Foods. Ciara has taken the food industry by storm as she progresses her career in the advertising industry.

Sheri Eastman jokes that she got into the masonry business by accident, when her partner Rob started the business in 1997. “As he got busier, I started to help with the paper work and doing bookkeeping for him while working full time as an administrative assistant. As Rob’s business grew, I �nally quit my day job and took on running the administrative side of the business full time,” she says.

Separated for over four years now, the couple continues to work together every day as equal partners in Rob Tournour Masonry. “Rob takes care of the operations, while I look after the administration,” Sheri says.

Sheri looks after all of the bookkeeping, payroll, accounts, bene�ts administration and human resources. She also oversees the IT, managing the businesses internet presence, While construction is still mostly a man’s world, women work in all aspects of the sector. Sheri is a member of Women in Construction (WiC), a networking group that supports and promotes female participation in construction. Members include private and public sector workers, students, engineers, apprentices, labourers, tradespersons, project managers, developers, architects and professional admin staff – basically anyone who considers herself a “woman in construction”. “It’s great to get together with other women to share our knowledge and experience. I enjoy being part of a supportive group of women and encourage any woman who considers herself connected to the construction industry to come to one of our monthly meetings.”

ROB TOURNOUR MASONRY LTD.

#121-937 Dunford Ave.www.robtournourmasonry.com

250-478-3364

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When you meet Stacy McDougall,

you can not help but notice her intense blue eyes and her enthusiasm; she is very passionate about what she does and it shows.“I love what I do for a

living, there is not one day that goes by that I don’t get up and feel so lucky to be doing what I am doing for a living” And changing lives is what she does for a living from the in-side out.Strength In 2 Fitness is located at 2675 Wilfert Road opposite Lee Valley tools and is where all the magic happens.“We o� er a number of di� erent classes and appeal to all dif-ferent age levels and body shapes” smiles Stacy, "and believe me the work outs will challenge you, but we have the sup-port and the right sta� to help you reach your goals”.The classes they o� er range from Boot Camp, run classes, spin classes, Tough Mudder, boxing and much more“For the month of May I am o� ering 1/2 o� for new members and especially for those busy" Women of the Westshore" who are looking for a fun gym in their area. I am convenient-ly located to be accessible to everyone.”So if you are looking for a community environment and a supportive place to work out and change your body and life-style; then Strength in 2 Fitness may be the right choice for you.


places so much importance on areas beyond just selling groceries, such as community support, sustainability, and healthy eating, that it really adds purpose and meaning to the work you do every day. There are a lot of people who have been with this company their entire working lives or a good portion of it, which I also think really says a lot about the company and how special it is.

What are your professional goals for 2015 and this new position? My professional goals for 2015 are to hopefully obtain my CAAP (Communications and Advertising Accredited Professional) designation, which will help specialize my skill set and to cross-train within our Marketing Department to help strengthen our online strategy and brand presence.

What are your personal goals for 2015? My personal goals for 2015 are to pay off my student loans (finally!) and to landscape my yard. I am a little intimidated by the second one as I don’t have the best luck with house plants!

What are your long term goals, personally and professionally?My long term goal professionally is to eventually take on a bigger role within the company, either growing and managing our digital team or becoming a Brand Manager. Personally, I’d like to do another big trip somewhere I haven’t been, like South America or India.

What do you do to relax? It depends! I find doing yoga, going for hikes with my dog, or being outside in general helps me relax. If I am short on time then tea and a hot Epsom salt bath usually does the trick.

Are you married/ children/ pets? If you are married with family, do you find it difficult to juggle everything and how do you keep on top of it all?I’m not married (yet!), but just got engaged this past Christmas and have a fur-baby named Henley. I do find it difficult at times to manage what I see as my ideal work/life balance. Sometimes I’m better at it than others! I am fortunate to have a partner who has more flexible hours than I do, so he will often help get dinner started or get the dog out for a walk, which helps take the pressure off a bit if I end up working later. I do find exercise is the first ball to drop, so I try to go to a yoga class or for walks at lunchtime and chose a gym that’s on my route to work so I have no excuses when I drive past it!

Advise for other young women starting university and their careers?Some of the best advice I received when I was starting was that people hire people, so to make sure your personality shows through. You may not be fully qualified for the role, but if you are eager, fit well with the culture and are coachable, someone may be willing to take a chance on you! You can always teach someone what they need for a role, but you can’t teach someone to become someone they’re not. Don’t undervalue yourself and what you’re capable of.

What is the most challenging role you have ever had? How did you meet that challenge? The most challenging role I have ever had was my previous role as it was my first real taste of the industry. Marketing and Advertising is a very creative field and everyone

has their own opinions. You need to develop a bit of a thicker skin and learn to not take things to personally, as well as learn how to manage expectations. Since it is so fast-paced and there are so many different clients, strong organization and multi-tasking abilities are key. I found the best way to meet this challenge was to take advantage of networking opportunities to learn from the experts as well as made time to read industry-related blogs or books. I also make a lot of lists (personal and professional) and always have a calendar with me to keep track of things.

Where is the most exciting place you have ever traveled? I have been fortunate to travel both personally and through school. I took some time off between my second and third year of university to travel to Australia and South East

Asia for six months. I also spent four months living and traveling abroad through a school exchange program in Czech Republic in my fourth year of university. The most exciting place for me would probably have been Indonesia. There are so many amazing little islands to explore, the culture and food was really unique and the scenery was breathtaking. I’d go back in a heartbeat.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Vancouver Island is my paradise at the moment! The mix of people, nature, food, and culture is really unbeatable.

Langford O� ce134-2871 Jacklin Rd.Victoria, BC V9B 0P3T: 236-237-1432 • TF: 1-855-565-8484Fx 1-844-206-7671

Shawnigan Lake1757 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd.

Shawnigan Lake, BC V0R2W0T: 250-743-5999 • TF: 1-855-565-8484

Fx: 250-743-5788

Gay WiseOwner Manager

Accounting• Year Ends• Corporate Taxes

Bookkeeping - To Year End• Payroll• Government Reporting

Personal Income Tax• Preparation• Planning

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Tsering LineenPersonal Taxes

Dal SanduAdmin Assistant

Christina AveryBookkeeper

Michelle EdwardsSenior Bookkeeper

Selina LowesAccountant

Tsering Lineen Dal Sandu Christina Avery

Michelle Edwards Selina Lowes

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What a great project the Women of the Westshore has been for the Goldstream Gazette this spring.

For me personally it has been an opportunity to re-connect with a dear friend from the East Coast; Catherine Musgrove, a former colleague at the Halifax Daily News and then again at the Halifax Herald. We enjoyed a great number of years there and were fortunate to run into each other over a year ago. It has been fabulous to see her writing and photography in this special section and I hope you have enjoyed it too.Living in Metchosin and working on the Westshore, I am thrilled to work alongside some very accomplished, successful and happy ladies out here on the Westshore. I meet with them to share stories and experiences and help them to grow their businesses. The best part of my job is hearing about how the Gazette brings the voice of the community out to all the households on the Westshore. We were recently awarded the Canadian Community Newspaper Award for General Excellence and I could not be more proud especially since we also picked up an award for the Women of the Westshore fall editionThe section features some very diverse ladies and my hope is that you have a greater understanding and appreciation of the talent that we have out here in the municipalities of the Town of View Royal, Langford, Colwood, Metchosin and the District of Highlands. In our office at the Gazette we have 4 women who help put the paper out every week; alongside our all male editorial team we think we do an outstanding job as a unit.Shelley “Best in the West “ Westwood heads up our advertising sales and looks after small, medium and large businesses all with a passion for the end result and a

drive that keeps her upbeat and positive every day.Donna Gutteridge is our Diva of Design, responsible for the way this section looks and for building ads and the paper on a weekly basis she is best known for having a secret supply of chocolate under her desk for when things get stressful.Mellissa Mitchell our Marvel of Circulation makes sure that the Gazette is at your doorstep every Wednesday and Friday to enjoy over your coffee. Mellissa started her Black press career at the Gazette and we are thrilled to have her back after several years with Saanich News downtown.But in fairness we would not be able to get the Gazette to your doorstep without the men in the office, Don Descoteau our editor, Arnold Lim our photojournalist and Mike Davies our reporter.Thank you for spending some time with our wonderful women and we look forward to hearing from you.

Christine ScottPublisher

Mellissa

DonnaShelley

Habitat families make mortgage payments set at 25-30 per cent of their household income and adjusted annually.Payments go into a revolving fund called the Fund for Humanity and are used to help build home for other families in need.

HABITAT’S 100K IN 100 DAYSHabitat for Humanity’s 100K in 100 days is in full swing and quickly closing in on their May 14 deadline. If you ever wanted to pay it forward to a family in need, this may be the just the cause for you.

Habitat for Humanity is a well-known organization spanning across the country with a collective mission to build affordable housing and ultimately breaking the cycle of poverty for those families.

The 100K in 100 days is a program aimed specifically at women. Habitat Victoria is inviting 100 women to donate $1000 each to collectively raise 100K in 100 days to help build a home for a local, hardworking single mom of two boys.

Despite a good job in health care, Amanda has uprooted her family 10 times over the past decade because of unfit living conditions or unaffordable rents. At times, she has spent upwards of 70 per cent of her income on housing.

All of these moves have made it difficult for her children to build lasting friendships and feel connected to the community.

“I never thought I would be in a position to own my own home and provide this level of security for my family,” says Amanda. She has already been contributing sweat equity to the program by helping out on the work site, in the ReStore and at events on her days off.

Campaign Chair Sybil Verch knows from her experience mentoring women in financial planning how challenging it can be for a single mother to provide a safe and decent home for her children and have something left over for food, clothing, and her children’s future.

Verch is the Senior VP, Western Regional Manager of private Client group of Raymond James Ltd.

“I want women to feel empowered and in control of their finances,” says Verch. “Rather than handouts, I love helping people help themselves. The impact is more profound and lasts indefinitely.”

She wants others to join her in making an impact on those lives and on our communities.

Greater Victoria has one of the most expensive residential markets in the country. Struggling to make ends meet means many parents cannot provide a safe, affordable place for their children to live. They often find themselves living paycheck to pay check.

Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Victoria, Yolanda Meijer, says setting down roots in their own home will allow Amanda to give her children a better future.

“We are excited to launch this special campaign and hope that many women will be as excited as we are to give a “hands-up” to this local single mom,” says Meijer.

So far, the campaign has 47 women participating. It is a great start, but there is still a ways to go. You can also check out the Adopt A Day program to add your own team’s sweat equity to the project. To help support the program by being one of 100 women go to www.habitatvictoria.com/100 or call 250.480.7688.

HABITAT


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Special Features - Women of the Westshore 2015