By Krista Hazlie
Julia Penney, Leadership Award, sponsored by Fonemed
Julia Penney, the driving force behind JC Variety, Port Hope Simpson, Labrador, stands as an exemplar of visionary leadership within her community. Her incredible journey and unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those around her have earned her NLOWE’s 2023 Leadership Award. This award underlines the remarkable achievements of an entrepreneur who has consistently championed the advancement of women.
Julia has redefined what it means to be a community-oriented businessperson. She has shown a tireless commitment to nurturing a sense of unity and support within her community. Julia’s leadership transcends the confines of her store; it reaches into the hearts of everyone who has the privilege of knowing her. Coming from a family steeped in entrepreneurial tradition, Julia has taken JC Variety, a business born out of necessity, and made it into a cornerstone of the community—a place where individuals come together, share stories, and find the essentials they need. Julia understands the profound impact of small businesses in fortifying resilient communities and has harnessed that impact to craft an inclusive space for all.
Julia’s outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has received the prestigious “Labradorians of Distinction” award, an accolade artfully designed to celebrate the substantial contributions of individuals from Labrador who have enriched the region in the domains of culture, society, environment, and economy. She has also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Ulnooweg. This recognition is reserved for exceptional entrepreneurs who have thrived in business for over two decades and embody qualities such as a profound commitment to the community, expressed through both social and economic contributions.
Julia has served as role model, inspiring entrepreneurs to effect positive change in their communities and the broader entrepreneurial landscape.
Julia’s exemplary leadership is most prominently displayed through her tireless support of local initiatives and charitable causes. She consistently goes above and beyond, whether serving on local committees, organizing events and fundraisers, or extending assistance to those in need. Her boundless generosity and selflessness serve as an inspiration to others, encouraging them to follow in her footsteps.
We celebrate Julia’s exceptional contributions to her community and her extraordinary ability to lead with compassion, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her leadership serves as a reminder that a single individual can create a profound, positive impact on the lives of many.
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