By Denise Goodyear, NLOWE Board Chair
The warmer temperatures and longer evenings are a beautiful reminder that summer is coming and another indication of renewal. As NLOWE board members, we look forward to identifying new ideas, welcoming new members, appointing new committees, and embracing new challenges. This year NLOWE is celebrating its 25th anniversary of supporting women entrepreneurs in the province, and we will share some successes at NLOWE’s Annual General Meeting on June 23, 2022.
There are signs that our challenges of the past three years may be easing. In May, The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages visited our province. CEO Jennifer Bessell had an opportunity to discuss NLOWE’s work over the last 25 years, current advancements in women’s entrepreneurship, and the critical role of women entrepreneurs in rebuilding our economy. ACOA has also committed to making investments supporting resources and opportunities for women entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada. The message is clear that women entrepreneurs shape and strengthen our communities, country, and world. A robust Atlantic Canadian economy requires business-minded women to contribute ideas, knowledge, and expertise, and NLOWE will continue to support women entrepreneurs to start, grow, and advance in business.
It has been three months since public health restrictions were lifted for businesses, and it has been a daunting transition to a new normal after two years. However, the business community in Newfoundland and Labrador has persevered through the pandemic. Through our resilience, we have found ways to manage disruption, handle uncertainty, support our staff, and help each other get through it. The world has changed, our work has changed, the workforce has changed, and we have changed.
COVID has impacted everything from supply chains to work-life balance. Now is the time to take a step back, reflect, and regroup so you can hit the ground running. Consider where you started, what you’ve achieved, and what you’ve learned from this experience. I know I have gained greater empathy for those around me. Also, consider what you’re leaving behind. At the risk of sounding like Marie Kondo, COVID has given us time to declutter—our homes, offices, and attitudes. NLOWE has used the lessons from COVID to reimagine its current workspace. We are excited to announce that on June 1, NLOWE relocated its headquarters to 58 Glencoe Drive in Mount Pearl. We believe this move will create a safe, productive, and enjoyable space for our staff, members, and community partners to celebrate.
In closing, and most importantly, consider what’s ahead for you. Will you stay the course or make a permanent pivot? Remember, you are not alone. Make the most of your NLOWE membership by connecting with others through our many networking and business development opportunities. Be supportive and ask for support. NLOWE’s regional business advisors are ready to guide you toward your business goals. Other membership benefits include exclusive access to NLOWE’s online portal containing an extensive collection of recorded webinars providing expertise on health and wellness, business management, and international trade and export. With your membership you’ll also get special rates on all NLOWE events, discounts on advertising, and, mailed directly to you, The Advisor—our quarterly magazine, which features articles about NLOWE members taking their careers and companies to the next level.
Take care of yourself, stay connected, and be supportive. Summer is coming, and the future is full of promise and opportunity!
Denise Goodyear is president of Intuitive Media, a company that takes an imaginative and accountable approach to digital marketing and media buying. She’s happiest when meeting new people, building relationships, and helping small businesses grow through marketing management, digital strategy, advertising, and training.
コメント