Local Female Leaders To Host Online Event For International Women’s Day

An online event is looking to bring together female leaders in the community to share their stories of perseverance and success.

In celebration of International Women’s Day , the Leeds-Grenville Small Business Centre is hosting the event which will feature five local women who will highlight the experiences that led them to where they are today.

Cathy Sheppard is the owner at Sheppard & Associates Limited, and she says it’s all about recognizing hard work done by local women.

“Many of us are really balancing many hats at one time,” Sheppard said. “We’re mothers, wives, caretakers, and caregivers, as well as our entrepreneurships that we are embracing. So, it’s really about showing young women that they can do it and it’s really just a balancing act.” 

The event will feature keynote speaker Martina Ryan, who will explore how women can challenge themselves in the business world. 

There will also be four panelists, including Sheppard, Janet Campbell of Mrs. McGarrigle’s Fine Food, Professional Engineer Rhiannon Iles, and the Mayor of Leeds and Thousand Islands Corrina Smith-Gatke. 

Sheppard says they just want to show women how to maximize their personal potential.

“I’ve worked hard my whole life to bring women up to the same equal level both in their careers and other life circumstances. For me, International Women’s Day is recognition that all my work was recognized and appreciated – and that’s really heartwarming.”

The online event runs from 1-4 p.m., and you can head here for more information or to register.