BADDECK, N.S. — Empowering women to be more successful in their professional and personal lives was the focus when the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce held its inaugural ‘FEMpower — Women Leading Change event’ Feb. 21 in Baddeck.
The daylong conference included a conversation with Cindy Brown from the Nova Scotia Community College who spoke about her experience navigating as a woman in the male-dominated marine field.
During the day Starr Cunningham of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia led a small group of experts in sharing insight about managing ‘the balancing act’ that women face when juggling the pressures of family, work, community, and everything in between.
The keynote address was given from Donna Hatt, the new national marketing director for the Authentic Seacoast Group of Companies.
Hatt provided advice on the power of reflection, ‘co-opetition,’ and stitching people together to create meaningful experiences and connections.
Attendees also had an opportunity to identify shared experiences that have been obstacles on their path to success and key moments that have propelled them towards their goals.
There was also a passionate and informative discussion on how our relationship with food, mindset and fitness all impact our mental health, and how to manage it all.
While closing the conference that is expected to be an annual event, Amanda Mombourquette, executive director of the Strait Area Chamber, stated that ‘FEMpower’ is all about highlighting “who we really are, and what women can bring to the table when empowered.”
Women are positive change-makers in their communities, businesses, and families, she said, when they are confident and empowered by the networks around them.