This is a question that is near and dear to my heart. Being born and raised in Ottawa, I am very familiar with Canada’s political landscape. From my experience, one key strategy to increase women’s participation in government is through connecting with mentors. For example, at an event in 2014, I had the privilege to hear the Hon. Michelle Rempel, MP, speak. Afterwards, I realized that I was the only young woman under the age of 50 in the room. I emailed her after sharing that fact, and she called me. Over our chat, she empowered me to be the change I wish I to see in the world. Since then, I have been driven to get more involved in politics and encourage other girls and women to stand tall and be change agents too.

That teacher is Sue B. Zimmerman who is the industry go-to Instagram expert. I saw Sue speak at Social Media Camp 2016 last May.  She inspired me even before she took the stage, as the stage was filled with fun hashtag signs and brightly-coloured props.  On the podium, Sue inspired the audience with her positivity and passion, encouraging us to be as excited as she is about Instagram! She gave us practical examples for making Instagram simple.  After her talk, Sue was available to connect personally; she taught my friend and I how to take an awesome selfie. Months later, I am still inspired by Sue - as both a role model and teacher.  As my “thank you,” I am introducing you all to her today, as I know many of you are looking for quality resources to amplify your online presence.  

How do you invest in yourself? 

At The Self-Discovery Retreat, we empower each other to develop a positive sense of self. Many of us are caring professionals who spend our days helping others reach their goals and put ourselves second. What I have learned though, is that by putting ourselves first and taking care of ourselves, we will be helping more people in the long run.

Simply put, my purpose is to make people’s lives brighter; as a community-builder and researcher, I am always looking for resources to help you shine. Last year, I happened upon an article by Miriam Linderman called, “Thriving Women, Thriving Economies” about her experience at the Vancouver Board of Trade’s B.C. Economic Forum: Women As a Catalyst for Growth event. Miriam, I discovered, is a Canadian entrepreneur who left the corporate world to start her own coaching practice. I loved her advice in the article so I reached out and emailed her. Since then, we have Skyped a few times and I was inspired to invite her to share her insights with all of you - to introduce you to this wonderful woman who is empowering us all to shine a little brighter. 

How do you care for yourself in your busy life? 

If you have been following this blog, you know I am a strong advocate for taking care of yourself and regularly share strategies to remind you to make yourself a priority. Having a positive mindset and a supportive community are key ways to empower yourself daily!   

Alice Bracegirdle agrees! 

What skills have empowered you in pursuit of excellence? 

Connection with others is essential to our growth and well-being. The road to excellence can be lonely. Having a positive mindset and supportive crew are key skills that carry you forward.

Today’s guest, Bailey Parnell, knows the entrepreneurial journey well; today, she is sharing how connecting with others played a major role in her success.

Transition is something we can all relate to, as change is universal. Yet such times of major change can cause depression and fear in many, so it is important we talk about the ups and downs of change and empower each other along the way.

My guest today is Krista Guloien, two-time Olympian and silver medalist, who recently released her book, Beyond the Finish Line. As stated in her book summary: “Krista’s forthright tell-all of her journey to the 2012 Summer Olympic rowing podium, as well as what came after, will help you find closure and peace, as well as a safe place to relate, laugh and reflect on the “what next?” after sport.” Krista’s story is so important!

Returning after a long absence to my hometown and other cities where I’d spent most of my life, I reflected on how far I’d come in my self-discovery journey; I’ve come to see the world with a new lens. Before, I’d spent so much time hiding the true ‘me.’ Now, though, I’d returned to my roots to pass on what I’d learned to my friends, loved ones, co-workers, classmates, and acquaintances: to remind them to stop hiding!  To take the risk to show their true self to others! Whether this means to open up and share their story with someone, to be more visible online, to wear colour, to put on a bathing suit, to sing out loud, to voice their opinion at a public forum! Whatever! For them to summon up the personal strength to be and show the world who they really are!  

What is your best advice for meeting new people at networking events?

As a student or professional, these days we are constantly selling ourselves when we go to networking events and online. Whatever your purpose, you are going there to make a positive impression and connect with people. When meeting someone new, you introduce yourself and describe what you do. This is your chance to set a first impression and leave an impact on the other person. It is a time to celebrate yourself, to speak up about the contribution you’re making to the planet. Trust me, positivity makes a difference!

How did you discover your passion and turn your vision into reality?

To inspire you, I asked millennial entrepreneur and recent graduate from Royal Roads University, Alexandra Andrei to share how she turned into reality her passion to “make people feel beautiful and self-confident by using makeup.”

How can a supportive community empower you to pursue your passion?

Champions who achieve their goals DO NOT do it alone – trust me, I know. Regardless of age and ability, we all need a supportive community around us - to keep us accountable, motivated, and on track! Plus, the presence of others makes the journey more fun!

 Today the featured speaker at The Self-Discovery Retreat is Laura Whitfield, a writer and traveller who blogs at laurawhitfieldwriter.com. She is the founder of Defying Small, an online community of visionaries worldwide. She is also writing a memoir, called Defying Small, Embracing Small: How Defining Moments Can Help You Live a Bigger, More Passionate Life. Join Laura on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read her free, downloadable Defying Small Manifesto.