Small businesses do not grow alone and in isolation. The leaders and founders of
Canadian SMEs no doubt agree that it takes a village.
For all its challenges, the pandemic drove many of us into a state of introspection which, on a personal level, led to a realization around the power of the people who make up the community in which we work and live – and those who enable us to succeed.
As a woman in my industry, starting out wasn’t easy. When I first stepped into the business of moving the public policy dial for the better good, the sight of a leader without a tie made most people pause. Thankfully, much has changed. My own team, and everyone around me in the political and public policy community have helped shape and evolve the public affairs industry and make it more inclusive. There are still days when it isn’t easy but when I look at the progress that has been made, I am both inspired and motivated to continue driving that evolution.
Success takes determination. Breaking down barriers demands a deep well of perseverance. But it really does take a village. Other women have supported me, and to their credit, so have many men who are driving forces in actively helping to lift up women in business. It’s important to remember that paths are dependent on other paths; they are interwoven in networks to create a means of moving past where you were able to go before. Some will cut new ones, others will maintain, tend and mend them. We all have a role. My company, once in its infancy, is now mighty and growing. Its imperviousness is built on the foundation of a mature enterprise with the power and drive to bolster women in business. Its sole purpose is not profit – for me, it must serve as inclusive scaffolding that provides a solid base, creates stronger structures and helps level each other up. That’s how we get to greater heights.
This realization has been one of the most valuable learnings during the course of my career. Hopefully we can all offer a little easier passage for others.
