OUT OF OFFICE…

For Women’s Day, We celebrated Women in Business in the Columbia Valley

Last week, we had the privilege of celebrating women around the world. International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

On March 9th, we were able to celebrate with some of the phenomenal women in the Columbia Valley. This celebration, hosted at Eagle Ranch’s Rustica, was one to reflect success, and create a space for some networking fun.

In attendance were 27 female entrepreneurs, business owners, employees, volunteers and leaders, and Eagle Ranch’s exceptional female service staff! Among our attendees, was Dee Conklin, owner of Palliser Printing and past president of the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce. She delivered an inspiring speech, with some female-forward statistics to be proud of:

• There are 5,620 women living in the Columbia Valley

• 2,645 of them have a post-secondary education, and 235 of those have Master’s Degrees.

• The life expectancy of a woman in the Columbia Valley is 86.

• 13 out of 24 Columbia Valley elected officials are women.

• 39% of all business owners in British Columbia are women. Amazingly, 45% of those are in the Kootenays!

Women’s Day is a time to recognize the progress that has been made towards gender equality, and to reflect on the work that still needs to be done. Women in the Columbia Valley are leaders, and we want to thank them for their contributions to our wonderful community.

Thank you for all that you do!