Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/2020

Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

WOMEN WOMEN WOMEN ofThe The Residence Residence of of The Residence

KONNIE KONNIE HERMAN HERMAN KONNIE HERMAN Housekeeping Supervisor Housekeeping Supervisor KONNIE HERMAN Housekeeping Supervisor Housekeeping Supervisor ATHENA ATHENA SMITH SMITH ATHENA SMITH Administrative Assistant Administrative Assistant ATHENA SMITH Administrative Assistant Administrative Assistant

APRIL APRIL ASUCHAK ASUCHAK APRIL ASUCHAK Sweet Apple Salon Sweet Apple Salon APRIL Apple ASUCHAK Sweet Salon Sweet Apple Salon JACKIE JACKIE BARIL BARIL JACKIE BARIL Director of Hospitality Services Director of Hospitality Services BARIL Services DirectorJACKIE of Hospitality Director of Hospitality Services

CHARMAINE CHARMAINE KRAMER KRAMER CHARMAINE KRAMER General Manager Manager General CHARMAINE KRAMER General Manager General Manager JULIA GOODALL GOODALL JULIA JULIA GOODALL The Grill The Orchards Orchards Grill Supervisor Supervisor JULIA GOODALL The Orchards Grill Supervisor The Orchards Grill Supervisor

3300 3300 Valleyview Valleyview Drive, Drive, Kamloops Kamloops | | 778.362.9525 778.362.9525 3300Valleyview ValleyviewDrive, Drive,Kamloops 778.362.9525 www.theresidencekamloops.com |Kamloops gm@theresidencekamloops.com 3300 ||778.362.9525 www.theresidencekamloops.com | gm@theresidencekamloops.com

www.theresidencekamloops.com||gm@theresidencekamloops.com gm@theresidencekamloops.com www.theresidencekamloops.com

BIOGRAPHIES Karin L. Sykes - IG Wealth Managment . . . . . 4 Marilyn Giesbrecht - IG Wealth Managment . . 4 Teri Young - IG Wealth Managment . . . . . . . .4 Kelsey Boudreau - IG Wealth Managment . . . .5 Cristina Groves - IG Wealth Managment . . . . .5 Liana Shaw- IG Wealth Managment . . . . . . . 5 Charlene Sawers - Anderson’s Sewing . . . . . .6 Mercedes Basford - Big Boot Inn . . . . . . . . . 6 Patti Phillips - NSBIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Shannon Harder - Runners Sole . . . . . . . . . . 7 Kim Nobert - Alternatives Funeral services . . . .7

DAYS FOR

Karen Watt - Excel Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Lisa Moonie - Royal LePage . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Kerri Priddle & Jasmine Kooner - Priddle Law . 8

GIRLS

Natasha Schrader - Kamloops Funeral Home . . 9

simple question changed TerryJustLynnoneStone’s life forever — and she

Lorianna Bennett - Paul & Company . . . . . . 13

wasn’t the one who asked it.

Celeste Mergens, who would go on to create the Days for Girls organization, posed the query at a Rotary convention in 2008: What do the girls do in developing countries when they have their period?

“And the answer was, ‘Nothing. They stay in their rooms,’” Stone said. “So that means that every month, girls miss about five days school.”

With those five days lost each month, the girls gradually fall behind, eventually dropping out of school, thereby reducing their future opportunities.

This, Stone noted, is all because of an inability by the girls to access menstrual hygiene kits, something females in North America take for granted.

Days for Girls is an organization that creates those kits, distributes them to developing countries and ensures those receiving them are properly educated, not only about how to use the kits, but about their own bodies, as well.

“Education is hugely important,” Stone said. “And our education that we give them starts with care of the kit, care

of themselves, so hygiene and how to look after yourself so you don’t get infection.

But also how it’s OK to say no and to avoid exploitation and to avoid being taken away and trafficked.”

Stone joined Days for Girls almost immediately after she learned about the organization. She is now president of the Canadian chapter.

There are a few groups in Kamloops, with volunteers creating kids for distribution around the world. Each kit contains two cotton shields, eight flannel liners, two pairs of briefs, a washcloth, soap and one transport bag (for soiled items). A visual instruction sheet is also included.

Kamloops will host the national Days for Girls conference in September of 2020, which will bring members from around the world to the city. The conference will include an Ambassador of Women’s Health training session, which is a requirement for being able to provide the educational component to girls in developing countries.

People interested in joining Days for Girls can contact Stone by email at kamloopsbc@daysforgirls.org.

Krystin Nali - Nalitech Financial Solutions . . . .9 Team Johnson Walsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Brandi Allen - Centre for Seniors Information . . 9 Andrea Hansen - Wild Roots . . . . . . . . . . . 10 MaryAnn Shewchuk & Erin Saunders . . . . . 11 - Drake Cremation & Funeral services Annie O’Dwyer - Access Countertops . . . . . . 11 Jeanine Ball - Paul & Company . . . . . . . . . . 13 Kelly Melnyk - Paul & Company . . . . . . . . . 13 Natalie Paul - Paul & Company . . . . . . . . . . 13 Rose Tomlinson - Maritime Travel . . . . . . . . 19 Leonie Alston - Maritime Travel . . . . . . . . . . 19 Stacey Colnar - Maritime Travel . . . . . . . . . . 19 Cindy Peever - Maritime Travel . . . . . . . . . . 19 Michelle Brezina - Maritime Travel . . . . . . . . 19 Jessica Sutherland - Royal LePage . . . . . . . 24

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Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 3

Karin L. Sykes Karin L. Sykes Division Director Karin has years of award-winning Division 27 Director

business and Karin has growth 27 years of management award-winning experience.

The last years have business growth and12.5 management been with IGThe Wealth a division experience. last as 12.5 years have director and been with IG registered Wealth as retirement a division consultant. manages her own director andKarin registered retirement practice with licensed associate consultant.

Karin manages her own Tina Sykes and coaches and practice with licensed associate mentors theand seven exceptional Tina Sykes coaches and consultants her division. mentors the in seven exceptional The promiseinKarin and Tina make consultants her division. to their clients: “Weand will Tina be your The promise Karin make passionate financial partners.

We to their clients: “We will be your will help bring claritypartners. to your own passionate financial We unique and inspire will helpsituation bring clarity to your action. own We will situation work together on your Living unique and inspire action.

Plan and build on each We will work together onsuccess your Living and We will put a Plan achievement. and build on each success plan in place that will and achievement.

Weensure will putyou a have the dignified andensure independent plan in place that will you retirement you envision and have the dignified and independent deserve.” retirement you envision and Though their strategies work for deserve.” everyone, Karin and Tina specialize Though their strategies work for in pre-retirees, and everyone, Karinbusiness and Tinaowners specialize women in business. in pre-retirees, business owners and women in business.

within the franchise bus in the management of t friendships, extras and benefits of self-employment known and respected firm.

practices. She is a Kamlo known and respected firm. in the management of t

practices. She is a Kamlo much of our beautiful c My nature is giving and hard-working which truly en much of our beautiful c My nature is giving and hard-working which truly en local business owners a of my work today. My husband of almost 44 years h local business owners a of my work today. My husband of almost 44 years h every way she can. Atte love to work and is content managing the household every way she can. Atte empathy are some of he love to work and is content managing the household strive to improve and grow, personally and professio empathy are some of he IG Wealth Management strive to improve and grow, personally and professio and their families including five grandchildren make IG Wealth Management insurance strategies as and their families including five grandchildren make very special. insurance strategies as very special.

Marilyn Giesbrecht Marilyn Giesbrecht Senior Consultant Karin L. Sykes Senior Consultant Karin L. Sykes

Division Director As a CFP, Marilyn is pro Division Director

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Kamloops and Marilyn w Guatemala this year. M We will be your passionate financial partners.

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Marilyn Giesbrecht

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Senior

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1997.

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Prior she knew the value IG brought to she was just 24 and has been

independent retirement you envision and deserve.

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independent retirement you envision and deserve.

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daughters, who keep busy.

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situations. working, which truly enhances the importance of planning for all Teri’s nature is giving and hard is involved in a

In addition, Marilyn all aspects of her work today. situations. working, which truly enhances number of charities, including the Her husband of 44 is content In addition, Marilyn is involved in a all aspects of her work today.

Kamloops Association, managing theof household while number of Hospice charities, including the Her husband 44 is content

Association, and will beHospice completing her third she continues to strive to while improve Kamloops managing the household

mission tripcompleting to Guatemala and will be herthis third year. mission trip to Guatemala this year.

and grow, personally she continues to striveand to improve professionally. and grow, personally and professionally.

100-741 Sahali Terrace | 250.372.2955 | investorsgroup.com 100-741 Sahali Terrace | 250.372.2955 | investorsgroup.com

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Teri Young Co

Teri Young Co Kelsey Boudreau Division Director

Kelsey Boudreau Division Director

Consultant

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oud to be associated with IG Wealth Management Being a part of my client’s lives and helping them make wise financial client for a number of years before coming into Cr

decisions is what brings joy to my work. I joined IG as a client when only ness growth and client for a number of years before coming into

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he value IG brought to clients. As part of the ness growth and 24 years old and have been rewarded many times over. Prior to that I ½ of these years have bu Kelsey helps clients realize t

he value IG brought to clients. As part of the 24 years old and have been rewarded many times over. Prior to that I spent many satisfying years in the retail industry before continuing my her key focus is on high Net Worth Clients. She is ½ of these years have Kelsey helps clients realize t wi vision Director and spent many satisfying years in the retail industry before continuing my her key focus is on high Net Worth Clients. She is education and becoming a Certified Dental Assistant which had been my works with a select group of client’s wealth and wi sound financial planning. Sh

vision Director and education and becoming a Certified Dental Assistant which had been my n practice with my works with a select group of client’s wealth and sound financial planning. Sh in passion since childhood. During that time my interest in fitness played a

cy. Marilyn has 3 lovely daughters who keep her n practice with my their financial results beyon in passion since childhood. During that time my interest in fitness played a cy. Marilyn has 3 lovely daughters who keep her mentor the seven large part in my life and my husband and I becomes owners of a small erishes deeply. As a widow, she understands their financial results beyon pr mentor the seven large part in my life and my husband and I becomes owners of a small

erishes deeply. As a widow, she understands Fitness Centre in Chase, while it kept us fit, the business end of the on their own. She develops pr of planning for all situations. In addition, Marilyn

Fitness Centre in Chase, while it kept us fit, the business end of the on their own. She develops fitness industry was not practical. BUT, this did lead to my current of planning for all situations. In addition, Marilyn mu of charities including the Hospice Society of fitness industry was not practical. BUT, this did lead to my current and maintain wealth, protec mu career path for which I am eternally grateful for the knowledge, of charities including the Hospice Society of

will be completing her 3rd Mission trip to and maintain wealth, protec loc career path for which I am eternally grateful for the knowledge,

friendships, extras and benefits of self-employment with a large, wellwill be completing her 3rd Mission trip to more time doing the things loc Marilyn enjoys working with people who value the friendships, extras and benefits of self-employment with a large, wellknown and respected firm. more time doing the things ev Marilyn enjoys working with people who value the ion and inspire Liana Shaw Cristina Groves Kelsey Boudreau n a successful retirement and helping those that known and respected firm. helping Business Owners, Re ev ion and inspire Liana Shaw Consultant Cristina Groves Kelsey Boudreau Consultant Consultant n a successful retirement and helping those that

My nature is giving and hard-working which truly enhances all aspects when they’ve outgrown the bank and don’t want helping Business Owners, Re em Liana joined IG Wealth Management Cristina has always been interested Kelsey helps clients realize their Consultant Consultant Consultant My nature is giving and hard-working which truly enhances all aspects when they’ve outgrown the bank and don’t want assisting her clients she Kels May, and licensed in B.C. em of my work today. My husband of almost 44 years has accepted that I in business started first dreams and achieve their goals Liana2011 joined IG is Wealth Management Cristina has and always beenher interested Kelsey helps clients realize their on each success and

assisting her clients she Kels and Alberta. business at 26. through sound financial planning.

May, 2011 and is licensed in B.C. of my work today. My husband of almost 44 years has accepted that I in business and started her first dreams and achieve their goals IG on each success and love to work and is content managing the household while I continue to She Alberta. has a firm belief that everyone She went at on26. to pursue a larger She specializes in helping Myra and Boe, husband Brya and business through sound financial planning.

IG love to work and is content managing the household while I continue to strive to improve and grow, personally and professionally. Our two sons has tobelief financial structure the individuals improve their financial She the hasright a firm thatsecurity everyone She went and on toworked pursuewithin a larger She specializes in helping Myra and Boe, husband Brya ins e the dignified and through the use of soundsecurity strive to improve and grow, personally and professionally. Our two sons franchise business model from results beyond whattheir theyfinancial have has the right to financial structure and worked within the individuals improve spending time on the Shusw and their families including five grandchildren makes my time with them

ins e the dignified and management principles 2006 to 2017.

She ismodel an expert been able to accomplish their through the use of soundand franchise business from in spending time on the Shusw results beyond what they on have and their families including five grandchildren makes my time with them

very special. planning.

Sheprinciples is strategic, clientthe management and in own. management and 2006 to 2017. Sheofisteams an expert been able to accomplish on their yoga. very special. centered to help. m debt management,

implementing the of best operational Kelsey develops long-term planning. and She ready is strategic, clientthe management teams and own.

yoga.

Whatever yourready plans,toLiana’s practices. relationships to help clients build

centered and help. care, m debt management,

implementing the best operational Kelsey develops long-term

work for everyone, we compassion and personalized Cristina is from Kamloops and has and wealth protect Whatever your plans, Liana’s care, practices. relationships help and clients build maintain to

work for everyone, we approach to and financial planning worked and seen their loved ones so they compassion personalized Cristina is from Canada Kamloops and and maintain wealth andcan protect has Karin L. Sykes ofacross men in business.

M can help make them a reality. Her much our beautiful country.

She spend more time doing the things approach to financial planning worked across Canada and seen their loved ones so they can

Karin L. Sykes

men in business.

M Division Director focus is helping suddenly single is passionate about working with they enjoy. can help make them a reality.

Her much of our beautiful country.

She spend more time doing the things

Division Director Se individuals through separation, local businessabout owners and believes Kelsey is passionate about focus is helping suddenly single is passionate working with Cristina Groves they enjoy.

Se divorce and death to reset and move in women supporting women in helping business owners, retirees individuals through separation, local business owners and believes Kelsey is passionate about

Cristina Groves I am proud to bring 27 years of award winning business growth and forward into their chapter life. every way supporting she can. women in and professionals.

When not divorce and deathnew to reset andofmove in women helping business owners, retirees I am proud to bring 27 years of award winning business growth and

Consultant More importantly, because thatof life.

Attention detail, assisting her clients, Kelsey forward into their new chapter management experience to the table. The last 12 ½ of these years have every waytoshe can.good listening and professionals.

When notkeeps

Consultant picture changes over time, Liana’s skills and great empathy are busy with her two young children, More importantly, because that Attention to detail, good listening assisting her clients, Kelsey keeps management experience to the table. The last 12 ½ of these years have As been with IG Wealth right here in Kamloops as a Division Director and team will be thereover to help adapt. some of her greatest assets. a Myra and Boe, husband

picture changes time,you Liana’s skills and great empathy are As busy with her two young Bryan children, As been with IG Wealth right here in Kamloops as a Division Director and Registered Retirement Consultant. I manage my own practice with my It all starts with a conversation about financial consultant IG Wealth and golden lab husband Rosie. She enjoy team will be there to help you adapt. some of her greatestwith assets.

As Myra and Boe, Bryan a

what matters to ayou and your family.

Management, Cristina specializes spending time the Shuswap, Registered Retirement Consultant. I manage my own practice with my It all starts with conversation about sin financial consultant with IG Wealth Cristina has always been inte and golden labon Rosie.

She enjoy

licensed Associate, Tina Sykes, as well as coach and mentor the seven

sin Liana moved Kamloops in in financial protection using travelling, exploring the outdoors what matters to you and your family.

Management, Cristina specializes spending time on the Shuswap, licensed Associate, Tina Sykes, as well as coach and mentor the seven lineCristina has always been inte exceptional consultants in my Division.

October 2014towith daughter insurance the first and yoga. exploring the outdoors Liana moved Kamloops in Rowen th in financialstrategies protectionas using travelling, business at 26. She went on

exceptional consultants in my Division. and is very active our community. of defence.strategies as the first October 2014 withindaughter Rowen th insurance line and yoga.

business at 26. She went on

and is very active in our community.

The promise Tina and I make to our clients: of defence.

Pr

within the franchise busines The promise Tina and I make to our clients: Pr We will be your passionate financial partners. within the franchise busines

a W We will be your passionate financial partners.

Contact us to book a free no obligation meeting.

We will help bring clarity to your own unique situation and inspire in the management of team

a W Contact us to book a free no obligation meeting.

We will help bring clarity to your own unique situation and inspire in the management of team action.

he

siness model from 2006 to 2017. She is an expert teams and implementing the best operational with a large, wellteams and implementing the best operational oops local who work across Canada and has seen oops local who work across Canada and has seen country. Cristina is passionate about working with nhances all aspects country. Cristina is passionate about working with nhances all aspects and believes in women supporting women in has accepted that I and believes in women supporting women in has accepted that I ention to detail, good listening skills and great d while I continue to ention to detail, good listening skills and great er greatest assets. As a financial consultant with d while I continue to onally. Our two sons er greatest assets. As a financial consultant with t she specializes in financial protection using onally. Our two sons es my time with them t she specializes in financial protection using the first line of defense. es my time with them the first line of defense.

Charlene Sawers

B

orn in Alberta, Charlene has come a long way from her small town beginnings. After acquiring a diploma in interior decorating and fashion design she eventually made her way to Kamloops. With hard work, determination and a little help from her family, she was able to make her passion for sewing into a career. For 31 years she has been helping others cultivate their love and passion for both sewing and quilting. An exceptional teacher, Charlene has passed on her knowledge and talents through numerous classes and events. In doing so, she has created a strong and loving environment for many, even helping a few make friends along the way. Charlene has been an active member of the community. Her children’s and teen sewing classes have allowed many in the next generation to develop useful skills and abilities that they might have never learnt. Charlene has been a strong and caring force in and out of her business for years.

Anderson’s Sewing

www.andersonsew.com andersonsewing@yahoo.ca 250.374.1154 151 Victoria Street

6 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

Mercedes Basford

B

orn and raised in Kamloops, Mercedes grew to have a strong appreciation for the area and all its beauty. After graduating From TRU, Mercedes took a year off to work at The Big Boot Inn, before heading off to Calgary to further her studies. While in Calgary, she worked in a medical and comfort shoe store, which only furthered her love and understanding of the industry. After three years of living in Calgary, Mercedes came home, wanting to raise her daughter around family. Shortly after her return the amazing opportunity to purchase the Big Boot Inn came up. With the help of family, friends and the previous owners, Mercedes was able to make her dreams into a reality. With a great amount passion and understanding, Mercedes strives to create a safe and positive environment for anyone who enters her store. Her goal is always to find the right shoe for the right person. In her eyes, everyone is Cinderella.

www.bigbootinn.com 250-372-3551 241 Victoria Street

Photo: Thomas Gibson

Patti Phillips

I

t will be going on 2 years that I have been working as Marketing and PR Director for the North Shore BIA. It has been one of the most fulfilling and enjoyable positions I have ever had. Promoting our amazing businesses and our community! I absolutely love organizing Events, I think the more complicated the better! Overlanders Day is one of the biggest events averaging 7,000 visitors! It is truly a labor of love and so great having our businesses and community joining together for such a fun family event! I deal with uplifting to pretty complicated stuff on a daily basis! You just never know what may come next! Trying to improve our neighborhood is very rewarding and frustrating all at the same time!

Where is that magic wand? I have the vision of the North Shore that will be a funky, artsy fun place to be with niche shops only found here. We will have jazz bars where you can sit back with a glass of wine, la crudité and listen to entertainment and just enjoy your evening! I know it won’t happen overnight but I am not alone in this vision. It has already started. #exploreourshore #shoplocal

Shannon Harder

S

hannon grew up in a small town in rural Saskatchewan where she was always active in multiple sports including basketball, softball, volleyball, swimming and short distance running. She moved to Kamloops (mainly to escape the ice-cold winters of Saskatchewan) in 2015, where she grew to love the sport of long distance running and a new found love of triathlon and multisport activities.

Shannon has been a New Balance Ambassador since November 2018, and loves to volunteer/participate in local running and triathlon events.

She completed her first (of many to come) triathlon in August 2019 at the Pavilion Lake Triathlon. She’s currently working towards her ultimate goal of completing an Ironman triathlon.

Shannon has been a sales associate at Runner’s Sole since January 2018 and strives to help all her customer’s get the perfect fit for any activity in their daily lives. When she’s not at the store, you can be sure to catch her running her dog, Azul, at Peterson Creek park, or anywhere along the River’s Trail. www.runnerssole.com info@runnerssole.com 250-377-4055 74-1395 Hillside Drive

www.nsbia.com 250-376-2411 115 Tranquille Road

Kim Nobert A

lternatives Funeral & Cremation Services began in Western Canada in 1992 as Personal Alternative Funeral Services, with the goal of providing consumers with a comfortable, affordable and common-sense alternative to the escalating costs found in many funeral homes. Our mission is to deliver superior value, both financially and emotionally.

Kim was born and raised in Kamloops and after 39 years found her calling as a licensed funeral director. She has attributed her “life’s lessons” to reach both her personal and professional goals. After starting her funeral director’s apprenticeship in 2011, Kim graduated Mortuary School in 2013 and was her class valedictorian. Kim was appointed as a Manager of Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services® new location in Kamloops in August 2014.

Kim married her husband Paul in 2001, and values his support of her career. Together they have three crazy rescue cats, four fantastic nephews; great parents, and many friends that she likes to share her time with when she can.

www.myalternatives.ca kamloops@myalternatives.ca 250-554-2324 4-665 Tranquille Road

Karen Watt

K

aren has spent 27 years in Kamloops, Kelowna and Prince George as an expert corporate recruiter, assisting clients open job orders with candidates searching for their dream jobs or career moves from janitors to general managers in all industries. She has grown Excel Personnel from a one-woman show to an 8 person operation with a field staff of 90+ people assisting clients on temporary staffing while working with over 4,263 permanent clients assisting in over 25,000 placements.

Thanks to the support from the community, Excel Personnel is now a multi-million-dollar company and is celebrating its best year yet. Excel has been nominated for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneurs Momentum Award for the fifth time and numerous nominations within the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce for Business Excellence.

Karen leads by example, building an atmosphere of trust and respect within her company, staff, recruiters, as well as with the candidates and clients.

Karen has just finished her second year with staff volunteer and sponsorship for Grow A Row to assist the Kamloops Food Bank and is continually giving back to the community. www.excel.bc.ca 250-374-3853 600-235 1st Ave

Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 7

Lisa Moonie

L

isa Moonie has a refreshing view of working with people that has earned her the 2019 Rookie Realtor® of the Year and the Sales Achievement Award within her first two years. “Home is MORE than a Place…it’s a Feeling” resonates deep - she loves what she does and her clients reap the benefits! She makes the home buying and selling experience as wonderful and exciting as it should be with her hard work ethic and caring nature. Lisa loves Kamloops and has raised her family here in the last 18 years - if you want a personal, heartfelt Realtor® give her a call today!

www.kamloopsandarearealestate.com lisamoonie@royallepage.ca Cell 250-320-5301 Office 250-374-1461

8 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

Kerri Priddle & Jasmine Kooner

K

erri Priddle has been a lawyer for 17 years, the last 10 have been spent in Kamloops. She is proud to call Kamloops home. Jasmine Kooner joined Kerri in 2011 while she was a law student, and the two have worked together ever since to provide effective and comprehensive legal solutions to their valued clients.

Kerri and Jasmine’s expertise in litigation, corporate law and estate planning allow them to provide their clients with a range of solutions suited to their individual needs.

www.priddlelaw.ca Office: 250-434-8911 Fax: 250-434-8589 9th Floor – 235 1st Avenue Kamloops BC, V2C 3J4

Photo: Joanne Wallcraft

Natasha Schrader

Krystin Nali

atasha was born in Kamloops and obtained her funeral director’s licence in 2003, having graduated from the Western School of Funeral Service. She is also a certified celebrant, able to assist families with creating personalized services for their loved ones. Kamloops Funeral Home and Cremation Services is a family owned and operated establishment and community is very important to Natasha. As a long time member of the Rotary she enjoys giving back, and one of her favourite Rotary events is the Food Drive. Natasha adores her fur baby Oliver, who spends his day by her side at the funeral home. Recently, she has become a grandmother to Annika, born on September 23.

hen I started Nalitech Financial Solutions in 2015, it was because I love to help people in any way I can. I understand how busy life can be and that’s why I decided to make my bookkeeping and tax return business mobile to make things easy for your schedule.

I love being able to manage the financials for business owners so that they can focus on what they do best, running their business!

I also like to keep your taxes simple and easy to understand.

It’s been an exciting year for Nalitech Financial Solutions as we have continued to grow and hired a new team member, Steven Flamank, to come on board to help the business grow even more. I am so honoured to have won the KTW Readers’ Choice award this year for bookkeeping services. I thank my clients, family, and friends for your continued support throughout the years, you’ve all helped make this possible.

N

& CREMATION SERVICES

• Family owned & operated •

W

www.nalitechfinancial.com krystin@nalitechfinancial.com 250-574-2989 1040 Holt Street

www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com 250-554-2577 285 Fortune Drive

Team Johnson Walsh Brandi Allen W

hen the phones ring at Johnson Walsh Plumbing and Heating most of the time you will hear Tara or Roberta's voice. These are the women behind the handset.

Roberta has been with Johnson Walsh for two years and in that time has gained a wealth of knowledge about furnaces, plumbing, air conditioning and fireplaces as she deals with all the service department’s scheduling and invoicing. Her background in management, Reiki and yoga makes her a strong part of the team at Johnson Walsh who go above and beyond for their customers.

As office manager, Tara fills in the blanks where scheduling is concerned, but likes leaving the organization up to Roberta. She has the best head for it. Tara is busy most days handling the marketing and accounting as well as running the showroom at 921B Laval Crescent.

It's definitely a team effort to give our customers the best customer service at Johnson Walsh. A huge thank you to all our loyal customers over the years as well as the years to come.

Roberta McLean

B

randi Allen’s career with CSI Kamloops started in 2010, when she was hired to run a provincial pilot project. Her strong background in leadership and non-profit management earned her a promotion into the role of executive director in 2019. She has been instrumental in the growth of the society, with an emphasis on support work, advocacy, and volunteer guidance. CSI Kamloops offers a wide range of services to our senior population and their families that directly impacts their quality of life. Brandi’s passion for social justice has allowed her to focus on delivering services and educational information to our aging population. Brandi is an active volunteer with a national group that focuses on domestic violence awareness and provides 24 hour support services to survivors. She grew up in the Shuswap and moved to Kamloops 20 years ago. She is the proud mother of two children and found the love of her life seven years ago.

Tara Johnson

www.johnsonwalsh.com 250-374-1822 921 B Laval Crescent

Centre for Seniors Information

www.csikamloops.ca info@csikamloops.ca 778-470-6000 brandi@csikamloops.ca

Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 9

Andrea Hansen

Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Acupuncturist and Herbalist

D

r. Andrea Hansen opened Wild Roots Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Clinic, at 614 Battle Street, shortly after moving back to Kamloops in 2007. As a very young woman, she first practiced at the Kamloops Acupuncture Clinic with Andy Soo Hoo while studying in a local science program. She then moved to Vancouver where she studied western herbal medicine and holistic nutrition before focusing her training solely in Chinese medicine through PCU College of Holistic Medicine and Tzu Chi International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Andrea practiced at Acubalance in Vancouver, a clinic predicated on a synthesis of western and Chinese medicine in reproductive health. Since that time, she has focused her theoretical and practical work on ancient classical Chinese medicine with a special focus on Han Dynasty medical texts. She is presently completing a fellowship at the Institute of Classics in East Asian Medicine with Dr. Arnaud Versluys.

One particularly influential Han Dynasty text for Andrea is the Shang Han Za Bing Lun, written around 25-220 CE. The first volume, the Shang Han Lun, outlines the physiological changes that occur in the body due to external environmental influences; the second volume, Jing Gui Yao Lue, addresses internal and complex diseases. These texts address multifarious factors, from pain conditions to pregnancyrelated issues, from cardiac diseases to hemorrhagic problems, from infections to the growth of tumors: many of the major conditions that the human body encounters. In her interpretation of these texts, Andrea follows the Tian-Zeng lineage, which uses pulse diagnosis and classical herbal medicine. Her work with the Institute of Classics in East Asian Medicine has constituted many hundreds of hours of theoretical and practical instruction.

Andrea’s teacher, Dr. Versluys—one of the only remaining holders of the Tian-Zeng lineage—trained

10 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

in traditional discipleship for many years under the tutelage of acclaimed Shang Han master Dr. Zeng Rongxiu.

Andrea provides the full scope of Chinese medicine including herbs, acupuncture, and cupping.

She is joined in her clinic by registered acupuncturist Shawna Wafler. Together, they provide six full treatment days per week in the clinic, supported by office manager Kari Wafler. Wild Roots also provides space for a massage therapist and two clinical counselors. The clinic is in a quaint, repurposed heritage home near the intersection of 6th Avenue and Battle Street in downtown Kamloops. The ambiance of the clinic is thoughtfully designed to be welcoming, comfortable, soothing, and warm.

Aside from the pleasure of her work, Andrea’s joy is her family.

Her husband is a high school teacher and her daughters attend a French immersion program.

Andrea and her daughters practise

Teuk-Gong, a Korean military martial art; for Andrea, a good spar with a well-matched opponent brings great satisfaction. The family enjoys skiing at Stake Lake and Harper Mountain, leisurely summer bike rides on Rivers Trail, back-country horseback riding at Andrea’s childhood friends’ ranch in Ashcroft and, when holidays permit, spending time by the ocean on Bowen Island.

Andrea is licensed as a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine through the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturist of British Columbia, the regulatory body for Chinese medicine in BC.

www.wildrootsclinic.ca dr.andreahansen@gmail.com 250-682-7289 614 Battle Street, Kamloops BC

Photo: Valery Warren

MaryAnn Shewchuk Annie O’Dwyer

M

aryAnn was born and raised in Uncas, Alberta and moved to Barriere in 1990. She started working with Drake Cremation in Clearwater in 2005 and graduated as a licensed funeral director and embalmer in 2012. MaryAnn is the manager of the North Thompson Valley region with Drake Cremation and meets with families throughout the North Thompson Valley, Kamloops and surrounding areas. MaryAnn has two children and five grandchildren and the support of Tim.

Erin Saunders

E

rin is a longtime Kamloops local who spent many of her adult years exploring different places in the world, but to her Kamloops was always home. The funeral profession was her dream. Now she is a licensed funeral director and embalming apprentice set to graduate in 2020. Erin feels honoured to go through this program in her home community. Her partner Ryan is her biggest supporter, along with their dog Georgia and bunny Alfie.

DrakeCremation.com 250-377-8225 425 Tranquille & 210 Lansdowne

Photo: Jennifer Maier

A

nnie arrived in Canada in 1994 from Manchester, England, and fell in love with B.C. and with amazing natural granite. “My career in sales of stone began in 2002 and I have worked in the industry ever since. I love it!”

Annie assists her customers to achieve beautiful installations of top quality countertops in their home.

“Access Countertops are stone specialists and we help you to build your dream kitchen. We have the best tools and technology in Kamloops to cut your marble, granite or quartz perfectly. We know what’s on trend and how best to increase your home value. I love a good challenge, please feel free to drop in. Lets share kitchen counter ideas!” she says.

Annie loves her job, working with her clients, and the Access team and has no plans to leave the business any time soon.

On the weekends, she loves to fly, to drive nice cars (she has champagne tastes), and to explore beautiful BC. One of their clients writes: “We love our countertops. The lines in the sink are perfect, seams are flawless, very impressed. Their crew is amazing and then there is Annie, the sales lady - she is a rock star. She is very helpful and pleasant to deal with. A total 5 Star company! www.accesscountertops.ca 778-471-4488 912A Laval Crescent

Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 11

PAUL & COMPANY LAWYERS • Mediators

172 Battle street • 250-828-9998 www.kamloopslaw.com

Lorianna Bennett

Kelly Melnyk

Lorianna is a co-owner of Paul & Company and her practice focuses on family and personal injury (plaintiff) litigation. She has taught family law and dispute resolution at the TRU Faculty of Law and commercial law at the TRU School of Business. She also writes decisions for the Health Professions Review Board and is chair of the quality assurance committee for the Provincial Health Services Authority Board.

Lorianna’s spare time is consumed by ranching and rodeoing with her husband and three children. She also spends time mentoring others on the importance of work/life balance through health and fitness coaching.

Lorianna is a past recipient of the CBABC Community Service Award, the Thompson Rivers University Distinguished Alumni Award for Community Service, and the Kamloops Readers’ Choice Award for “One of the Best Lawyers.”

After graduating from TRU Law School in 2016, Kelly practised in the Okanagan before joining the team at Paul & Company in January of 2019 as a solicitor with litigation experience. Kelly’s practice areas include elder law, corporate law, wills and estates, and real estate. Kelly’s practice in elder law focuses on files with capacity issues and situations unique to seniors.

Kelly has a passion for assisting those with dementia and cognitive impairments, having witnessed the effect of these illnesses within her own family.

Kelly is the proud vice-president and director of the Centre for Seniors Information. Kelly also sits as a director with the Kamloops Bar Association.

Additionally, Kelly is a member of the local agriculture community, operating a farm with her husband and their dog, Lucy. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys golfing and spending time in Sun Peaks in all seasons.

Jeanine Ball

Natalie Paul

Jeanine is a third-year Associate at Paul & Company. Her primary areas of practice are family law and criminal law (especially youth criminal matters). She appears regularly in both Provincial and Supreme Court. Jeanine is currently Secretary of the Kamloops Bar Association.

She has guest lectured on the issue of Family Violence for the Family Law course at Thompson Rivers University and has presented on the same topic at conferences for the Legal Services Society.

Jeanine has lived in Kamloops since she began law school at Thompson Rivers University in 2013. Prior to law school, Jeanine worked for 10 years at the YMCA of Greater Vancouver. She is Vice-Chair of the Kamloops Community YM/YWCA Board of Directors. Outside of her professional work, Jeanine is one of the organizers of the KBRA Kids League, a popular series of mountain bike races for kids ages 7-12 in Kamloops. Jeanine is an avid mountain biker and skier and loves spending time in Sun Peaks and Whistler.

Born and raised in Kamloops, Natalie obtained her Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology at TRU before obtaining her law degree at TRU. Her practice areas include family law, personal injury, wills and estates law, and animal law, with a focus on animal welfare.

Natalie is currently working part-time on her Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution from Osgoode University. Outside of work and studying, Natalie volunteers with the BC Lawyers Assistance Program and sings with the Kamloops Jazz Vespers. Her hobbies include singing, baking, hiking, travelling, and studying languages.

University majors that can lead to

HIGHER

EARNINGS Choosing a university major is an important decision that many students delay making until their sophomore or even junior years. Only after taking a few courses and uncovering one’s interests do some university students figure out what they want to do with their lives.

Each student is different, and while some may pursue a degree based on a particular passion, others may choose majors that can lead to high-paying jobs.

While men often lean toward majors like engineering and computer science that have traditionally been linked to high earnings, women have historically gravitated to lower-paying specialties like education and social sciences. But in recent years a shift has occurred, and more women have begun to choose majors associated with higher postgraduate salaries.

Reports from the career guidance site Glassdoor analyzed how much male and female professionals with the same university degree earned and identified many instances in which women went on to earn more than men in the first five years of their career. They’ve identified several majors where female university graduates can earn as much or more than their male counterparts and find successful careers.

• Architecture • Pharmaceutical sciences • Information sciences • Chemical engineering • Computer science • Electrical engineering • Mechanical engineering • Computer engineering • Business economics • Civil engineering • Sports management Female students unsure of which major they want to pursue can take career assessments to help narrow down their options. Working with mentors or engaging in internships also can present a first-hand idea of high-paying career paths.

14 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

WOMEN DECLINING IN WORKFORCE A t its peak in 1999, the North American workforce was dominated by female workers. At that time, 76 percent of women, including those who had children at home, worked outside of the home, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The tides have since shifted and rates of female employment now fall well behind many European countries.

Economic woes, a short supply of middleclass jobs and minimal family leave may have prompted the changes.

According to a study from researchers at Johns Hopkins University, single women without children have actually driven the turnaround. Technology and international outsourcing have removed many low-skill, well-paying jobs from the workforce. Wages for work in healthcare services, laundry and social assistance — jobs dominated by women — have remained relatively stagnant for years. Despite this, the cost of living has steadily crept up.

Other households tout the high cost of childcare and the relatively small amount of maternity leave allowed in the United States as reasons why they haven’t returned to the workforce after having children. The economic analysis resource The Upshot, powered by The New York Times, reports

that many American companies give 12 weeks of maternity leave (largely unpaid), while most European countries give a year of paid leave and offer protections for part-time workers who want to return to the workforce. According to data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Australia, Germany, and France now outrank the U.S. in prime-age women’s labor force participation.

The role women play as caregivers, not only for their own children or spouses, but for aging parents, also may be contributing to females dropping out of the labor force.

A chronic-needs family member, such as a parent with dementia, can take away focus from employment. This can quickly result in a loss of a job.

Employers interested in keeping talented women in the workforce can change corporate policies to reflect changes in modern society, including higher divorce rates, college debt and the higher cost of living. Flexibility in schedules, modernized work environments that focus on mobile connectivity from home and lack of negative repercussions for needing family time can help keep talented female employees working.

Boost your business:

GO BEYOND BORDERS As a small business owner, you might think that exporting is only for big businesses or that differences in language and culture might deter you from exploring new areas.

Yet, exploring new markets is a smart growth strategy for businesses that supply both goods and services. And, with programs like the CanExport Grant and other supports, it may be worth the investment.

Adopting a business owner

MINDSET

S

ome women dream of running their own business, with visions of picking up contracts when they want to or being able to have their children at home while they run their business.

It’s true, entrepreneurship can provide flexibility and the chance to pursue work you’re passionate about. But if you want to turn your dream into a real venture, you need to have the mindset of a business owner.

What exactly is a business owner mindset?

One of the easiest ways to start believing in your business is to truly know who you are, what you do well and what your core values are. Your business will reflect this every day.

Having the mindset of a business owner means: 1. Knowing that the end result of having a business is to make money. This doesn’t have to be your only motivator, but you’re either going to have a hobby that makes you a little extra money or you’re going to have a business that requires a higher level of commitment.

2. Planning ahead so you can work towards getting there. Set S.M.A.R.T. goals with measurable milestones and put your vision down on paper in the form of a business plan. A business plan makes decision-making easier, reminds you of your goals and defines the strategies you will use to achieve them.

3. Thinking for yourself versus letting other people think for you. Take some time to think, document and research on your own.

4. Being more strategic about your business activity. Don’t just go to any networking event or take on any job; know what results you want before taking on a business activity. Do you know how much it really costs you to attend a networking event? In order to recoup your investment, your reasons should align with your business goals and vision.

5. Being able to take calculated risks. You might want to ask yourself, “What is my tolerance for risk?” The most successful entrepreneurs will tell you that they’ve had to step outside their comfort zone to experience real growth.

It’s important to remember that being in business for yourself doesn’t mean you’re in business by yourself. As you build your business, make sure you ask for help and access the many supports that are available including Women’s Enterprise Centre, Community Futures and other organizations.

Adapted from the free Taking the Leap to Entrepreneurship guide by Women’s Enterprise Centre (WEC), which is available for download online at wec.ca/Start. WEC is a non-profit organization devoted to helping B.C. women start, lead and grow their own businesses. More information is online at womensenterprise.ca.

If you want to grow your business, here are four reasons to get into the international market:

1. Increase profits: It’s no surprise as new markets mean more sales and, with a larger market base, your profits can grow very quickly.

2. M anage risk: We all know the cliché, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”

Diversifying into different markets can help you mitigate risk so your profit isn’t confined to your domestic market.

3. I ncrease your competitiveness and innovation: The global marketplace is very competitive and competition breeds innovation. By improving your business processes and innovating, you not only succeed in the overseas market, but also enhance the value of your business in the domestic market.

4. Expand your product life-cycle: Even if your product loses its novelty in the domestic market, you can still find a market abroad where this product can be regarded as new. If you have manufacturing processes in place to create your products, it helps to tap into overseas markets to maximize your manufacturing capacity.

Exporting is not tough if you prepare well.

There are many programs available to help you export and Women’s Enterprise Centre provides complimentary export support for women business owners who are exploring international trade, including free webinars available online at wec.ca/MAF. Contributed by Women’s Enterprise Centre, a nonprofit organization devoted to helping B.C. women start, lead and grow their own businesses. Learn more about personalized growth and export support at wec. ca/Growth. The centre’s full range of services include business loans up to $150,000, personalized business advice, skills training, mentoring, resources and a supportive community to help women entrepreneurs realize their business potential. More information is online at www.WomensEnterprise.ca.

Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 15

Take a cue from

SUCCESSFUL WOMEN W

omen had another successful year in 2015. According to the Fortune 500 list, 2015 tied the record set for the highest number of female CEOs in America’s largest companies by revenue. Twentyfour women, including Mary Barra of General Motors, Meg Whitman of Hewlett-Packard and Ginny Rometty of IBM, made the list.

Although women make up 45 percent of the labor force and only 5 percent head Fortune 500 companies, women are making greater strides than ever before. For example, in 1998, just one woman led a Fortune 500 company, according to Pew Research Center.

Certain traits could help propel successful women to the top. Here’s a look at some of the ways female professionals can overcome professional hurdles and make their mark.

Recognize your strengths Today’s professionals are less likely than their predecessors to stick with one company or line of work for their entire working lives. But just because you change jobs or career paths does not mean your past experience is useless. Successful women know what they do best, whether it’s public speaking, writing or making sales pitches.

Apply those strengths when looking for a new job or career.

16 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

Know when to ask for help Even the most accomplished women have limitations. Asking for help when you need it can help you overcome those limitations. To be good at what you do, you first have to learn from others. Sometimes the smartest way to overcome an obstacle is having several hands on deck to provide a boost. Thinking that the work is better left to you alone could be a mistake.

Enlist help when you need it and never hesitate to ask for another perspective.

Go easy on yourself While many successful people strive for perfection, achieving perfection is unlikely, if not impossible.

Successful people often admit to being their own worst critics, but don’t beat yourself up if you endure some trial and error. Mistakes can be a great teacher, so use any you make to your advantage.

Be passionate about what you do Women who maintain passion about their careers are more likely to overcome any challenges and stand out in the workplace.

If your profession is not stoking any passion, explore alternate career opportunities.

Make time for exercise A sluggish body can make for a sluggish mind.

Successful people need to be sharp, and exercise can help them maintain their mental focus.

According to John J. Ratey, Ph.D., a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, muscles send hormones rushing to the brain where they mix with a substance called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF. BDNF plays a role in brain cell growth and learning. Without it, brains can’t absorb new information or grow and learn. Exercise also helps relieve stress, which can make resolutions easier to see and make tasks less overwhelming.

Don’t be afraid to take risks Successful women are not afraid to take risks.

Many may have decided they don’t fit a specific mold and want to affect change. However, calculated risks are different from reckless decisions, and it is important to recognize the difference. A calculated risk may involve starting your own business after learning the ropes in a specific field and testing the waters. Reckless behavior would be opening that business with no relevant experience.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Women invited to ReCharge Innovative Chamber event powered by Leadercast Women at Quaaout Lodge Nov. 8

T

he Kamloops Chamber of Commerce has been hard at work lately putting together some new and innovative events unlike any they had done before.

The first was Kamloops tomorrow, a look at what the city might look like in 30 years.

Next on their agenda is event called ReCharge, powered by Leadercast Women, which will feature nine different women speakers throughout the day on Nov. 8.

Katie Neustaeter, owner of Refraction Communications, will host.

While the Chamber has hosted Leadercast events in the past, this will be the first event powered by Leadercast Women.

The event is being put together in partnership with the Quaaout Lodge & Spa in Chase, and attendants can sign up for just for the event, or for an extended, overnight stay that will include accommodations, a four-course meal, a traditional smudging ceremony and a traditional storyteller presenting The Story of the Warrior.

Prices start at $225, with lower rates for Chamber members and for groups. Packages start at $595 and it seems clear that the overnight

stay is the ideal way to experience the event.

Acacia Pangilinan, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce, said one of the goals for this event was to remove everyone from their everyday settings and take them on more of a cultural getaway.

“ReCharge is a transformative leadership retreat,” she said.

“We’re happy to have partnered with Quaaout Lodge.”

Speakers who will be participating at the event include Deshauna Barber, Francesca Gino, Glennon Doyle, Kate Delaney, Kendra Scott, Laura Ling, Luvvie Ajayi, Priya Parker and Susan Packard.

Speakers will be broadcast on an HD simulcast from an event in Atlanta, Georgia.

“It does have quite the variety of content, all geared around leadership and personal development,” Pangilinan said.

“Participants will have the opportunity to actually reflect on the content that’s being delivered.”

More information and tickets for the event are available at www.kamloopschamber.ca.

Acacia Pangilinan Kamloops Chamber Executive Director

Women in Trades The Women in Trades initiative offers a number of programs to help women start or move ahead with a career in the trades.

More info: witt@tru.ca | 778.471.8365 | tru.ca/witt womenintrades | womenintradestru

Brought to you by: Women in Trades, TRU

TT20011

Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 17

How working parents can

CREATE A BETTER

WORK-LIFE BALANCE

M

any working parents struggle to maintain a healthy balance between their responsibilities at work and their obligations to their families. An inability to maintain that healthy balance can have adverse effects on men and women’s careers as well as the relationships they have with their families.

A 2015 survey of more than 2,000 adults commissioned by the workplace solution provider Workfront found that 38 percent of survey participants have missed life events because of a bad work-life balance. Access to technology that means work is never too far away might contribute to poor work-life balance, as 57 percent of respondents also acknowledged feeling that technology has ruined the definition of a family dinner.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is no small task for today’s working parents.

But such a goal is possible. Finding a healthy balance between work and life at home may require a concerted effort on the part of working parents, but there are ways to successfully juggle a career and family.

18 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

Set reasonable goals Much of the difficulty people experience in regard to finding a healthy work-life balance may be a byproduct of working parents spreading themselves too thin. Setting reasonable goals can help avoid that, but doing so requires taking commitments to one’s employer and family into consideration before agreeing to new projects or setting deadlines. This should be applied to both work and home. If a work deadline is unreasonable, professionals should discuss that with their employers. At home, parents should avoid taking on too many projects, such as chaperoning a child’s dance or coaching a sports team, if doing so will adversely affect the amount of time they get to spend with their families.

Look for ways to be more efficient Interactions with coworkers can make work more enjoyable, but working parents should not spend too much time shooting the breeze with their fellow employees. Doing so wastes time and only contributes to work-related stress.

Commuters who don’t drive themselves to work can be more efficient by using their commutes to read emails, arrange meetings or catch up on projects. Doing so allows for more time to get work done while in the office, which can make it easier to go home on time.

Request changes to work schedules

While technology may have largely eliminated the separation between the office and home, working parents can use that to their advantage Perhaps the simplest and most effective way for by asking their employees to alter their work parents to regain a healthy work-life balance is schedules. Telecommuting one or two days a to unplug their devices. Employing “Do not week can help parents feel more connected to disturb” settings on smartphones and turning off their families, while flex schedules can ensure tablets can ensure parents don’t spend their time at working parents don’t miss any of their children’s home working but connecting with their families. dance recitals or weekday afternoon ballgames.

Unplug when you get home

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Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 19

Learn how to be more

ASSERTIVE in your the workplace

G

ender equality in the professional arena has come a long way in the 21st century. But while great strides have been made over the last two decades, women still face challenges unique to females as they look to establish themselves professionally and advance their careers.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women still earn roughly 80 percent of what men are paid in the same positions. Professional women often must walk the thin line between being too nice or too aggressive, a pressure not often faced by men.

Assertiveness in the workplace can help female professionals achieve their goals and showcase their value. It is an art for both genders, and women can take steps to be more assertive without giving the impression they’re ruffling feathers.

20 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

Be confident in your speech It is easy to fall into “weaker language” habits when advocating for an idea. If unsure about the reaction to a proposal, you might say, “I think this is a good idea” or “I believe this will impart change.” More assertive language is to simply stand behind the point: “This is a good idea.” Confidence can go a long way.

Be proactive and future-oriented This is expecially pertinent when asking for raises or promotions. Explain to a boss how you respect yourself and that your work merits the right compensation. Point out clearly defined future goals and successes you’ve had that warrant consideration for higher pay.

Allow people to disagree It is acceptable for others to disagree with you.

This can lead to discussion and an opportunity to present evidence why something should be done in a certain way. It also enables you to point out the strong points in their argument.

Listening to all ideas can sway people in your favor, even if they don’t necessarily agree with all you believe in.

Don’t fear conflict Conflict doesn’t have to be confrontational, especially when respectable language is used and everyone is allowed to voice their opinions. Conflict can inspire great change.

And remember, while you need to have solid relationships with coworkers, they do not have to be your best friends.

Women of Pharmacy

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How can we help?

BECKY CA to MLA Stone

ANDREA CA to MLA Milobar

Todd Stone and Peter Milobar MLA’s constituency offices are available to help you with issues that pertain to provincial government policies and programs. Our job is to ensure you’ve connected with the correct department or agency that is best suited to respond to your needs. If you are not sure which ministry is best suited to help you

Peter Milobar, MLA Kamloops – North Thompson

www.petermilobarmla.ca

618B Tranquille Road, Kamloops, BC Phone: 250.554.5413 Toll Free: 1.888.299.0805 peter.milobar.mla@leg.bc.ca

KATRINA CA to MLA Stone

or your situation is complex, we can help you navigate through the bureaucracy. We can help ensure that due process is being followed and provide government documents, legislation and other web-based forms if you don’t have internet access. We can be reached by phone, email or in person. Our offices are looking forward to helping you.

Todd Stone, MLA

Kamloops – South Thompson

www.toddstonemla.ca

446 Victoria Street, Kamloops, BC Phone: 250.374.2880 Toll Free: 1.888.474.2880 todd.stone.mla@leg.bc.ca

Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20 | 21

Be SAFE, HEALTHY and HAPPY in the workplace while pregnant

C

ongratulations, you are pregnant. The next several months are certain to include many changes as you prepare for the arrival of your child. Whether you have been pregnant before or are about to become a mom for the first time, each experience is unique. And while dealing with the unexpected is part of being pregnant, pregnant women should expect their employers to treat them fairly as they continue to work.

The first thing pregnant working women should know is that they have the right to work while pregnant. In the United States, it has been illegal to discriminate against pregnant women in the workplace since 1978, when the Pregnancy Discrimination Act was passed.

Canadian women also have similar rights under the Canadian

Human Rights Act. But in spite of those laws, some employers may be less receptive to their female employees’ pregnancies, with some insisting they harbor good intentions, such as the woman’s safety. Businesses cannot fire employees for being pregnant, and many courts have ruled that decisions about the safety of the woman and fetus are up to the employee and her doctor, not her boss. On the same token, a company cannot refuse to hire a person simply because she’s pregnant.

While pregnancy is a natural occurrence and one female bodies can accommodate, in some instances, work requirements may threaten the safety or the health of the fetus.

Therefore, employers are under a duty to accommodate female workers who may need to modify their duties due to their pregnancies. This can be a collaborative discussion, with

22 | Women of the Thompson Valley 2019/20

both the employer and employee coming to a solution that works best for them. It is the employer’s responsibility to accommodate pregnant employees by removing barriers that may limit those employees’ ability to do their jobs.

Each instance should be looked at individually.

Under the Family and Medical Leave Act, women in the United States are entitled to 12 weeks maternity leave.

Women can choose to use a portion of that maternity leave even before their children are born if physical limitations are making it challenging for them to continue working. Women should put their health and the safety of their unborn children ahead of their responsibilities at work. In addition, women should not hesitate to speak with their employers about their comfort

levels while pregnant. If an issue arises, speak with your boss, who deserves the benefit of the doubt.

In some instances, breastfeeding also is protected by law at job sites or at the office. It is best for women to familiarize themselves with breastfeeding policies ahead of time so they can make the proper accommodations.

Pregnant women should discuss with their doctors which work activities are permissible and which should be avoided at particular times in the pregnancy.

Every effort should be made to avoid toxic substances, and pregnant women should not lift heavy items or engage in any potentially risky physical activity. For more information about workplace rights, visit the Canadian Human Rights Commission at www.chrc-ccdp.ca.

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