Deadline looms to nominate inspirational woman in business

By Medicine Hat News on April 9, 2024.

There is only one week left to nominate local women who have made an impact in the business community for the 2024 Women in Business Inspire Award.

Organizers say nominees don’t have to be business owners but rather women who are involved in the field of business, have significant achievements or act as a mentor and role model.

“Nominees for this award are women who inspire you,” says Joleine Hartman, Women in Business vice chair, “They could inspire you to do more, give more, be more, work harder, all of those kinds of things.

“They’re a trendsetter and a risk taker. They contribute to the business community, they may have some philanthropic contributions.”

Last year’s Inspire Award recipient Jennifer Kerslake is the director of community engagement for Medicine Hat College and was instrumental in the creation of the Beej Project, a mental health initiative that supports communities following tragic events.

“She’s really involved in the community and sits on different boards and committees,” explains Hartman. “They found that she is an ally to people and holds a strong commitment to truth and reconciliation and steadfast in her belief in providing safe spaces.”

This year’s Inspire Award winner will be chosen from the committee and honoured at the Inspire Luncheon on June 7.

The event will celebrate all the inspiring women who have received nominations and feature a guest panel including three of last year’s nominees.

“We ask them just simple questions,” says Hartman. “How do you stay motivated? Or, how do you inspire other people? Or, what’s your idea of work life balance?”

To cap off the event, Kerslake will have the opportunity to pass on her honour to this year’s Inspire Award winner.

The nomination period ends April 15, nominations can be made online at wibmedicinehat.com/inspire-award-nomination. Nominees must live in or around Medicine Hat.

The Inspire Luncheon will be held June 7 at the Medicine Hat Lodge will registration opening at 11:30 am. Tickets for the Luncheon will be on sale April 25.

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