In light of International Women’s Day, Moose FM is shining a light on local female leaders who are making a difference in their communities.
The global event celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, and also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
For Isabel Bottigoni, Owner of 1000 Island Miniature Golf Club in Brockville, the day is about equality and encouraging all women to maximize their potential.
“Women are so strong around the world and I just want to see more women in levels of power so that we can all work together. I know that sounds like an answer to a beauty pageant question, but it’s not. It really means something to me, women in power perform.”
Bottigoni says one of her role models growing up was her Aunt Isabel, who was a nun with the Catholic Church for nearly 50 years.
Bottigoni’s aunt left the church in her 60s, and eventually got married – which was a transition that her niece deeply resonated with.
She says her message to young women takes a page from her aunt, that it’s never too late to try new things you may be passionate about.
“You have to be dedicated to yourself and understand who you are before you move forward with anything,” Bottigoni said. “I myself have done so many different jobs, and I truly believe that you need to keep trying until you succeed.”
For Natalie Brundige, who owns two businesses, Lakeshore Massage Therapy Health & Wellness Clinic in Morrisburg, and Heritage House Health Spa in Winchester; her message echoes Bottigoni in never giving up on yourself.
One of her role models growing up was a woman who she worked with through her high school’s co-operative learning program.
That same woman now happens to work with Brundige at her Winchester location.
At one point, Brundige ran her business independently, but today, she has a team of 19 women across both her locations, to help her meet the needs of her clients.
“To me, it’s all of us helping each other and helping others. We all share the same passion, and together we’re able to do it,” Brundige said. “We support each other, and support our community, which in return always supports us, and I’m really appreciative of that.”
The theme for this year’s celebration is #ChooseToChallenge, encouraging people to challenge the status quo, and to call out gender bias and inequality.
Head here to learn more about International Women’s Day, and how you can make a difference.