As part of an International Women's Day feature, the Peak asked qathet region entrepreneurs about their journeys in business. Here are the responses from Rachel Blaney (North Island-Powell River MP):
What advice do you have for aspiring women entrepreneurs or professionals?
Surround yourself with an amazing team such as the NDP caucus, who are a daily inspiration and support system. The future needs more resilient, bold women joining politics and I look forward to seeing that.
What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry?
Before entering politics, I was a community leader on Vancouver Island, serving as the executive director of the Immigrant Welcome Centre of North Vancouver Island and worked collaboratively with a network of small businesses. It was important to me to continue helping people, to become a strong voice in parliament for those who are too often ignored by the federal government and to work toward real solutions that improve people’s lives.
How has your journey shaped your approach to business?
My journey is continuously changing but my approach has stayed the same, which is to be consistent and never lose sight of the values I began with in this changing world.
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