International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day
We’re happy to share our first Blog with you, one that highlights the stories of women in business! For International Women’s Day we interviewed Toronto’s women leaders to chat about their triumphs, experiences, and work ethic. Sharing our perspectives will hopefully answer questions, inspire and motivate our readers.
Jordana Bauco //
Broker and Partner
What advice would you give to your younger self?
“Live less in worry and more in faith. Trust yourself! You have all the skills and assets to become something GREAT”.
What were you doing before you started your business?
Before becoming a Real Estate Broker, I was working at TD Canada Trust, a full-time freelance graphic designer and selling my custom artwork. My art was strictly a passion project but it really propelled me forward while I was getting started in Real Estate in my early 20’s.
When we asked Jordana to name a few phrases she’s been told throughout her career that she didn’t agree with, she said:
“Don’t work so hard, just marry rich”
“When the plethora of people spewed this phrase at me, it would make me crazy. What does this even mean???”
“I think we are capable of sacrifice. My stance is that money and happiness doesn’t correlate. Also, men shouldn’t be the only ones responsible to provide. I would always just nod and laugh this one-off.”
1) Am I not capable of making my own money?
2) Are women that empty and shallow to just be with someone for money? So what?…they can buy shoes? Really… ?
Jordana reminds us to consistently push yourself out of your comfort zone, when asked about how she propels her visions forward.
“I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone almost daily in this business. You are faced with new and unique challenges every day that make you into a better and more experienced broker. No two client scenarios are the same, so I knew the only way to grow my business and offer more expertise in the fields of commercial real estate, land, pre-constriction, low rise, high rise, new areas etc was to go out and do it”.
Jordana talks about her mother when asked about the influential women in her life.
“My mothers constant support, positivity, and love.”
I also really had to inspire and trust myself. I think women are extremely strong as a whole, A LOT is expected of us and there is another gear that women host for their strength. All while being the most nurturing creatures on this earth!”
Danielle Labonte // Graphic Designer
Danielle shares with us that self-doubt is only temporary and it stems from a place of fear. Danielle was inspired to create a life on her own terms, running her business and choosing to fight for it every day. She reminds us that
“It's okay to have bad days, but when it comes down to it, it's time to face future challenges confidently. You are enough and deserve anything that comes your way”.
Often heard in the creative industry is the phrase “How are you going to make money”. This was something Danielle heard from family members and teachers often. Danielle began to see that this was due to “complete ignorance and lack of education”. As long as you work hard and set clear goals you will succeed. Creativity is not something that can be replaced, it is a skill that will always be in demand. Always Remember You Are Enough:)
Meghan Yuri Young // Media and Wellness
What were you doing before you started your business?
“I’ve been in media since university, interning at various magazines…most notably ELLE Canada. I landed a full-time writing gig at an online publication, which gave me a ton of freedom to work from home and even while travelling (which is how I spent the majority of my 20s). Then I made the transition to work for myself about 7 years ago! I stayed in the media space blogging and social media-ing (haha) but more centered around my lifestyle and wellness in general”.
Strong women raise strong women is as empowering as it gets.
Meghan is lucky to have had a strong woman in her life, her “nana was a house-flipping, hard working force who taught Meghan me that you can hustle outside of her 9-5”. A lot of it involves long term goals and patience”. When you are a strong woman that intimidates people, “stay in your lane” is a phrase that Meghan has overheard that stems from insecurity. Those who believe the idea that people “shouldn’t experiment, explore, and grow their passions and interests are not only limiting but dangerous. Humans are complex individuals with multiple interests that intersect when given the opportunity to flourish and connect”.
When we asked, “Co-founder Elisabetta Costa shares that she has been told she is “too stubborn”. They say stubborn, we say dedicated. Share with us a phrase you’ve been told and had to overcome.”.
Meghan expressed that she too is stubborn. “I’m also pretty stubborn myself, so even though I’ve been given (or overheard) some bad advice before, I’m good at ignoring them to do what I feel is best for me”
Even though we have been in a lockdown Meghan has still been able to flourish and connect with others through S.O.F.T (Sad’s Opportunity for Therapy)
“a program where a micro-grant of $1000 for those facing systematic and financial barriers when seeking mental health services. They have partnered with various community organizations over the last year to give these grants to those who need them and are always accepting donations to keep these grants going”.
Through all of Meghan’s success, she has noticed an increase in anxiety. It is important to take care of yourself through these difficult times. Meghan recommends “staying active, making time for yourself, and being honest with yourself”. Your mental health should be a priority.