Photo courtesy of Cecilia Foster
“To learn, to share, to network and be inspired.”
That was the goal, in the words of co-organizer Kelly Sidoryk, at the 12th Inspiring Women’s Conference, held at the Lloyd Ex on Feb.1.
“Time has gone by quickly but we have so much support and we really value the community we’re part of. It’s the community that makes this happen,” said Sidoryk.
“As you’ve heard, almost everybody involved in this is fairly local to our region or a little bit beyond. That’s what makes this a great place to work and live.”
This year’s conference brought over 350 women together for a day of inspiration and connection—which is this year’s theme.
“We really encourage everyone to make a new friend or build those other connections they already have. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a stay-at-home mom or you’re working at an office, we want you to come and be here today and create a connection with your community,” said co-organizer Terra Weaver.
“To kind of spend a day investing in yourself. Leaving here maybe inspired to go on and pursue some of your goals and dreams that maybe have been in the back of your mind, and you can go ahead and give them a try after a day like today. We think it’s important to have a day like that in Lloyd.”
This year’s keynote speaker was, life, leadership and business coach, Debra Kasowski, who brought a wealth of positivity, as well as her own story to share with attendees.
“The ladies—Kelly and Terra have blown me away. The event here is so upscale. The energy in the room in phenomenal, and I am so excited to take the stage and take that energy level just a little bit higher!” exclaimed Kasowski.
“I think it’s so important to be empowered as women to stand in who you are with conviction and confidence and be able to really, truly step into the best version of yourself.”
Kasowski’s presentation focused on overcoming challenges and the tools and strategies that can be used to come out of them even stronger than before.
Just weeks ago, Kasowski’s mother was hospitalized with pneumonia, which resulted in a stroke. At first she was unable to move or speak, but she’s made improvements each day through strength and determination.
When asked who she is inspired by, Kasowski said there are many inspiring women in her life, but her mom tops the list.
“We do have our ups and downs. The journey is still going to be a long one, but she inspires me. I am the oldest of five kids and she has demonstrated being a farmwife, a health care worker.”
“Until she got sick with this pneumonia, she was a 72-year-old health care worker, working as a health care aid in a long-term care home, loving seniors to pieces. Almost full-time, sometimes more than full-time. She’s a go-getter,” said Kasowski.
She also discussed some personal challenges she has been facing due to a neurological eye condition she was diagnosed with after COVID.
The condition started to affect her everyday life. She would wear sunglasses and started doing audio-focused podcasts rather than video.
“What I came to realize is ‘I can’t hide, I have a podcast, I do audio and video.’ Sometimes my eyes will grimace, my face will change. But what I’ve learned is, this is where I’m at on the journey, and to hide it doesn’t serve anyone,” said Kasowski.
“I got to a place of acceptance of where I’m at, and to take people along, that when they have a challenge in their lives it doesn’t mean you’re discarded or you need to silence yourself or hide from the world. I want people to walk amongst each other knowing we’re here to support them and love them along the way.”
Sidoryk and Weaver say they are thrilled with how the event has evolved, and they are grateful to their sponsors and attendees for making it happen.
“Of course, as it’s grown and there’s more numbers, there have been some logistics around that. But we’re very fortunate to have the connection and the partnership with the students from Lakeland College. Even just nametags at registration, giveaway bags … they also play a part in introducing speakers, moderating the panels, so we really value working with them,” said Sidoryk, adding the number of sponsors is steadily increasing as well.
“Cenovus Energy is our headlining sponsor and we really appreciate them, along with all the other ones that have really helped to make this a great day. I think what it’s really about, is creating that space where women can come together.”
