THE WOMEN’S ISSUE

Happy 16th birthday to what I often consider my real first born child… the magazine you are holding in your hands! Each April we celebrate ourselves and the dedication of our team to bringing this publication to life every single month for the last 16 years. Through hurricanes and pandemics, we had not missed an issue since we were founded in April 2007. That’s 192 issues; 192 covers; 192 storyboards; 192 rounds of advertisers; 192 press days… all to bring you this publication, without fail.

I joined the team with Point of Vue in July 2007 as a sales person. Over the years, there’s not much I haven’t done here, most recently stepping into the role of associate publisher in 2021, while also jumping into the role of business development. (I’ve also been known to fix a toilet, wash the windows and sweep the sidewalks should the need arise!) In my heart, I believe our community deserves a publication like this one. A creative space to learn about the amazing things those around us are doing. It’s such an honor each month to share the stories of the people and businesses that make the Terrebonne-Lafourche area so unique and strong. Each month as we do our final edit and readthrough, I am always awestruck by the final product. From the story subjects themselves, to our gifted writers and photographers that bring the stories to life, to the graphics team that ties it all together on the pages you see, it all comes together to create an amazing publication that you can’t find anywhere else. Thank you for supporting us and our local advertisers over the years! We couldn’t do it without you!

Our first Women’s Issue appeared in PoV six years ago in 2018. In each issue, we have shared with you wonderful stories of women in our community who have made a difference in the world around them. It is a joy to visit with these women and see all they have to offer.

This year, we share the stories of two young women who are just at the very beginning of their stories. While they both have worked extremely hard to forge the path they are on, the world is theirs to level up in. These bright young women can certainly stand as role models for others as symbols of what hard work and dedication (and a lot of fun!) can provide for you.

High school student Claire Wiley has taken her love of the outdoors and of fishing to the next level. As a brand ambassador for Pelagic, Clarie takes to the water day after day doing what she enjoys and taking others along for the ride through social media. Claire is looking forward to what this fishing rodeo season has in store for her! Check out her journey starting on page 14. Sylvia Masters is no stranger to working hard for what she wants! In her sixth and final shot at the title, Sylvia was crowned Miss Louisiana USA 2023. She will next compete for Miss USA on a national stage.

During her time as Miss Louisiana USA, Sylvia plans to use her voice to advocate for her passions. Learn more about the causes behind the crown on page 24.

In this issue, we also proudly bring you Women Who Mean Business, a special section focused on women in our community who boldly blaze their own trails in the business world. Learn a little bit more behind the scenes about these women who mean business starting on page 18.

Being a woman in business myself, I am extremely proud of the hard work our all-female team puts forth each and

Rebekah

I worked for a non-profit in Maui and lived there for 5 years. I also walked onto the Nicholls Cross Country team my first year of college. I wasn't any good but I enjoyed running!

Justin

Although my work experience is primarily centered around business operations and construction, we also run a working farm on our property where we focus on sustainable living.

Victoria

One thing about me that isn’t on my resume is if I have an idea I make it happen. I never let anything scare me from trying new things.

Crystal

I love, love, love all things Disney and will dress up in a costume any chance I get!

I was Hercules King 38 and I am also able to quickly recite my ABC’s backwards. I also love to go Deer/ Hog hunting.