Treatments that can transform your life.
By Leslie Gontarde
CALL
ROAD
PAUL ST-PIERRE Publisher
BREANNE MCGINTY ................................Account Manager
MEL MONCZAK Account Manager
GREG EDWARDS ....................................... Graphic designer
MARNIE ROBILLARD Director of design
CONTRIBUTORS
LAYAN BARAKAT ....................................................... Writer
LESLIE GONTARDE Writer
JENNIFER BRIGNALL-STRONG Writer
TREVOR BOOTH.............................................. Photographer
HEIKE DELMORE Photographer
SYX LANGEMANN ........................................... Photographer
MATTHEW ST. AMAND Writer
ANTHONY SHEARDOWN ................................. Photographer
On the cover:
Treatments that can transform your life - Fawn Meeking
Story by Matthew St. Amand. Photo by Syx Langemann.
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10 FOOD & DRINK
Green goddess stir fry by Mona Elkadri.
14 A STEP ABOVE WELLNESS
22
Chantelle
26
Breaking barriers –Ottavia Lepera talks about her inspiring journey as a curve model and entrepreneur.
A closer look into wellness with Fawn Meeking.
26 W.O.W FASHION
30 SUSTAINABLE STYLE
Examining the rise of sustainable style. Outfits provided by Closet Cravings.
34 FASHION TRENDS FOR FALL
A look at fall fashion looks, all available at Savvy boutique.
36 VISION BOARDS
Why your next get together should be a vision board party.
40 FAKE IT TILL YOU BE IT
Tina Brigley walks us through the keys to confidence and success.
50 THE PURSUIT OF PASSION
Cheryl Durning is breaking barriers in a male- dominated industry.
Fall has arrived and the busy holiday season is just round the corner! It’s hard to believe the final stretch of 2023 is here, but we’re excited to welcome you to the second issue of our newest specialty publication, Women of Windsor (W.O.W) Magazine.
Our team is incredibly grateful for the overwhelming response we received for our inaugural edition this past April and we’re eager to share even more positive, impactful stories from the dynamic women who make Windsor-Essex a great place to live, work, and play.
In this issue, we touch on a broad collection of inspiring stories, including a sit down interview with Chantelle Bacon, who is honouring the memory of her son Mason by fulfilling his dream of becoming a fire fighter.
We also highlight trending topics including vision boards, as well as an eye-catching fashion section which focuses on stylish, sustainable clothing options.
Our cover story for this issue is the incomparable Fawn Meeking from A Step Above Wellness. The Registered Practical Nurse and Certified Pelvic Health Specialist believes in a comprehensive approach to anti-aging and wellness from head to toe and specializes in helping women recapture their confidence.
Thank you to our readers and our valued advertisers for your continued support. We hope to “wow” you yet again with all these stories and more, and look forward to hearing your feedback.
Yours truly,
Paul St. Pierre Publisher
In today's challenging business landscape, carving a path to success is no small feat But for Olivia Belliveau, the dynamic force behind OA Real Estate and BOX519, her journey through the realms of real estate and innovative moving solutions has been a thrilling adventure that has shaped her into the remarkable woman she is today.
At just 27 years young, Olivia shines as a driven and inspiring figure, with a passion for entrepreneurship underscoring her every move "I embarked on my real estate journey at the age of 19, and after a few years, I felt the urge to seize control of my future,” she shares This pivotal decision led Olivia to become a valued member of Deerbrook Realty, collaborating with Team Andrew J Smith, right in the heart of Windsor Essex County
However, Olivia's ambitions didn't stop at just one business venture; she was determined to help relieve the stress of moving for people in her community Thus, BOX519 was born "I aimed to offer a service that would alleviate the challenges of moving No more picking up & taping moving boxes - we deliver top-quality, eco-friendly, space-saving boxes right to your doorstep Our mission is to simplify the process and make it as seamless as possible," Olivia explains
Running two businesses is a venture that demands exceptional time management and work ethic. Olivia often puts in long hours, yet her dedication remains unwavering. "I find fulfillment in helping people, whether it's helping them find their dream home or ensuring they have all they need for a stress-free move," she beams.
Olivia's success story is not solely about passion; it also took a lot of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief for any woman embarking on her entrepreneurial journey.
“Believe in yourself, and don’t let the opinions of others discourage you Start by setting achievable goals and work on them constantly Dedication and perseverance will get you the result you’re looking for ”
Olivia stands as a role model for aspiring young women everywhere, offering proof that with passion and resilience, the possibilities are endless. We eagerly await Olivia's future achievements, as her story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone looking to make their mark in the world of business.
Contact Olivia Belliveau :
(226) 280-3077
www.box519.ca
@soldbyoa
Sponsored Content
Photo by Haley Mai Photography
I’m fond of this recipe as it lets you savour the true essence of the ingredients without drowning them in an overwhelming sauce. The simplicity of this recipe enhances the ability of these flavours to truly stand out.
Ingredients
2 portions of wide-cut rice noodles
1 ½ cups Napa cabbage roughly chopped
½ cup snap peas cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 ½ tsp sesame seeds
1 ½ tbsp grapeseed oil
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 ½ tbsp Soya sauce
Pinch of salt to taste
¼ tsp pepper
Cilantro for garnish
Green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds
Cook your rice noodles following the directions on the packaging. Noodles should be cooked until stretchy, not mushy. Once they are ready, strain them and run them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with a drizzle of grapeseed oil to prevent the noodles from sticking to each other, then set aside.
Wash and chop all of your vegetables and set aside.
Set a wok or a large frying pan to high heat. Once the pan has reached temperature, add the grapeseed oil, napa cabbage, and cremini mushrooms. Once they have finished cooking, add the snap peas. Be cautious not to overcook the snap peas as you want them to remain crunchy. Cook for a minute then transfer the vegetables to a spare plate.
Add the rice noodles to the frying pan along with the soya sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the noodles so they are well coated with the sauce (for about 2 minutes), before transferring them to a plate. A little bit of crispiness on the noodles will add great flavour.
Plate your dish by layering the noodles and vegetables. Next, add the green onion, cilantro, and sesame seeds for your garnish and enjoy.
Outstanding healthcare relies on local donations to provide vital state-ofthe-art equipment.
The Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation raises funds to support programs and services at your Ouellette and Met Campuses. Please consider a donation to the Most Urgent Needs Fund…our patients and their families depend on it!
It’s easy to donate online at: WRHFOUNDATION.CA
By Matthew St.
Photos by Syx
Entering A Step Above Wellness Centre (ASAW) is like stepping into the future. Life-changing treatments await patients in the SOQI Bed, the BTL Emsella chair, Emsculpt Neo, and the Theta Chamber, to name a few. People seeking more effective workouts will be amazed by the Superhuman Protocol and Pilates rooms. This otherworldly facility exists because owner-operator, Fawn Meeking, has a passion for care. After navigating health crises of her own, she has emerged stronger, wiser, and ready to help others.
On October 5, ASAW will celebrate its grand opening 3475 North Service Road. Fawn graduated from St. Clair College as a Registered Practical Nurse in 2014. For a time, she worked in long-term care. “I loved my patients,” Fawn says, “but I got to a point where I thought: ‘This can’t be what nursing is. It’s not just sick care.’ It just wasn’t the kind of nursing I wanted to do.”
A local healthcare provider leverages space-age technology to bring health to those who have lost hope.
Amand
Langemaan
When you’re a business-owner, a mom, or just going through life and having mind-chatter at nighttime and you can’t shut your brain down, this was a blessing.
So, Fawn opened a medical foot care practice. “My interest in foot care led to my interest in skin care and medical aesthetics” she explains. “Many of our treatments are non-invasive and energy-based.”
ASAW uses an integrative healthcare approach.
Many of the treatments available at the Centre were discovered by Fawn during her own journey toward better health and self-care.
“My body is the reason why this is all here,” she says. A mother of four children, Fawn’s pregnancies had seismic effects on her body. Among the issues that arose was an inability to fully empty her bladder, coupled with pelvic dysfunction, which led to years of tremendous discomfort.
“I was told to do Kegel contractions because surgery was not an option for me” Fawn says.
“There were mornings I had to crawl into the bathroom, my bladder was so distended, and my lower limbs kept falling asleep”
Then she heard of the BTL Emsella chair, a non invasive device that contracts the Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFM).
After a single treatment, Fawn experienced relief.
“The next morning, I woke up and had no pain,” she remembers. “Up to then, my pain level—on a scale of one-to-ten—was at about fifteen most of the time. I lay there for a few minutes; I was in disbelief. I thought: ‘Wow, this must be a placebo effect.’ The next thing that happened, I went to the bathroom and emptied my bladder for the first time in fifteen years.”
Following the birth of her daughter six years ago, the weight gain Fawn experienced during pregnancy left her feeling sluggish and uncomfortable.
“My body was broken,” she says. Fawn turned to the innovative technology for help.
Opening a door to a room containing the SOQI Far Infrared Bed, she says: “This changed my life. For pain and inflammation… to being able to sleep at night. When you’re a business-owner, a mom, or just going through life and having mind-chatter at nighttime and you can’t shut your brain down, this was a blessing.”
“So, for people who have mobility issues, inflammation and pain, this is a really good treatment,” Fawn says. “I started in mid-July, improving my nutrition, as well as walking thirty minutes a day. By September I had lost twenty-two pounds.”
After finding relief with the Emsella chair, then getting her sleep and weight loss in order with the SOQI Bed, Fawn moved on to the Emsculpt Neo to tone her body.
“Emsculpt Neo allows us to do ‘core to floor,’” she explains. “When combined, these two treatments strengthen the muscles of the abdomen and the pelvic floor— especially when you have abdominal separation.”
Emsculpt Neo is a nonsurgical, FDA-cleared body contouring device combines high intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology with radiofrequency (RF) energy, to strengthen and build muscles while simultaneously burning fat. It can treat the abdomen, obliques, buttocks, biceps and triceps, and calves.
“I can’t tell you how bad my back pain was after having my daughter,” Fawn says. “A lot of people live like that. I did my six sessions—one a week for six weeks. Results are continuous over time. It takes three months for that new muscle fiber to grow and the fat to be eliminated. Over the course of a year, I lost another ten pounds. I dropped two clothing sizes, my back pain was gone, and my posture was corrected.”
She continues: “Because of Emsculpt, I bought the Styku, a 3D body scanner. Not only will it tell you every single measurement on your body, but it also tells us your muscle mass, bone density, fat mass and many other details.”
Styku does all this with 98% accuracy.
“I needed something accurate so we can show our patients the changes that are happening through their treatments,” Fawn says. “It’s also a good tool for making goals. I believe in setting goals that are achievable. The Styku will tell you on what date you’ll reach your goal by the amount of nutrition and exercise you put in.”
Once a patient has set their goals, ASAW has its Superhuman Protocol treatment to help patients achieve those goals. This begins with PNOE Metabolic Breath Analysis, which helps boost fitness
and overall health with data analysis and personalized recommendations.
“I chose this device because I can test our clients at-rest and while you’re active,” Fawn explains. “The PNOE is like a little backpack and a mask you wear over your nose and mouth. This allows us to observe how you metabolize. Whether you’re an athlete, or just want better health, it gives your cellular age, what days you should exercise, what type of exercise, and the days you should be resting for recovery. There is also a nutritional program you can opt into, as well, based off your personal data.”
The Superhuman Protocol is a revolutionary treatment that harnesses the power of three natural forces—magnetism, oxygen, and light—to optimize one’s cellular health and promote overall wellness. It consists of three steps:
Magnetism (PEMF – Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy facilitates cellular communication and self-healing mechanisms within the body. As the patient lies upon the PureWave device, they experience a profound cellular recharge, offering benefits such as accelerated healing and enhanced blood flow.
Oxygen (EWOT – Exercise with Oxygen Training) involves super-oxygenating the body for improved health. Engaging in this after PEMF, it becomes up to 30 percent more effective due to optimized oxygen absorption. This contributes to improved performance, enhanced immunity, and increased oxygen uptake.
Light (TheraLight 360) applies red and near infra-red light to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
It stimulates mitochondria to produce ATP, the cell’s energy currency, reducing inflammation, and increasing blood flow, and tissue growth stimulation.
The Exercise-With-Oxygen equipment available includes two climbers, two CAROL bikes, an elliptical trainer, and a treadmill. Each has an eight-foottall oxygen tank in front with a hose that connects to the oxygen mask worn by the user. Programs are customized to each patient’s needs and goals.
Regarding the ASAW’s Pilates room, Fawn says: “Pilates can help our clients with their pain, inflammation, menopausal symptoms, pelvic dysfunction and/or incontinence. I fell in love with Pilates because I couldn’t believe how well it fit with who I am and what I want to bring to this area. There are so many different types of classes we can offer, including health and vitality, pre- and post-natal, pelvic-friendly, and one that was created for conditioning golfers!”
Once ACAW has looked after the patient’s body, they have the ability to treat the mind with their Theta Chamber, a sensory deprivation device that uses a combination of vestibular motion, cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES), binaural audio beats, and visual pattern light stimulation to induce a theta brainwave state. This state of deep relaxation is associated with creativity, enhanced focus, and healing.
“With this device, we can help with addiction, we can deal with physical ailments, including pain, Parkinsons and MS,” Fawn says. “It can help with memory enhancement and insomnia. Or emotional issues, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, or reduce stress.”
Fawn has experienced quite a journey in her life and seeks to share the knowledge and treatments she gained along the way.
“Our business is focused on preventative care, men and women’s intimate health and wellness” she says, “while helping our patients take back their quality of life. Whether you’re broken or healthy, whether you’re an athlete or a senior citizen, a new mom or a grandmother, we have treatments that can transform your life!”
To learn more about the treatments offered by A Step Above Wellness Centre, or to book an appointment, visit astepabovewellness.com. WOW
The first thing you’re greeted with as you walk through the beautiful glass entrance of Cindy’s Home and Garden is the comforting aroma of their spa products. It immediately takes you to a place that reminds you how excited you are to be there. As you stop and look around, the newest products right at your fingertips, your senses heighten as you take it all in, the super high ceilings, the stone floor, the customers all taking their time searching for just the right gift. Before you start your adventure through the gift shop you are given a delightful “hello,” or “welcome,” by the cheerful staff. The tiny little butterflies inside your stomach ensue as you begin your shopping experience, all because you KNOW you are going to find something special here.
Cindy’s started off as a quaint flower stand in 1989 by Ken and Cindy Martin. In 2019 after a long history of establishing his business Ken retired from Cindy’s, but not before striking a deal with his nephew and wife. In October of 2019, Jason and Tisha Martin became the sole owners of Cindy’s Home and Garden. Tish had already been managing Cindy’s Too since 2012, and in 2014 Tish and Jason became partners. So, after years of working at Cindy’s, in 2019, the option presented itself to buy out the owners. “Working there I realized what a great business it was, and the clientele was so fun and happy to be there, it was a no brainer as we both had a vision to make it bigger and better someday.” Since Tish and Jason had plans of their own it was an exciting move for them. They had a vision and got right to work. A 2,500 square foot expansion to the existing gift shop would be known as Cindy’s Boutique and immediately generated a whole new audience.
Bigger and better is exactly what they’ve done. “Cindy’s has something for everyone, no matter the occasion.” The GIFT SHOP offers spa products, memorial gifts, home décor, baby items, pets and so much more.
As you stroll around the gift shop you will find yourself trailing off to the expanded section of the store and into a fabulous BOUTIQUE with beautiful clothes, handbags, footwear and accessories. The staff inside are always happy to help you find just the right item.
If you need time to decide between all the unique gifts inside, head outside to the well-placed GARDEN CENTRE, where Tish and her staff have thought of everything for you. They are the only place in our area to import frost resistant pots, a small detail that Cindy’s has been so well known for. You can browse through a variety of outdoor accessories and their healthy selection of seasonal annuals and perennials.
Still can’t decide. Head to the bar!! Located at the front of the property CINDY’S TOO is home to Essex County’s Premier Olive Oil and Balsamic Tasting Bar. The bar was another poignant move by Tish and Jason after taking over the business, this one-of-akind tasting bar is massively popular offering over 65+ premium flavours of olive oils and vinegars. Pair your oils with a one-of-a-kind kitchen accessory and you’ve got a great gift, this is a cook’s paradise!
Before you go, don’t forget to grab some lunch. T-JAY’S COOKERY is the most recent addition at Cindy’s. The idea was conjured up in 2020, simply because Tish and Jason hear what their customers want. Food! All dishes T-Jay’z serves are designed and created by them. They stay true to supporting other
small local businesses as well and source ingredients locally where they can. So, stop by and say hi to Jason where he’ll be cooking up some delicious dishes. You can find the menu on the Cindy’s website. T-Jay’s is open 11am-5pm Wednesdays to Sundays weather permitting.
Cindy’s is truly an individual experience. To stay current Tish stays focused on her customers. “I try to be out on the floor as often as possible talking to customers and getting a feel for what they’re looking for and wanting to see in the store.” As times have evolved, so has Cindy’s. Tish and Jason needed to get creative when the pandemic struck. Social media took centre stage and really happened out of necessity. Tish began her Facebook live shows that allowed her and her team at Cindy’s to reach more people, “putting new products in front of our customers as they come in.” Their online following has since grown exponentially with new and existing customers popping in all the time. “Customers recognize that we’re the best at what we do, and they show us by continuing to come and shop at Cindy’s.”
Cindy’s is easy to find located on the north shore of Lake Erie, right on the wine route in the beautiful town of Kingsville. The tourism is booming, and Cindy’s wants to welcome you in. Tish and Jason are not done evolving and will continue to push forward to bring Cindy’s customers a bigger and better variety because they love it. “I get to work with an amazing staff every day, seeing the smiles on our customers faces when they find the perfect gift for their loved ones. None of this would even be possible without the support of our amazing customers who I call my extended family and that is all the inspiration I need day in and day out.” WOW
We accept various insurances and offer a sliding scale
In person, virtual and phone sessions available
We offer counselling for issues including: anxiety, depression, school/family issues, ASD, intellectual disabilities, grief, ADHD, ADD, social skills, disordered eating and more
Open 7 Days a Week! (226)
When you were 4 years old, maybe you dreamed of being a firefighter, one of those brave men and women who save people’s lives every day. Or maybe you wanted to be a superhero like the ones you saw in the comic books. As you get a little older, your dreams probably changed. After all, you’re no longer 4 years old. You’re an adult with a real life and real responsibilities. Chantelle Bacon never thought of entering that burning building when she was a kid but was left with no choice as an adult when her son Mason was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at just 2 years old. Enter the fire!
After finding out she was having Mason at just 20 years old Chantelle’s initial thought was not fear of the unknown it was “I’m going to have a best friend for life.” He was her running buddy, always wanting to play outside, with his hot wheels and loved superheroes. She describes Mason as an “old soul,” always wanting to learn about everything and talk with everyone. He would sit with grown-ups and have some pretty serious conversations for a toddler. “It was like he was trying to fit a whole lifetime into those 4 years.
5 months before Masons cancer diagnosis his parents would be in and out of the doctor’s office weekly trying to figure out what was going on with their son. They knew something was wrong, Mason wasn’t sleeping or eating properly. They tried changing his diet and sometimes that would help, until it didn’t. He would complain he
Chantelle Bacon keeps the promise of a lifetime and moves forward to keep her sons legacy alive.Photo by Syx
had to pee all the time and then he would go a little and things would be ok again. Until April 24, 2015, Mason became so distended and could no longer pee. Chantelle and Iain had no choice but to take him into emergency. At 2 years old Mason underwent every test one could imagine, being catheterized, ultrasounds, biopsies, MRIs, CT scans, bone scans, you name it Mason had it and, in the end, the scariest diagnosis imaginable for a 2-year-old and his parents, Stage 3 Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma: cancer. After weeks and weeks of more testing Mason official began chemotherapy treatment on his 3rd birthday.
It did not go unnoticed how frightening this place was, a place you go to for help looked very scary for most adults let alone a toddler. Chantelle picked up on this immediately taking her cues from Mason. She knew right then that this must change. But first, there was a fight to be had! Mason was scared and Chantelle needed a way to take that scariness out of the equation so Mason could focus on fighting his fight. Chantelle and Iain would talk to Mason about needing to get stronger so he could fight the bad guys inside of him. They used his favourite superhero’s so Mason could relate. Captain America had to get poked with his super serum to gain his strength, telling Mason his port had to stay in just like Iron Mans magnetic plate. This became normal chatter for Mason, and it gave him the will to push forward, just like his superhero’s. Mason would go through so much more over the next few months, losing his hair, having to learn how to walk again, losing weight and throwing up constantly. This is the harsh reality of chemotherapy. On August 3rd a routine MRI scan showed hope. The tumours were shrinking and that meant the chemo was working. Chantelle was grateful to see Mason still smiling and having fun when he could, but the reality was this fight was no where near finished. What’s next? Radiation was not an option for Mason, so Iain and Chantelle did research, a lot of research, all on their own to figure out that Proton Therapy was their
only option and even after that came more chemo and more tests and more waiting. In the middle of it all Chantelle recalls being incredibly grateful for the good times and the smiles she had with Mason, the kitchen dance parties, and all the pictures! Mason would get visits from the firefighters in town, they showed up for every milestone, he became an honorary firefighter. Together
Amid her grief Chantelle switched her tragedy into one of the most positive recognitions of her son’s life and set into motion
as a family they found moments of joy and created memories that are just for them and will always be cherished. Chantelle remembers the devastation she felt after hearing the news that the treatment did not work. The only option left to save Mason was an incredibly invasive 15-hour surgery, the only decision they had, to try and save their little boys life. It was unsuccessful. Chantelle took Mason home and on June 27th Mason died in his mother’s arms after fighting cancer for half of his life.
At 4 years old, Mason knew what was happening and that he wasn’t going to be here forever. Chantelle remembers telling Mason “You might not be here anymore but that doesn’t mean your fighting ends.” Chantelle promised him before he died that she would do everything in her power to help other kids and to continue Mason’s fight. “His life doesn’t end with this; his story doesn’t end.” They had a saying “promise, promise, promise and in this house, we don’t break them.” Chantelle has kept that promise to her son.
The Fight Like Mason Foundation. The idea for the Foundation came to Chantelle before Mason passed. She remembers laying with Mason and starring at the IV pole in their home and telling Mason, “I’m going to change that into something fun.” And two weeks after he passed Chantelle and Iain started the paperwork to become a registered charity. She never wants another family to feel the way she felt and to have to go through what they went through. Chantelle’s drive for the foundation is 100% correlated to her grieving and healing. “If I was talking about Mason and getting to help other families and raising awareness about childhood cancer then its like Mason’s still here.” The Fight Like Mason Foundation began with Chantelle at the wheel and some humble goals. The foundation started off with the goal of putting 4 Mason Power Poles into a Windsor hospital and maybe a $10,000 grant, they surpassed this small goal after their first donation, proving to them that the community was behind them and that maybe they had something bigger on their hands. Now, 7 years later the Fight Like Mason Foundation have Mason Power Poles in 14 different hospitals across Ontario including in the community along with Mason’s Super Wheels. The custom medical equipment is part of the Fight Like Mason Foundations commitment to changing the environment for pediatric patients and making the kids proud of their fight. Chantelle is the creative mind behind every project. Chantelle and Iain often visit as superheroes and hope that Mason is someone these kids look to for inspiration to help them keep fighting. “I’m so lucky the community believes in what we’re doing and believes that were going to get it done.” Chantelle will continue to fight for all the children and families fighting childhood cancer. If it takes 15 years to make an impact, they will stay the course through research and pharmaceuticals, because change has not happened in a really long time and these kids deserve more.
I love you and I miss you so much. I’m sorry for not being able to save you. I’m so proud of you, you’re doing so much good work on this earth. I hope you’re walking along beside us and proud of everything we’re doing. I hope we are making your life meaningful.
Chantelle says she hopes her purpose is to help others and how we look at cancer and even death. But there is more than one way she is helping her community. When she was younger, she never dreamed of becoming a firefighter and stepping into that fire but through her journey with Mason, Chantelle saw firsthand the commitment and sense of community the firefighters had, she just never thought she could be apart of that. But then she said to herself, “No, I’m doing this. Mason wanted to be a firefighter and was a firefighter and I’m going to continue that legacy.” Mason pushed Chantelle and really showed her that she can do anything. She enjoys helping people and says, “If there’s more I can do to help my community, why wouldn’t I let myself do that.”
7 years after Masons passing and the grief is still very real for Chantelle. “There’s always going to be moments of “why me,” but once you learn to live with not feeling guilty for smiling, you start to celebrate every little thing and know that you can do more. You find moments of gratitude. I was so lucky to be his mom.” Chantelle believes determination and power are her motivating factors, “Take what you’ve gone through and create power out of it, get up, continue to help and continue to do better.”
Chantelle is a creative soul who loves to write. She is a mom of three, and the founder of the Fight Like Mason Foundation, she is so much more to so many but before she was all of that she was and is Mason’s mom, and she will continue to create moments for her family to know Mason and let his memory live on and his fight to continue. She writes to Mason from time to time to keep connected to him. WOW
His life doesn’t end with this; his story doesn’t end.Photo provided by Chantelle Bacon
By Layan Barakat
“I’d look at the girls in magazines and music videos, and I would never find myself; I always thought, am I not pretty enough to be in that space? I hope that when people look at me, they can see themselves in the fashion industry and in life.”
In a world that often celebrates a narrow definition of beauty, Ottavia Lepera has emerged as a radiant and empowering figure for women everywhere. Defying industry standards and embracing her curves, Ottavia has become a successful curve model and entrepreneur, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and follow their dreams.
At 16, Ottavia experienced a pivotal moment that would shape her future. Encouraged by others to pursue a career in modeling, she visited an agent who demanded she lose an unrealistic amount of weight. With strength and unwavering self-belief, Ottavia’s mother intervened, recognizing the importance of self-acceptance and healthy body image. This experience fueled Ottavia’s determination to redefine beauty standards, paving the way for her success as a curve model.
Sometimes, life presents us with unexpected opportunities that change our trajectory forever. A few years later, Ottavia received a message from a photographer on Facebook who introduced her to the world of plus-size modeling. Venturing in front of the camera for the first time, Ottavia’s natural beauty shone through, captivating those who saw her photos.
“From that point, it was a whirlwind, I was signed, and I was on my way to London, England, the same week I turned 18,” she recalled cheerfully. “So, I graduated High School, turned 18, and I was on my way.” The subsequent signing with an agency in London marked the beginning of a flourishing career, working with renowned clients such as lululemon, Macy’s, and Nordstrom, in cities all over the US, Germany, Turkey, and Canada.
“It’s not something I ever thought would be part of my story because I was always made fun of for my body, looks, and name. Then, low and behold, here I am, making a career out of my body and my name, and who I am,” said Ottavia. “I’m just so excited to inspire people to be happy with themselves and just go for it; I always say, if you’re not scared, you’re not doing something right.”
Ottavia’s journey to success was challenging. As a teenager, she struggled with self-doubt, searching for representation in the media and fashion industry.
“I’m a 90s girl; I was born in 93, I think back, and I was constantly looking at magazines and watching MTV music videos; I was searching for someone who looked like me, and I could never relate,” said Ottavia.
Determined to inspire others, she embraced her unique qualities, encouraging women to believe in their inherent beauty and worth. Through her modeling career and personal endeavors, she strives to empower others, fostering inclusivity and representation for all.
Ottavia’s resilience and passion extend beyond the world of modeling. As an aesthetics graduate from St. Clair College, she pursued her love for beauty and launched “Beauty To You by Ottavia,” a mobile beauty service. This venture lets her connect with clients personally, offering services like manicures, pedicures, facials, spray tans, and makeup applications.
“I’ve always loved beauty, though I’m used to being on the other side of the beauty chair,” she said with a laugh, “but it was nice to see what that side was like.”
Ottavia’s dedication to empowering those around her further materialized with the creation of Polished, a successful cleaning company. By starting her own businesses, Ottavia exemplifies the importance of taking risks, stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and turning passion into reality.
“When I started modeling, I bounced around from job to job. I realized modeling is glamorous but not in the same sense, you have to wait quite a while for a paycheque. So, in the meantime, I needed to figure out a way to make money, and my schedule needed to remain flexible,” said Ottavia. “I started cleaning houses; I’m European, so it’s in my blood; I love cleaning. Two years ago, during
I’m just so excited to inspire people to be happy with themselves and just go for it; I always say, if you’re not scared, you’re not doing something right.
Covid, I was getting so busy, and I was like, you know what? Let’s make a business out of this! So, two years ago, Polished was born. My business partner and best friend had a few houses she was servicing, so we came together, and now we have 18 amazing employees on our team”.
Ottavia’s journey has taught her the significance of hard work and perseverance. Balancing the demands of modeling, entrepreneurship, and personal relationships, Ottavia’s relentless pursuit of her goals stems from her desire to inspire her loved ones and positively impact the world.
“I’m a stepmom of three, a godmother, an auntie; I have all these little eyes watching me, and I just want people I care about, the kids I inspire; I want them to know that hard work
gets you far. No matter how you feel, you’ve gotta get up, get going, and get to business,” said Ottavia.
Throughout it all, she keeps mental health top-of-mind. Ottavia’s commitment to mental health and her partnership with the Windsor Essex Mental Health Society highlights the importance of self-care and compassion in our journey toward success. Ottavia encourages people to embrace their vulnerabilities through her work and social media platforms, reminding us that, “it’s okay to not be okay.” Her message of kindness and unity is a powerful reminder that we are all navigating our unique struggles, and together, we can uplift and support one another.
“With all the jobs I’ve done, it’s always been about helping and inspiring people and
making people feel good, whether I’m doing their makeup or cleaning their home. I love making people feel great regardless of what I’m doing. Even with kind words, we have to stick together, the world can be a cruel place, but it can also be beautiful, and we’re all humans and trying our best”.
Ottavia Lepera’s journey from facing rejection and body shaming to becoming a successful curve model and entrepreneur is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Her story inspires people to embrace their bodies, follow their dreams, and break free from society’s limited definition of beauty. Ottavia’s resilience, compassion, and commitment to empowering others serve as guiding lights for women worldwide.
“My parents always said, ‘Don’t ever let anyone change who you are; you’re a kind person, you’re a beautiful person’ I share that with my step-kids, too, it’s really important just to remain kind. We’re all battling something at the end of the day, so regardless, just be kind”.
Learn more about Ottavia’s entrepreneurial ventures by visiting her Instagram pages @beauty.to.you.byottavia and @polished2perfection519. WOW
By Layan Barakat Photos by Trevor Booth
"What do you think of this sweater vest?"
I say as I rummage through the bins of a vintage shop that's popped up in a church basement. It's Saturday afternoon, and swarms of people have come out to a pop-up market featuring local artisans, crafts, and vintage clothing stores. "Is it giving Chandler Bing?" I ask my friend, "It totally is, but I kind of love that for you," she responds as she fastens a neon fanny pack around her hips.
The fashion industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the rise of sustainable attire. The average consumer has become increasingly conscious of their choices' environmental and social impact, and the demand for eco-friendly, ethically produced, and/or upcycled clothing has soared. This paradigm shift has forced the industry to re-evaluate its practices, adopting sustainable alternatives that minimize waste, conserve resources, and prioritize worker welfare.
In Windsor-Essex alone, we're seeing a rise in vintage clothing and furniture stores, each with its own niche and one-of-a-kind selection of vintage treasures. "People are really starting to see fast fashion's impact on the earth and
environment and are doing their best to make the switch," said Rachel, owner of the downtown boutique Eh Plus Vintage, "Even if someone is into more current brands and not vintage items, a lot of that stuff can be found at the thrift store second hand instead of creating a demand for it by buying it from the retailer."
Located at 469 Pelissier Street in the heart of Windsor, Eh Plus Vintage offers a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary style, creating an exclusive and individualized shopping experience. The carefully curated selection showcases timeless fashion pieces, accessories, and home decor items. "I've always loved thrifting and treasure hunting for unique items and pieces," said Rachel. "I'd often leave behind something really cool because it didn't fit me or I didn't need it. And I couldn't handle the thought that someone may not get it and it could end up in a landfill. So that's where [Eh Plus Vintage] began."
As awareness of environmental issues grows, people increasingly turn to secondhand options. Vintage garments are a sustainable choice, allowing individuals to reduce waste and give new life to preloved clothing. Fashion lovers can express their style by embracing vintage while minimizing their ecological footprint.
Along with the sustainability piece, these vintage boutiques often feature one-of-a-kind items, which has become another driving factor for trendsetters. Vintage boutiques offer a curated selection of clothing that cannot be replicated by mainstream fashion brands. By delving into second-hand, trendsetters find items with distinct patterns, rare designs, and unmatched craftsmanship.
"When curating vintage, it's very time-consuming and sometimes very difficult as most items are second hand and may contain some wear and tear throughout," said Mili Jovanovic, CEO of Just Vintage, an online Vintage boutique. "I love the thrill of never knowing what I'll find whether I'm sourcing at a rags house, suppliers, bins, or thrifts. I am very particular with the items I sell and try to steer away from any damaged items. I love to bring a variety of unisex pieces that are trendy and unique from the 80s-2000s. Fashion constantly changes, so I never have set criteria for what I look for. I research and run surveys on my socials to see what my customer base wants us to carry most."
Rachel and Mili are two examples of young entrepreneurs bridging the gap between fashion and sustainability. By curating and selling preloved garments, they promote the reuse and repurposing of clothing, reducing waste and minimizing the fashion industry's environmental impact. These entrepreneurs understand the importance of conscious consumerism and offer a sustainable alternative to fast fashion. Through their boutiques, they educate customers about the value of vintage clothing, emphasizing its durability and timeless appeal. Combining style and sustainability, they inspire others to embrace eco-friendly fashion and contribute to a more sustainable future.
"No clothing in the shop is new; everything is second-hand. Even shirts I make, I print on second-hand blanks. I spend upwards of 20 hours a week sourcing the coolest items from all kinds of places. I like to make Pinterest boards of outfits I love and take inspiration from them while shopping," said Rachel.
With the current economic climate, vintage boutiques offer a budget-friendly option for shoppers while providing a guilt-free, sustainable advantage. This allows individuals to access unique and stylish clothing at affordable prices. With financial uncertainties, vintage shopping allows fashion-conscious individuals to express their style with quality items without breaking the bank.
"I source pieces from various places, second-hand shops, estate sales, yard sales, etc. Sometimes, we'll make a trip of it and head to Niagara Falls or Michigan. Everything is inspected piece by piece by me; items with flaws are always noted on the tag and priced accordingly. Items that need extra love are sometimes steamed, stains are removed, odors are washed out, holes mended, etc.," said Rachel regarding the quality of the pieces in her store.
So, what contributed to the rise of vintage fashion other than sustainability and affordability?
"I think the biggest contribution was the large exposure of famous influencers/YouTubers getting into thrifting," said Mili. "All over YouTube and TikTok, you see influencers like Emma Chamberlain, Mackenzie Ziegler, etc., thrifting and posting thrift content. Fashion has also made a huge change, and a lot of styles are coming in full circle, which fast fashion stores don't necessarily carry".
During this fashion revolution, where sustainability and style meet, there's a hidden gem that caters to those who crave high-end, gently used items: consignment stores. These boutiques offer carefully curated selections of preloved designer clothing, accessories, and home decor. Whether you're on the hunt for a vintage Chanel handbag or a pair of gently worn Christian Louboutin heels, consignment stores provide a unique shopping experience that seamlessly combines luxury and eco-consciousness.
Lisa Berbynuk, the owner of Closet Cravings Upscale Consignment Boutique & Gift Shop, says, "We fill our store with beautiful pieces ranging from Lululemon, Zara, and Michael Kors to Louis Vuitton, Gucci and even Chanel. We only accept items in excellent condition, and all our luxury items are authenticated before they hit the sales floor or our website."
What's even more enticing about consignment shopping is its array of benefits, both from a brand perspective and an environmental standpoint. Purchasing preloved clothing is a conscious choice that supports sustainable practices, reduces fashion's carbon footprint, and extends the lifespan of coveted pieces from renowned brands.
"Many preloved items have years of life left in them, and by buying from a reputable resale shop, you are saving the planet by keeping clothing out of landfills and preserving the resources it takes to make the clothing items," said Lisa, "We pride ourselves on our excellent selection and offer to dress individuals for any event at any time. A common misconception is that items might not be in good shape or that we don't have things for all ages, but nothing could be farther from the truth; we carefully critique each piece before allowing it onto our sales floor. Each item is steamed with high heat, and we have a wide variety to choose from for all age groups and price points."
The rise of upcycled fashion is a testament to the timeless appeal of classic styles and the ever-evolving nature of the fashion industry. As consumers seek uniqueness and sustainability, vintage clothing offers a solution that satisfies both desires. From the glamour of the roaring '20s to the rebellious spirit of the '70s, vintage fashion allows people to express their individuality. As we move forward, the resurgence of vintage fashion reminds us that style knows no bounds and that the past can inspire a more meaningful and sustainable future. WOW
Turtleneck tops have been a fall and winter wardrobe staple for decades, with fashion writer Audrey Stanton calling them a sign of, “strength, rebellion, style, and modesty throughout history.” Not only is the turtleneck a classic but is always on trend and an incred ibly versatile piece. Whether it’s a thin knit or a chunky sweater, a turtleneck is perfect for keeping warm and looking stylish during the colder months of the year. Not only can it be paired with almost any choice of bottom, but it can also be used as a layering piece under dresses or t-shirts for a cool look and added warmth.
We all know and love denim as a classic material and this fall you’ll be seeing denim pop up in many different wardrobe pieces. You can never go wrong with the perfect pair of jeans, but you can always switch it up with a jacket, mini or midi skirt, jumpsuit, or even accessories in this iconic fabric. To take the trend further, why not embrace the Canadian tuxedo with a denim-ondenim look?
When it comes to an everyday pair of jeans, a wide-leg and high-waist style has been the silhouette of choice and super skinny jeans are slowly fading out of trending fashion. For fall, choosing a heavier denim piece is ideal to combat the chilly weather while staying on trend.
For a twist on the denim trend, try mixing different shades of light or dark wash denim into your outfit or try a coloured denim piece such as brown jeans.
Photos provided by Savvy Boutique
Who says a suit has to be for the office? In fact, suit wear is a great way to elevate your wardrobe this fall and can be worn in so many ways. Suit pieces can be worn together or separately, including pants or a skirt, depending on your mood. A great suit should be a part of every woman’s wardrobe because you can really dress it up or down. You can pair your suit pieces with a casual t-shirt and sneakers for the weekend or a button-down shirt and heels for the office or dinner. It’s called a power suit for a reason. Wearing a suit can instantly elevate your look and make you feel like
This fall try a power suit in a dark colour like black, brown, navy, or gray. Make a statement with a bold print, such as plaid or tartan.
Similar to the power suit trend, wide-leg trousers will instantly elevate your outfits this fall without having to think too much about what to pair together. The trend is all about pleated wide-leg trouser that has a high waist and a slightly oversized fit. These pants will look effortless with all your fall essentials, including sweaters, t-shirts, and blazers and the wide leg makes them comfortable and easy to wear. Even if you don’t feel like a trouser person, you will be surprised how much wear you can get out of an essential piece like this.
Try dressing down these wide-leg trousers with a vintage graphic tee and a loafer or dress them up with your favourite blouse and pointy-toe heels or boots.
You’ve probably seen mid-length skirts trending for a few months now, but for Fall 2023 it’s all about denim midi skirts. Whether it’s a lighter or darker wash, with a slit, or with distressing, longer denim skirts are the new mini skirt. Midi skirts add a sleek silhouette that can actually make you look taller, especially if the skirt is high-waisted. Another benefit of a midi skirt is that you don’t have to worry about your skirt riding up and the longer length is great paired with tights and boots for a bit of warmth during the fall. Try pairing a dark wash midi skirt with a plain white tee, leather jacket and knee-high boots for a stylish and put-together fall outfit. You can also pair a denim midi skirt with a turtle neck sweater for a cozy and sophisti cated look.
There’s nothing better than ending a long week with a fun girls’ night in. It’s all about turning on some music, pouring a glass of wine, and catching up with good friends. While this is a classic combination, there is an activity that can level up your girls’ night in a truly creative way – constructing motivational vision boards.
Founder of the training company Buffini & Company, Brian Buffini, calls a vision board a “visual representation of your goals and aspirations,” and they typically include a combination of images and words that help us visualize our goals and envision how we can bring them into reality. Incorporating the vision board-making process into your next get-together is not only a fun activity to do as a group but can assist in keeping each other accountable with individual aspirations.
Creating a vision board is an eye-opening exercise that can help promote positive thinking and encouragement in a group setting. So, break out the glue sticks and try something crafty with your friends next Friday night.
While some may be skeptical of the idea, the benefit of having your vision board on display is to act as a reminder to acknowledge your goals and aspirations on a daily basis. There are many reasons why a vision board can be a helpful way to visualize and establish our goals, two of the most important being providing focus and daily recognition.
One of the benefits of the vision board creation process is that it allows you to think about your future goals and narrow down the ones that are most important to you. This creates clarity when it comes to thinking about your future which can help you not feel overwhelmed when planning. Focus on the goals that come to mind first when brainstorming for your vision board, as these will likely be the ones that you think about most often and are most important.
Not only can focusing on three or four core goals give you more space for fun images and decoration on your vision board, but it keeps you focused on your most important dreams and aspirations and gives you a shorter list to start working towards.
The power of the vision board may not just be in manifesting our goals into becoming reality, but in training ourselves to recognize when those goals may be within reach. Neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart says that looking at your vision board daily, or an action board as she refers to it, and visualizing your goals coming to life actually sends a message to your subconscious and can help your brain recognize when those aspirations are within reach.
While daily visualization of our goals can be a helpful way to approach our aspirations, the vision board can be looked at as a great starting point for working towards those goals with daily action. Your personalized vision board can serve as a great source of daily motivation and focus for the next steps in life you would like to take.
After you’ve invited your closest friends for your girls’ night, it’s time to start preparing for the vision board-making aspect of the evening. The great part about making a vision board is that there isn’t a set way to make one and is a creative and personal process. Here are a few steps to guide you on making a vision board, but it’s important to have fun with it and make memories with friends along the way.
During your vision board party, have you and your friends write down a few goals and aspirations that you would like to be represented on the vision board before you start. It helps to go into the vision board-making process with a bit of a guideline and makes for a fun conversation to compare your points.
The easiest way to create a vision board is by using a large poster board and cutting it down to the size of the board that you would like. Gather together different magazines, newspapers, printed images, photos, or any other materials that are meaningful to you and have your friends bring some as well. Go through these materials and cut out words, phrases, or images that align with the goals that you all wrote down previously.
This is your vision board and there are no rules on how it should look. Lay out your materials in a way that makes sense for you on your board. Use a glue stick or hot glue gun to attach each material and add some flourish with additional elements like stickers, paint, rhinestones, glitter, markers, or anything that you would like. You can even frame your board for easy hanging
After everyone is done with their vision board, go around and show each other what you have created. Feel free to go through the elements and explain how they are meaningful to achieving your goals if you feel comfortable. Make sure to hang or attach your vision board on the wall or place it in a spot in your home that you see every day. This way you can look at it daily and remind yourself of what you are working towards in life.
While you could create your very own vision board by yourself, making it a social activity can dial up the fun and collaboration aspect of the process. Either way, creating a vision board can be a great exercise to try for anyone looking to focus on their important goals and acts as a daily reminder of the aspirations you are looking to achieve. It doesn’t hurt that you get to be super creative, learn more about your friends, and have fun in the process. WOW
By Layan Barakat
Photo by Heike Delmore
“How do you make yourself a priority?” Tina Brigley posed the question with ease. As she spoke about her journey, sharing the profound wisdom that can only be gained through the resilience of a life lived with intention and alignment, the question began to plague my mind. As women, we’re faced with the roles that we feel define us; mother, daughter, sister, partner, entrepreneur, and so on, but through every one of those roles, how do we put ourselves first with the same vigor that Tina brings to her life every single day? How do we break free from the expectations of others and the expectations we put on ourselves?
Putting yourself first is selfish, but we get to be selfish because, as leaders, we’ll suffocate if we aren’t putting our oxygen masks on first.
“One of the things I say to people is let’s create a contract of who you want to be. Not mother, daughter, entrepreneur, wife, who are you in the world?” said Tina. “I’m a loving, courageous, powerful leader; that’s who I am, and that way of being will guide everything I do.”
Tina’s story began in her kitchen, where she was tirelessly building various programs for her coaching business. As she watched her daughters play and swim in the backyard, she couldn’t help but feel the weight of her entrepreneurial pursuits.
“That whole summer I spent grinding and hustling to grow my business. When it was kind of up and settled, I thought, ‘Oh wow, I have the best program ever.’” At the time, the team she was working with told her that she needed to invest a substantial amount of money to get her program off the ground. Doubt crept in, and she questioned her decision to leave her teaching career to pursue her dream of coaching. At this crucial and vulnerable moment, another coach contacted her, offering guidance and support. Tina experienced what she called “a profound breakthrough” in that transformative conversation.
“Because I was bullied in 7th grade, I was afraid to show up; I was afraid to put myself out there in an authentic way,” said Tina. “This group of girls would follow me everywhere I went. Follow me to the bathroom, follow me home, follow me outside at recess, and how I learned to overcome those challenges was I just started hiding to be safe. I did a lot of personal development work to help me uncover what I call blind spots - the things you can’t see that are impacting you. They kept me stuck and stopped, almost like an invisible brick wall. Every time I wanted to do something, there was this barrier.”
The coach posed a simple yet profound question: “What would it be like if you were no longer afraid to show up?” Tina’s response was enlightening – “I said I would be speaking on stages and transforming the world.” From that point, equipped with a few tools, strategies, and her newfound confidence, Tina began showing up for herself with velocity.
“Before I knew it, I generated $10,000 in revenue in 10 days. I said, well, if I did that in 10 days, I could get $40,000 in 4 months, and before we knew it, I was at 6 figures in 6 months,” said Tina.
Tina’s goals went beyond monetary gain; the driving force behind her ambition has always been to create a bigger impact in the community. As she reached what she felt was the peak of her career, she was offered the opportunity to join her coach’s team as a partner and co-founder of their already existing
business. “I was thinking, man, I’m on this momentum right now. Why would I give up what I’m doing to join your business? But I realized they were trying to make a significant impact by training and developing coaches to grow their business online. I said I have this real dream and vision that coaching therapy and personal development will be as essential as electricity and Wi-Fi. It’ll be in every house and organization, so I thought, okay, we can partner to do this, so I said yes.”
Tina’s decision would soon become the catalyst for starting her own coaching service. Tina joined the team just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit; she had the idea to support people to get online and create a virtual ecosystem. Soon, business exploded. “We had 150 coaches that were training and developing, we had people coming into our programs, and we were nominated for four global business awards because of our quick success and how we were making such a ripple. In that process, we were interviewed by Forbes, USA Today, and people worldwide were tuning in. We won those global business awards, and I thought this was my career’s peak; it doesn’t get any better.” Little did she know, she was about to face another hurdle.
During a meeting with her business partners, Tina was asked to step down from her co-founder role and remove herself from the operations altogether. “In that moment, my heart was crushed. I sacrificed a lot of things, dinners with my family, trips, to grow this business. I was hustling and grinding for two years, and at that moment, I was faced with a choice. I can stay and step down when I know I was a pivotal person who did this, or I can walk away.” At that moment, Tina chose herself and walked away.
The following weeks were filled with uncertainty and self-doubt. But Tina, determined to regain her confidence, reached out to another coach. “I said, ‘I’m afraid, I feel like I lost my confidence’ and he said, ‘Consider this, you have all the confidence you’re ever going to have. Confidence is situational,’ and I really thought about what that meant. He said, ‘If you’re willing to believe you have that confidence right now, what would you do?’” The answer? Rebuild her business from the ground up.
“And so, I just rebranded, put myself out there, and rebuilt in a few months. Not to seven figures yet, but multi-six figures, and I really learned in this whole experience that setbacks are sometimes setups for something bigger and better. I wanted to support women to live life confidently. I always say, ‘Unleash yourselves; everything is available; just be willing to take bold and courageous actions to have everything you want.”
Through her experiences, Tina learned that setbacks are often setups for something bigger and better. She discovered the importance of aligning with her true desires and supporting women to live confidently. Tina embraced the idea that work-life balance is a myth and instead focused on prioritizing her health, family, and business. By creating a structure that honored these core values, she let go of the need to please everyone and began putting herself first.
“How do you make yourself a priority?” the question came back around, this time with a response from Tina. “It’s not easy when we’re trying to be it all and do it all. Let go of the attachment of what we believe we need to be,” said Tina. “Sometimes we are trained to be contained; we are trained to be this person that can get it all done and figure it all out, and in the process, we lose ourselves. That’s why so many people come to me and say, ‘Tina, I don’t know where my confidence went. I just say yes to everything. I don’t know who I am anymore.” When we have that experience of not knowing who we are anymore, we haven’t been listening to our internal compass and putting ourselves first. Putting yourself first is selfish, but we get to be selfish because, as leaders, we’ll suffocate if we aren’t putting our oxygen masks on first. I think women have a tough time putting their mask on first because they’re not seeing that when we do that, the ripple effect in our families, communities, and business is actually tenfold if we can learn to put ourselves first and be selfish, which means we need to let go of things we don’t really want in our life.”
Tina’s remarkable journey is a testament to the transformative power of authenticity, resilience, and unwavering self-belief. Through her experiences, she has become a beacon of inspiration and a fierce advocate for women’s empowerment. Tina’s story reminds us that we all have the potential to unlock our next level of confidence and create lives of purpose and fulfillment. Tina has embraced the idea that true success lies in aligning with our passions, values, and inner strength. She encourages women to break free from societal expectations and create their own paths, reminding us that we are capable of much more than we may realize.
As a coach and mentor, Tina uplifts and supports others on their journeys toward self-discovery and empowerment. She encourages women to embrace their authentic selves, celebrates their unique qualities, and tap into their innate power. Her guidance encourages individuals to leave their comfort zones, challenge limiting beliefs, and create purposeful, confident, and fulfilled lives. To learn more about Tina and her coaching services, visit her website, tinabrigley.com WOW
Nadia Khalaf sees a path to home ownership for everyone, and she should know. With nearly 15 years of experience in the real estate industry and a personal love for houses and design Nadia says she can relate to “the pride and excitement of owning and exchanging real estate.” As a homeowner and investor, herself, she understands the stress that can sometimes come with the process of finding the right property. That’s where she comes in, the value of a good agent is underestimated in today’s world of social media and technology but find the right one and buyers and sellers quickly recognize how invaluable a knowledgeable and trustworthy agent becomes.
Nadia attributes her continued success to her hard work both in front of her clients and behind the scenes. “In order to stay knowledgeable, you need to be doing the leg work.”
For Nadia and her team staying transparent and gaining the trust of her clients is of the utmost importance and something they pride themselves in maintaining. The last few years of real estate in Windsor and Ontario has certainly and literally had its ups and downs. In order to gain that trust Nadia says “conversing with other experts who tie into the real estate field, researching the history of real estate, consulting with clients, showing them the data and the patterns, disclosing all risks and giving people options allows them to trust you in your approach with an ever-changing market. Most importantly, staying transparent.” Building relationships in the real estate world is important not only with clients but also fellow brokers and other professionals that connect to the industry. Nadia’s relationships with other professional individuals truly allows her clients and
partners to see the meaningful way those relationships impact her career and her ability to do the best job she can in negotiating deals, which immediately trickle down to her client’s overall trust in her ability and their happiness with the decisions they’ve made along the way.
For the Windsor market particularly, Nadia says, “the future of Windsor’s real estate market is promising.” The market in Windsor is vastly different than it was even a year ago but 2023 and beyond is quite exciting if you are in the market for housing or property investment. Home prices have gotten a lot of attention over the past few years, but the people of Windsor and Essex County are starting to see a shift. The number of listings is increasing, which creates somewhat of a correction in pricing. Nadia understands the markets and with more and more billion-dollar projects happening throughout Windsor, as well as “the growth the city has seen is an indication that we are heading in the right direction.”
While home ownership has been much harder to achieve especially for the firsttime buyer, Nadia still believes that young people do value owning a home. “First time homebuyers make up for many of our active and committed buyers today.” Nadia and her team believe that education is key to successfully equipping buyers to succeed in a challenging and sometimes confusing real estate market. They must get creative with what a home looks like to them. Nadia is confident that when a buyer pairs themselves with the right realtor and team “there is always a way to secure a decent property.”
Nadia Khalaf has been successfully helping individuals, families and investors realize their goals in real estate for over a decade. She says, “I am always accessible, aiming for the highest standard in my clients’ experience,” which is something that keeps her motivated. When looking to the future, Nadia wishes to expand the team’s presence throughout Windsor/Essex and the Greater Toronto Area while producing a one stop shop for all clients trading. WOW
\ Cheryl
a new beginning in a male-dominated industry.
By Layan BarakatIt’s not about the challenges we face, but rather how we choose to overcome them, a sentiment that embodies Cheryl Durning and her foray into a male-dominated industry. Ten years ago, Cheryl made a decision that would forever change the trajectory of her life and her career; her story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the pursuit of passion regardless of obstacles.
Photos by Maximus Reid
Cheryl’s path to becoming an electrician was unconventional to say the least. “I was basically a stay-at-home mom when my kids were younger, so I just did some part-time work in retail, that sort of thing,” Cheryl recalls. But she found herself at a crossroads when the retail store she managed faced closure. Cheryl discovered a lifeline during this pivotal moment: “I learned that you can return to school while on unemployment. I had done some minor renovations as a teenager and loved it, so I always thought I’d pursue construction,” recalls Cheryl. However, the turning point came when a nugget of wisdom was shared with her, “If you’re an electrician, you’ll never be unemployed a day in your life.” With that, Cheryl embarked on a life-altering journey.
She enrolled in the Electrical Techniques program at St. Clair College, funded through the Second Career Ontario program (now called Better Jobs Ontario). This marked her initial entry into the trades, a decision that would soon become a lifelong passion. “I fell in love with electrical and didn’t want to do general contracting. But the general contracting I learned getting into this industry made me a better electrician because I know how to get in and out of tight spaces in homes, etc.,” states Cheryl.
When she embarked on this journey in her early 50s, Cheryl put all doubts of starting her career later in life to rest. “I was a little late, but it’s the best career choice I ever made,” she proudly asserts. Cheryl’s tenacity knows no bounds. She has applied her skills to home renovations, both in her home and for others. “I do renovations in my home; I’ve done them for others. The company I work for (DS Electric) has flipped a couple of houses, so we’ve done everything from plumbing to drywall and painting, roofs, that kind of stuff. So, I’ve dipped my toe in many different things,” says Cheryl.
Upon joining DS Electric, Cheryl was initially hired to assist with office work due to her prior management experience. However, her burning desire to be on the job quickly became evident during the interview process. When asked if she had any reservations about being on a job site, Cheryl replied with unwavering determination, “Well, no, that’s what I’d prefer.” Her passion and dedication landed her a role
where she could fully immerse herself in the electrical field, a role she’s held for eight years and counting.
Cheryl’s advice for those considering a career in male-dominated fields is empowering: “If I had to give someone a piece of advice about going into a male-dominated field, it would be to learn to advocate for yourself because no one else will do it for you. You have to learn to listen when you need to listen and speak back when you have to. You have to be strong mentally as well as physically,” says Cheryl. “I’ve always tried to prove my worth my entire life. I’m worth more; I can do that,” Cheryl declares. This determination has been a driving force in her career, propelling her to excel in every role she has undertaken. Whether it was her time as an insurance adjuster or her journey through the electrical techniques program, Cheryl’s philosophy remains consistent: “Teach it to me, and I’ll learn it.” Her relentless pursuit of self-improvement knows no bounds, and she aims to shatter gender stereotypes along the way.
Cheryl’s story is also a powerful testament to the idea that age is just a number. “You’re never too old to start,” she states firmly. Her initial hesitation when sitting in the auditorium at St. Clair College for orientation soon gave way to a love for learning. She found herself in a diverse environment, surrounded by students in their 20s, some of
whom would become her friends. “The first day there, I thought, oh my gosh, what have I done but to myself? But within the first week, I discovered I loved learning. It was a new experience for me”.
Cheryl’s message to everyone is simple yet profound: “You’re never too old to start, learn, and chase your dreams.” Her life experience shows that age should never be a barrier to personal growth and professional achievement. It’s about embracing change, facing adversity head-on, and continually proving that you are capable of far more than you might have ever imagined.
Cheryl serves as a role model for women and anyone who has ever contemplated taking a leap of faith into the unknown. Cheryl’s journey teaches us that the path to self-discovery and fulfillment is a lifelong adventure. It’s about being open to new experiences, having the courage to step outside your comfort zone, and realizing that with determination, there are no limits to what you can accomplish. Her story is a testament to the extraordinary possibilities that await those who refuse to let age, gender, or circumstances hold them back. It’s a story of empowerment, resilience, and the unwavering belief that it’s never too late to spark a new beginning. Cheryl reminds us that our greatest accomplishments often come when we least expect them and that, truly, the best is yet to come. WOW
