AUGUST 2018 / THE WOMEN'S ISSUE
SACHA CELEBRATES INDIGENOUS WOMEN
IRON BEER MAIDENS
BREASTFEED FEARLESSLY AND COMFORTABLY
HAMILTON WOMEN WHO TOOK THE LEAP TO BE THEIR OWN BOSS
HAMILTON’S FIRST CRAFT BEER GROUP FOR RAD WOMEN
TAKE BACK THE NIGHT IS SET FOR SEPTEMBER 20TH AT HAMILTON'S CITY HALL
LARK & LUX IS COMING TO HAMILTON
C O M P L I M E N TA R Y
SISTERS ARE DOIN’ IT FOR THEMSELVES
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A MESSAGE FROM
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THE EDITOR IN CHIEF
P U B L I S H E R + E D I TO R ANDREA FERNANDES andrea@urbanicity.ca L AYOU T & D ES I G N Ta fa rfi A n t ho ny
At our last team meeting, I jokingly asked the men in the room to irritate me so that I would be inspired to write my female empowered editorial for our annual Women’s Issue. Later that evening while driving home I realised I was annoyed with what I had said. I was implying that female empowerment revolves around being angry at men and that has never been how I have chosen to be a feminist. I choose to be a feminist because I believe that men and women should be treated as equals, but also acknowledged and respected for their differences. I choose to be a feminist because I want to celebrate female accomplishments and encourage the women in my life to fulfil their dreams— whatever they may be. Do I think there is still work that needs to be done in order to reach a true state of equality? Of course! But, I also think we should stop and appreciate the time that we are living in. Women and men today are encouraging each other to pursue their dreams, fight for equality, stand up for what they believe in, march for change and embrace a brighter and more inclusive future.
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That is what I want the Women’s Issue of urbanicity to reflect. This issue showcases the many women of this incredible city; women who are leaders, entrepreneurs, influencers, mothers and more. Women who are determined to put their best foot forward and succeed because they know they live in a time where their voices are heard, acknowledge and supported. And if they aren’t, you better believe there is a group of fierce ladies rallying behind them to make a change. Flip to pg. 14 to learn how SACHA is putting Indigenous women at the forefront of Take Back the Night this September or to pg. 6 to read how the YWCA is eliminating barriers for female entrepreneurs. The women of this issue are working hard to not only become the best versions of themselves but also to lift up the ladies beside them. So, cheers to the women of Hamilton and cheers to the time of positive change that we are living! ANDREA FERNANDES
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AUGUST 2018 / THE WOMEN'S ISSUE
TH E WOM E N'S ISSUE
Sisters Are Doin’ it For Themselves Hamilton women who took the leap to be their own boss
Hamilton is full of start-ups and small businesses. From consulting to customer service, our city is a place where people feel they can take the chance on the dream of working for themselves and doing something they really love. For the women’s issue, we’re focusing on just a few of Hamilton’s incredible female entrepreneurs. Some have started their companies in the past year, whereas others have been head honcho for a while. Either way – they’re following their passion and crafting the life they want for themselves. If that’s not impressive, we don’t know what is.
BY STEFANI SOLIMAN
Stefani Soliman is a social media marketer and freelance editor. She's an avid supporter of local businesses, Canadian-made goods and fashion. Along with her love of dogs, punctuation, and the ‘90s, Stefani is a keen recycler and instrument collector. Tell her a corny joke and you’ll be friends for life. @ stefsoliman
J ESSI CA L EE, HELLO BAKED Jessica is the owner of Hello Baked, a charming (and highly Instagram-able) sweet boutique selling gourmet gummies, teas, jams, and decorated sugar cookies made in-house. From tulip cookie “bouquets” for Mother’s Day to a “milk and cookies” cookie, Jessica creates whimsical but classic designs for both retail and custom clients.
How long have you owned your business? Why did you choose that specific industry? I started baking and decorating sugar cookies as a hobby years ago while I was working full-time in a different industry. I grew to love the creative process and, coming from a background in Event Planning, also saw an opportunity for sugar cookies to be used as event favours and edible marketing tools. I've always had a crazy sweet tooth and an appreciation for handcrafted goods, so when I opened the store last December I knew that I wanted to make it a one-stop shop for all of my favourite things!
Is entrepreneurship thought it would be?
what
you
I knew that it would be a lot of hard work, a job where you wear many hats, and one that requires constant innovation — which is part of what attracts me to this kind of work. But I was definitely a bit naive going into it!
What has been your most satisfying moment in business? I'd say it's a tie! Opening a retail store was a dream that I wasn't sure would ever come to fruition. So to finally see years of work culminate into a physical
shop last year — that was pretty cool. And, anytime that I get to collaborate with a brand or organization that I admire is a bit of a "pinch me" moment. Most recently, I was approached to work with one of my favourite bands, The Arkells. I've been going to their shows for years; to have an opportunity to partner with them and help promote their biggest show to date was exciting both personally and professionally. Our partnership started shortly after Hello Baked opened its doors in Hamilton, so to me, this collaboration is extra meaningful because it's synonymous with the launch of the store.
Most surprising/most helpful lesson you've learned so far? People are eager to help and want to see you succeed. Running a business isn't without its challenges, but I've found that so many people — from the City to neighbouring businesses, to my customers — have been incredibly willing to jump in, lend an extra hand or connect me with the right people to help move my business forward. This community has such a generosity of spirit.
What motivates or inspires you? I love that there is a real opportunity for "Makers" and creative minds right now! I'm especially excited that there are so many women occupying this space. It's energizing to see larger brands and corporations hosting Makers' Markets, using their brand power to lift up artisans and small business owners in their community. @hellobaked 342 Barton Street East
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WH IT N EY M C M EE KIN, GIRL ON THE WING/HAMILTON FLEA Despite the cliché connotations, Whitney is a bit of a Hamilton renaissance woman. From her shop in the International Village full of colourful housewares, vintage clothes, and playful accessories, to the pop-up Hamilton Flea Markets, to windows with Tourism Hamilton, to organizing outdoor nostalgic movie nights in Ferguson Station, she’s done it all!
How long have you owned your business? Why did you choose that specific industry? Girl on the Wing has been around for five years now! I also have a side gig in Hamilton Flea, which I do with my sister Erika. And planning various events in the community or working on contracts for other people/organizations! I chose to do what I do as a culmination of all the things I enjoy and am good at. It was important for me to create my own job, after working in various areas and figuring out what I wanted to do. Now I focus on running GOTW; doing the buying, styling and visual branding, creating a customer community, and merchandising a shop with unique and nostalgic pieces. Through the shop, I've had lots of opportunities to connect with so many people and it's lead to some great events, collaborations and has given my life a true and meaningful purpose.
Is entrepreneurship thought it would be?
what
you
I definitely expected it to be as fulfilling and fun as it has been, but I don't think anything can prepare you for the challenges you face. Like all things in life, the good stuff takes a lot of hard work. I struggle with balancing everything and there's a lot of balls to keep up in the air. But ultimately all the stresses, time spent, and obstacles are based around good things so it is always worth it. I have definitely grown and experienced so much more in the past five years than I ever would have in any other career.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business? The best part is feeling true to myself and my vision. In the day to day, it all just seems like a lot of work and that nothing is being accomplished. But when you really step back and see it, you see how much this, one small thing, grows! Also all the people I've met because of what I do. I honestly can't imagine not knowing all the people I know- everything good in my life has come through my shop and business. Whether it's a regular customer turning into a life-long pal, getting to meet a designer halfway across the world to collaborate with, or experiencing my business with the people closest to me- it's all brought beautiful people and magic into my life.
Most surprising/most helpful lesson you've learned so far? To be strong in your conviction and to trust your gut. Surround yourself with good people don't get too bothered about the people or things that could get you down. I guess I've learned not to take things too personally, but to still embrace my sensitive and intuitive side.
What motivates or inspires you? I feel like I'm always working! My hobbies have really become my career so it's hard to differentiate sometimes. But I love to spend time at home with my boyfriend Nikhil and my two kitties. I also love to dance wherever I can, bake delicious treats, read in bed, and go hunting for vintage treasures! I also love to travel and hope to incorporate that more into my business. @girlonthewinghamilton (IG) / @gotw_ hamilton (twitter) 181 King Street East
SH ARON R I CCI , INFLUENCE FACTOR Sharon is someone you want to know. Always working in a different place, she knows the ins and outs of Hamilton like very few people. A self-proclaimed “digital nomad,” Sharon has made a point to create and nurture a career that allows her to work wherever she is (although that place should definitely have coffee). An inspiration to many, her work touches people in a diverse range of industries, in Hamilton and beyond.
How long have you owned your business? Why did you choose that specific industry? I've owned my own business since my first son was born in 1991. For the first 15 years, I worked exclusively with Toronto advertising agencies as a senior copywriter on monthly retainers. Then, once my sons were all past grade 8 I kicked it up a notch and actually launched a "company". That was a big mind shift, from what I would call being self-employed to running a company. I wanted to create my own ideal balance between being my kind of mom and doing great work.
Is entrepreneurship thought it would be?
what
you
Being an entrepreneur has had a profound effect on my family life. Having an entrepreneurial outlook meant I could create my own work and carve out exactly how I wanted my life to look. I didn't have to compromise mothering for work. As an entrepreneur, I could make my own hours and that gave me all the flexibility I could ask for in my career as a mom. I homeschooled my sons for years, I travelled with them through Europe, sleeping in hostels and jumping on trains without worrying what my "boss" would be thinking or worrying about being back in the office in a week. I look back with zero regrets at
having worked too much or of not staying bright and active in my field. Being an entrepreneur gave me the very best of both worlds.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business? Control over my time and how I spend it. That's incredibly rewarding and important to me. Knowing that what I get out of my work is what I put in. Being able to prioritize mothering while still building my business. Being able to do what I want with my time. To develop my own ideas. To win or lose based on my own effort.
Most surprising/most helpful lesson you've learned so far? “Good things happen when you leave the office and just get out there and talk to people.” It's easy to become a silo when you're a solopreneur, it's super important to get out and meet up with people. It's energizing. A good business idea is important, being skilled is important but they won't make you a successful entrepreneur. Being able to make a plan and put it into action, test and pivot and make sales, those are the real skills you need to write your own pay cheques.
What motivates or inspires you? Really good espresso with lots and lots of ice preferably with a fantastic view of the ocean, preferably on a Tuesday in the middle of February. @influencemags
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Support in a Women-Centered Environment The YWCA is working to eliminate barriers to women's entrepreneurship
Each day at YWCA Hamilton, women with talent, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit access our Employment and Training Services, whether they’re hoping to launch their own digital marketing agency, open a cafÊ or hair salon, or embark on a freelance career, to name only a few examples.
By offering specialized training assistance and programs and services for women, youth, and newcomers, YWCA Hamilton helps individuals overcome barriers to employment and achieve economic equality. We recognize that economic security is an integral component of well-being, and we get excited every time we help a woman achieve her entrepreneurial dreams.
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Providing support in a women-centered environment by connecting to a like-minded network of women and coaching on a one-to-one basis ensures that women can apply for grants, loans, and funding in such a way as to ensure that they are taking steps forward toward success,” says Deborah Schwientek, Manager of Employment and Training Services at YWCA Hamilton. We know there are a number of persistent barriers to women’s entrepreneurship. According to a 2018 article in the Globe and Mail “female entrepreneurs often struggle to find growth capital. This is an issue for any start-up but is especially acute for women who face additional challenges, such as unconscious bias and a lack of female investors. As a result, women receive less than 16 per cent of all venture-capital funding.” We also know those female entrepreneurs often lack mentors with too few women currently holding top leadership positions in Hamilton. In 2017, we released the second instalment of the EXCLerator Project, which looks at women and diversity in Executive and Community leadership. The report done in partnership with McMaster University showed that women remain underrepresented in leadership roles across virtually all employment sectors in both Halton and Hamilton. Women account for two-thirds of all part-time employees across Canada and represent 59% of Canadians making minimum wage. Today’s STEM workforce suffers from a lack of female representation, especially minority women. Women are also often the primary caregivers, taking on unpaid care work for children and ageing parents, which can make it difficult to work in inflexible work environments. Investing in the careers of women is crucial not only for our economy but in the lives of the many women we serve. Since 2016, 37 new businesses have launched through YWCA Hamilton’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Program, which was created through the generosity of the Allen and Milli Gould Family Foundation. The program assists women who want to start a small business through in-class business training including marketing, goal setting, and business plan creation and implementation. Mentorship is also a critical component of this program. Our Microlending program is for women with limited incomes who want to start a small business. Services include assessment for loans, individual business coaching, and group learning sessions designed to help women learn how to start and operate a small
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business, obtain a microloan, and build a positive credit history. This program connects prospective small business owners with business experts and provides access to available community resources and support. YWCA Hamilton also knows it’s critical to create opportunities for future leaders. This year, 20 young Syrian refugee women engaged in a March Break leadership camp focused on building self-esteem and enhancing employability and life skills. Our STEM Girls program funded by The Hamilton Community Foundation offers young women in middle school the opportunity to explore careers in science, technology, and engineering. SISTER (Success in Service Training and Employment Retention), a program funded by Service Canada, that is no cost to participants, enables young women to develop and enhance their life and employability skills and make successful transitions into the labour market. YWCA Hamilton supports women in the field of information technology through our Women in Information Technology program. We also seek to address the gender imbalance that currently exists with young women in high schools not entering careers in Technical Fields and Skilled Trades through the Equitable Pathways to Technical Fields and Skilled Trades project that is funded by Status of Women Canada. Breaking barriers for women is not the only focus of YWCA Hamilton’s Employment and Training Services. We also welcome participants and employers to The Opportunities Program (T.O.P), a program funded by Service Canada, which assists persons with disabilities to prepare for, obtain and maintain employment. To learn more about YWCA Hamilton’s Employment and Training programs, visit ywcahamilton.org. Or drop by to say hello or grab a bite at At the Table, our social enterprise café and catering company that provides training opportunities to women and girls.
BY DENISE CHRISTOPHERSON
Denise Christopherson is a skilled and respected advocate whose passion for social justice, equity for women, and diversity have greatly contributed to the goal of equality for women and girls. As CEO of YWCA Hamilton, Denise Christopherson is a dynamic leader who builds relationships within the non-profit sector and broader community. ywcahamilton.org
Photos provided by YWCA
A Culinary Experience with a Social Purpose Prepare a delicious chef-inspired meal for 65 women living in YWCA Hamilton’s Transitional Living Program. “The YWCA provides us with a safe place to live, but finding affordable meals is often challenging. Life shouldn't be about struggling for food just to survive.” ~ Resident, YWCA Hamilton Transitional Living Program
Interactive cooking class with six friends - $300 Don’t have time to cook, but would like to help? Adopt A Meal - $300 For more information or to book contact: Felicia Van Dyk at (905) 522-9922 ext. 314 fvandyk@ywcahamilton.org
ywcahamilton.org
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Little Love Birds: Sustainable, Handmade Children’s Goods Creator Ariane Clark makes classically beautiful clothing from vintage materials
Clark exclusively uses vintage fabric and deadstock – pieces from manufacturers and designers that they would otherwise discard – and sews everything by hand at her home in Hamilton. Sustainability is the concept that drives her business; reducing the amount of clothing that ends up in landfills and creating heirloom clothing that can be passed down is the goal. But Little Love Birds may not have happened if Clark hadn’t moved to Hamilton. “The city is so supportive of entrepreneurs,” she says. “I applied for the Starter Company, plus a business grant through the Small Business Enterprise Centre and was given the opportunity to learn so much. They teach you how to write a business plan, do market research and understand the financials of running a small business.” Ariane Clark, creator of Little Love Birds, a sustainable children’s goods line, has always loved fashion. From her high school days spent sewing to touring with Shania Twain as wardrobe manager to running a vintage shop on eBay, Clark’s creative passion has never waned. When she and her husband moved to Hamilton in 2016, they were about to have twin girls – sisters for their two-year-old daughter. “The amount of clothing kids go through is astonishing,” she says. “I’ve always worked with vintage fashion and it seemed like a logical step to make clothes for our kids. Sustainability and reducing waste is important to me, but it was difficult to find clothes that were affordable, long-wearing and eco-friendly.” So, she decided to seek out materials with little to no carbon footprint, and the idea for Little Love Birds was born.
This page photos provided by ARIANE CLARK
BY ALICIA COX
Alicia Cox Thomson is a writer and aspiring romance novelist who has written for Flare, Today’s Parent, Macleans, What to Expect and CBC Life. She lives in a 100-year old house in Hamilton with her husband, small children and too many books. @ aliciahcox
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Currently, Little Love Birds consists of ready-made dresses, reversible rompers, pants and bloomers in sizes 0-3 months to 5T, plus crib sheets and change pad covers. Made-to-order custom pieces are always an option – a welcome convenience for hard-to-fit kids. Check the shop to see what’s available, as items are always changing depending on what types of fabric Clark has sourced. Her favourite places to hunt vintage fabrics? “Value Village,” she says, “because everything is clean and organized.” Bed linens are a great find, especially lovely washed out florals, a recurring theme in the line.
Working out of her home can have its challenges, especially with three kids under five. But Clark finds time during naps and after bedtime to plan, design and sew. She recently began renting space in Steel City Studios, a creative coworking facility downtown, to have more room for her industrial sewing machines and to be surrounded by other makers.
This page photos by ZURRY DONEVAN What’s next for Little Love Birds? Clark takes a moment to consider the next five years. “I’d love to run a sustainable factory, where goods can be manufactured in an ecologically responsible way.” And hopefully, she’ll still be making beautiful children’s clothes that can be saved and worn by future generations.
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Iron Beer Maidens Hamilton’s first craft beer group for rad women
BY HEATHER PETER
Heather Peter is a restaurant marketer, food industry graphic designer, writer, blogger & avid home-cook. When not out supporting the local food scene, Heather immerses herself into the culinary community. Beyond food, Heather loves tea, animals, & exploring Hamilton’s green spaces. @ hamontsmallfry
As you probably well know, the craft beer scene in Hamilton (and beyond) has been exploding by leaps and bounds over the past few years. With the recent openings of all the craft breweries in the city, comes many craft beer aficionados the only problem is, the craft beer scene has been known to
be a bit of a "boy's club". But the tides are turning, and like many things in our modern world, there are many who are bringing in the waves of change. In comes the Hamilton-based Iron Beer Maidens: Hamilton's Craft Beer group for rad women. An awesome step towards more inclusivity in the industry!
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F
ounded in 2017 by Tiffany Hayes (aka Head Storyteller), Aimee Belanger (aka Beer Curator) and Jenna Anderson (aka Creator of Hopportunities), Iron Beer Maidens brings together those who identify as women for monthly beer tasting events. With the ticket to the event, the attendees receive a blind flight of beer, chat with the other women to discuss flavour profiles and tasting notes and have a guess at what brew and brand they're drinking. Closer to the end of the meeting, the 'Maidens' will do a reveal of the flights, followed by a 'badass' lady speaker involved in the beer industry. But the night doesn't end there! If you stick around, there's music, laughs, and a chance to meet other awesome people who are into craft beer. Sometimes, they even have special craft beer artisans like Pretty Pennie Jewellery with hops necklaces or earrings or beer soap with Big Beer Soap Company.
what their favourite part of the group has been so far, each team member had a different reason. For Tiffany, it's the variety of women that show up "from beer newbies to experts, solo or with a friend, and everyone gets along like they've been friends forever. Truly a RAD group of women", she says. For Aimee, her favourite part of being a part of the group so far has been the inclusiveness and creating a space where women can come together to meet new friends through beer. She also loves "showing off some great spaces for events in Hamilton." Jenna feels that her favourite thing is watching newcomers transform from feeling unsure about what to say about a beer, into feeling empowered and speaking about their tasting experience. Jenna says "There are no wrong answers." Plus, "There are so many different flavour profiles in the craft beer industry today, that each of our events is unique depending on what we pour."
The rad women in charge of Iron Beer Maidens say they felt a need to start the group after noticing a space that needed to be filled in the Hamilton area (many other cities’ offer women’s craft beer groups, such as the popular Toronto’s Society of Beer Drinking Ladies). Plus, the Iron Beer Maidens wanted to create a community-feel where women could learn more about craft beer and have a fun environment to learn and ask questions. It was a group that seemed only necessary with the great spaces and amazing local breweries we are blessed with in Hamilton.
Whether you're a craft beer expert or a have just found a new passion with craft beer and are dipping your toes in...the Iron Beer Maidens group is the best way for women to get involved in the scene.
So far, the community has been extremely receptive to the group, with over 20-60 women attending each monthly event. When asked
Find out more about the Iron Beer Maidens, and stay tuned for their upcoming event dates, at: https://www.ironbeermaidens.com https://www.instagram.com/ironbeermaidens https://www.facebook.com/IronBeerMaidens
Above photo provided by IRON BEER MAIDENS All other photos by HEATHER PETER
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Rush Sugar Bar Mezcals little sister is kicking ass and satisfying your sweet tooth
Rush Sugar Bar, Hamilton’s newest dessert and soft serve restaurant is a lively and fun experience from the moment you walk through the door. As a little sister to popular taco joint Mezcal and tapas restaurant Uno Mas, the walls are covered with beautiful Mexican-inspired murals which add to the overall experience that owner Kristy Ferreira is trying to create. “Atmosphere is huge and that’s why we put so much work into the aesthetics of this place. It’s not blank walls, it’s gorgeous,” says Ferreira. As a native Hamiltonian, Ferreira knew that Hamilton was in need of a good soft serve place and she decided to put her fifteen years of experience in the foodservice industry to good use.
Photos by Abby Simone
Ferreira began her career in office administration but realized that she had a passion for working with people and turned her attention to the service industry instead. What Ferreira likes most about the industry is the relationships that you get to build with people in the community, “You get to kind of grow with people, you know, like you see women come in and they’re pregnant and then they have their kid and you see their kid progress, it’s nice.” Along with community building and atmosphere, Ferreira also cites a personable staff and superior food quality as the cornerstones of her new business. What sets Rush apart from
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"ONCE PEOPLE HEAR ALL THE DIFFERENT FLAVOURS WE SEE THEIR EYES LIGHT UP. THEY’RE LIKE CHILDREN IN A CANDY STORE."
regular ice cream shops is the unique flavour-burst soft serve machine, the only one of its kind in Hamilton. This means that the machine has standard vanilla, chocolate and twist but also has a choice of rotating flavours which you can add to your standard cone. Options include strawberry, banana and butterscotch as well as more unique flavours like cinnamon bun and birthday cake. “Ice Cream is kinda like a comfort food,” says Ferreira, “Once people hear all the different flavours we have their eyes light up. They’re like children in a candy store.” Rush also boasts a variety of ice cream toppings and dips, various desserts, a signature coffee blend and a selection of alcohol. “You wouldn’t assume that a dessert bar would have a liquor license but we do,” says Ferreira, “Come have a dessert and even if you don’t want a dessert come have a drink.” The dessert bar works in tandem with both Mezcal and Uno Mas, which often have long wait times on the weekend as
well as limited dessert options. Rush is a solution to these issues as customers are encouraged to have a drink at Rush while they wait for a table, or stop by after a meal for dessert. Ferreira works as an administrator for Uno Mas and Mezcal and now as the owner of her own business, she has been learning to balance her personal life and her work life. “It’s exhausting,” she says with a laugh, “but you have to remind yourself that the situation is temporary. It’s definitely challenging but it's rewarding to know that you’ve worked so hard to get to where you are now. People always think that working in a restaurant you can’t build a career from it but you absolutely can, if you work hard enough, if you put yourself out there enough and every day you try to be better at something.” Rush is located at 156 James St S and is open every day from 11 am to 11 pm.
BY ABBY SIMONE
Abby Simone is a freelance writer and editor currently residing in Hamilton Ontario
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SACHA Celebrates Indigenous Women Take Back the Night is set for September 20th at Hamilton's City Hall
Every September women, nonbinary folks, and their kids gather at Hamilton's City Hall to remind our community that sexual violence is a serious issue. Take Back the Night (TBTN) is a global tradition that has been happening in Hamilton for thirty-seven years. This year’s theme is Resurgence: Celebrate Indigenous Women. The organizing committee chose this theme after seeing the #Canada150 celebrations last year gloss over Canada’s history of genocide and colonialism. Many Canadians have no knowledge of Canada’s plan of violent assimilation that includes the reserve system and residential schools. This violence continues today. Indigenous women are three times more likely to experience violence (sexual assault, robbery, physical assault) than nonIndigenous women. There is a reserve to prison pipeline in Canada: Indigenous folks are 26.4% of the Canadian prison population while they are only 4% of the general Canadian population. Canada has a national crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous
women, girls and Two Spirit folks (MMIWG2S). It’s estimated that over 4000 Indigenous girls, women, and Two Spirit folks are murdered or missing. The UN Human Rights Council has even called out Canada multiple times for ignoring the MMIWG2S crisis. So often, when we talk about Indigenous peoples in Canada we focus only on the negative. At TBTN, we want to celebrate the women, girls, and Two Spirit folks who are making changes in our communities. We want to highlight resiliency, strength, and everything Indigenous folks are doing to ensure their communities stay alive. We recognize that our event happens on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee, Mississaugas, and Anishnabee – governed by the Dish With One Spoon wampum. Take Back the Night will start with a gathering at the forecourt of City Hall. Over thirty community organizations will come with activities to connect the work that they are doing to end sexual violence. The vibe is celebratory. Kids are welcome and encouraged to come. During the rally, we will celebrate with local artists who share their singing and dancing with us. We also get ready for the march by warming up our bodies with stretching.
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! DR. BRYAN STEIN
DR. ELICIA KOBLIK
DR. PETER LI
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By far the march is the most anticipated part of the entire event. It is hard to put into words how empowering and energizing it can feel to take to the street with hundreds of other people who are loud and passionate about ending sexual violence. Alberta, a TBTN committee volunteer, describes it as “I’m elated. I don’t get this feeling the rest of the year.” Other committee members march for different reasons: “I’m a victim of sexual assault from family members ever since I was five years old. This year it means even more to me because I’ve been talking with my brother about why I’m still vocal about the abuse all these years later,” explains Aileen. For TBTN performer coordinator, Laura Kooji, this year’s theme is truly personal: "I'm excited about amplifying Indigenous women at TBTN this year. Every year that I walk with TBTN, I keep all missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and Two Spirit people in my heart. Having TBTN putting Indigenous women at the forefront of this year's march is a powerful statement of solidarity and shows relationship building with the Indigenous community." We adore the support of male allies speaking against sexualized violence. Men are invited to cheer us on from Gore Park. For more information about Take Back the Night visit sacha.ca
BY SACHA
SACHA – Hamilton’s Sexual Assault Centre – has been working to support survivors and end sexual violence since 1975. Connect with SACHA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram sacha.ca Photos by RAZAN SAMARA
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AUGUST 2018 / THE WOMEN'S ISSUE
TH E WOM E N'S ISSUE
Breastfeed Fearlessly and Comfortably Lark & Lux is coming to Hamilton
W
hat is the hardest part about pregnancy? Genuinely, I’m asking. I’ve never been pregnant and I want to know. I’ve certainly been around enough people to hear about the things – nausea, swollen feet, weird cravings… not fitting into any of your damn clothes any more. Let’s be honest, that’s got to be one of the most expensive and hardest hurdles to get over when you’re pregnant. Not only do you have to buy furniture, clothing and accessories for a brand new human who’s about to join you in your home, but you also have to deal with your rapidly changing and expanding body as well.
women will wear this piece through motherhood and beyond,” Brittany says. An unexpected secondary market arose out of her mother’s group of friends. “My mom and her friends are going through a different hormonal time [menopause]. They like it because they’re experiencing hot flashes. It’s breathable material [and] it’s a universally flattering style.”
Once your brand new baby has arrived and you’re starting to feel like a human being again, albeit a rather deflated human being, and you’re breastfeeding or just not interested in wearing anything constricting, you are still faced with this conundrum: what the hell do you wear? Leggings are a great solution when you’re at home or having a casual day, but everyone gets sick of leggings eventually. And if you want to wear a dress and you’re breastfeeding, you either have to go into a breastfeeding station, conveniently still located by the bathrooms, or head back to your car to take your dress off just to feed your squalling child. This was the frustration and indignity that lead entrepreneur and new mom Brittany Holton to create a dress specifically designed for women who want to wear a light, soft dress and still feed their children without taking the entire thing off in public. Out of necessity was born Lark & Lux. “I had my [first] daughter about two years ago, in June 2016. My biggest challenge was finding clothes I could look and feel like myself in and still manage to breastfeed my daughter. I didn’t feel like myself [in leggings and tank tops]. I felt like if I’m my best Brittney, I’ll be the best mom to my daughter.” Despite this, Brittney felt that this was a superficial thing to complain about. “I was out of my mat clothes, which felt great, [but] my clothes weren’t functional for what I needed to do.”
Photos provided by LARK & LUX
It all came to a head one sunny day. Fed up with the loungewear and feeling confident she wouldn’t have to feed her while she ran errands, Brittney put on a favourite dress of hers she’d been waiting for months to wear again. But it didn’t work out that way. Halfway through her grocery shopping, Brittney’s daughter needed to feed. Having no alternative, Brittney returned to her car in the Dundurn Fortinos plaza and had to remove her dress to feed her daughter. It dawned on her during that moment of frustration, “If I need it, surely other women do too.” With that in mind, Brittney pulled a favourite dress from her closet and set out to find a way to help herself. “I literally have no training in fashion, [but] I figured out a way.” The prototype was sewn by a girlfriend’s mother-in-law. Brittney’s new mom friends passed the dress around and gave her feedback. And finally, a true sample of The Melly was created. Made of soft bamboo fabric, the dress
combines a supportive built-in bra with easy zipper access to make feeding on-the-go simple and more dignified than sitting in your car with half your clothes off, hoping no one walks by and peeks in the window. The design is versatile, too. You can dress it up for a night out with your partner, or throw on a pair of sneakers and a jean jacket to keep it casual. The road to entrepreneurship wasn’t clear for Brittany right away, though. “I kept hesitating,” she explains, “I had a newborn, [I thought] I don’t know what I’m doing.” But when she sent out a survey to gather more feedback, she was expecting to only get a handful of responses. “20-25 people would have been good,” she thought at the time. In total 125 new moms responded to the survey. That proved to be powerful validation that people needed this product. Since then another design has been introduced, The Emmy, and Brittany is planning a third design and expanding the colour offerings. “I’m hoping that
Lark & Lux’s rally cry is “#feedfearlessly” – they want to encourage women to embrace the way they’ve chosen to feed their baby, be it breast, bottle, formula or any combination. No one should feel like they aren’t doing their best for their baby just because they don’t fit into a narrow view of what some people think a mother should do. Lark & Lux’s clothing is inclusive for all types of mothers and all body shapes. You can find Lark & Lux in shops around southwestern Ontario: London, Midland and will soon be coming to Burlington and Hamilton. You’ll also find Lark & Lux at baby shows throughout the Golden Horseshoe and, of course, the website: www.larkandlux.com.
BY OLGA KWAK
Olga Kwak is a Hamilton-based writer and marketer. Her work has appeared in She Does the City, Torontoist, Toronto Star, The Genteel, and PRODUCT Magazine. She builds websites and writes from her office on Barton Street East. Visit www.olgakwak.com for more advice on doing the right thing online.
@ olgakwak
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AUGUST 2018 / THE WOMEN'S ISSUE
TH E WOM E N'S ISSUE
My Free Hamilton Ignore mental health and develop mental illness
Traumatic Stress Disorder and Major Depression. I felt like a failure of a person, a wife, a mother and an employee. I later learned that ‘busyness’ is a common coping technique that can become very unhealthy. Oh. There’s an explanation for that?
Photos provided by ANGIE MALLORY
It’s pretty simple yet we treat mental illness differently? Thankfully, I meet people in our communities that know of its importance from lived experience and work so hard to make a change. It’s a tough battle with the challenge of fighting a society full of old beliefs, stigma and misinformation. But we three women at My Free Hamilton are committed long-term to model that we don’t need to settle where we are. I actively ignored my mental health for over 20 years after an adverse childhood experience, it was easier that way. Here’s a snapshot of how I survived the emotional aftermath in my teens: I bullied, judged others, pushed people away, lied, manipulated, cheated, selfcriticized, self-harmed, was promiscuous, drank, did drugs and did more drugs. Was it really easier that way? No.
But it was what I had in my toolbox at the time. And so lives the paraphrased quote by Maya Angelou forever tattooed on my arm; “Do the best you can until you know better, then do better”. I became healthier and matured through my self-help endeavours. I managed to graduate high school and college, climb the career ladder, and I met my awesome husband. As I moved through this life I adopted new activities that weren’t so extreme; I became busy, started eating my emotions away, cleaned my messy house constantly and became a workaholic. It wasn’t until our first daughter arrived that I would take busyness to a whole new level, eventually having a breakdown complete with anxiety attacks and a mask that just couldn’t stay on at work. In 2014 I was diagnosed with Post
Today, I am so much healthier. I’m not perfect but I’m not aiming for perfection anymore. I have so many tools in my wellness toolbox. I’m currently working on physical and intellectual wellness for my personal balance. This is a lifelong journey; trauma happened and isn’t erased but I CAN work toward reclaiming my life. I can show my girls it’s possible. Julie & Jen, my partners at My Free Hamilton are on their own lifelong journey. We’ve gained so many tools in the last 3 years that help us overcome the tough emotions that still pop up. We have each other, the other peers we’ve connected with and a huge support network of FREE resources that we have access to in our city.
Right outside your doors are beautifully flawed people that try in whatever way they can to make our communities better and healthier, while navigating a chaotic world. It’s scary out there, we know, and that is why we created My Free Hamilton: to facilitate local access to these resources. We are not experts; we just know where we were, where we are now and how we got here. Allow us to share that with you so you can find a path to your personal balance. Learn more by visiting myfreehamilton.ca.
BY ANGIE MALLORY
Angie Mallory is a co-Founder of the local grassroots organization, My Free Hamilton and is also developing her own business, Journey to Life. She is committed in both endeavours to providing solutions, wellness education and tools to help others liberate themselves. myfreehamilton.ca
City of Hamilton 2018 Election ARE YOU ON THE VOTERS LIST?
Confirm you’re on the voters list for the 2018 municipal election on October 22. Visit www.voterlookup.ca or call 1-866-296-6722 to learn more.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CITY OF HAMILTON 2018 MUNICIPAL ELECTION AT: www.hamilton.ca/Elections
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TH E WOM E N'S ISSUE
The Maternal Sidekick Supporting mom and baby through postpartum
Hey there folks, introducing me, Erika Matkovich, an entrepreneurial spirit, a wife, mother to three children under the age of 6, a postpartum doula, fitness lover and an advocate for pelvic floor health. When we finish high school we are funnelled into some sort of postsecondary program and with a hope and a prayer from those paying for our education, that program pays off. Not me, I did the college route, and then spent years jumping job to job never feeling satisfied or fulfilled. It was starting to wear on me, a late 20-something year old with no true aspiration and about to start a family. Was being a stay at home mother my true calling? Don’t get me wrong, I love my little nuggets but I still longed to have a career that I was passionate about. In 2013, I gave birth to my perfectly healthy little girl. Everything was pretty standard and my focus was on keeping my new little bean healthy and happy. But, as the months dragged on I sunk into a funk. I felt like I was losing pieces of my old self and suffered from an identity crisis 6 months postpartum. I didn’t have a large support system and was the first of my friends to have a baby. I felt isolated. I didn’t have the information that I was experiencing postpartum depression, and I was too afraid to ask for help. I didn’t want others to think I wasn’t a good mother for feeling this way. Google quickly became my best friend as I tried to navigate the crises I was experiencing. I joined a local fitness club specializing in postnatal exercise. Over the next four years, I witnessed the real struggles, lack of postnatal knowledge, and lack of support faced by new moms. In 2016, I pursued a fitness instructor certification and starting teaching postnatal classes and fell head over heels in love. My newfound awareness and passion for women’s postnatal health and wellness and my own struggles birthed the idea of The Maternal Sidekick.
Photos provided by ERIKA MATKOVICH
The Maternal Sidekick is a servicebased business focusing on the postpartum family, primarily the new mother and baby, offering in-homepostpartum support and personal training services with a focus on pelvic floor health education and awareness. This area of postpartum wellness is a crucial aspect of recovery after childbirth, with significant impact on a mom’s quality of life, which is often not given adequate attention during the postpartum period. My goal with every client is that the family is provided with a more positive postpartum experience as well as realistic expectations of their evolving realities. Increasing the quality of a new family’s life in this way is an essential part of facilitating their wellbeing and will also serve to enhance the knowledge and awareness of their peers surrounding the value of postpartum support! Working on The Maternal Sidekick has filled my cup. I can finally say that I have found my passion and am so very thankful for life all that life has offered me and for making a successful #momboss. Learn more by visiting thematernalsidekick.com
BY ERIKA MATKOVICH
Erika Matkovich is a Postpartum Doula who owns The Maternal Sidekick. As a mother of three kids under the age of 6, she understands the beauty and chaos of adjusting to life after bringing home a baby. Her mission is to help families transition in a way that leaves them feeling empowered and ready to take on the day with confidence for whatever life flings at them. @ thematernalsidekick
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AUGUST 2018 / THE WOMEN'S ISSUE
TH E WOM E N'S ISSUE
M is for Money Former lakeport CEO helping children one dime at a time
What else can be said about Teresa Cascioli that hasn’t already been said? She’s an entrepreneur, former CEO, philanthropist, and now you can add author to her vast resume of accomplishments. Miss Cascioli is a graduate of McMaster’s DeGroote School of Business (1983). In 1999 she took over the bankrupt Lakeport Brewery in Hamilton and became its CEO. Within eight short years through clever marketing, tenacity, drive, and hard work, she turned a fledgling company around. In 2007 she sold it to Labatt for a staggering $201 million! After the sale of Lakeport Brewery Teresa became Strategic Advisor to Labatt and later to KPMG. Teresa learned early on about the value of money. When her parents gave her money to go to the store, she was always told to bring back the change because it was needed to buy other things. Some of today’s kids feel a sense of entitlement and believe that money grows on trees. If parents keep handing their children money, they won’t learn the value of a dollar and will take it for granted. She says they need to learn how to earn it and then spend it. Teresa is a firm believer that financial literacy is just as important as reading and writing. Through a sense of frustration that financial literacy is not taught in the school system, Teresa created M is for Money®, a Kid’s Guide to Financial Literacy. There are nine books in the series which revolve around seven-year-old twins Tessa and Benji. Through their
curiosity they learn money basics such as saving, running a lemonade stand, opening their own bank accounts, budgeting their purchases, loaning each other money, and paying back the loans. It’s not the typical rudimentary way of learning but rather a creative and fun adventure as we follow Tessa and Benji’s quest to get educated on money. The books are geared to children between the ages of 5 and 9. Teresa hopes the books will initiate important discussions about money between children and their families. The M is For Money book series is published by Cascioli’s own publishing company, Tess Creative. The illustrations were done by Sheridan College graduate Rachel Zavarella. The books are available at www.misformoney.ca. There are also free guides for parents, teachers, and librarians which can be downloaded at no cost on the website. In January of this year, FirstOntario Credit Union partnered with Teresa Cascioli and M is for Money to lead a financial literacy campaign in Ontario. For anyone who opens a new First Ontario account for a child up to the age of 10, they will receive the first three books of the series. Subsequent account transactions will be rewarded with additional books in the series until all nine books are collected. The books are available at all 32 FirstOntario
locations. More information can be found at FirstOntario.com. Teresa has received many business awards and accolades and has devoted her spare time to charitable causes. She has donated over $6 million to her community, including funding for McMaster University’s Chair in Entrepreneurial Leadership and has earned the title of Philanthropist of the Year If M is For Money then T is for Teresa who saw a void in financial learning and acted on it.
BY PHIL CAPOBIANCO
Phil Capobianco is a Hamilton-based writer and musician. His work has appeared in The Hamilton Spectator, Hamilton Mountain News, The Bay Observer, The Globe and Mail, View Magazine, and has written for musicologist Alan Cross's blog.