For eight inspiring years now, the Women of Oakwyn (WOO) event has been a cornerstone of empowerment and celebration for women in our community. This annual gathering is not just an event; it’s a vibrant movement dedicated to uplifting women on their journeys toward leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.
This year’s event, themed Nature & Nurture, served as a profound celebration of resilience and transformation, emphasizing the powerful synergy between these two essential forces. Rather than viewing nature and nurture as opposing elements, we embraced their collaboration, recognizing how they intertwine to foster growth and development in our lives. This gathering highlighted the vital importance of nurturing our innate strengths and capabilities, while also acknowledging the natural world’s role in inspiring us to reach our fullest potential. Through inspiring talks, meaningful connections, and shared experiences, the event uplifted women on their journeys to leadership and personal growth, creating a vibrant community that champions resilience. The theme resonated deeply with attendees, serving as a reminder that together, we can cultivate an environment where every woman feels empowered to thrive, flourish, and inspire others in the pursuit of their dreams.
A Gathering of Connection and Inspiration
Set in the elegant Vancouver Club, this year’s WOO event was a transformative experience. Attendees were welcomed into a beautifully designed venue that fosters warmth and connection, reflection, and women’s empowerment. As soon as you stepped in, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and the spirit of collaboration. The tables were arranged in a stunning long format, adorned with stunning floral arrangements that beautifully mimicked the natural gradient of nature, skillfully crafted by For Flora! Each arrangement showcased a harmonious blend of colours and textures, creating an enchanting atmosphere that reflected the theme of Nature & Nurture and added an extra layer of warmth and elegance to the event.
Inspiring Talks and Powerful Voices
As part of the morning festivities, participants enjoyed a delicious breakfast paired with inspiring talks from a lineup of remarkable speakers. Hosted by our Co-Owners Arlene Chiang and Morgan Browne, we listened to inspiring stories of perseverance and women in leadership. This year, we are thrilled to feature Catherine McCourt, a transformational life and business coach known for her empowering philosophy: “LIFE – Live In Fearless Evolution.” Catherine’s keynote dove into the importance of aligning personal purpose with professional performance, offering valuable insights for both aspiring leaders and established entrepreneurs.
Additionally, Cally Wesson, CEO of the BC Women’s Health Foundation, shed light on the crucial work being done to advance women’s health. Her passion for equitable access to healthcare ensures that every woman and newborn in British Columbia receives the best possible care. Together, these speakers ignited a sense of purpose and inspired attendees to pursue their own journeys of growth.
Engaging Activities and Community Spirit
The event went beyond talks and networking. Adding a creative touch, we also hosted several activities and engagements for guests.
During the engagement hour, attendees had the exciting opportunity to participate in a vibrant silent auction showcasing over 25 unique items generously donated by local businesses and talented artists. From exquisite artwork to handcrafted goods, each item reflected the creativity and spirit of our community. All proceeds from this auction were proudly donated to the BC Women’s Health Foundation, reinforcing our commitment to advancing women’s health and well-being. It was a wonderful way for attendees to contribute while also celebrating local talent and creativity!
A heartfelt thank you goes out to our generous sponsor, Bell Alliance, whose support made this inspiring event possible. Their commitment to empowering women and fostering community connections truly exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that underpins the Women of Oakwyn. We are deeply grateful for their partnership, which not only enhanced the experience for all attendees but also contributed to the positive impact we strive to create together.
Next, attendees were treated to the artistic talents of fashion sketch artist Isabel Dusmann, who skillfully captured personal portraits throughout the day. This unique experience added a creative flair to the event, allowing participants to leave with a beautiful, tangible reminder of the connections forged and the inspiration sparked during this empowering gathering. Each sketch served as a lasting memento, celebrating not only the individual spirit of each attendee but also the collective energy and camaraderie of the WOO event.
Kiehl’s provided an exceptional hands-on experience with their innovative skin-matching technology, inviting attendees to explore personalized skincare solutions tailored to their unique needs. Their incredible team of experts was on-site to offer valuable advice, insights, and recommendations, ensuring that each guest left feeling empowered in their skincare journey. In addition to showcasing their cutting-edge products, Kiehl’s generously contributed a silent auction gift and provided take-home samples for all attendees, allowing them to continue their pampering experience long after the event. This thoughtful engagement highlighted Kiehl’s commitment to enhancing the beauty and confidence of every individual in our community!
Lastly, we had the pleasure of hosting Olive & Piper, a renowned woman-owned jewelry company based in Vancouver. They showcased a stunning, fashion-forward display of exquisite jewelry pieces, inviting guests to browse and explore a range of elegant designs that perfectly complemented their individual styles. Their knowledgeable team offered personalized recommendations, ensuring each attendee found the perfect accessory. In a generous gesture, Olive & Piper also donated a beautiful, original set of earrings to each guest, allowing everyone to leave with a unique piece of jewelry as a cherished reminder of the event and the spirit of empowerment that defines our community.
Making a Difference Together
At its core, the WOO event is about community and impact. Over the past eight years, we have awarded 16 scholarships to women pursuing their passions, and this year’s proceeds will benefit the BC Women’s Health Foundation. By attending, you’re not just celebrating accomplishments; you’re actively contributing to causes that resonate far beyond this gathering.
The WOO event invites you to be part of something extraordinary. Together, we celebrated accomplishments, inspired change, and will continue to craft a future where every woman’s potential is recognized and nurtured.
