In May 2023, I had the privilege of being named a recipient of the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board’s (TRREB) Community Service Award. This honour acknowledges REALTORS® who dedicate time and energy to building stronger, more inclusive communities. For me, the recognition is deeply personal, as it shines a light on my work with Lean In Canada, an organization I co-founded more than a decade ago.

How it all began

Back in 2013, inspired by Sheryl Sandberg’s book Lean In, I joined forces with two colleagues to create a space for women to come together, learn, and support one another. Our first event brought 20 women into a small office in Toronto. What started as a grassroots initiative quickly evolved into a national nonprofit.

Today, Lean In Canada has grown to chapters in multiple cities, including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto. With thousands of members and hundreds of volunteers, it has become one of the most dynamic communities for women seeking professional growth and leadership opportunities.

The difference we’ve made

Over the years, our events and programs have helped women negotiate salaries, step into leadership roles, gain confidence, and find mentors who guided them toward new opportunities. The success stories shared by our members are powerful reminders of the impact that community-driven initiatives can have.

Why volunteering matters

One of the key lessons I have carried with me is that anyone can contribute, regardless of how much time they have. As I said in the TRREB announcement: “If you only have an hour a day or an hour a week to volunteer, you can still volunteer.” Even small efforts can lead to big change when combined with the dedication of others.

Looking ahead

Being recognized with the TRREB Community Service Award is both humbling and motivating. It acknowledges the collective effort of everyone who has supported Lean In Canada and reinforces the importance of continuing this work.

This award is not just about my journey. It is about the volunteers who give their time, the members who show up eager to grow, and the community that has made Lean In Canada thrive. I remain committed to expanding opportunities, empowering women, and building spaces where leadership and confidence can flourish.