2024
INSPIRATIONAL
WOMAN AWARD
This year's International Women's Day campaign will be an opportunity to celebrate local women who have made a difference in the community when it comes to progressing inclusion.
We've narrowed down all of the nominations submitted for this year's Inspirational Woman Award and now we're asking YOU to vote for who you think deserves to win.
The winner of the award will be a result of a poll voted on by the public from now until Friday, March 8 (the official International Women's Day). The winner will be announced at our International Women's Day EmpowerMarket event on Saturday, March 9 and will receive a $500 cash prize and trophy sponsored by Cornerstone Wealth Planning.
In addition to the awards program, the event will local female vendors, live music performances, fashion show, food and cocktails, door prizes, and a silent auction to raise money for three local non-profits dedicated to supporting women: Dress For Success, Dawn House and MRKH Canada. By attending this event, you will be showing support for the local female vendors, performers, nonprofits, and the amazing individual receiving the Inspirational Woman Award!
READ THE BIOS OF THE THREE INSPIRING WOMEN BELOW!
AND THE WINNER IS...
THIS YEAR'S WINNER:
ERICA KRAMER
Erica Kramer is the manager of the East End Starbucks and has made a lasting impact on the customers, employees and community members she refers to as friends. She spreads kindness to all, striving to make the store a "home away from home".
Beyond work, Erica has overcome many hurdles this past year, including the loss of several loved ones. In addition to supporting her family as much as she can, she has been seen countless times helping friends and staff members who may be struggling.
Her dedication, compassion and leadership is something her younger employees look up to. She has given her time and enthusiasm arranging special days for groups in the area including ‘Tea for Tots' and ‘Tiny Barista’ days. She has invited community members such as veterans and seniors to come in for a day at the store
to hand out coffee and engage with customers as a way to encourage connections and build community. Erica has also managed to create positions at different stores in Kingston and surrounding areas for individuals who experience exceptionalities to work and be a part of a team.
Erica is a big advocate for those who live with exceptionalities . She has an Advanced Diploma in Child and Youth Worker and a Graduate Certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science.
She now uses Starbucks as an avenue to make a difference in the community through engaging with as many individuals as possible and fundraising for local charities such as Lionhearts. On occasion, she has been seen at Lionhearts helping to prepare food for those who are less fortunate. Erica also says Mondays are her favourite day of the week because of the program she runs in the evening. Erica runs the ‘Circle of Friends’ program with her longtime friend who also experiences exceptionalities, where they spend time learning about one another and building community.
TOP 3 NOMINEES
WHERE DOES THE DONATION GO?
One of the ways we will use this campaign to enact lasting, sustainable change in our community is by raising money for local non-profits. Donations placed through the link will be split between Dawn House, Dress for Success, MRKH Canada and ourselves. (We are a not-for-profit organization as well).