Shining a Light on Women in Business: The Luminary Awards
As a photographer and entrepreneur, I’m continually inspired by the strong women in our community who are creating change, building businesses, and making a difference. That’s why I am incredibly honored and excited to have been nominated for the Luminary Award for Emerging Entrepreneur in this year’s inaugural Luminary Awards for Women in Business.
With 56 women nominated across five categories, these awards are designed to celebrate the achievements and leadership of women entrepreneurs in the Peterborough and Kawarthas region. It’s a wonderful initiative organized by the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce to shine a spotlight on the amazing women shaping our local economy. The event will take place on May 8, 2025, at Trent University and promises to be a fantastic celebration of female entrepreneurs. I’m truly grateful to be a part of this celebration.
As a small business owner, I see my business as a way to connect our community. I specialize in branding, family, and wedding photography, and I’m passionate about capturing the moments that matter most to people and businesses alike. When I was invited to speak at the Chamber of Commerce event where the nominees were announced, I felt a deep sense of pride to be in the company of so many inspiring women. During my remarks, I shared how thankful I am for the resources in this community and how grateful I am for the support that helps small businesses like mine thrive.
What I didn’t expect, however, was to feel so moved by the nomination itself. I honestly don’t know who nominated me for the award, but I truly wish I did so I could personally thank them. Regardless of whether or not I win, just being recognized in the Emerging Entrepreneur category is a reminder of the hard work and dedication that go into building a business from the ground up.
For me, the Luminary Awards represent more than just a recognition of success. They symbolize the resilience, creativity, and strength that women bring to every aspect of life and business. As Susan Dunkley, vice-chair of the Chamber of Commerce, said, these awards are about giving visibility to women whose names you might not always hear. I couldn’t agree more—there are so many women in this community doing incredible things, and I’m proud to be a part of that.
The event will feature categories like Trailblazer Entrepreneur, Barrier Buster Employee, One to Watch Employee, and Legacy, with Legacy Award nominees being particularly inspiring as they showcase how philanthropic work and community involvement can make a lasting impact. I feel privileged to share this stage with such talented and passionate women, and I’m excited to see all of their hard work celebrated.
I can’t wait to see how the event unfolds, and I’m looking forward to continuing to contribute to the vibrant business community in Peterborough. Whether or not I win, the experience of being nominated and being part of this powerful movement of women in business has already been a win for me.
To the other nominees—congratulations! Thank you for inspiring me and so many others, and thank you to the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce for organizing this incredible celebration.
Let’s continue to uplift and celebrate each other’s success. Women in business are truly unstoppable!
For more information and to purchase tickets for the event, visit the official Luminary Awards website.
Header image by the incredible Jordan Lyall Photography!
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Photo by Jordan Lyall Photography
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