In 2004 these eight smart, beautiful, compassionate women agreed to join me for the first annual Wise Women’s Weekend. I chose each woman because of the positive impact they had had on my life in some way, and I wanted to create an event that would allow me to share my gratitude and admiration for them. At the same time I envisioned an event that would provide us all with an opportunity to learn from each other through the sharing of our stories and the wisdom we’ve each collected along the way.

Most of them didn’t know each other that first year; we’re all from different backgrounds, professions and stages of life. Yet today our group of nine has formed a lifelong bond. We celebrate each other’s ups, commiserate the downs, and encourage each other to be our best selves.

Through their insights, creativity and humour each of them have helped to shape and create A Wise Woman. Their selfless contributions will benefit women for many years to come.

This space has been created to honour my Wise Women - Barb, Cara, Cindy, Jollean, Pam, Sandra, Sharon and Sherrin.

Thank you for making me a better person,

Lauri

Clockwise from bottom left - Cindy Stern, Pam Shaw, Sherrin Western, Lauri Gwilt, Barb McLeod, Jollean Chantrel, Sharon Waugh, Sandra Wahlgren and Cara Caldwell