This International Women’s Day, we’re honouring the incredible women at our brokerage who inspire us every day. We are sharing a glimpse from over 25 amazing women who have written about their journeys.
Through their words, we celebrate strength, resilience, and the power of being a woman.
KIM O’GRADY, Broker
Being a woman means embracing strength, resilience, and the power to create change—not just for ourselves, but for the generations that follow. It means showing up fully, breaking barriers, and owning our voices in spaces where they haven’t always been welcomed. For me, it’s about leading with both courage and compassion, proving that success and authenticity can go hand in hand.
As women, we have the ability to shape the future—not just by what we achieve, but by how we uplift and support one another along the way. The more we rise, the more we inspire others to do the same. I’m deeply grateful for the incredible women around me who push me to grow, remind me of my worth, and encourage me to dream bigger. Together, we’re not just rewriting the narrative—we’re setting the stage for a future where women step into their power unapologetically.
DEANA FELDMAN, Broker
Being a woman to me is about embracing both the challenges and opportunities that come with being true to oneself. In my career as a top real estate broker and running my own team, I’ve learned that success is rooted in hard work, perseverance, and building authentic relationships. It’s about staying grounded in my values while also adapting to an ever-changing world. My experiences have taught me the importance of resilience — how to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to new challenges, and continue pushing forward.
For future generations, I hope being a woman will simply mean the freedom to be who you are, to pursue your dreams without hesitation, and to make a meaningful impact in whatever path you choose. Whether in business, art, or any field, it’s about knowing and believing that your potential is limitless and that your unique perspective brings something valuable to the table. I am proud to be in a position where I can lead by example, showing others that with dedication, passion, and a sense of purpose, anything is possible.
What I hope to pass on to the next generation is the importance of resilience, authenticity, and the belief that we all have something valuable to contribute, regardless of the role we’re filling.
GEORGINA RATCLIFFE, Sales Representative
As we celebrate the strength and success of women around the world I am moved to reflect back on my life and career.
Two very important factors that have contributed to my success are the unwavering support I have had from my family and the strong legal and marketing support team that Chestnut Park Real Estate provides for me. With over 35 years of real estate sales experience my success can be measured by the numerous awards I have won, my continued repeat business and the many referrals I receive. I am a good listener, a keen observer and have a solid grounding in communicating and negotiating, the keys to successful real estate transactions.
MICHELLE PHILLIPS, Sales Representative
Being a woman means embracing balance—juggling many roles in work, home, and with loved ones. It’s about giving 100% to what matters while staying true to yourself. Women have a unique ability to understand emotions and dynamics very well, giving us an edge in both personal and professional settings. This emotional intelligence helps us connect, navigate challenges, and find effective, compassionate solutions.
For future generations, I want women to know they should pursue anything they desire, unapologetically. Women can be nurturing and strong, soft and tough. We should never shy away from stepping into male-dominated roles or embracing assertive traits when needed. It’s about owning our unique potential and harnessing our strengths.
This mindset really shapes my work in real estate—handling intense offer nights, applying quick analytical thinking, while staying approachable and understanding my clients’ needs. It’s about using our intuition and practicality to navigate challenges and achieve success.
KRISTIN BISHOP, Sales Representative
Being a woman means strength, resilience, and the ability to inspire change. It’s about supporting one another, carving our own paths, and opening doors for future generations. It signifies a world where equality isn’t a privilege but a norm—where everyone’s voice matters, and opportunities aren’t defined by gender. We learn from those before us and have the chance to empower those who come next.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made, acknowledge the work still ahead, and continue lifting each other up to shape a more inclusive future.
SARAH GIACOMELLI, Sales Representative
Never be afraid to start a new career.
EILEEN LASSWELL, Broker
Being a woman means embodying resilience, ambition, and grace—sometimes all at once. It means navigating challenges with confidence, seizing opportunities with courage, and leading with heart. As the leader of an all-female real estate team in Toronto, I witness the incredible power of women every single day. My team is composed of hardworking, talented, and determined women who redefine success in a competitive industry.
Raising two children while managing a thriving career has taught me that balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it and it wouldn’t be possible without being surrounded by the women on my team.
One of the greatest privileges of my career is mentoring the women who work alongside me, including my sister who works with me in the West end. I ensure my team has the support, knowledge, and confidence to push boundaries. I take pride in fostering that growth.
Being a woman should never mean compromising ambition or identity. It should mean embracing possibility. My hope is that my daughter, my team, and all the women I work alongside see that success is not about fitting into someone else’s mold—it’s about forging ahead and achieving your goals.
Today, and every day, I celebrate the strength, ambition, and brilliance of women everywhere.
Happy Women’s Day!
CAROLYN SCIME, Broker
Being a woman in real estate means approaching property transactions with resilience and determination. To me, it signifies bringing a unique perspective to the industry, often emphasizing relationship-building, and understanding clients’ deeper needs beyond just the transaction. My journey has taught me that our success isn’t measured solely by deals closed, but by the impact I can make in people’s lives.
For future generations of women in this industry, I hope my path demonstrates that authenticity is an asset—that we can define success on our own terms. The challenges I’ve navigated will hopefully become steppingstones for the young women who follow, allowing them to focus on innovating in an industry that shapes how people live, work, and build their futures.
HELEN BRAITHWAITE, Broker
I am proud to be a woman and to have the privilege of being a role model for my two daughters. Being a mother and nurturer has been an incredible experience, and I take great pride in balancing my career in real estate while maintaining a fulfilling family life. Family is extremely important to me, and I am grateful to have achieved success while fostering strong, healthy relationships with my children and husband.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been mentoring my daughter, Michelle Phillips, as she embarks on her own career in real estate. Guiding her through this industry has been a special and meaningful experience.
As women, our natural empathy and compassion are invaluable – especially in real estate, where buying or selling a home is such an emotional decision. These qualities allow us to truly understand our client’s needs and guide them with care and confidence.
CHARLENE KALIA, Sales Representative
Being a woman is about resilience, strength, and grace—the ability to lead with courage and compassion while uplifting others and forging our own path. As women, we carry the wisdom of those who came before us, breaking barriers so that future generations can dream bigger and reach higher. It means embracing every role we choose as leaders, caregivers, innovators, or change-makers with confidence and authenticity. Being a woman to me is about knowing our worth, supporting one another, and continuing to shape a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive. This International Women’s Day, I celebrate women’s power to inspire, create, and transform.
Together, we are unstoppable.
BRYNN LACKIE, Sales Representative
Being a woman in real estate means finding yourself surrounded by some of the best and brightest. I’ve posed this question at dinner tables more times than I can even count over the years and my collective has yet to land on another industry so balanced with men and women, while so heavily overrepresented by women at the top of the game. On the tough days it’s inspiring. On the rest it’s a source of pride.
As it should be.
Particularly at Chestnut Park, a brokerage founded, launched and in many ways carried by strong, intelligent, and incredibly successful women in the industry over the years, it feels like it should be a badge of honour. It certainly is for me as a woman in real estate.
For me personally, being a woman in real estate has also meant that I have rarely felt self-conscious when I have needed to pick up the phone while wrangling my young family. I have never felt I needed to hide that aspect of my life lest it undermine the way people perceive me in business. Instead, I have leaned all the way in, negotiating deals from the stands at hockey rinks with agents who have likely had to step out of school concerts or curriculum nights to take my call. I won’t hesitate to pick up the phone while driving a Suburban full of kids to a soccer tournament, and I won’t think twice about bribing them with McDonalds ice cream cones to keep quiet until I’m done.
Leaning into that important facet of my life during this busy season has rarely hurt me. In fact, it’s quite the opposite – I’m pretty sure it’s been a huge contributing factor to my success. A large percentage of my clients are in this season of life with me and there’s beauty in the honesty. But it would be equally dishonest not to mention how much of a village it takes and how much help I have – from a super involved husband who takes on significantly more than his fair share, to a nanny that is like a fairy godmother, to brilliant colleagues who are happy to collaborate and will step in to help.
Does it mean I never feel conflicted about missing bedtimes for an offer night or my son’s baseball game for an open house? Nope, pretty sure that’s just parenthood.
But working in an industry where that’s my choice to make feels like the ultimate gift.
MAGGIE LIND, Sales Representative
Working at Chestnut Park, I am rewarded every day to be surrounded by some remarkable women. Our founder, Catherine Deluce, is a remarkable woman herself, and legend in our field. She was a visionary for the luxury real estate market here in Toronto, understanding the professional standards required to service this niche market. She was in the office every single day, closely studying the market, having discussions with us on strategy and marketing, and without hesitation was always ready to congratulate us on our most recent deal. I don’t know how she stayed so on point with us all, every day! Catherine has the most elegant way about her, and her commitment to creating the very highest standard of service remains instilled in us all.
I’ve never been intimidated nor challenged in real estate because of my gender, and count myself lucky in this world to excel in a field where there is little gender bias. We have a dominant group of remarkable women here at Chestnut Park, and I am honoured to work amongst them all.
KATIE & JULIE RENNIE, Sales Representatives
Our mother and mentor in real estate, Janice, was a trailblazer in the industry. Always one to multitask, we were little girls when she was forging her amazing career in the early 1970s, and somehow she also found time to put intense focus on our paths. Maximum effort was expected in all of our endeavours both as we grew up and then eventually in real estate, as first Julie and then Katie joined her at Chestnut Park. She taught us the joy to be found in collaborating with our colleagues to create more success for everyone. Given the nature of our business, many of those people are amazing women who have also become cherished friends. Julie and Katie both work to instill in their daughters the lessons learned from Janice about being strong proud women who see the good that comes from working with others. So, on this International Women’s Day we applaud all women and the change they can effect in the world.
BROOKE BAROOTES, Sales Representative
As a woman, I’ve learned that strength comes in many forms—confidence, resilience, and the determination to create your own success. Attending an all-girls high school, I was surrounded by ambitious young women who were taught that there were no limits to what we could achieve. That mindset shaped me.
Being a woman in real estate means having the drive to thrive in a competitive industry, to lead, negotiate, and redefine success on our own terms. Women bring a powerful blend of empathy and business acumen, proving success isn’t about gender—it’s about skill, determination, and the ability to build meaningful connections. From first-time homebuyers to multi-million dollar investments, I believe women in real estate shape communities and pave the way for future generations.
But being a woman is about more than career success. It’s about lifting other women up, challenging outdated norms, and knowing your worth. It’s about embracing both strength and grace, ambition and compassion.
Today, I celebrate all women—past, present, and future. Keep striving, keep pushing, and never let anyone define your limits.
ERICA ANNE COOK, Sales Representative
Having the privilege to achieve your goals, to be able to balance a career, family life and personal well-being. This will always be a challenge but an accomplishment to be proud of and inspiration to women of all ages, gender and nationality.
DEBBIE PENZO, Sales Representative
On International Women’s Day, I reflect on what it means to be a woman—a mother, grandmother, friend, colleague, and leader.
For over 40 years, I’ve been deeply immersed in real estate, building a thriving business and a strong, collaborative team. I believe success is not measured by individual achievements but by the impact we have on others. Women should lift each other up and support one another. At the end of the day, it’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room that defines your true character.
But my most significant legacy is not just the success I’ve built in my career but the women I’ve empowered along the way both professionally and personally. As a proud mother to a daughter and grandmother to four granddaughters, I want to instill in them the courage to pursue their dreams, the strength to overcome obstacles, and the determination to never give up.
My journey has also been shaped by resilience. At 60, I faced breast cancer, a battle that strengthened me as a person and fueled a commitment to creating a future where our daughters and granddaughters won’t have to fear this disease. I’m passionate and actively advocating for research, support, and awareness.
To me, being a woman means embracing every challenge, celebrating every triumph, and using my experience to uplift those around me. I am proud of all I’ve accomplished, not for myself, but for the women who follow—so they, too, can stand strong, fearless, and unstoppable.
CATHERINE MORTIMER, Broker
Today, I celebrate the women who have shaped me—my mother, whose strength taught me resilience, my sister, who inspires me daily, and the incredible team of women I work alongside. Their drive, passion, and support remind me why empowering each other matters.
As a mom, I feel a deep responsibility to lead by example for my daughter, showing her that women can be powerful, compassionate, and fearless all at once. IWD is more than a celebration—it’s a reminder that we grow stronger together.
CATHY PARK, Sales Representative
Show me another industry where women are more integral to the success of others.
This isn’t a new phenomenon—Chestnut Park was founded by a woman, a legacy of leadership and strength that has shaped the company from its very beginning.
BARB PICOT, Sales Representative
Being a woman means navigating life with strength, resilience, and adaptability—qualities that have shaped both my personal and professional journey. As a mother, I’ve learned that the greatest impact we have is in the example we set. Watching my daughter grow into her own person has reinforced the importance of confidence, kindness, and perseverance. I want her—and every young woman—to know that success isn’t about fitting into a mold, but about carving your own path with purpose and passion.
In my career, I’ve had the privilege of helping people create the lives they envision, whether they’re first-time homebuyers taking a leap of faith or seasoned homeowners embracing a new chapter I’ve also experienced the challenges that come with being a woman in business—balancing ambition with family, leading with both logic and compassion, and proving that we belong in every room where decisions are made. These experiences have strengthened my belief that when women support each other, we elevate not only ourselves but entire communities.
I’m grateful for the women who came before me, breaking barriers and paving the way for the opportunities I’ve had. And I feel a deep responsibility to do the same for the next generation. Whether in business, family, or community, I want to be a voice that reminds women of their power, their potential, and their ability to redefine what’s possible. We are leaders, innovators, and caretakers, and the more we celebrate each other, the brighter the path becomes for those who follow.
As we recognize International Women’s Day, I hope we continue to lift each other up, share our stories, and embrace the limitless possibilities ahead.
MARIANNE MILES, Broker
Every single morning I get to wake up and show my daughters what it’s like to work hard at creating my best life; filled with family, love and real estate. I couldn’t be more proud!
SAMANTHA WALDIE, Sales Representative
In my 13 years of Real Estate at Chestnut Park in Muskoka, I’ve learned a lot about myself and what ‘mark’ I want to leave in this world as a woman and mother. I grew up listening to my parents work hard in this industry, and now I work alongside my mother, Sandy Waldie. Each year I am proud of the families and people we help in our career. We spend each day tailoring our work ethic to the needs of our clients and dedicating our experience, knowledge and compassion to helping them achieve success in our marketplace.
Outside of work I dedicate my time to my family. I am raising two daughters, ages 8 & 4, and each day it becomes increasingly important to me to guide and support them on their own journey to happiness and success – however that might look to each of them. One of the best ways I’ve found to build them up is by fostering positive relationships with them, and just as importantly, with the people that surround us. Their educators, friends parents, family members, and those in charge of their extra curriculars.
On International Women’s Day it’s important to discuss sharing our learned experiences and bettering ourselves for the young girls who are only beginning to know this world. To offer them the opportunity to move through this world freely and achieve whatever they desire is sure to improve our society as a whole. My passion to succeed will continue to be driven by a hope to see my daughters lives flourish before me. They are the ‘mark’ I will leave in this world and I hope we can all lift them and all girls and women up today and every day onward.
SANDY WALDIE, Sales Representative
I began my Muskoka Real Estate career at the age of 25 and have worked very hard to flourish in this outstanding field for decades. Real Estate has allowed me the flexibility to balance work & family in an ever-changing and competitive arena. My formative years at an all girls school, Havergal College, gifted me an incredible foundation. I have grown into my role as a top performing sales representative and often reflect on the value of those who supported and mentored me, helping to shape who I am today. 13 years ago, my own daughter Samantha (a mother of two daughters herself), joined me at Chestnut Park to achieve her own hard working award winning success in our industry.
Now two generations of Waldie women work to impact Muskoka Real Estate & continue to create space for women’s success in our chosen career paths. Together we strive to present a formidable, caring, and respectful industry force of past, present & future with decades of knowledge & hard earned experience. We instil our own spirited energies towards actioning change and continued success for ourselves and others . Leading by example every day we celebrate with honour the opportunity to acknowledge International Women’s Day. As the next generation of young women move forward to become who they hope to be Samantha and I know that success looks & feels different to each woman. We also know that women everywhere *win* when we cheer on and celebrate each other with motivation, kindness, & support to speak up & be seen in whatever space they choose to be in. This is increasingly important on International Women’s Day, but every day in between as well. “Carpe Diem” to all women.
LINDSAY VAN WERT, Broker
Being a woman means having more strength than you ever thought was possible. To bear the weight of your family and your community, and to work tirelessly to bring them comfort, health, and happiness. Being a woman is a gift. That feeling of pride and empowerment is something that you want all women and girls to have. When I think of my sweet daughter Alice (age 3), I want her to have access to every opportunity and to have equal rights, and to be grateful knowing that her equality is a result of so many incredible and brave women (and men) who moved our society forward.
KARA REED, Sales Representative
Being a woman in real estate is not just about navigating a competitive landscape, it’s carving your own path for success & life balance without sacrificing personal growth.
My career began 33 years ago at a company founded by Sadie Moranis, a trailblazer and inspiration as the first female founder of her own brokerage and the first female president of the Toronto Real Estate Board. Growing up in a rural farm area outside Toronto, I came to the city young, naïve and nervous, yet driven to succeed. She was a true inspiration. She influenced me to engage actively in the industry, leading me to serve on several committees over many years at the board. This involvement not only enhanced my knowledge but also empowered me to advocate for women in real estate. Building strong relationships and earning respect among colleagues has been instrumental in my career.
Throughout my distinguished journey, I have embraced the values of integrity and work ethic by mentoring new agents, and sharing the valuable lessons I’ve learned. I have been honored with numerous awards but the greatest reward is the lasting client relationships I have built over my career. As I look to the future, I remain committed to inspiring the next generation of women in this ever-evolving industry, just as Sadie inspired me.
FAYE MOXAM, Sales Representative
Being a woman today means navigating a world that often asks us to balance multiple roles, overcome societal challenges, and confront work-life struggles, all while staying true to who we are. Yet, in the face of these obstacles, women continue to persevere with an unwavering sense of love, hope, and a deep commitment to creating a better future for all.
As a mother, I’m dedicated to showing my children that love and acceptance are the most powerful tools one can own, and that true strength comes from within. Whether it’s fostering a mindset of equality or showing them the importance of love, acceptance, and respect for everyone, I know they are hearing me as I see the way they interact with the world. Their open hearts and minds reflect the values I’ve instilled in them, and it fills me with joy.
As a professional in today’s world, it is not only about producing, but about thriving together building a future that celebrates and ensures that everyone is valued and seen. As women, the stories of resilience and compassion in the workplace give me the motivation to keep going. I am dedicated to making this world a better place, and on this special day, I celebrate each and everyone. Happy International Women’s Day and thank you!
SUSAN KREVER, Sales Representative
As a professional woman, I’ve learned that authenticity, empathy, and strong connections are just as important as strategy. These qualities have shaped my approach, allowing me to build meaningful relationships with clients and colleagues. I value the power of women in my business and the impact we create through genuine connection and leadership.
ROXANNE FINN, Broker
Being a woman means embracing resilience, adaptability, and the power of leading with integrity. Growing up with three brothers, I learned early on to hold my own in male-dominated spaces. That foundation shaped my career, first in corporate life and later in real estate, where I built my own brokerage and earned a place among the top professionals in my field. My background in Human Resources helped me understand people and the importance of service—a principle that has guided my entire career.
As a mother of four, including three strong, hardworking daughters, I have always believed success is built on passion, service, and integrity; it’s about the value you bring to others. I instilled in my children the importance of working hard, striving for excellence, and leading with kindness. I built my business on those same values, proving that dedication and service create lasting success.
For future generations, being a woman signifies opportunity, the ability to redefine success on our own terms, and the courage to overcome obstacles because that’s where true growth lies. It means standing firm in our values, adapting when needed, and lifting others along the way. The challenges we face are not setbacks—they are stepping stones to growth and leadership.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I hope to inspire women to embrace their strength, trust their instincts, and create a lasting impact. Whether in business, family, or community, our influence extends beyond what we achieve individually—it shapes the generations that follow. When we uplift one another, we don’t just change our own lives—we change the world.
KELSEY SCHOENROCK, Broker
Being a woman in real estate has been an incredible way to prove that success isn’t defined by gender—it’s about passion, perseverance, and the connections we build. Our differences are what allow us to form meaningful relationships, and I love bringing compassion and care to an industry that’s often seen as purely transactional. As a mother of three girls, I strive to be an example of both strength and softness, knowledge and humility, using my protective nature to guide clients through one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
Working alongside the incredible women at Chestnut Park has added a level of fulfillment to my career that I craved as a young agent. I’m grateful to be part of a community that inspires, supports, and challenges each other to grow.
On this International Women’s Day, I celebrate the opportunity we have to showcase grace, grit, and the strength of women in real estate and beyond.
EILEEN FARROW, Sales Representative
At this very confusing time in the world I am extremely proud to say that I am a Canadian. Not only am I a proud Canadian but a very proud Canadian woman ! On this International Women’s Day I feel so fortunate to be part of this womanhood in our great nation. As Canadian women we have the freedom to pursue our education, our ambitions, whether in career, family, activism, or personal growth. We can use our voices to challenge injustices at home and abroad.
As a mother of four – two being daughters, I feel so very lucky that I have had the freedom to lead by example and help steer my children to becoming the responsible adults that they have become. I feel confident that the next generation of women will be curious, kind, empowered and thought provoking leaders.
ADRIENNE SCOTT, Sales Representative
Being a woman means embracing both the beauty and the strength in who we are. It’s about navigating the highs and lows of life with grace and resilience. For me, being a woman is about nurturing my family, but also finding time to take care of myself. It’s a delicate balance of compassion and power, of embracing my emotions while also standing firm in my convictions. It’s about being strong enough to speak up and vulnerable enough to build connections.
As a mother of four daughters, I see the future through their eyes, and I want them to understand that being a girl and woman is not about fitting into a mold, but about being bold enough to create your own path. I want them to know that they can be anything they want to be; leaders, creators, healer, without limitations. I want them to grow up in a world where they are not told to dream smaller or settle for less because of their gender. I want them to understand that their voices matter, that they have the power to shape their own futures, and that they can make an impact, no matter how big or small.
As a wife, I also see the importance of partnership—working together with love, respect, and support. It’s about growing together and lifting each other up. And as a realtor, and along with my business partner, I get to empower others by helping them find spaces where they can build their own dreams.
For future generations of women, I hope we teach them that being a woman is not just about being strong, but also about being kind, supportive, and fearless. We have the power to change the world, and with every woman who believes in herself, we get closer to a future where every girl grows up knowing that she is limitless.
NANCY BAKER, Sales Representative
On International Women’s Day, I want to recognize the impact women have in real estate and beyond. Many think being a realtor is easy, but it takes hard work, dedication, and balancing clients, families, and everything in between. Whether as clients, colleagues, mentors, or caretakers, women shape this industry with vision and drive.
As a woman in real estate, I’m proud to be part of a community that empowers and supports one another. Today, and every day, let’s celebrate the strength and leadership women bring. Happy International Women’s Day!
LYNNE ELKIND, Sales Representative
Every woman matters. Every voice, story, and contribution deserves to be heard, celebrated, and honoured. Together, we create a future that is brighter, more inclusive, and filled with endless possibilities.
Let’s not let the celebration stop here – let’s continue to lift each other up, break boundaries, and pave the way for future generations.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us.