Women recognized for business achievements at NLOWE awards

A restaurant owner in Upper Amherst Cove and a Corner Brook company that sells custom orthotics are two of the award winners recognized Thursday night by the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE).

The NLOWEEntrepreneur of the Year awards were handed out at a ceremony at the Sheraton Hotelin St. John's Thursday night.

"I am inspired by anyone who is doing what they love for a living," said Katie Hayes who picked up Visionary of the Year Award for her restaurant and food production facility, Bonavista Social Club.

Haynes, a Red Seal Chef, said "adapting to change and trends on the culinary scene is crucial in the success of the business."

JodiBasha, owner/operator of Island Orthotics, won Youth Entrepreneur of the Year. Her Corner Brook company sells orthopedic footwear.

"It means a great deal to me to run a small successful business in my hometown because there are a lot of people in the community who rely on us for service," said Basha.

NLOWE's CEO Paula Sheppard said it's important to recognize women for their growing contribution to the province's economy and business culture.

"Women still face a lot of unique hurdles when becoming entrepreneurs," said.

"That being said,women areperseveringand finding success."

The Newfoundland and Labrador Credit Union Start-up Award went to Andrea Irene Rowe of Airo Landscape Design.

Rowecalled it "a pat on the back the acknowledgement of all the hard work I've been doing to get where I am now."

A full listing of winners includes:

• Newfoundland and Labrador Credit Union Start-Up Award Andrea Irene Rowe, AiroLandscape Design
• Community Impact Award (sponsored by Hebron Project) Sarah Short, ActiveLifePhysiotherapy and Wellness
• Scotiabank Innovation Award Sarah Bennett, Summer Services LTD (UC Baby and A NewBeginning Massage Therapy)
• Visionary Award (sponsored by Cox and Palmer) Katie Hayes, Bonavista Social Club
• Export Award (sponsored by Export Development Canada) Cindy Roma and Sydney Ryan,Telelink
• College of the North Atlantic Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Award Jodi Basha, IslandOrthotics
• RBC Royal Bank Entrepreneurial Excellence Award Dallas Mercer, DMC Consulting
• Corporation of the Year Award Emera Newfoundland and Labrador