As we bid farewell to 2018, I hope you feel a sense of progress, a sense of
accomplishment and contentment as you get ready to pause, rejuvenate and recharge. For us at WESK, 2018 was akin to being on a major trajectory and racing through, recognizing it is not about the destination, but the journey.
This year, we made a commitment to impact as many women entrepreneurs as possible. We made a commitment to be a strong voice for closing the gender gap related to entrepreneurship. We embarked on this journey and it is not over yet. We picked up speed and traction and we will keep moving forward.
Gender equality is fundamental to the fabric of a culture and community; equally important is the recognition and acknowledgement that the economic contributions of women are enormous and remain an unrealized opportunity for productivity and growth. Defining the challenges and opportunities to increasing majority female-owned businesses in our province became a priority. We commissioned PwC to conduct an
independent study exploring Women Entrepreneurship in Canada and its possible implication on Saskatchewan. Through the report we explored:
- Why does the gender gap exists?
- How does Saskatchewan compare to the rest of Canada?
- What more can we do to close the gap and unleash the immense opportunities before us?
We have been following up to make change happen in our Province. Indigenous women entrepreneurs, an equally untapped segment require concerted, dedicated support. We launched Matchstick: Spark for Indigenous Entrepreneurs to support Indigenous women start and grow a business, fuel economic independence, drive growth and foster entrepreneurial activity in Indigenous communities.
As we bring this year to a close, I am deeply grateful for our Team, our Board of Directors, our Partners and all those who support women entrepreneurs.
I wish you reprieve, and rest from the hustles and the routine of your everyday lives. I wish you time for reflections and celebrations with your loved ones. I wish you happiness and anticipation as you welcome the New Year!
Prabha Mitchell
Chief Executive Officer, WESK