Stories

Words Seaside Sue, Publisher & Owner International Women’s Day always feels a little personal to me because when I look back on my journey as an entrepreneur, I can clearly see how every role I’ve had in life helped shape the way I lead today – as a daughter, a mother and perhaps a grandmother [...]

Words Kelly Finerty, Writer, Editor & Director, Life With Dotty Photos Nikki Moir, Kaliandra Capri, Dustin Finerty As a writer, all I want is for someone to pick up my work and say “There’s something here.” In September 2024, that “someone” was Telus Storyhive, and that “something” was a Pilot screenplay written in the dead

Words Jo Barnes Photos Renée Audy For a writer, a blank 8.5- by 11-inch sheet of paper is a creative place to explore the imagination. However, the creative canvas for this local artist can measure over 200 feet in size! Renée Audy is a professional mural artist who transforms walls and windows into inspiring art,

Words Jesse Holth Photo Karla Zaldaña, Casa de Lala Productions Madelaine McCallum is a dancer, motivational speaker and workshop leader who shares her journey to inspire others. We spoke about learning to love yourself, the importance of gratitude, and how movement is medicine. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background? Tansi,

Words Alana Catlin & Jess Wilson Photos Michelle Proctor Founded by Jess Wilson and Alana Catlin, Babes was born from a simple yet powerful observation: many entrepreneurs were building businesses while quietly feeling disconnected, unsupported and alone. They saw a need for deeper connection and authentic community within the traditional networking space, and Babes Build

Words Jesse Holth Photos Grace Ella Robyn Lastiwka, owner of the new clothing brand FAIE, has lived in Brentwood Bay her whole life. She interned in Vancouver with Nordstrom at the age of 15, doing styling and backstage work, and learned a lot about the industry. That’s when she realized design was what she wanted

Words Jo Barnes Photos Sarah Hartley Photography Her small hands picked up each tiny flower as her grandmother’s hands guided. These moments of pressing flowers are now a precious memory. Now North Saanich artist, Chelsea Warren, is not only continuing this activity but helping others preserve their own memories. Chelsea creates unique jewellery using pressed

Words & Photos Mount Newton Centre Society The Mount Newton Centre Society is a registered non-profit that helps Peninsula seniors live independently at home as long as possible. As we recognize International Women’s Day, the Mount Newton Centre Society has a dedicated group of women to honour as its founders. In 1977, Physiotherapist Pat Paterson

Words Jamila Douhaibi Photos Sarah Hartley Photography They say opposites attract. That also might be true for the different parts of ourselves that are passionate about seemingly contradictory professions and lifestyles. Natalie Foley, local singer and guitarist, is also a retired lawyer. She went from the fast-paced constant work life to playing in a slower,