Holly Sorgen (middle) was recognized as the Trailblazing Woman of Influence at the 2020 Women of Influence Awards held on Friday, March 6 at Teresa Sargent Hall (Photo: City of Grande Prairie)

By Shaun Penner

Women of Influence

Community female leaders recognized at Women of Influence Awards luncheon

Mar 9, 2020 | 11:53 AM

Ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday, the City of Grande Prairie handed out their annual Women of Influence awards during a luncheon event on March 6 at Teresa Sargent Hall.

The awards are handed out yearly to women in the community who not only promote gender equality, but provide opportunities for women to become more involved and break down barriers.

“Being a part of providing an opportunity to recognize the power of women’s achievements is a privilege. It is inspiring to see how many community members come together during International Women’s Day to celebrate,” said Community Social Development Manager for the city Angela Sutherland, in a release. “Increasing and advancing women’s opportunities leads to stronger families, successful businesses, and thriving communities.”

For her work as the first female partner at Fletcher Mudryk LLP, Kari Speaker Smith was awarded the Distinguished Woman of Influence Award. In a release, the City says Smith has worked to support women she works with in their professional development to become leaders in their field. The release adds that since Smith joined the team, Fletcher Mudryk LLP now has 50 per cent woman as partners and associates.

Kari Speaker Smith (middle) was recognized as the Distinguished Women of Influence on Friday (Photo: City of Grande Prairie)

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The Young Woman of Influence went to Erica Fisher. Fisher is heavily involved in the community through her work as president of the Grande Prairie Pride Society and was involved in the spearheading of the “Painting Pride” art contest following the vandalism of the rainbow sidewalk across from City Hall. A film documentary, also named “Painting Pride”, was later picked up and funded by Telus STORYHIVE.

Toni Dumias (right) accepted the Young Woman of Influence Award on Erica Fisher’s behalf (Photo: City of Grande Prairie)

And last but not least, Holly Sorgen was given the Trailblazing Woman of Influence Award. Sorgen has served as the executive director of Community Futures Grande Prairie and Area since 2005, while at the same time owning her own business coaching and facilitation company. Sorgen has been involved with several economic development projects in the region throughout her career, and is also described as an avid Rotarian.

The Women of Influence Awards are put on in partnership between the City of Grande Prairie, the Grande Prairie and District Chamber of Commerce, Community Foundations of Northwest Alberta, PACE, Odyssey House and Curry’s Jewellers.