Every year, the Comox Valley Women's Business Network presents the Minerva Award to recognize one of its members for their contribution to the group with the the Minerva Award.
Julie Watkins of Valley Home Check Ltd is this year's recipient, which was presented at the May meeting by last year's winner, Maggie Komar.
Rather ironically, Watkins was not present at the meeting as she was away celebrating the fourth year anniversary of emigrating to Canada with her husband. The couple were interrupted during dinner at April Point on Quadra Island by a phone call from a member of the CVWBN.
Tara Laderoute of Engrave It managed to hold a phone to the microphone so that Watkins could hear the entire award as it was happening. Needless to say, it turned into a double celebration at April Point.
Watkins has been a member of the CVWBN since October 2007 and credits much of the success of Valley Home Check to the benefits of membership.
“As newcomers to the Valley, having just emigrated, membership gave me instant access to many members of the local business community. This was a huge benefit; it not only helped in promoting our new business and getting to know the business community, but it has also led to some very special friendships.”
During her membership, Watkins has served as treasurer, publicity director and newsletter editor.
As the Minerva recipient, Watkins received the elegant porcelain statue (to keep for one year), a silver locket and a magnificent bouquet of flowers from The Scented Florist.
For more information about the award and the CVWBN, visit www.cvwbn.org.
— Comox Valley Women's Business Network