What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) or, maybe a little more modestly, US Ambassador to the UN. I went to an international studies high school and majored in international affairs in college. #globalnerd
But by the time Madeleine Albright became the UN Ambassador, I knew enough to know that I didn’t want that particular job any more.
But she was the kind of person I wanted to be:
Smart and well-spoken. Dedicated to doing as much good as possible. Helping people understand each other better and find new solutions to big problems.
In real life, throughout my career, the women I've worked with have been role models.
- In the corporate world there was Kate, Nicole, Natalie, Kelly and Chris.
- The women who showed me what it would be like to chart my own course as a consultant were Natasha and Christy.
- Strong women working with their partners in the scuba business were reassuring when my hubby and I started our private charter here in Key Largo, and continue to be inspirations.
I’ve fallen short of the standards all these women have set many times, but seeing them do excellent work keeps me going.
The people and organizations we choose to have around us make us who we are.
And if we don’t consciously choose those role models, we’re likely to be swept along by trends or influencers that might not reflect our highest ideals.
This is why the Upper Keys BPW takes such pride in naming a Woman of the Year and a Business of the Year.
If you’re a member and haven’t already submitted your nominations, maybe these questions will help:
Who is being of service to the community in the way that 2021 Woman of the Year and immediate past Upper Keys BPW President Suzi Youngberg is?
What BPW member has inspired you with her leadership, impact and contributions to our organization?
Nominate a Woman of the Year here.
Who is consistently delighting customers while caring for employees the way 2021 Business of the Year Doc’s Diner does?
What kind of BPW member-run business do you want to have, or have more of, in our community?
Nominate a Business of the Year here.
But think quick, because the nominations are due this Wednesday September 21! We’ll celebrate all nominees on our website, and announce the awardees during the October Political Forum.
Warm regards,
Jill
Jill Kuehnert
Upper Keys BPW President
(305) 767-3928
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