I’ve been working in the Vancouver Start-up scene for almost two years now… I’ve met a an array of amazing women, who do their thing day in and day out – and rock it to say the least – Amielle Lake, Angel Pui, Grace Carter, Rochelle Grayson and so many more!

Today I’d like to focus on one of the wonderful women I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Meet Maura Rodgers. She’s just one of the reasons I love what I do.

Maura is the Executive Director of Bootup, and is not only my boss but has become an amazing friend. Spending our days just “getting shit done.”

Beyond the office, she’s been recognized as an inspiring Technology Evangelist, Geek of the Week and the go to person for many entrepreneurs. 

Her swagger is slick and smile contagious. Everything she does is done with passion.

She’s a chef, a mother, a mentor and a great friend. She’s all-in.

I am proud to nominate her personally for Fast Company’s Women in Tech 2011 #wit11

*Image by Tris Hussey

You women inspire me.

Today marks an important day. It’s International Women’s Day. It represents the achievements of women past, present and future.

I’ve been incredibly blessed to be surrounded by wonderful women.

To the woman who made it all happen, my mom. I wouldn’t be in this world today if it wasn’t for her. Her strength, determination, love and will-power is something I will always strive for.

I can’t forget the love of my Massi Ji, who supported me when everyone else backed out. Her love is inevitable and pure.

My gorgeous sisters, even though far from me now will always hold a special place in my heart. I admire their courageousness and their strength to battle life with beautiful smiles.

To the girl who has to carry the weight of my problems on her shoulders, Annu. She epitomizes everything great and wonderful. Her greatest strength is listening and she’s always going to exceed in everything she does because of it. I say it a lot. I will say it again, I love you.

To the woman who raised a great son, my mother in law. For loving and understanding me from day one. I will forever be grateful.

To the woman in my professional life, Maura. She believed in me and gave me the chance to see a world I only ever dreamed about. Tech. For letting me into her life and always being there for me. They say some good friends come later in life and I believe this to be true because of you.

I consider myself truly lucky and blessed to be surrounded by wonderful women day in and out. Each and every single one of you is an inspiration. One no less than the other.

I urge you to celebrate the special women in your life. Our world is a better place because of each and every single one of them.