Women of Distinction Alumni Spotlight: Lisa Drew

Mar 17, 2018 | Blog

Our team so enjoyed meeting this spunky, lighthearted, and well-loved local radio host in 2014. Since then, she’s stayed engaged in our work and an active mentor for our girls. Hear what keeps Lisa Drew fueled and fired up for those very, VERY early mornings!

1. What was your reaction/thoughts when you were approached for a Women of Distinction nomination?
Surprised and really touched. I learned that a group of amazing neighbours and co workers came together to support me. I am still so moved by that. I usually emcee events recognizing community members. it was a whole different vantage point being on the receiving end. The whole event and meeting other women involved and nominated was truly inspiring.

2. What have you been up to since your big win?
Still waking up very early. Still love this News biz even in these current #fakenews days. I’m learning more about becoming a manager. I work with a great morning team, and they teach me a lot about myself. I am also an Instructor at Conestoga College – sharing my radio news knowledge with first and second year Broadcast students. It’s been a new learning experience for me, too.

3. Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned about leadership.
I am still learning! Listen more. Say less. (Very hard sometimes for someone who talks on the radio for a living). It helps if you walk more than just a mile their shoes too. Do.

4. What does the world need more of? Less of?
The Mom in me says “More Hugs!”. Even the virtual ones. I truly believe this simple connection advances us as humans.

5. In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you build yourself back up again?
Get back up the next day and try again. Also, friends and family – their words and hugs make all the difference. And get more sleep. I also know that my dogs always like me.

BONUS! What question do you wish people would ask you – and what’s your answer to that question?
Yes..I really do love ice cream (PB & Chocolate)…and yes….baby goats really are in my near future. LOL!

Get ready to have some more fun with this year’s winners if you dare! Grab your ticket for the 2018 event today!

News Release

CAMBRIDGE, ON – YWCA Cambridge is thrilled to announce that Soroptimist International of Cambridge has joined Greentec as a matching partner for their fundraising campaign to support the opening of a new shelter for women and gender-diverse individuals experiencing homelessness in Cambridge. This partnership is vital to reaching the campaign goal of $125,000, which will cover the costs of fully furnishing and outfitting the shelter located in the lower level of Grace Bible Church, downtown Galt.

Local businesses have shown exceptional support for this initiative, with Greentec leading the way by matching every donation dollar for dollar up to $5,000. Their generosity inspired Soroptimist International of Cambridge to step forward with an additional $10,000 in matching donations.

“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we’ve received from the Cambridge and broader community,” said Kim Decker, CEO of YWCA Cambridge. “Having Soroptimist join Greentec as a matching partner is an incredible testament to how businesses and organizations are coming together to ensure that women and gender-diverse individuals in our community have a safe space to call home while they worked towards meeting their housing needs. Soroptimist’s commitment to this cause helps us bring this essential shelter to life, and we are thankful for their leadership and compassion.”

Soroptimist Club President Joni Gosselin spoke about the long-standing relationship between the organization and YWCA Cambridge, noting, “Soroptimist International of Cambridge has been in partnership with YWCA for many, many years. Our mission, to better the lives of women and gender-diverse individuals, starts here. Providing a safe roof over one’s head, a warm bed, a nourishing meal, and people who care is what we strive for. Our donation will help meet the basic needs of community members who have been living without them. People are often unaware of how many women are without homes, and we thank YWCA for their vision in making this essential dream a reality.”

Once open, YWCA Cambridge’s shelter will be the only one dedicated specifically to women and gender-diverse individuals in the region. The 20-bed shelter will operate 24/7, offering on-site services that address both mental and physical health needs, along with other therapeutic and culturally responsive services. This shelter aims to provide a safe, supportive space for individuals who are experiencing homelessness in the community.

The campaign will continue until the end of the year. To donate and support the shelter initiative, please visit www.ywcacambridge.ca.

For more information, contact Roz Gunn, Director of Communications and Advocacy at YWCA Cambridge, via email at r.gunn@ywcacambridge.ca.

About Soroptimist International of Cambridge:


Soroptimist believes in the power of women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals to shape their own destinies when given the right support. Through their work in 120 countries, Soroptimists create opportunities for women and girls to rise above challenges and transform their lives.

About YWCA Cambridge:


For 75 years, YWCA Cambridge has been a leader in providing responsive programming and services that meet the evolving needs of women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals. As a member of YWCA Canada, YWCA Cambridge is part of the country’s oldest and largest multi-service women’s organization.