Women of Distinction Spotlight: Mano Duggal

Feb 6, 2018 | Blog

This week we’re catching up with Women of Distinction Alumni Mano Duggal, owner of Phidon Pens. Hear about how she’s staying inspired everyday, so that you can get some for yours! 

1. What was your reaction when you were approached for a Women of Distinction Nomination?
I was so overwhelmed and humbled to have received the nomination and then the honor to receive the award. It is so wonderful to be a part of such a beautiful community that recognizes what you are doing.

2. What have you been upto since your big win?
I have had my store for almost 10 years now and it continues to bring me joy, Daily interaction with an amazing clientele makes for wonderful days. Part of my award was for keeping the art of handwriting alive in our community and we continue to run classes for handwriting, and calligraphy with the hope of keeping this basic human art form alive. Enjoying my family and friends and grateful for so much.

3. Name the biggest overall lesson you have learnt about leadership?
“Trust” and to give of myself in whatever capacity I can.

4. What does the world need more of or Less?
We need more empathy, to be kind and generous to people. And less of hatred.

5. What is an issue happening in the world that you wish more people were talking about and trying to find a solution?
To break down barriers of religion, gender and make this world livable for everyone. Educating young minds and to be compassionate.

6. What question do you wish people would ask you, and how would you reply?
Why did you open a pen store in a small city like Cambridge? “Passion” bringing the best to people in the pen, paper and ink world. Work hard and believe you can make a difference.

Don’t forget! Tickets for this year’s Women of Distinction event, happening March 28, are available now. Proceeds support innovative in-school and drop in programming for youth in #cbridge.  Get yours! 

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.