International Women’s Day on March 8 is a time to recognize the leadership, innovation, and lasting contributions of women in our communities and across industries. In Ontario’s Highlands, women play a vital role in strengthening tourism, fostering collaboration, and helping our region grow as a vibrant and welcoming destination.

This year, we’re proud to spotlight members of the Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO) Board of Directors and the women whose passion, resilience, and leadership are helping guide the future of tourism across the region. Through their work and dedication, they continue to support local operators, strengthen community connections, and champion Ontario’s Highlands as a premier destination for visitors and residents alike.

Meghan James

Manager, Somewhere Inn Calabogie

For Meghan James, International Women’s Day is both a celebration of women’s accomplishments and a reminder of the importance of supporting one another every day. Inspired by her Baba - who raised two children on her own while working full-time in banking - Meghan carries forward a legacy of resilience and determination. 

Meghan believes women bring strength and balance to leadership roles, and that surrounding yourself with supportive, like-minded individuals is key to success. Through her work in tourism, Meghan values contributing to something larger than herself, building strong relationships across the industry, and encouraging aspiring leaders to follow their passions with confidence and resilience.

Harsha Manani

Owner, Lakeview Motel

For Harsha Manani, International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women who lead, create, and inspire at every stage of life. Inspired by her mother, who ran a family business for 40 years while teaching herself English, Harsha learned the importance of leading with heart and purpose. 

Harsha believes authentic leadership begins with trusting your own voice and working collaboratively to create meaningful impact. Supporting tourism in Ontario’s Highlands allows her to connect visitors with the beauty of the region while helping local businesses thrive. Her advice to future leaders is simple: speak up, trust your instincts, and never stop learning.

Melissa Marquardt

Manager of Economic Development & Tourism, Renfrew County

Melissa Marquardt sees International Women’s Day as an opportunity to honour the women who have paved the way for change while celebrating progress still to come. Inspired by strong leaders in the Ottawa Valley - including Claudia Van Wijk, Lacey Rose, Cyndy Phillips, and OHTO Executive Director, Nicole Whiting - Melissa has learned the importance of perseverance and overcoming imposter syndrome.

Melissa values working alongside like-minded individuals who share a common goal of making Ontario’s Highlands a premier destination. Her advice to aspiring leaders is to be bold, believe in your place at the table, and surround yourself with people who lift you up.

Vanessa Dow

Tourism and Corporate Communications Coordinator, Lanark County

For Vanessa Dow, International Women’s Day is a reminder to celebrate the collective strength of women while continuing to create spaces where every voice and potential is recognized and valued. She draws inspiration from women who lift others as they rise and demonstrate that leadership can be both strong and compassionate. Through her own leadership journey, Vanessa has learned that confidence grows by trusting your instincts, giving yourself grace, and collaborating with others who share common goals. 

Supporting tourism in Ontario’s Highlands allows Vanessa to connect with local business owners and tourism champions who are passionate about the region and committed to strengthening their communities. She encourages women aspiring to leadership roles to stay curious, build meaningful relationships, and not wait until they feel “ready” to take the next step.

Cindy Jamieson

Owner, Whitewater Inn, Ottawa Valley

Strength, resilience, and progress are what come to mind for Cindy Jamieson when reflecting on International Women’s Day. For her, the day is both a celebration of women’s achievements around the world and a reminder that the journey toward gender equality continues. 

Cindy’s greatest inspiration has been her mother, who demonstrated the value of persistence and the impact of consistently showing up and doing the work required to accomplish meaningful goals. Through her own leadership journey, Cindy has learned to tune out negative noise and stay focused on what matters—sometimes even using criticism as motivation to move forward. 

One of the things she appreciates most about supporting tourism in Ontario’s Highlands is the strong sense of “family” among operators across the region. Her advice for women interested in leadership is simple: start where you are. It doesn’t have to be perfect at the beginning but taking that first step and learning along the way is what leads to growth.

Barbara Kraus

Owner, Tamarack Lodge

For Barbara Kraus, International Women’s Day is about recognizing the many ways women contribute to their communities. Influenced by her grandmother, mother, and teacher Mrs. Marjorie Woodbury - each of whom demonstrated leadership through compassion and determination - Barbara has learned that patience and empathy are essential in leadership. 

Barbara believes women do not need to change who they are to succeed, and that preserving diverse perspectives strengthens organizations. In supporting tourism across Ontario’s Highlands, Barbara is passionate about fostering a strong sense of community and encourages women to discover their passions and pursue roles that allow them to excel.