International Women’s Day is a time to recognize the leadership, influence and impact of women across every part of our community.
Today we are proud to share reflections from four remarkable women within our organization. Their words offer an honest look at what drives them, who shaped them and how they lead.
We also recognize our co founder, Nan Eskenazi, whose vision helped lay the foundation for Good Earth and continues to inspire many of us today.
Chrissy Ali Gafoor
Franchise Partner | Good Earth Credit Valley Hospital | Mississauga
What advice would you give to other women in business or leadership?
Chrissy’s response centers on persistence.
“Do not accept ‘no’ as the final answer. But ‘no’ does not always mean impossible. Sometimes it simply means, ‘not yet’ or ‘not understood.’”
She believes confidence grows when preparation meets consistency.
“Have confidence in yourself and in your vision. Do your research. Be prepared. Show up consistently.”
What is something you are proud of in your journey so far?
Her pride is rooted in transformation and team building.
“I’m proud of how we’ve transformed the direction of our café since taking ownership.”
“Most importantly, we built a strong team of women. A team of confident, capable and intelligent individuals who genuinely care about the customer experience.”
Cristy Laing
Director of Operations | Head Office | Calgary
Who is a woman that has inspired you, and why?
For Cristy, the answer is immediate.
“100% my mom. She’s always been real, authentic and strong.”
“She taught me to question ‘why,’ to think for myself, and to stand up for what’s right even when it’s hard.”
Those lessons continue to shape how she leads.
What advice would you give to other women in business or leadership?
“You don’t have to dilute your authority to be respected. Trust your voice. Share your ideas with confidence. You can be kind and clear.”
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
“International Women’s Day is a reminder that business, community and family are stronger when women help shape them.”
Chona Lasin
Manager | Good Earth Capital Park | Victoria
Who is a woman that has inspired you, and why?
Chona credits both family and mentorship.
“My biggest inspirations are my mom and my boss, Nicole. Both of them have showed me what strength, dedication and leadership truly look like.”
She speaks openly about Nicole’s belief in her.
“Nicole inspired me by believing in me before I believed in myself. She trusted me with responsibility, challenged me to grow and showed me that leadership is about guidance, fairness and empowerment.”
From her mom, she learned resilience.
“Watching her push through challenges without giving up showed me that no obstacle is too big when you carry a purpose in your heart.”
Michelle Alexander
VP of Marketing | Head Office | Calgary
What does leadership mean to you?
“The most powerful thing we can do is open doors and hold them open.”
To me, leadership is not about having the loudest voice in the room. It is about making sure more voices are heard. It is about creating environments where people feel confident contributing ideas, taking initiative and growing into roles they may not have imagined for themselves.
I believe strong leaders build strong teams by being clear, direct and supportive. When people know they are trusted and capable, they rise to that expectation.
What are you proud of in your journey so far?
I am most proud of the teams I have helped build and the individuals I have seen grow into leadership roles of their own. Watching someone step into confidence, take ownership of their work and advocate for their ideas is incredibly meaningful.
Progress does not always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like someone speaking up for the first time or taking on a challenge they once avoided.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day is a reminder that opportunity does not happen by accident. It happens when someone chooses to mentor, advocate and create space for others.
When women build each other up, the ripple effect is real. At Good Earth Coffeehouse, we are proud to be shaped by women who strengthen the communities we serve.
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