Influence is described in the dictionary as having the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behaviour of someone or something.
On March 9, the Cold Lake Women of Influence Awards will be recognizing women from across the Lakeland for their impact on their community, whether it's through their work, volunteerism, or other efforts.
This year, dozens of locals were nominated for one of the seven categories.
One of those women is Andrea Reid.
She has been nominated for the community and volunteerism award for her work with the Bonnyville Boys and Girls Club, and the Reid's annual Charity Golf Tournament, benefitting the Stollery Hospital.
“I wasn't expecting it (the nomination). It's amazing to be recognized,” Reid expressed.
Reid noted, there is some tough competition, with a community of women who are constantly supporting and volunteering in various organizations.
Assumption Jr./Sr. High School student Meghan Rennie believes it was her business, Sunsoft Cards, and her constant-busy nature, that landed her the nomination for the new younger woman of influence category.
Rennie said it's surreal to be nominated after watching so many influential women in the community receive an award.
“To think that people think I'm in that same group, that's pretty crazy,” Rennie expressed.
Oreen Skiba has also been nominated for an award this year.
She believes her name was thrown in for the community and volunteerism award.
“I'm absolutely humbled and honoured to be nominated. There is such an amazing group of women on the list of nominees, and to be included in that is just amazing,” Skiba expressed.
Skiba has played an active role in the Ronald MacDonald House Charities Northern Alberta Association for some time, and thinks it's her part with that organization that has made her stand out.
All three of the nominees agreed that it's important to recognize women for their contributions in a community, regardless of how big or small.
“We do so much as women. We take on so many different roles, and we really do it without even thinking,” Reid said.
Rennie believes it's important to recognize people in general for the part they play in society.
“When people are doing cool things, it's important to acknowledge that it's being done,” said the young nominee.
Skiba expressed, “I think it's so important to recognize, celebrate, and honour these women because they contribute their time and talent to making our community a stronger, more vibrant, and more caring place.”
