Iris Collective highlights accomplishments of Stratford women who received Order of Canada

Tricia O’Malley, Jean Aitcheson, Loreena McKennitt, Seana McKenna and Judy Maddren, with Diane Sims in the centre. Maddren led a panel discussion with the women after they shared their life stories during the Iris Collective Voices of Distinction event on March 28.

It was a heartfelt afternoon filled with sharing life stories, laughs and tears.

The Iris Collective held the Voices of Distinction event at the Stratford Public Library auditorium to highlight women living in Stratford who received the Order of Canada. The event featured journalist and author Diane Sims, accountant Tricia O’Malley, singer-songwriter and philanthropist Loreena McKennitt, long-time Stratford Festival actor Seana McKenna, and Medical Mission Depot operator Jean Aitcheson.

The women shared their stories of resiliency, reaching their goals, building connections and making an impact on the community. A panel discussion led by Judy Maddren followed the storytelling and the group discussed overcoming tough times, what makes a good mentor, and if their life now is what their younger self imagined.

"I'm inspired. I want to do more events like this and I think it showcases what an amazing community we have and what amazing women we have living in this community who are just quietly doing their thing and are incredibly successful and incredible contributors to the community,” said Jo-Dee Burbach, Iris Collective co-founder.

The Order of Canada honours those who made significant contributions to Canada and recognizes professional excellence.

The Iris Collective is a non-profit organization led by women of Stratford, for women in Stratford that values connectivity and community. More information about the Iris Collective can be found online by visiting https://www.iriscollective.ca.