In Squamish, women are leading the charge in various industries, from healthcare and security to natural wellness and pet services. These dynamic leaders are not only excelling in their fields but are also making a lasting impact on their community.
Whether through fostering inclusivity, inspiring the next generation of leaders or promoting health and wellbeing, women in Squamish are redefining success. By breaking down barriers and supporting one another, they are shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future for the vibrant community of Squamish.
Atwell Dental
Canadian dentists are trained to the highest level of skill and integrity. At , a team of talented women supports each other while prioritizing patient care.
Dr. Nancy Clayton and Dr. Marie Christine Lacasse are honoured to be part of this incredible profession. They are part of a strong dental community that meets regularly through continuing education, courses, study clubs and international conferences. This fosters a deep sense of pride, camaraderie and skill development.
They work alongside dedicated colleagues—including dental hygienists and assistants—who uphold the highest standards of patient care and disease prevention.
As female dentists, they have the opportunity to inspire young girls and women to pursue careers in STEM, healthcare and leadership roles. Representation matters and demonstrating that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields like dentistry is incredibly empowering.
Dr. Clayton and Dr. Lacasse’s work allows them to make a direct, positive impact on people's lives—improving smiles, relieving pain and restoring confidence. Building meaningful relationships with patients while promoting good oral health brings great fulfillment.
To learn more about Atwell Dental, visit and follow Atwell Dental on and .
Euphoria
Founded in 2017, is an award-winning, female-led naturopathic clinic. A leader in integrative medicine, they bring rare natural healing modalities, including science-based and holistic therapies, to the Squamish community and beyond.
Roxana Dees, who first came to Euphoria as a patient, took over ownership of the clinic in 2020. With a Bachelor of Science in biology, with a focus on epigenetics, Dees’s academic background makes her a natural leader to take Euphoria to the next level.
The clinic’s medical team has grown from two to six medical practitioners, broadening its focus to include services in women’s and men’s health, gut health, pain management and, most recently, medical aesthetics. Self-driven and self-motivated, Dees finds much fulfillment from being a business owner.
“Having the power of decision and the ability to follow [her] intuition when it comes to innovation, future direction and leadership” are what she loves the most.
Dees finds encouragement from the people around her, including her supportive husband and the clinic’s patients “Everyone that I have met and talked to on a daily basis asking for help, has inspired me to become curious and seek solutions to their individual cases. People’s needs drive me every day and knowing that I can provide our community with treatments, therapies and practitioners that otherwise we would not have access to unless we leave Squamish. “We love what we do and love doing it for our community,” says Dees.
For more information on Euphoria Natural Health Clinic + Supplements Store, visit and follow them on and .
Blue Empire Security
In a field traditionally dominated by men, is challenging norms. Founded and led by female CEO Stephanie Sturgess, the company prioritizes diversity and inclusivity. Blue Empire actively hires women and visible minorities while supporting the local LGBTQ+ community through service donations for community events. This strong commitment to inclusivity is central to the company’s mission of fostering a welcoming and empowering workplace for everyone.
Based in the Sea to Sky Corridor, Blue Empire Security Inc. is a locally owned and operated company backed by a dedicated, professional and compassionate team. Known for offering high-quality, specialized guard services, the company tailors its solutions to meet the unique needs of the local community. Blue Empire’s personalized approach ensures each client receives the highest level of protection and support.
Blue Empire’s mission is more than just providing exceptional security services; the company is deeply committed to fostering long-term relationships with its clients and local RCMP. By prioritizing trust and collaboration, Blue Empire ensures that every security solution is not only effective but also tailored to the unique needs of the community. Through its commitment to equality, Blue Empire Security Inc. is creating a ripple effect that fosters opportunity, drives change and contributes to a more inclusive and progressive community overall.
For more information, visit and follow Blue Empire Security on and .
Firetail Pets
As store manager at , Madie Leong stands out as a dynamic leader and dedicated professional. She excels at providing excellent customer service that focuses on building relationships with customers and their beloved pets with the goal of helping them live happy and healthy lives.
When she's not giving out treats to four-legged customers or helping pet parents pick the perfect product, she's busy making sure the store is organized and operating efficiently. Under her guidance, Firetail Pets has grown into a beloved hub for the local pet community.
Leong’s impact extends beyond retail management. At Canine Valley, she significantly contributed to the training of future service dogs that ensured the success of the dogs and the empowerment for their future owners. Today, she continues providing private adventures on local trails to dogs with a focus on mental enrichment, behaviour management, safety and care for her client's dogs as if they were her own.
Her leadership skills are further highlighted by her previous experiences back in Ontario before making the move out west. She was the president of the McMaster Climbing Club, leading outdoor climbing trips, organizing bouldering competitions and inspiring the next generation of climbers. She also took on the role of wall coordinator for the university's gym, where she was responsible for conducting safety inspections, facilitating staff training and leading climbing programs for various age groups.
Leong’s career showcases her versatility and commitment to community service, making her a true exemplar of women in business in Squamish. Her work and the relationships she's built with her customers show the importance of having strong community ties and development.
For more information, visit and follow Firetail Pets on and .
