Celebrating Women

TDS Personnel was founded and is owned by women. Currently, it is an all-women office and has been so for many years. For International Women’s Day, we asked the team to think about women that they admire or are inspired by – past or present.

Beth

I am forever grateful for the strong women who surround me. While both friends and family have been driving influences in my life, no one has made a greater impact than my mother. She is an absolute force – high-energy, creative, and constantly setting and achieving new goals. Most notably, after running a successful business for 30 years (yes, that was TDS Personnel!), she decided to become an artist. And not just as a hobby. She is a gallery-exhibiting, selling artist with a unique flair and a beautiful perspective on landscapes. At 78, she continues to refine her talents, all while regaling dinner parties with stories of her world travels and her recent amateur golf club tours. Her commitment to our family is unwavering, and her generous spirit is unmatched. Today, on International Women’s Day, I want to pay tribute to my mom—a woman who truly defines the notion of breaking barriers.

Bailey

For International Women’s Day, taking a moment to reflect on the women who inspire me feels incredibly special. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by such strong, ambitious, and compassionate women who shape and influence me every day, both personally and professionally.

At TDS Personnel, I work alongside a dynamic all-female team, each bringing unique strengths and perspectives that make us stronger together. I am so incredibly lucky to call them all colleagues and friends. I’m equally inspired by the women I meet through my work, our clients and candidates, driven and passionate individuals whose stories and aspirations I have the privilege of learning and supporting.

On a personal level, I’m lucky to have an amazing circle of friends who are thriving through life’s milestones, from career growth to homeownership and starting their families. Watching them grow and reach new milestones is such an honour. And then there is my mom, who above all else is my ultimate inspiration. My brother and I were so fortunate to be raised by a woman who showed us that the world is your oyster, and you can reinvent yourself at any stage of life. From managing her parents’ tire business, to a long and meaningful career as a Registered Nurse, to many successful years in direct sales, and now working as a travel agent while exploring the world, she has embraced every chapter with courage, curiosity, and heart. I feel truly grateful to be surrounded by such inspiring women in every facet of my life, both at work and at home.

Kendra

Inspired by countless women, I am lucky to be surrounded by them daily at TDS. I work with strong, intelligent, badass women. Lisa is our resident go-to for anything and everything. We’d all be lost without her.  She is patient, passionate about music/art and a gifted photographer. Beth is an excellent leader who pushes us to be our best both in and out of the office daily, and Lindsey is extremely generous, curious, and perhaps because of this, always has the best restaurant recommendations.  

Leah and I started at the same time ten years ago, and she quickly became one of my closest friends. She’s my unofficial therapist for all things in life: work, motherhood, relationships, and I truly don’t know what I would do without her. Bailey and I bonded over being small-town girls navigating the big city, and our connection was instant and effortless. She’s intelligent, spirited, and an incredibly loyal friend. Elyse is the epitome of composure and class. She is thoughtful and kind, the very best shopping partner, and always up for a coffee or a little snack. Through simple conversation, Sherry can build rapport with everyone she meets – often acting as both a consultant and a confidante. Quick-witted and hilarious, Hannah can make me laugh until my stomach hurts. Kathy is a nurturer and looks after us all – whether it be helping us with finances or our mental health, she’s always there to give advice and ensure we stay on track.

Elyse

Here at TDS, we are so lucky to be surrounded by incredibly strong, hardworking mothers who truly do it all, not only for their children, but for everyone around them. Outside of work, one of the strongest women I know is my mother. A single parent who helped shape me into the woman I am today. My mother is a pillar of strength, someone who would never share her own trials and tribulations, yet would always be there for someone in need, no matter the relationship. Not only does she have a brilliant mind, exceptional taste in style and interior design, but she is also caring, warm, and never afraid to stand up for what she believes in. She has taught me that kindness goes a long way, and that sometimes the quieter you are, the more you are able to hear. To all the mothers and strong women, I hope that not just today, but every day, you are recognized for the positive impact you have.

Lisa

My niece Avery has quickly become one of my favourite people. She’s only six, but she’s wild, confident, and loves animals (especially snakes!). She is loving, carefree, and an absolute joy to be around. Even more joyful is seeing how much fun my mom has with her as her Oma. I didn’t think I could love my family any more than I already did, but when my niece and nephews entered the fray, that love grew tenfold. Watching Avery grow makes me so grateful for all the women in my life—not only in my family, but also the friends and colleagues I hold dear. While we’ve made incredible leaps forward, it’s still not easy being a woman in 2026, and we must support each other at every turn. I am so appreciative of the women who see the best in me and encourage me to be better. I hope I am that same supportive force for them, and I look forward to what we will all collectively do next.

Sherry

Julie Payette has accomplished more in her 55 years than most could do in five lifetimes. Achieving goal upon goal: Engineer, Corporate Director, Chief Astronaut for the Canadian Space Agency and is currently acting Governor General. A Canadian powerhouse! All of these accomplishments are due in part to her intellect and true grit, reflecting her discipline and fortitude. What impresses me, in addition to her many lofty accomplishments (speaks six languages, 28 honorary doctorates, commercial pilot and astronaut) is the grace with which she carries herself. A Canadian treasure who continues to set the bar high for herself and, in turn, shines a light of hope on our youth to follow in the path of greatness and to make a difference.