Meet Rosalind Lockyer, RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards Social Change — National Impact Finalist

Years of working as a teacher, entrepreneur, and community developer made Rosalind Lockyer all too aware of the systemic barriers keeping women from achieving their goals. By founding the PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise in 1995, she channelled her experience, passion, and dedication into advocating for women entrepreneurs globally. Today, PARO Canada spreads its unique model of Prosper Circles and other integrated services nationwide. PARO has supported many successful Women’s Trade Missions to the US, providing funding, training and wraparound support to women with goals of exporting, boosting revenues by ten-fold.

Rosalind has dedicated her life to supporting gender equality and building sustainable livelihoods for thousands of women. As Co-Founder of the Women’s Economic Council, she is a strong advocate for women disadvantaged by the intersectionality of poverty, domestic violence, racism, sexism, ageism, and disability. 

Recognized as ‘one of the most remarkable social entrepreneurs in the world’ by the Ontario Government’s Office of Social Enterprise, Rosalind received the International Peace Award and the international award for Women of the Decade in Community Leadership from the Women’s Economic Forum in New Delhi, India, among other notable achievements.

The moment I knew I wanted to catalyze social change was… [my experience working] at organizations that did not treat women with the same respect as men. It seemed that the traditional approach to business development left many women out, and I realized that women need their own space, their own set of support, financial literacy, flexible funding, peer support and empowerment to get themselves to a place where they are not only able to survive through challenges, but also to thrive in all aspects of their lives. 

My mission aims to create a positive impact by… empowering women by giving them the tools they need to build a sustainable livelihood. The most thriving societies are the ones in which women are valued, prioritized, and included in the decision-making process at all levels of government and society. PARO is a foundational organization — a place where women can come to get what they need to thrive socially and economically.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a change leader is… that people do not like change. When you have a good idea that will foster positive change, some people will try to knock you down. I am inspired by the word ‘no’— it makes me work harder to achieve what people think I can’t.

My proudest accomplishment is… my family — my wonderful husband, Carl, my children, grandchildren, and my PARO family. PARO is a 30-year-old organization with a legacy of watching women succeed by learning that they can pull themselves out of tough situations. The longevity of an organization is a testament to the grit, determination, and fierceness of women. Supporting women to achieve their highest potential is a gift, and one that I am very proud to catalyze. 

The biggest risk I took that paid off was… starting PARO! The organization started in the 90s — a great time for feminism but also a very challenging time to get support for women in economic spaces, a time when no one considered a ‘work at home’ business as viable. I left a well-paying job to start an organization that has supported tens of thousands of women to achieve their dreams. Our cross-country expansion was a calculated risk, and now PARO is a pillar of the women’s movement, a model for how big risks can pay off for women who dare to dream. 

I overcome setbacks by… anticipating them, along with trends and societal expectations. I am constantly learning, adapting, and adjusting the strategy before setbacks have the chance to happen.

One of the most important lessons I’ve gained from my experience within the sector is… “all boats rise with the tide.”  When we thrive as a sector, all those who tap into the network of support are better positioned to achieve their dreams. As a leader in this sector, it is my responsibility to mentor the next generation of leaders. 

I surprise people when I tell them… that I have never written a full speech! Instead, I gather thoughts, and let my instincts guide me based on what I know women need to hear at any given time. 

If I had an extra hour in the day, I would use it to… sit on a rock by the water. This spot is where I go to think and plan. Growing up in Newfoundland, it was important for me to be around water. Water is my inspiration.

If you googled me, you still wouldn’t know… I come from a long line of entrepreneurs and business people! From a young age, I went with my father to help him in his carpentry business. He taught me the power behind building something from nothing, and these lessons have inspired my life and my journey with PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise. 

The future excites me because… of its endless possibilities. In work and in life, every minute counts! PARO is always growing! There is never a dull moment, and I look forward to each phase of the organization’s journey. It’s a beautiful day at PARO!

Connect with Rosalind on LinkedIn.