Chelsea Lewis, a local entrepreneur known for her commitment to fostering community and personal growth, has received a nomination for the esteemed Women Entrepreneurs of Manitoba (WBOM) Award.
Expressing her excitement, Lewis said,
"I'm absolutely thrilled and incredibly honoured to be nominated! This recognition truly humbles me, especially as I'm surrounded by such amazing women who are pushing boundaries and creating change in their industries."
Lewis, who has been a prominent figure in the local hairstyling community for over 20 years, started her journey at The Cellar Door in Portage la Prairie. What began as sweeping floors as a young girl evolved into a passion for hairstyling and eventually ownership of the salon. For the past 14 years, she has owned The Cellar Door, creating a welcoming space for both her team and clients.
"Throughout my career I have always been focused on creating a space for my team and my guests to feel like they're at home. The Cellar Door for me is a hub of inclusion for mental health and an area where people can grow, which for me is important. It’s not just for professional growth, but also for personal growth. Education is number one."
She talks about the importance of having family around when running your own business and the role that they play.
"You need support in all areas of life; at home, on the road, and everywhere. So my family, not only my immediate family with my girls and my husband, but my extended family, my in-laws, they're just ongoing support means a lot to me."
Operating a business is no small feat, but her passion for fostering growth in others keeps her motivated.
"Definitely running a business is a balancing act, but it's a passion for both me and my team. Making a positive impact through business is what keeps me going every day."
Nominations for the WBOM Award are evaluated by a panel of esteemed judges who will select the finalists and winners. Notifications for finalists will be sent via email in November, culminating in a gala event being held on January 23, at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, where all nominees will be honoured.
As she looks forward to the gala, her focus remains on the people she works with.
"It’s the relationships I've built that inspire me to keep pushing boundaries."
With her dedication to her community and innovative spirit, this entrepreneur continues to make a significant impact in Portage la Prairie.