BY J. M. LEE
Jasmine’s journey is deeply rooted in her upbringing as the eldest daughter of immigrant parents in Surrey, BC. Raised in a household with four children, she witnessed her parents’ unwavering dedication to providing a better life for them, which ignited within her a strong work ethic and a drive for success. Hard work and resilience taught her the importance of per “Throughout my career, I have explored diverse roles across various industries, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for growth,” she recalls. “These experiences have played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of effective leadership and equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to get where I am today.”
She encountered many women in influential leadership roles who left a lasting impact on her. “Despite our differing positions, they offered guidance and encouragement without making me feel inferior. Their kindness and belief in me instilled the confidence to pursue my aspirations.”
Their mentorship and support have been invaluable throughout her journey. She strived to pay forward her encouragement by supporting and inspiring others on their paths to success. Their example taught her the importance of lifting others as they climb, fostering a culture of empowerment and solidarity among women leaders.
“Growing up, society and my culture discouraged women to be bold and vibrant,” she says with sadness. “I was once a shy kid who occupied myself in books. Gloria Steinem, Naomi Wolf, and the women leaders I encountered in my career showed me what courage is and triggered my freedom fighter spark. Overcoming patriarchal norms and cultural expectations and navigating personal challenges and traumas—left me feeling alone, and I had to empower myself to find my voice. Focusing on several key strategies is crucial to helping women advance. This means actively building solid connections, seeking mentorship opportunities, and advocating for oneself. Keep learning and developing skills while showing empathy and compassion and creating a safe, supportive environment.”
Jasmine believes that women need courage, willingness to take risks, resilience, and the ability to handle uncertainty to succeed as leaders. “Being brave, seizing opportunities, and fostering innovation are all crucial,” she asserts. “By making meaningful contributions and inspiring others, women can make their mark and lead effectively in their organizations. My approach revolves around cultivating a safe and supportive space for all. I am committed to creating an environment where every voice is heard and valued to encourage open dialogue, foster creativity, and allow diverse perspectives. Every team member’s unique strengths and talents can unleash a powerful synergy that propels us towards our shared goals.”
She has learned that it’s alright if things are only sometimes perfectly balanced. When her kids were younger, it was much harder to do. While she might not have it all at once, she can still have it all over time. “The key for me is accepting that perfection isn’t the goal,” she says with passivity. “What matters most is being present and making the most of our time together. I’ve found peace amid the chaos by prioritizing what matters and being kind to myself when things don’t go as planned.”
She’s always aware that women have fought tirelessly for equality to break barriers. “Honor their legacy by paying it forward,” she relates. “Lift others who faced barriers you’ve overcome.
Supporting and empowering others pave the way for a more equitable future. Our leadership is not only about personal achievement but also about creating a systemic change. Working to dismantle oppressive systems, you contribute to a more just and inclusive society.”
As a child, Jasmine observed her mother’s relentless determination and grit. She raised four children and fought fiercely for her rights, freedom, and financial independence.
“Becoming a mother has been the most profound transformation of my life. It was my soul’s deepest longing. I shower my children with the love and support I had craved in my upbringing. When my children came into my life, they also brought me precious gifts. From my first, I gained the courage to face life’s challenges head-on. With my second, I discovered the strength of my voice and the importance of speaking my truth. My third brought me a profound sense of peace, grounding me in the present moment. And with my fourth, I found pure joy that lights up even the darkest days. My children have shaped me into who I am today, and I owe them an immeasurable debt of gratitude. They’ve taught me the true meaning of love and resilience and inspired me to be my best every day.”
