11th Annual Influential Women of Northern Ontario Awards 2008.

• Position: NEWS

Six successful women were supported by more than 700 people who attended the 11th Annual Influential Women of Northern Ontario Awards.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

The luncheon ceremonies were held in Thunder Bay's Fort William Historical Park May 26 for the northwest winners and a second luncheon on May 29 in Timmins at the Days Inn for the northeast winners.

Lori Mitchell, president and CEO of Tomboy Tools Canada, was the keynote speaker at both events.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

After a 15 year career in the corporate world, Mitchell took a leap of faith in 2004 and founded Tomboy Tools Canada.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Mitchell saw a newspaper ad announcing the opening of a tool company that sold high-quality hand and power tools designed for the ergonomic needs of women in United States. Being the Miss Fix It that she is, the notion of opening such a business in Canada appealed to her.

Seven traits has defined her road to success: passion, initiative, leadership, perseverance, people, being coachable and responsibility.

"There has to be an emotional connection to the idea," she said, adding that people who find that connection shine their light and put their passion into action. It was not always easy for Mitchell who had many naysayers, particularly when it came to manufacturing an ergonomic hammer or drill for the ladies.

"But you cannot let outside forces come in and shake you. Life is way too short to have toxic people in your life."

Build strong relationships with clients, co-workers, and suppliers, she suggested.

Yes, there will be outside forces that will breed doubt, but that is when one must have unwavering faith.

"Believe like you know, like you know."

In saying this however, she also is the first to admit she doesn't know everything. Listening opens one's mind and checks the ego, she said. It allows humility to come forth. Regardless of how boring a conversation is, stay listening because "whatever you resists persists."

Everyone on Earth wants to leave behind some kind of a legacy. Mitchell hopes Tomboy Tools lasts long after she is gone. To position the company for such success, she is now mentoring other people.

"Leadership is not about throwing your weight around. It is about being open to create the energy to move forward."

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

This kind of energy requires discipline and focus and responsibility, she said.

"You need to be intentional. Responsibility allows creativity to flow."

The Influential Women winners know...