Local market brings together female entrepreneurs and helps people in need

A group of like-minded entrepreneurs came together on Saturday to sell their wares and raise money for a local charity.

The Women with Purpose Summer Market, organized by local photographer Amanda Braybrook at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on the border of Barrie and Innisfil, was a way to bring other female entrepreneurs together, get to know each other and showcase their products and businesses, Braybrook explained.

“I grew up in Vaughan, with an established business there. When I moved up north, no one really knew who I was, so I decided to start a market to get my name out there. My first event was so successful, so I just kept going,” she said.

Saturday’s event was the sixth Women with Purpose market, she noted, adding that in addition to bringing businesswomen together, each time it has helped raise awareness and money for a different local charity. This weekend’s market, which featured 17 vendors, was meant to raise money and supplies for My Sister’s Place, a women’s shelter in Innisfil and Alliston.

“I have some friends who grew up in shelters, so I feel like by giving back to something like this I can help out and give something back,” she said, adding that vendors were also asked to donate items such as toiletries and blankets.

As a female entrepreneur, Braybrook said BarrieToday It gives her a good feeling that she can help others like her.

“I feel like I have a purpose, and my purpose is to help others achieve their goals. When I see other people being successful … and achieving their goals, my goals are being achieved,” she said.