“OUR HEALTH IS EVERYTHING”

We’re going from “how’re you holding up” to “who are you holding up”. 

Welcome to the Changemaker’s Market, a digital community of movers and makers who have generously donated their goods and services to benefit the BC Women’s Health Foundation.

We asked our Changemakers a few questions, including Alison Mazurek of 600 sq. ft. and a baby @600sqftandababy.

“We loved our city. We loved walking everywhere. We loved our street with coffee shops, stores and restaurants so we are never bored. And we loved our 600sqft 1 bedroom apartment with high ceilings and big windows. Then we had a baby….and another baby… And everyone said we had to move…. but we didn’t. And 6 years later, so far so good. Doing our best to live small, thoughtfully and sustainably in the city with our two kids.”

What’s your Quarantine anthem? 

We’ve been playing a lot of Harry Styles lately. Also Dancing on My Own by Robyn is a forever anthem and quite appropriate right now (except that I am never alone lately with my 3 year old and 6 year old always underfoot, haha).

One word to describe 600 sq ft and a baby’s legacy?

Simplify

Sourdough starter, yay or nay? 

Nope, but we have made banana bread 😉

Why did you choose to donate to the Changemaker’s Market? 

I can’t imagine how all these Foundations that count on in-person events for the majority of their donations are feeling right now. It felt like something I could do from the safety of my home while looking after the kids.

Why does women’s health matter to you? 

Our health is everything isn’t it? 

Do you have a personal story that inspired you to support women’s health? 

I had both my babies at BC Women’s Hospital and required urgent care during both. I am forever grateful for the amazing care I received during those times I feel forever indebted to the healthcare team that cared for us.

What inspires you most about giving back to your community? 

I recognize mine and my family’s privilege and want to give back when and where I can. 

I also find in this strange time where I can feel out of control or overwhelmed it helps me to look outside myself and do something for others. 

What’s your unique mission with your products/services?  

Above all I want to help people, especially families to feel comfortable, and not ashamed to live in small spaces. 

Having fewer, better things and a functional small space can be very freeing. A smaller footprint and fewer possessions can give us time to have more experiences and lessen our impact on the earth.

What’s the first thing you’ll do post-social distancing? 

I am looking forward to a packed apartment dinner full of friends and their kids. I used to complain it was too loud and no one could ever finish a sentence. I will never complain about that again!

What or who is a local shop/service founded by a woman that you admire? 

We live on a vibrant street with so many women-run shops that I admire. 

Including Collage Collage by Erin B, Sunja Link by Sunja, Much and Little by Sarah. I am also the biggest fan and supporter of Petits Vilains locally made sustainable clothes for kids run by Rachel and Jen. I also can’t get enough of Penny Frances Apothecary by Sarah (Saz). And Woo to see You owner Hans! I could go on and on.

Nothing inspires me more than women run businesses.

Bid, buy, connect, create change. Every purchase made at the Changemakers Market is a declaration of your dedication to women’s health and equity in the healthcare system. Go you.

Whether you bid on the Changemakers Market from May 30 – June 6, or donate directly — you’re championing change for all women across BC.

Interested in learning more about our Changemakers? Read more stories or follow along on Instagram @bcwomens.

BC Women’s Health Foundation is BC’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the full spectrum of women’s health. The information shared is intended to educate, inform, and point readers to credible sources. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of qualified healthcare professionals with any questions specific to your medical condition. For more information, visit HealthLinkBC.ca.