CHANGEMAKER’S MARKET 2021 – JANA JOSUE MACLAREN

Welcome to the Changemaker’s Market presented by BlueShore Financial, a digital community of over 200 movers and makers who have generously donated their goods and services to benefit the BC Women’s Health Foundation.

Each and every item or service has been generously donated by a BC business owned by cis women, trans folks, non-binary folks, and those across the gender spectrum. You can bid on items, with all proceeds benefiting the BC Women’s Health Foundation and our mission of healthy women everywhere, capable of anything. 

We asked our Changemakers a few questions, including Vancouver-based photographer, Jana Josue MacLaren (she/her).  

Tell me a favourite series or movie that you watched during the pandemic? 

Rewatching Gilmore Girls always feels like a safe space, and during the pandemic, I often needed a good dose of that beautiful Stars Hollow feeling.

Have you started any new hobbies? 

Baking! With everything feeling very out of my control, learning to bake, measure exactly, and control every element of it has been the perfect hobby. Plus, such a tasty treat!

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

I admire the work that BC Women’s Foundation does and have seen personally how much their work and care affect women.

Why does women’s health matter to you?

As a feminist, it is important to continue to acknowledge and fight for the inequality in the healthcare field and continue to educate women to their rights and advocate for them speaking with their voice.

The theme for International Women’s Day is #ChooseToChallenge. How will you #ChooseToChallenge the inequities that exist in women’s health? 

Being more vocal about the women’s health challenges and inequalities with the people in my life, especially men. Making them face the tough conversations and hear our perspectives, even when it makes them feel uncomfortable.

Nearly four in ten women report their mental health has worsened since the beginning of the pandemic a year ago. How do you cope with stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic? 

Rewatching movies and tv shows has been a big coping mechanism, knowing what is coming next is oddly satisfying and provides so much relief. Also – yoga at home has been such a blessing.

What inspires you most about giving back to your community? 

Knowing that the work we do now can and will change the future

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

Taylor Hui, founder of The Roster and the BeYOUtiful Organization is a shining example of kindness and authenticity at work. She is so passionate about helping young girls and reshaping the future for the next generation.

And lastly, one word to describe your legacy? 

Kindness

Bid, 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 Changemaker’s Market from March 14-21, 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.

Changemakers Market is proudly presented by: