CHANGEMAKER’S MARKET 2021 – MARLENE LOWDEN

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 Marlene Lowden, artist and educator from Gibsons, BC. Marlene draws from her previous experience in television and video production, applying to canvas similar principles of composition and storytelling. 

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

I strongly support the work of the BC Women’s Health Foundation.

Why does women’s health matter to you? 

I’m very passionate about equity and I know that women’s health issues often do not get the attention that they require.

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

By donating to the market, I also will be bringing attention to the issues of inequality of women’s healthcare and hopefully create dialogue and awareness.

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? 

I’m an artist and have always leaned on my art practice for mental and emotional support. I also teach art and find that being in service to others helps me better cope with my own stress.  I am also fortunate to live near the forest and find my daily walks in the woods to be a salve. 

What inspires you most about giving back to your community? 

It feels full circle to be able to give because there was a time when I was an independent parent of two small girls and I needed to lean on my community for support.

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

Thrive Art Studios founded by Jamie Smith

And lastly, one word to describe your legacy? 

Freedom

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: