Donna Holtom has a vision.
And it was her strong views on the role of community in her three Ottawa businesses that captured the attention of the Women's Business Network, which presented her with the prestigious Business Woman's Achievment Award at a Chateau Laurier gala last night.
Ms. Holtom, who owns Sante Restaurant, Holtz Spa, and the Sussex Club was welcomed by a sold- out crowd of 365. During the evening, she received several tributes that cited her as a tremendous leader and entrepreneur.
The 47-year-old mother of three is also known for her volunteer work with, among others, the Ottawa Art Gallery and the National Arts Centre. She also runs art shows at her restaurant in an effort to promote local artists.
Ms. Holtom was honoured by the award and sees the distinction as an opportunity to give back to the community. "I think it's all about role-modeling ... sharing information," she said. She attributes her family and her talented staff for much of her success, which she says is based on specializing in areas that can easily be brought together: food, health and fitness.
"I have a passion for what I'm doing - fine food, fine wine, pampering and great art. The whole intent was to bring that to the community."
So what's next? She looks positively to the millennium for what she believes will bring increased emphasis on her type of business. She hopes it will bring a new plateau for her company, which already employs 40.
"These are businesses that are so much a part of the future - health and wellness and the whole idea of healing," she said. That will be happening for the next 20 years."
Five finalists were selected from among 19 women who were nominated for this year's top award. They are Frances Balodis, International Director of Music for Young Children; laraine Kaminsky, president, Malkam Consultants Ltd.; Cindy Ann Sprague, vice-president, Omnimark technologies Corp.; Julie Tubman, president, Tubman Funeral Homes; and Judith Yaworsky, president, Communications Consultants Ltd.
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