Art and contribution

Stephanie Rogers of Stephanie’s Glass & Art Studio in Fernie, B.C., has been creating art out of glass for over three decades. She said that it has been challenging to make her art into a business, but her daily work makes her happy.

In addition to running her art business, Rogers has made a significant contribution to the community through her volunteer work for the East Kootenay Foundation for Health, Ducks Unlimited and the Fernie Hospice Society. For her efforts, Rogers recently received an Influential Women in Business award for 2013 from Kootenay Business magazine.

KB: Do you know why you were nominated for this award?
Rogers: I think I was nominated because of the volunteer work I’ve done, as opposed to anything to do with my art business. However, I hope the fact that I can run a reasonably successful business and still find time to contribute in the community might make me influential. I’m no more or less deserving of the award than any number of other women. In Fernie, lots of successful businesses are run by women. They have families to raise and homes to run, too, and they do an amazing job.

KB: How do you feel about receiving this recognition?
Rogers: If I won a million dollars tomorrow, I would still do what I’m doing. This award is a lovely bonus. My best advice to anyone in business is: Find a way to incorporate your passion into your work.

KB: What do you think it takes to be a woman of influence?
Rogers: Empathy, tenacity and patience are three elements that I think are essential for a person of influence. And honesty, too. These elements are as important in my volunteer work as they are in my art studio.