Magic Moment: Without being aware of it, competition in the locker room prepared me for competition in business. Wanting to win, wanting to improve was internalized through sports. My first magic moment was the recognition of hard work and success being achieved as I became Vice President at the age of 28 and running a significant land development department.

Key Influence: Zita Stocco, my mother – My mother was a determined and compassionate person. I learned my determination, will to succeed and love of volunteerism from her.

Susan Fish Schiller – There were very few female role models in our industry when I was in school and starting out in business. She was as “urbanologist” I admired.

Next Big Challenge As An Industry: The status of urban transit in the GTA is shameful.   Decisions have taken too long and politicians at all levels continue to second guess themselves and decisions and financial commitments are delayed. We are a world class city with 3rd class transit. I love Toronto, I was born, raised and educated here and would like to see Toronto reach its world class status in all ways including transit.

Secret Talent: I love to arrange my own floral arrangements for all occasions and by all accounts I am very creative.

On Championing Others… I have always looked to hire and promote women in our consulting teams. I have mentored young women when asked. My primary message to other women is not to try to act like a man.   Women have different strengths from men and should use those strengths.

One word that captures you: “Last Person Standing”