Reflecting on the past two decades of running my IQ Risk Insurance Services, I’m filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride. It’s been a remarkable journey—one marked by significant ups and downs, countless lessons learned, and immeasurable support from those around me. Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and thank everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey: our clients, referral partners, and most importantly, our dedicated team.

Starting a business is never easy, and the road can be even more challenging for a woman. When I first embarked on this journey 20 years ago, I faced not only the typical hurdles of entrepreneurship—such as securing funding, building a client base, and managing operations—but also the additional barriers that women often encounter in the business world, as a woman I had to also deal with gender biases, balancing motherhood and work, and the persistent need to prove myself due to a fear of failure.

Despite these challenges, I was driven by a vision and a passion for making a difference. The initial years were marked by sleepless nights and countless hours of hard work. There were moments when it felt like the odds were stacked against us, but the unwavering belief in our mission and the support of those around us kept us going.

No journey is without its trials, and ours was no exception. We faced economic downturns, shifting market dynamics, and unforeseen challenges that tested our resilience. Each setback taught us valuable lessons and pushed us to innovate and adapt. The highs, however, made it all worthwhile. Watching our business grow, achieving milestones, and receiving positive feedback from our clients and partners were moments of triumph that fueled our drive.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been witnessing the impact we’ve made on our clients and communities. From small wins to significant achievements, every success story has been a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. These victories, both big and small, have been a source of immense pride and motivation.

As we celebrate this milestone, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to those who have been instrumental in our success:

• To Our Clients: Your trust and support have been the foundation of our business. You’ve challenged us to deliver our best and inspired us to continually improve. It has been a privilege to work with you, and we look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come.
• To Our Referral Partners: Your recommendations and referrals have been invaluable. They’ve not only helped us grow but have also allowed us to connect with incredible clients. Your belief in our services and willingness to advocate on our behalf has made a significant difference.
• To Our Team: Words cannot fully express my gratitude for your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment. You’ve been the backbone of this business, and your passion and talent have driven our success. Together, we’ve weathered storms, celebrated victories, and built something truly special. I am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for the future we will continue to build together.

As we move forward, I am filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the future of IQRisk. The journey of entrepreneurship is ongoing, and while there will undoubtedly be new challenges, I am confident that with the continued support of our clients, referral partners, and team, we will continue to thrive and make a positive impact.

Thank you for being a part of our story. Here’s to the next 20 years of growth, innovation, and success. Together, we will continue to achieve great things and make a difference in our communities.