Michelle Pockey inspired many, not just in forestry and mining where she left a deep mark as an environmental lawyer. Her passing is a loss for resource leadership in British Columbia.
Her speech at the inaugural SheTalks Resources in 2015 was a highlight of the day. The Vancouver-based lawyer spoke of her work at Fasken Martineau on First Nations files, and she discussed the challenges she faced as a woman working in a challenging profession. Her qualifications for this topic were unassailable:
- A founder of the Professional Women's Network, an organization dedicated to women's education and business development.
- A member of the Women Presidents' Organization and the WEB Alliance of Women's Business Networks.
- Business in Vancouver Influential Women in Business Award.
- Champion for Change Award presented by the Women Presidents' Organization and GroYourBiz.
- International Alliance for Women World of Difference Award for extraordinary contributions to the economic empowerment of women.
When Ms. Pockey passed away recently, it was after sharing a favourite aphorism with those she met during her final months: "Be the place that love shines through."