Articles Women of Inspiration™ Spotlight – Sandra Filopoulos
2024 Women of Inspiration™ Spotlight Feature – Sandra Filopoulos – Co-Founder, Filo Import Inc.| Women of Inspiration Authentic™ Leader Award | @filopoulos.sandra
Sandra studied in Quebec, in the Montreal region. In 2001, she graduated from nursing school (Vanier College). She enrolled at the University of Montreal and completed her DEC in nursing. She worked for three years in bedside nursing at the Jewish Hospital of Montreal. Her spirit of initiative and her ability to develop opportunities led her to accept positions with ever greater responsibilities (nurse educator in clinical settings, nurse liaison). She completed her training with an MBA Leadership and a DESS in pharmacology. Very autonomous, curious by nature, learns very quickly, with a very developed leadership personality, constantly seeking innovation despite a routine and directives to follow, surpassing one’s objectives and always with the desire to find the solution(s) to a problem. problem, an influencer in a certain way, she was greeted and recognized, at the end of her career in clinical research, by a large number of her directors. It is with this same audacity and this same vision of doing more and bigger that Sandra followed her entrepreneurial ambition at Filo Import. In a few years of activity, she led her company to sign partnerships with the largest corporations in Canada and the world (Disney, Mattel / Fisher-Price, Crayola, Warner Brothers, Nickelodeon / Paw Patrol, Marvel) while succeeding to give back to her community. A philanthropic entrepreneur from the creation of her business, she succeeded where those around her advised her not to go. From the start, she has financially supported the medical community and Pediatric causes. By putting in time, ingenuity and determination, she demonstrated to everyone that every company, regardless of its size, turnover or life cycle, can give back to the community by getting involved on committees for the good. communities, in fundraising, by participating in social activities or charity dinners or by giving financially. A young entrepreneur with a promising future, Sandra was winner of the Gala Vision prize in 2019 (Women’s Business category – Les Moulins Chamber of Commerce), finalist of the Quebec Business Women Prize in 2019 (New Entrepreneur category – Women’s Network business of Quebec), winner of the TOP 100 in 2020 (BMO Entrepreneur – WXN Network category), and winner of the Gala Vision prize in 2021 and 2023 (Women’s Business and Business Personality of the Year categories). She is a source of inspiration within her own company, in her industry, but also in all the communities in which she is tirelessly involved.
Definition of a Woman of Inspiration
A Woman of Inspiration is someone who embodies qualities of resilience, determination, compassion, and leadership. She is a role model and a source of motivation for others, inspiring positive change and making a difference in her community or field of expertise. A woman of inspiration may overcome obstacles, challenge societal norms, and advocate for the rights and empowerment of others. She demonstrates courage, empathy, and a commitment to making the world a better place through her actions and achievements.
What it feels like to be recognized
Being recognized as a Woman of Inspiration means I am a role model to others. Throughout my authenticity, my passion and leadership to Inspire other women, young girls and even men become the best version of themselves. I have worked hard on becoming mindful of the choices I make every day that have enabled me to achieve each goal I have set for myself and my business and so this Recognition is a testimony that anything is possible if you put your mind and work to it.
Why must we celebrate women?
Celebrating female role models is important. Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of successful women in business through awards, media coverage, and public events can inspire and motivate others to pursue their entrepreneurial or professional goals.
Tell us about your SupportHERs
There are many people throughout my life that have been great supporters but most importantly my grandmother who raised me. She is the main reason I am the women I am today. All these special individuals (friends, colleagues, teachers, family) have stood by me, encouraged me, and provided assistance and encouragement throughout my journey. These supporters have offered emotional support, practical advice, networking opportunities, financial assistance, or simply a listening ear when I needed it most. They have played a crucial role in helping me overcome challenges, celebrate successes, and grow as a person.
Sandra’s Definition of Success
My Definition of success can be defined as the achievement of one’s aims, objectives, or desired outcomes. Personally, I thrive to reach a state of fulfilment, accomplishment, and prosperity in all different aspects of my life, such as personal growth, career advancement, financial stability, relationships and contributing positively to society.
