Hello Local Guides
Today, I am excited to shine “She Leads” spotlight on @GasparKaren a passionate Food and Beverage Manager from Toronto, Ontario, and a dedicated member of the Local Guides community. Since joining in 2017, Karen has made an incredible impact by ensuring that both residents and tourists have access to the best and most accessible experiences in Toronto.
Here’s a look into Karen’s journey and what drives her to contribute to Local Guides Connect:
When and how did you become a Local Guide?
I have been with Local Guides since 2017. I discovered the community through my husband, and I started by leaving a few reviews. Over time, my connection to the community grew stronger, especially my dedication to making spaces more accessible for people with disabilities and families with children.
What inspires you to contribute to Local Guides Connect?
What inspires me most is the opportunity to make the city more pleasant and accessible for both tourists and residents. As a mother, I know how difficult it can be to find places with amenities like changing tables or suitable spaces for children to interact. I also think about my autistic niece and how we can make spaces more comfortable for her.
What is your favorite type of contribution? Why?
My favorite contribution is writing reviews of tourist attractions. Many places don’t have detailed information for all visitors, and being able to share this information is really fulfilling. It helps make places more accessible and welcoming.
How do you define leadership, and what does it mean to you?
Leadership, to me, is about knowing when to listen and when to guide those who need support. It’s about knowing the right time to step in during moments of crisis or satisfaction and seeing the world not only through your own eyes but with empathy and perspective.
In what ways do you lead or make an impact outside of Local Guides Connect?
I try to listen to people as much as possible and understand their situations. I focus on creating an environment that is pleasant for everyone on my team—whether in work or study settings. I aim to have a universal perspective in all activities.
What keeps you motivated to lead and contribute?
The growth of the community and the positive feedback I receive from my reviews keep me motivated. It’s rewarding when places respond to reviews, especially when adjustments are made based on feedback.
Who inspires you the most, and why?
One person who inspires me is @Shrut19. She is always active in the community, helping people with disabilities and local businesses, which has really motivated me to keep contributing.
Have you faced any challenges? How did you overcome them?
I’ve faced challenges balancing my life outside the community, and at one point, I was invited to write articles for a community area, but my name wouldn’t appear as the main author. This was disappointing because it felt like my time wasn’t being valued. When personal issues with my daughter came up, I communicated that she was my priority, and the response I got was not understanding, and I was removed from the group. It was a tough experience, but I learned the importance of setting boundaries.
What message would you like to share with women around the world?
Since the beginning of time, women have faced daily challenges in work, family, and society. My message is: take care of yourselves, love yourselves, be the best version of yourself, study for yourself, travel, love, live, and never let anyone bring you down. We are free, intelligent, and warriors, and the world is ours.
thank you