Spotlighting Women in Franchising
October is home to National Women in Franchising Appreciation Day and we at Intelligent Office wanted to take this time to appreciate our female entrepreneurs! This blog highlights three inspiring women—Silvia Zuniga, Joan Haakonstad, and Leslie Keenan—who exemplify the empowerment and resilience found in today’s franchising landscape. Their stories underscore the importance of community, support, and collaboration in achieving success.
Silvia Zuniga, owner of an Intelligent Office, embodies the spirit of women in franchising. With a rich background in education, hospitality, and IT, she chose Intelligent Office to align her professional skills with her passion for supporting small business owners, “Choosing a franchise that aligns with my values has empowered me to create a meaningful impact for small business owners in my community,” she said. Silvia’s journey emphasizes the value of selecting a franchise that fosters inclusivity and collaboration.
Joan Haakonstad, owner of two Intelligent Office locations illustrates the transformative power of firsthand experience, “Embracing the challenges of entrepreneurship is part of the journey; it’s the support from fellow franchise owners that truly makes a difference,” she said.
After benefiting from Intelligent Office’s support as a client, she was inspired to invest in her own franchise. Joan’s commitment to empowering fellow business owners enriches her entrepreneurial journey, proving that overcoming common challenges requires a goal-oriented mindset and strong community connections.
Leslie Keenan was driven to own two Intelligent Office franchises by her desire for flexibility and autonomy. She states, “The transition to franchise ownership gave me the flexibility I needed to be present for my family, proving that risks can lead to incredible rewards.”
Transitioning from a demanding corporate role, she found that Intelligent Office aligned perfectly with her expertise. For over 21 years, Leslie has navigated economic downturns by prioritizing strong professional relationships and integrity. Her journey highlights the importance of collaboration and support for women in franchising, demonstrating that the risks of entrepreneurship can lead to immeasurable rewards. If you’re inspired by these stories and ready to explore franchise opportunities, consider joining the Intelligent Office network. Together, we can create empowering environments that foster success and innovation!