Actuality¹⁴⁹

As part of International Women's Rights Day, the Junior Chamber of commerce of Montreal is highlighting inspiring stories in a series of 8 portraits of women (or self-identified women) who volunteer on our various committees.

Portrait 3 - Meet the brilliant Sephora Okounou, volunteer project manager on the creative marketing committee.

Sephora Okounou is a professional in the insurance industry, a sector she is passionate about, not least because the company she works for puts people at the heart of its priorities. In addition to protecting its customers, her organization is committed to crucial issues such as adaptation to climate change and resilience in the face of these challenges, values that particularly resonate with her.

Originally from the Congo, she grew up in Montreal, a city whose energy, diversity and entrepreneurial spirit she appreciates. At the same time, she volunteered with the Jeune Chambre de commerce de Montréal, on the creative marketing committee. This commitment motivates her because it reflects the values she holds dear: entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship, innovation and positive impact.

What do you see as the greatest challenge for women in 2025?

One of the biggest challenges for women in 2025 is the increased pressure for perfection and reduced tolerance for error, particularly for those in leadership positions. Unlike their male counterparts, women are often under greater scrutiny and must constantly prove their worth. This requirement can curb their risk-taking and limit their progress. According to the Canadian Women's Foundation, gender stereotypes and systemic discrimination continue to pose numerous obstacles to leadership, making it essential to work towards more inclusive environments.



Do you have a book or podcast to recommend?

«Un raccourci dans le temps» by Madeleine L'Engle.

This novel perfectly illustrates the importance of leadership, resilience and self-confidence. Through Meg Murry's journey, we discover that courage doesn't mean never doubting, but moving forward despite uncertainty. This book reminds us that our strengths often lie where we least expect them, and that believing in ourselves can truly change everything. A captivating and inspiring tale for all ages.



The best advice you've ever received?

“Move forward, even if you don't have all the answers.”

We often tend to wait until we're totally ready before taking the plunge, but the truth is that we learn by doing. Action brings clarity. Whatever the project or goal, don't be afraid to start, experiment and adjust along the way. Not everything will be perfect right from the start, and that's normal. What counts is movement.

Do you have any advice for young women in Montreal?

You shouldn't hesitate to go into environments that are conducive to exchanges and to provoke meetings, because it's often through these that the best opportunities are born. Montreal is a city where people are accessible and open to discussion, always ready to exchange and share their experience. It's a city of opportunities where human connections really do make all the difference.

Sephora recently agreed to host two episodes of the JCCM podcast La Relève au micro.

The first episode is out now, and you can listen to it right here: