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Who are you and what is your role at MBOT?
My name is David Shaw and along with my business partner Lucy, we are owners of Nurse Next Door Mississauga. I’m an independent business owner who is a member of the Mississauga Board of Trade and my involvement [at MBOT] is as an ambassador. There are a few ambassadors on that committee and our goal is to make it easier for new people – new businesses coming on to introduce them to all the benefits of the Mississauga Board of Trade.
Tell us about your business, Nurse Next Door Mississauga.
Nurse Next-Door is a home care provider. The new term we like to use is family fund. In other words, it’s private. It’s funded by the individual or by the family. We look after clients who predominately are seniors’ living in their own homes. They could also live in a retirement facility, long-term care facility or be a patient in hospital. We take the pressure off the family. Light housekeeping, light meal prep, personal care such as toileting, bathing, oral care etc. are part of the service but we are also there to socialize and bring Happier Aging. With this support, sons’ and daughters’ do not feel consumed, when visiting, with concerns such as; are they eating, showering, does the house need cleaning, groceries etc.
When did you become a member and how did you learn about MBOT?
We started our business in July 2009. We have been a member of the Mississauga Board of Trade since March 2010 so we will be celebrating our 11th anniversary this coming March. We were introduced to it by a colleague. He suggested we join it so we can become more familiar with the community of Mississauga.
What’s your favourite aspect of MBOT?
I’ve actually got two aspects. The first is networking. On the second Wednesday of the month, we have ‘Good Morning Mississauga’ which is presently, a virtual networking session. It’s for those who like to have a morning networking session and then continue with their business day. There is also ‘Good Evening Mississauga,’ similar to ‘Good Morning Mississauga’ and a great way to end your business day. Once we are out of the pandemic, the event will be moving back to the many wonderful restaurants and bars in Mississauga.
Secondly, I do enjoy the personal development sessions such as, “From the Corner office”, where we get to listen to a CEO from a large corporation or an international business. The information taken can be scaled down even to your great, one-person business. The sessions are very inspiring, well worth the time spent.
What would you say to someone who is debating on whether they should become a member?
Mississauga Board Of Trade is one conduit to growing your great business. You and your business will be respected for being a member however, time and effort is required by you, the member. Get involved; join committees, attend the many events, be familiar with the web site, be educated with the many sessions provided and develop great relationships. With consistency and perseverance, you’ll be glad you joined.
This article has been edited for length and clarity.
