Lyndsey Bardnell, an industry mover and shaker, makes things happen as Vice President, Strategic Projects and Industry Development, Luxury Brand Partners (LBP). The industry icon has added a new title to her signature: President, EmpowHERment Project.

The EmpowHERment Project is her “baby” designed to recognize women in the industry. MODERN caught up with Bardnell to learn more, asking 5 burning questions:

WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE EmpowHERment PROJECT?

“Our mission is to promote the empowerment, equal recognition and mentorship of our industry’s talented women – both behind and in front of the chair. The EmpowHERment Project will leverage regional and grassroots events, plus the power of social media to create and foster a supportive, collaborative and action-driven community. We will bridge the gap – regardless of age, gender, skill, role, brand or location.”

WHY IS THIS PROJECT IMPORTANT TO YOU?

“My mother, all 90lbs of her, went to the police academy when I was in preschool, back when there were no women on the force.  I consider myself lucky that I was never raised to define myself by ‘girl things’ or ‘boy things’ and like to think that some of my mother’s moxie rubbed off on me. This project is truly a passion project. I’ve spent my entire professional career in this industry and I care deeply for the people who have shaped it.  I’ve had the privilege of meeting and learning from amazing women along the way, many of whom have never been recognized for their contributions.  We are changing that.”

WHY IS THIS PROJECT IMPORTANT TO THE INDUSTRY?

“The project is important because, while our industry is made up of almost 85% women, we still take back seat in terms of attention, resources, influence, fame and pay. What’s amazing is that there is no shortage of strong, talented, entrepreneurial women in our community.  We are going to hold the industry accountable for recognizing them, telling their stories and listening to the lessons they have learned and can pass on. Its exciting and its needed.”

IS THIS A LUXURY BRAND PARTNERS PROJECT?

“LBP is sponsoring the project but it is absolutely brand neutral.  This is for everyone. There is no room for ‘anti’ in EmpowHERment Project - we are all about the ‘pro’.”

HOW CAN WE ALL GET INVOLVED?

 “The easiest ways to get involved right now is to follow us on IG and Facebook. We will be announcing dates for our upcoming events soon. Starting today you can participate in #followHERfriday.  We are collecting thousands of stories of amazing, empowHERed women who have made a difference. You can also tag us and nominate someone to be on the Council.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Go directly to the website for more information  http://empowhermentproject.com/  and in the meantime, following these guidelines, pulled from the HOW TO GET INVOLVED tab:

“Help us share stories of powerful women. Share a favorite photo or video story of the women who have inspired you – and tag @empowHERment.project to let us know how she has made an impact on your life. Know of someone you would like to nominate to be a member of our PowHER council? Tag @empowHERent.project and tell us why!