Elisa A. Gaudet brings more than 20 years of experience in the golf industry to Women’s Golf Day (WGD), which she founded in 2016. This annual global event, held on the first Tuesday in June each year across the globe, engages thousands of women through the game of golf. WGD has become a global movement in which over 1,000 locations in 80 countries have participated, thus engaging new and existing golfers and creating a global community based on empowering and supporting women. In a historically male-dominated sport, WGD transcends language, culture, geography, religion, politics, gender and age.

What was the biggest lesson you learned from 2021?

The importance of learning to pivot was my biggest lesson from 2021. I learned to be open to change and evaluate how our business can be relevant online as well as in-person. Many years ago, I read the book “Who Moved My Cheese?” The lessons and analogies in that book are spot on for what we have all been going through during this pandemic. On a personal note, self-care, mental health and navigating unknown situations were paramount, as well as trying to be understanding of the people working for and with us.

How are you preparing for 2022?

We are excited for 2022 as the forced changes gave us new opportunities, and the golf industry is booming. In 2020 alone, 450,000 new female golfers entered the game. We look to welcome them and help ensure they continue golfing.

What advice would you give other female founders that are looking to create big success in 2022?

Be open to new ideas and ways of doing things. Listen to consumers and be conscious of what their needs and wants are and how your business can deliver.

What’s your 2022 mantra?

My potential is limitless, and I choose where to spend my energy.