(c) Photo of Gail Atkinson taken by Billi J. Miller, in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia October 2024.
Today is known as "Dumping Day" in Nova Scotia. That refers to the opening day of the lobster fish season. Lobster fishers will set thousands of traps today, which usually happens on the last Monday of November, although it can sometimes be delayed due to weather.
I'm still pinching myself that I was able to schedule an interview in early October with Gail Atkinson, the female captain of the Nellie Row, which is based in Lunenburg, NS.
You don't have to be an expert to know that this has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, so meeting Gail, interviewing her, and having an hour-long discussion was fascinating.
We discussed her personal and professional experiences, the obstacles she has overcome, and her vision for the future of women in the fishing industry.
I learned about Gail's inspiring approach to managing her crew and creating a safe, respectful work environment, including her commitment to providing opportunities for women.
She shared her reflections with me on the importance of community, mentorship, and hard work in achieving her goals.
I can't wait to find a landing spot for this full story - and my subscribers will be the first to hear when I do!
In the meantime, here is a link to an interesting show called Lobsters: Catch and Cash, which featured Gail and several other Lunenburg Lobster boats. Interestingly, another crew has just wrapped filming her and her crew for an upcoming special on Discovery Channel.
Whether it be for my blog or my books, I've had fascinating conversations with fascinating women, and I'm so grateful.
Until next time.
xo,
Billi
Billi J. Miller is an author, photographer, and speaker based in Alberta, Canada, known for telling stories from the heart & stories that matter in her with her work. With a preference for depth over small talk, Billi is drawn to projects that foster genuine connections and stir emotion. She writes as a freelancer from her home office or a favourite coffee shop and is passionate about sharing the stories of those who inspire her. Billi lives on a 112-year-old prairie farm with her husband and two children and has published four books so far.