Back for its second year, American Spa’s Women in Wellness Awards honor the women in our industry for their contributions in making the world a better place. Nominated by their peers and chosen by acclaimed wellness journalists, these women are showing they’re a force with which to be reckoned. Making a profound impact in the industry and beyond, they are leaning in by serving on related industry boards and organizations, discovering untapped opportunities, giving back, and bringing their unique perspective to all that they do.
From September 24 through September 28, each day American Spa will be announcing two new winners of the 2018 Women in Wellness Awards. Today, discover the winner of the Environmental Leader Award.
Environmental Leader: This award honors a woman in wellness who is making significant strides in protecting, nourishing, and rejuvenating the planet.
WINNER: Bonnie Baker, cofounder, Satteva Spa and Wellness Concepts; board president, Green Spa Network
With more than 20 years of experience in the spa and wellness industry and a background in hospitality, ecotourism, and spa development, Bonnie Baker has dedicated her personal and professional life to enhancing the human experience and our connection with the natural world. She has worked with some of the leading spa companies and award-winning properties around the world, including the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, where she served as corporate spa trainer. She also developed and managed Tabacon Spa and Thermal Springs (Costa Rica). With a passion for sustainability and social responsibility, she has been a strong advocate for environmental education for children. Not surprisingly, Baker is also president of the board of directors of the Green Spa Network and chair of the Global Wellness Institute’s Sustainability Initiative. She also founded of Satteva Spa and Wellness Concepts, a Mexican-based consulting and distribution company dedicated to creating and supporting projects that have a green and holistic focus. Baker and her husband also own and operate a biodynamic farm and learning center in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
FINALIST: Anna Ayers, cofounder and CEO, Amazon Beauty and Rahua
It was a trip to the Amazon with her husband, hairdresser and salon owner Fabian Lliguin, that inspired Anna Ayers to save the Amazon rainforest by empowering its indigenous communities. After learning about the environmental issues that threatened the Amazon, Ayers was determined to find ways to protect the destination and preserve the important cultures and traditions of the people. After meeting women from the Quechua-Shuar tribes, Ayers was introduced to rahua oil, a rare ingredient that is hand-harvested and processed through centuries-old ceremonial processes. She then founded Rahua by Amazon Beauty, an earth-friendly, plant-powered, clean, and sustainable hair and bodycare line. Helping the Quechua people to create a sustainable business that would help protect the rainforest, Ayers is also focused on creating product experiences that reconnect consumers to nature
FINALIST: Tracie Wertz, corporate accounts director, The HydraFacial Company; founder, A La Mode Partners; board member, Green Spa Network
Nominated in a number of categories, Tracie Wertz is many things to many people. The environment is just one area she is passionate about leaving her mark. In her current position as corporate accounts director at The HydraFacial Company, she has launched recycling and paperless programs, an initiative to reduce plastic usage, and a tree-planting program. In 2012, Wertz and her partner, Bill Barczy, curated a portfolio of trendy and eco-chic retail brands. The idea was to become a retail resource for the spa industry. The company was later sold to Universal Companies, where Wertz was retained to develop and manage a new retail division for the distributor. Today, Wertz continues to focus on protecting the planet with her work at the Green Spa Network, where she serves as a board member. “She remains one of the most respected and well-liked professionals in the industry and is sought after for her strategic thinking,” says Leah Argento, corporate trainer for The HydraFacial Company “Her passion, enthusiasm, and power to influence is everywhere, and she has touched so many in our industry.”
Stay tuned on American Spa online, as well on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter as we continue to announce the 2018 Women in Wellness Awards winners all week long. Up next: Spa Consultant and Spa Director on Thursday, 9/26.
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