Miriam Houlahan on Embracing Change and Leading with Purpose: Faces Tri-Cities Co-Author Series

Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre & Cathy Cena Today on Faces: Tri-Cities co-authored stories, Cathy Cena and Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre and had the pleasure of sitting down with Miriam Houlahan, a communications leader, small business owner, and passionate advocate for inclusion. With a calm presence and a deeply thoughtful approach, Miriam shared how one life-altering moment set her on a path to embrace change and help others do the same. “I had a set plan. Career, relationship, family… it was all mapped out,” Miriam recalls.

“But when life shifted unexpectedly, I had to find a new way forward.” That experience, she says, taught her that real growth lies in building resilience and letting go of rigid expectations. Her self-authored quote reflects this journey: “When we build resilience and embrace change, we create flow and energy in this life.” Her chapter in the Faces book tells that story: one of navigating disruption, rediscovering strength, and learning to flow with life’s unpredictability. “Change is inevitable,” she says. “But resisting it holds us back. The more we accept and adapt, the more energy we free up to move toward something better.” In her day-to-day life, Miriam wears multiple hats. She’s a local entrepreneur supporting small and medium-sized businesses through her communications firm, and she also serves as Director of Communications at Community Ventures Society, a nonprofit empowering individuals with developmental disabilities.

“It’s about helping people live their dreams,” she explains. “Whether that means finding meaningful work, building confidence, or just being seen as valuable members of our community.” Her work with Community Ventures supports inclusive employment and helps bridge the gap between potential and opportunity. She’s proud to see local businesses embracing this mission, mentioning partnerships with groups like Gabi & Jules, and her team’s innovative social enterprise, Dewdrop Bath Bombs, where clients craft handmade products sold throughout the region. When asked about leadership, Miriam emphasizes authenticity. “True leadership starts with storytelling.

You can’t lead a community if you’re not willing to share who you are.” She hopes her story in the Faces project will not only inspire others to embrace change but also encourage more community dialogue around inclusion and the importance of lifting one another up. Miriam’s outlook is deeply rooted in service, and she’s continuously learning, growing, and seeking ways to collaborate. “We don’t always know who we’re helping by sharing our story, but I believe that when we speak with honesty, we make space for healing, growth, and real connection.” Her message to the Tri-Cities is clear: vulnerability is strength, change is opportunity, and community begins with compassion.