Laura Davidson is the Founder & CEO of WHISTLE App, a social fitness app that connects users with others users looking for a workout buddy. Basically, WHISTLE App is Tinder for fitness.
What was the inspiration for your career?
I have always been obsessed with sports and fitness. As I’ve gotten older, I found my dedication to what I loved so much in my youth begin to teeter. WHISTLE was inspired by this love for sports and physical fitness with a modern twist. It allows people to explore who is in their community with similar interests, and encourages you to get out and get moving.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I always find questions like this difficult to answer – If you asked me 5 years ago, I never would have said I see myself being the founder of my own tech startup that is ultimately changing the game when it comes to sports and fitness. My hopes in the next five, ten and twenty years are to still be doing things that bring me happiness, make a difference and create change. I hope to raise a family and keep building businesses that provide useful solutions to everyday problems.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Challenge yourself – I sat in a 9-5 for over 6 years doing something I loved but wasn’t passionate about. It was easy and paid well but lacked intellectual challenges or room for creativity. I came to a point where I got beyond bored and knew there had to be more to life than this desk slave of a 9-5. I didn’t know what I wanted to do but I knew my University degree was no longer it. Point being, don’t ever consider yourself stuck or think it’s too late. Life is far too short. Challenge yourself. I bet you’ll be surprised with what you can really do.
What does the word notable mean to you?
Impact. The opportunity, power, or ability to make an impact in someone’s life and change it for the better.
Where is your favourite place to wine and dine in Toronto, and why?
Honestly, at home in the presence of family and friends. There is nothing like a home cooked meal and quality time with the people who truly matter in life.
How would you describe your personal style?
Comfortable. I am always on the go and in and out of the gym. I like to keep things fresh and fun but comfortable and functional.
What do you love about the outfit you are wearing in your photo?
I love the fact that this outfit is transitional. It can take me from a work meeting to everyday errands to the gym. I am comfortable but still fashionably dressed, have multiple layers to adjust with throughout the day, and love the scarf and coat as additional accessories.
What are some of your current fashion obsessions?
I have always been obsessed with shoes. As my life has transitioned from finance to fitness I find my shoe obsession has as well. Sneakers are the one thing that always catch my eye and ultimately fill up my closet. They are the perfect punch to an all-black fitness outfit and are the obvious choice for comfort and functionality.
Where does your fashion inspiration come from?
Most of my fashion inspiration comes from Instagram. I have always been an online shopper and Instagram is the perfect platform to showcase a variety of different brands in one place. With people constantly tagging brands in their photos it is easy to locate the company webpage and place an online order of my own.
When you can’t think of anything to wear, what’s your go-to outfit?
All black everything. If I’m stuck I throw on what I like to call “my uniform”. Black tights, sports bra and a black long sleeve finished off with a pair of black sneakers. In my opinion you can’t ever go wrong with all black.
And, finally, what does success look like to you?
Freedom. Success is the ability to build, create and change whatever you want and do so from wherever you want in the world.