2026 is the 20th anniversary of The Ski Diva. To celebrate the amazing women who make this community what it is, we’re going to be featuring interviews with Ski Diva members on the blog all season long. Check them all out here.
Jilly is one of our oldest members. She joined the forum just a few weeks after it started in September 2006, and has been a moderator for almost as long. She lives in Ontario, paddles dragon boats in addition to skiing, and is a pivotal member of our community.
Tell us just a little bit about yourself outside of skiing and The Ski Diva.
I own a company that sells commercial doors, frames and hardware. I hold the AHC credential and teach for the industry school here in Canada.
How long have you been skiing? How did you get into skiing?
I started skiing at 5 years old. We did it as a family. There was a little hill outside of town where you got free lessons with your membership. We’re talking the days of leather lace-ups and rat trap bindings!
What drew you to skiing, and what’s kept you hooked?
I’m kind of a speed junkie, but not a dangerous one, and I love being outdoors. After university I took a job in Eastern Ontario where there was a traveling ski club that I joined. Next thing I know I’m taking my CSIA level 1 course, and my level 2 two years later. I taught with that club, but eventually moved back home to take over my father’s business. I kept skiing, though, and started teaching at the local bump.
How did you find The Ski Diva? What motivated you to join and stick around?
I saw a post on a different ski forum that mentioned The Ski Diva. When I looked at the forum, I thought – this is my place. I love the supportive nature of the forum. Interesting fact: I was the first member from outside the United States.
Can you share a favorite memory or story involving the forum or forum members?
I think my favorite memory is of a call from the Ski Diva herself, asking me to become a moderator. I was so humbled that she thought I would make a good moderator. It’s been an interesting journey from those beginning days.
Have you ever gone on a trip or adventure that wouldn’t have happened without The Ski Diva?
Diva East at Sugarloaf. And Mother’s Day weekends at A-Basin.
Editor’s note: Diva East at Sugarloaf in 2011 was one of our earliest in-person trips. And for about 15 years, The Ski Diva and Ski Talk had a tradition of skiing Arapahoe Basin over Mother’s Day weekend. Here’s one of many trip reports from those days.
Is there anyone you’ve met through the forum who’s had a big impact on you?
Katherine, who is sadly no longer an active member of the forum, but we’re still ski buddies. I value her opinion on so many factors of life. She’s one of those people you can just tell anything, and she won’t judge.
How has The Ski Diva community influenced your skiing?
As much as I love my home mountain of Tremblant, The Ski Diva has made me want to travel to ski again.
How has The Ski Diva community influenced your life outside of skiing?
The Divas are so supportive. When my husband died, they were there for me, near and far. I like to think that I’ve done the same as life takes it hiccups to others.
What advice would you give to a new skier just starting out – especially women entering the sport?
Don’t let those “boys” get you. Find a good female instructor, or take a ladies weekly group class. You’ll find people to ski with and maybe make some life long friends. No matter what, get out there and do it. Don’t just take up space in the lodge.
What do you hope The Ski Diva looks like 20 years from now?
The same supportive group it is now, with good discussions and helpful tips on everything.
If you had to describe skiing in three words, what would they be?
Freedom. (Just one word. That’s it.)