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Snohomish County

Published: Wednesday, 22 June 2022

Thank you Economic Alliance Snohomish County for giving me a standing ovation!

I was invited an hour north of Seattle to Snohomish County by Economic Alliance Snohomish County, to their Economic Forecast & Annual Meeting, an event which provides the business community with a forecast for the economy to plan their strategy and outlook.  It was their first in-person annual meeting since May 2019!

I enjoyed listening to the economist talk abut trends and statistics in the world and their impact on the region and the region’s industries.

I then followed that by speaking about entrepreneurship, starting something from nothing, and that change can come from anywhere. The audience really enjoyed my message and gave me a standing ovation! I’m glad I connected with the audience on such a deep level.

After my speech, the organizers offered to show me Snohomish County.

I was taken to the famous Skagit Tulip Fields. It was jaw-droppingly beautiful. I think the experience of keeping my houseplants alive during the pandemic has made me appreciate flowers a whole lot more.

Rows of tulips

It brought me so much joy to wander amongst the stunning rows of tulips of so many vibrant colours.

We then drove to a field filled with red tulips my host wanted to show me - she had seen them there 3 days prior over the weekend.

After a few minutes of driving and her saying, “we should have passed them by now.” She realized that we were in the right place.

We were in red tulip zone. But the farmers had already culled the once impeccable red tulips.

Everything is ephemeral. Nothing is permanent. Enjoy the beauty in your life while it is there.

She then took me to the famous Deception Pass Bridge. Because it was a weekday, this popular tourist attraction was deserted, and we had full reign!

Deception Pass Bridge

It was so beautiful. I loved seeing the gentle waters converge into an angry tornado of rapids, against a stunning Seattle backdrop of mountains and cliffs.

Next, we hiked up a trail on Rosario Beach and took in breathtaking views of a gorgeous sunset, docile waves and charming beach houses. How lucky I am - what a life!

Rosario Beach Sunset

 

About Me

Marita ChengForbes named me a world's top 50 woman in tech & 30 Under 30. I founded Robogals and Aipoly and was Young Australian of the Year 2012. Currently working on robotics company Aubot. I'm the youngest Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and I give speeches around the world.

I tweet @maritacheng and I'm on Facebook.

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