2024 Guelph Awards Of Excellence

Welcome to the 2024 Guelph Awards of Excellence

4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Reception

5:45 p.m. Welcome & Introductions

5:50 p.m. Opening Remarks

6:00 p.m.

6:00 – 6:30 p.m

6:30 – 7:00 p.m.

7:00 – 7:40 p.m.

7:40 – 8:10 p.m.

8:10 – 8:40 p.m.

8:40 – 8:50 p.m.

FIRST COURSE

Innovation Award presented by TD Commercial Bank

Not-for-Profit of the Year Award presented by Bell

Young Professional of the Year Award presented by University of Guelph

MAIN COURSE

Customer Service Award presented by CN Rail

Sustainability Award presented by Conestoga College

Emerging Business Award presented by RBC Royal Bank

Difference Maker Award presented by Linamar

DESSERT

Volunteer of the Year Award presented by Skyline

Frank Hasenfratz Award of Excellence presented by City of Guelph Economic Development and Tourism

Lifetime Achievement Award presented by Scotiabank

Closing Remarks

Congratulations finalists!

Thank you for joining us this evening to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of the many organizations, businesses, and individuals who continue to make Guelph a great place to work, live, and play.

Each business and individual featured tonight, along with all of you in the room, exemplifies the Chamber’s vision: to be a community that celebrates business as an essential component to a healthy and prosperous Guelph. Businesses play an intricate and necessary role in creating safe, healthy, and prosperous communities that can thrive.

I want to acknowledge the outstanding leadership of past CEO of the Guelph Public Library, Steven Kraft, the recipient of our Lifetime Achievement Award, and highlight how libraries play an important role in the social and economic prosperity of the Guelph community. As we reflect on the impact of libraries and celebrate the exceptional leadership of Steven Kraft, let us remember that their enduring influence extends far beyond books— they are catalysts for economic empowerment, conveners for future business leaders, and the quiet champions in our community.

I want to share my gratitude with you for supporting the Chamber, and for celebrating with us tonight.

Cheers,

– Shakiba Shayani President & CEO

Innovation Award

This award recognizes a business or organization that has been in operation for a minimum of one year, and has created, invented, or developed an innovative product, process, or service that has resulted in a measurable and significant increase in revenue or job creation, productivity or quality, reduction in cost, and/or improvements in service.

KidsAbility: Rocket Discovery Centre

KidsAbility offers pediatric rehabilitation to 17K+ children in Guelph, Wellington, and Waterloo Region, but demand has doubled, causing lengthy wait times. Established in 2021, the Rocket Discovery Centre pioneered pediatric rehabilitation research, aiming to reduce wait times and barriers to access while improving health outcomes. Teaming up with the University of Waterloo, they’ve integrated AI to streamline therapy documentation, cutting booking wait times from 12 to just 3 weeks! This innovation frees up clinicians’ time for direct patient care. Upholding ethical standards with the University of Guelph, they’ve optimized care, facilitating 2,200 additional visits annually, equivalent to hiring 4 more therapists, setting global standards in pediatric care.

Linamar iHub

Linamar’s Innovation Hub (iHub) is at the forefront of discovering groundbreaking solutions to global challenges, spearheading a future where their products lead the world in technology, innovation, and manufacturing excellence. Through strategic partnerships with ambitious startups, they embody their Vision 2100, striving to “Commercialize Creativity by leveraging their Culture,” and introducing transformative products that positively impact millions of lives and our planet. Embracing the philosophy of “One Team, One Linamar,” they offer unparalleled access to their extensive network of technical experts and global purchasing and manufacturing resources. The iHub embodies Linamar’s commitment to driving positive change and shaping a future where innovation thrives, and possibilities are limitless.

Paisley Dental

Paisley Dental is a dental practice deeply rooted in the Guelph community. Their mission is to deliver compassionate dental care alongside cutting-edge technology tailored to each patient’s needs and goals. Beyond oral health, they are dedicated to supporting our local community. Through the adoption of advanced dental technologies such as digital Guided Biofilm Therapy and iTero scanners, they ensure precise and efficient treatments, providing high-quality care. Paisley Dental’s innovative approach not only improves service quality and patient satisfaction but also aligns with broader healthcare objectives, contributing significantly to the global effort to combat oral diseases.

Not-for-Profit of the Year Award

This award recognizes and celebrates a local not-for-profit that demonstrates thoughtful and innovative leadership. This organization makes exceptional contributions to the Guelph community through their initiatives and programs.

The Guelph Wish Fund for Children

Established in 1984, The Guelph Wish Fund for Children stands as a guiding light of hope and support for children in Guelph and Wellington County facing significant health challenges. At the core of their mission is the Wish Granting Program, where they have granted over a thousand unique wishes, tailoring experiences to each child’s individual interests and needs. Beyond the Wish Granting Program, they execute a multifaceted approach to enhance the lives of children in the community through strategic partnerships, educational support, community engagement, and personalized birthday celebrations. They consistently aim to make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of wish children and their families.

The Nightingale Centre For Grieving Children, Youth & Families

The death of a child, parent or sibling is one of the most psychologically devastating events that an individual can experience and without well-informed support, can have traumatic consequences for a bereaved family. Established in 2018-2019 by the Lambden family after experiencing their own tragic loss, the Nightingale Centre (TNC) has created a suite of services to support bereaved children, youth and families who have experienced, or are anticipating, the loss of a significant person in their lives. Offering over 800 sessions a year through 32 volunteers at no cost to individuals in Guelph Wellington, TNC ensures that NO child or family grieves alone.

The Shelldale Partnership: Guelph Community Health Centre, Kindle Communities, Stonehenge Therapeutic Community, and Skyline

The Shelldale Partnership came together to address an identified need for permanent supportive housing for the most vulnerable individuals in our community. This unique model, developed in conjunction with people with lived and living experience, is a program with policies, procedures, and processes that are grounded in health equity, anti-oppression, harm reduction, and trauma-informed practices. Within the program there are a variety of supports provided to the residents including counselling, case management, food support, physical health care, and social support. Their collaborative leadership structure will oversee the program, track progress, monitor outcomes, and guide quality improvement as they make a difference in the lives of those in need in the Guelph community.

Young Professional of the Year Award

This award recognizes and celebrates the achievements of an individual 35 years of age or younger (at the time of nomination) who has tackled the challenges of entrepreneurship and/or has demonstrated leadership or professional growth in their field.

Megan Harron, Children’s Foundation of Guelph & Wellington

Megan’s trajectory at the Children’s Foundation of Guelph & Wellington is a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to the social services sector. Starting as a summer intern in high school, Megan quickly rose to the role of Director of Community Programs, driving substantial growth in initiatives like the Adopt-A-Family program. Under her innovative leadership, the program expanded by 10% and doubled its food security support in 2023. Megan’s commitment to bettering her community beyond the workplace is reflected in her volunteer work and board positions. Through mentorship and advocacy, she fosters inclusivity, empowerment, and inspires everyone to work together for a more equitable and compassionate society.

Jurgen Koehler, Crozier Consulting Engineers

Jurgen’s journey at Crozier is proof of his growth and leadership in the engineering field. Starting as a co-op student in 2012, he quickly embraced the challenges and moved to a full-time role the following year. Recognized for his leadership, he managed significant projects and spearheaded the opening of Crozier’s Guelph office in 2023, where he serves as manager. Alongside his professional pursuits, Jurgen finds fulfillment in mentoring colleagues and advancing his education with an MBA, supported by the Lang Graduate Executive Program scholarship. Beyond the office walls, Jurgen supports his community by coaching minor soccer and participating in the annual Tour de Guelph fundraiser.

Fay Yachetti, Skyline

As the Director of Sustainability at Skyline Group of Companies in Guelph, Fay leads impactful Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies engaging over 50,000 stakeholders across Canada. Fay’s journey from HR Intern to Director is a testament to her dedication, earning an MBA and Social Impact Certificate while working full-time. In this role Fay has formalized ESG objectives, launched sustainability reports, and fostered partnerships for positive change. Fay’s influence extends to volunteerism, speaking engagements, advocating for sustainability as well as fundraising for various charities . Fay’s holistic leadership approach has positioned Skyline as a sustainability leader in Guelph and on regional, provincial, and national levels.

Customer Service Award

This award recognizes a business or organization that has demonstrated a commitment to providing high-quality customer service and customer experience. This business or organization continues to make exceptional contributions to Guelph by promoting and fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all.

ETP Canada

ETP Canada not only excels in estate management services but also demonstrates a commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all clients and team members. Recognizing the emotional challenges their clients are facing, ETP Canada creates a space that acknowledges grief and provides tailored emotional support. By customizing support based on individual needs, ETP Canada actively promotes inclusivity and cultural awareness within its service framework. The client experience at ETP Canada is a very personal one - you get to know the team as people, and leave feeling as if you are not alone.

Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.

Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd. is a local Guelph company celebrating 50 years in business this year. Since their inception, Hall has adhered to a winning formula by prioritizing customer needs. Their clients range from major telecom network operators like Bell Canada and Telus to telecom/security integrators, disability solution providers, and institutions like school boards and higher education. Placing their customers at the forefront creates a deeper understanding of their needs and empowers their presence in the market. Thanks to this approach, Hall has earned a stellar reputation, attracting attention from various suppliers due to their strong customer relationships.

Natalie Maaden Laser & Spa

Natalie Maaden Laser & Spa, a full-service medical spa, was established during the COVID-19 shutdowns, emerging as a beacon of resilience and innovation within Guelph’s spa community. Central to the Spa’s ethos is a commitment to high-quality customer service and an exceptional client experience. The Spa places customers at the heart of its mission, aiming to uplift everyone to their most confident self. This client-centric approach is reflected in the Spa’s openness to customer feedback, which is actively sought and utilized to refine, expand, or adapt service offerings. By integrating client suggestions into their operational strategy, the Spa demonstrates an unwavering dedication to satisfaction and continuous improvement.

Member Referral Program

1 Identify a colleague, friend, or client who would benefit from joining the Chamber

3 Our membership representative will contact the referred business (please let them know you referred them)

Did you know that Guelph Chamber members can receive a $50 credit towards their next membership renewal, when they refer a new member. Find out how you can add a friend and add savings!

2 Email your referral (their name, company name, email, and phone number) to our team here.

4 If your referral joins the Chamber within 90 days of receiving the referral and pays for one full year of membership dues, you’ll receive a $50 credit towards your upcoming membership renewal

Reach out to calvin@guelphchamber.com with any questions or to make a referral. *Cannot be combined with another offer. *Subject to change.

GENEROUS Sponsors

Excellence

Celebrating Community

Sustainability Award

This award recognizes a business or organization that has showcased an outstanding commitment to sustainability through operations, development, or processes. This business or organization has self-initiated environmental actions and programs beyond legislative requirements, found energy or waste efficiencies, and/or, provided environmental stewardship, education, innovation in the past year, or contributed to one or more of the United Nation’s SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Denso Manufacturing Canada Inc.

In the face of mounting environmental challenges, sustainability has become an essential pathway towards a brighter tomorrow. At Denso Canada, they recognize their responsibility to contribute to a greener future. They continue working on a path to being carbon neutral by 2035, employing a multifaceted approach aimed at reducing emissions across all aspects of their operations. They are implementing a Building Automation System, focusing on waste management, promoting green mobility, and prioritizing environmental stewardship, gender equality, and diversity within their organization. Their dedication to sustainability shows their commitment to serving our community and our planet.

Guelph Solar

As a renewable source of power, solar energy plays an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change, which is critical to protecting humans, wildlife, and ecosystems. Guelph Solar enables homeowners and businesses to harness the sun’s energy for their benefit and for the benefit of future generations. Solar energy reduces our community’s dependence on the grid, ensures we are more resilient to grid instability, and reduces our carbon footprint. Guelph Solar has installed and serviced thousands of solar energy systems since its inception leading to a lasting positive impact on the environment.

House of Frizz

As a small, woman-owned hair salon, House of Frizz is a proud participant of Green Circle Solutions. They recovered and recycled 98 pounds of beauty waste in 2023 alone! All hair recovered from haircuts is composted or made into hair booms for oil spill cleanup. Any excess hair colour is separated, with the oil being used to create fuel. Through their participation in this program, House of Frizz can offset their carbon emissions, allowing them to be a carbon-neutral salon. By prioritizing eco-conscious choices, they serve as a beacon for change, fostering a global mindset toward a more sustainable and responsible future in the beauty and salon industry.

Emerging Business Award

This award recognizes an entrepreneur or organization engaged in exciting and/or new ventures. This entrepreneur or organization has a focus on the potential for future growth, customer service, and innovation. The recipient of this award can only have been in business for 3 years or less.

Flow State Bike Co.

Flow State Bike Co. is putting Guelph on the cycling map by becoming the go-to community hub for all things bikes, gear, coffee, and beer all under one roof. After finishing their first year in business, Flow State has quickly become a community staple for those who love the outdoors. Employees share the same passion and love for biking as their customers and offer group sessions for biking on local trails. Flow State’s mission is to redefine what a conventional bike shop looks and feels like by creating a welcoming space for all riders to gather, be themselves, and indulge in a common passion.

Gemini Concierge & Co.

Gemini Concierge & Co. gives back one of the most precious gifts to their clients, time. By offering cleaning, organizing, shopping, household management, business services, and pet walking, they move beyond the standard “cleaning” box. Gemini Concierge & Co. started in Guelph with one staff member in 2022 and has since grown to 7+ staff members with over 100 clients. Their staff prides themselves on creating a positive and uplifting relationship with all their clients. With an abundance of referrals, Gemini Concierge & Co. will continue to expand with growth into other cities, and many new clients.

Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa Guelph

Working for years as a father-daughter business partnership with deep roots in the Guelph community, Erin and Layton Phillips embarked on their exciting venture bringing Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa to Guelph. Their forward-thinking approach blends exceptional service, personalized care, unique membership plans, and innovative initiatives to enrich the customer experience. Their skilled team of Registered Massage Therapists and Certified Estheticians embodies excellence, fostering trust and satisfaction for future expansion. In fact, after being in business for only a year, they have opened a second location in the Waterloo Region, positioning themselves for continued success in the industry.

Difference Maker Award

This award recognizes an individual or an organization that has made a positive difference in the Guelph community in the past year. This individual or organization continues to demonstrate leadership in the community, strives to make the community better, and has a vision of economic and social prosperity and inclusivity.

Guelph Family Martial Arts

Guelph Family Martial Arts (GFMA), is a pillar in the Guelph community, offering training from world-class instructors. GFMA helps students of all ages overcome fear, anxiety, depression, and self-doubt through an organized sport. They help to unite the community by breaking down barriers, and offering an inclusive, welcoming, and nonjudgemental environment for everyone that walks through their doors. Moving beyond their studio, GFMA is heavily involved in a variety of community and charity organizations, whether it be through volunteering, raising awareness, charitable donations, or attendance at community events. Success for GFMA is defined by making a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Original Home Furniture

Beyond providing high-quality home furnishings, Original Home Furniture actively engages in initiatives that positively impact the community, making a lasting difference. The company participates in various charitable endeavors, supporting local causes, including the Rotary Club and contributing to community development. Whether it’s through donations, sponsorships, or active involvement in community events, Original Home Furniture has demonstrated a dedication to giving back. Through philanthropy and community engagement, the organization seeks to address social needs and contribute to the community’s overall well-being, making them a catalyst for positive change and an exemplary model for businesses committed to economic success and social inclusivity.

Ward 1 Studios

Stories. Crafted to inspire. These are the words that Ward 1 Studios lives by. Through this purpose, they have produced hundreds of projects that evoke emotion, drive change, and make a difference. By producing digital content for Guelph-based notfor-profits, they’ve been able to give back and support various fundraising efforts. Whether it’s an opening video on the Sleeman Centre Jumbotron at a Guelph Storm game or documenting the Black Lives Matter protest in 2020 in support of the Guelph Black Heritage Society or showcasing the small business community in Guelph Tourism videos, the studio has consistently been there to capture the spirit of Guelph.

Volunteer of the Year Award

This award recognizes an individual(s) who has made positive contributions to the community through volunteering with local organizations.

Bill Allen

Since The Nightingale Centre’s inception in 2018, Bill Allen has been an avid volunteer, instrumental in obtaining charitable status and steering its early development. As Board treasurer, his impact extends beyond financial duties; spearheading governance framework, policy creation, and financial management for the organization. Bill’s leadership facilitated board and staff recruitment, while his grant writing efforts bolstered fundraising. From high-level governance to smaller tasks, Bill demonstrates unwavering commitment. His extensive network and expertise are invaluable to Nightingale’s growth and sustainability. Bill’s multifaceted contributions including his mentoring and philanthropy mark him as a true champion of The Nightingale Centre’s mission to build a community of courage, hope, and resilience.

Amber Duff

Amber, born with Retinopathy of Prematurity, has been blind her whole life. Despite her (dis)ability, she actively engages in her community through volunteering. At Compass Community Services, Amber operates across all service telephone call lines with a positive attitude, showing empathy, and sharing personal experiences to support others struggling with loneliness, mental health or otherwise. She inspires fellow volunteers with her kindness and patience while her dedicated support helps to make callers feel valued and heard. Amber actively provides feedback to improve services, ensuring frontline insights are considered. Amber is a beacon of support and hope for anyone who has felt left behind in our community.

Kathy Lichty

Since 2019, Kathy has been a dedicated volunteer at the Guelph Humane Society (GHS), expanding her roles from Adoptions Assistant to Feline Friend and foster parent. Over these six years, she’s chauffeured animals to appointments, socialized them, and facilitated adoptions, paws-itively impacting the lives of hundreds of cats and kittens. Kathy actively engages with the community, advocating for adoptions and volunteering at events like Happy Trails Walk-a-thon and Happy Tails Gala. Her passion for animal welfare resonates, connecting with adopters and fellow volunteers. Kathy’s commitment to GHS shines through her various contributions, enriching the lives of animals, community members, and the GHS staff.

Frank Hasenfratz Award of Excellence

Established in 2022 in memory of Frank Hasenfratz, the Frank Hasenfratz Award of Excellence celebrates an organization or individual who embodies business excellence and the entrepreneurial spirit.

Khalil Khamis, Crafty Ramen & Harvey’s

Khalil Khamis has demonstrated professional growth, leadership, and an uncommon ability to overcome the odds. As a Harvey’s franchisee holder, Khalil owns seven locations across Guelph and Hamilton. Khalil’s restaurants average 40% more sales than the system average, with one of his locations currently ranked the number one drive-thru in Canada. In addition, Khalil joined Crafty Ramen in 2018 as a strategic investor and has led growth in sales by 400% in three years. He took on the role of CEO in February 2021. Pivoting to at-home kits and now a frozen product, Khalil adapted his skills from the restaurant business to digital and traditional retail sales.

Kristy Miller, The Scented Market

Founder and CEO of The Scented Market, Kristy Miller’s entrepreneurial spirit burns brightly. Starting her business by making candles in her garage, Kristy grew into four retail stores in three short years. As an entrepreneur, Kristy is a prime example of what determination, hard work, and effective leadership can achieve. In November of 2022 she fulfilled her longtime goal of facing the fire on Dragon’s Den, receiving offers from all six of the dragons. Fast forward to May of 2023, and Kristy was named Entrepreneur of the Year 2022 by CanadianSME Business Magazine. Looking ahead, Kristy hopes to continue growing and inspiring her community with every new candle and connection she creates.

Adrian Trochta, Cox Creek Cellars & KJ Urban Winery

As owner and CEO of both Cox Creek Cellars and KJ Urban Winery, Adrian Trochta stands as a pioneering force within the manufacturing realm. Adrian champions a hands-on approach, fearlessly delving into the intricacies of manufacturing processes. Under his stewardship, KJ Urban Winery and Cox Creek Cellars have flourished, offering not only exceptional wine and wine making supplies but also pioneering products like “Feel Free”, a premium dealcoholized sparkling wine. This innovative endeavor has tapped into an emerging market segment, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking quality alcohol-free alternatives. In essence, Adrian’s exemplary leadership at KJ Urban Winery and Cox Creek Cellars epitomizes the intersection of business excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

Lifetime Achievement Award

presented by

This award recognizes and celebrates the achievements of a business/community leader in Guelph as demonstrated over the course of their career. This person has demonstrated community leadership, excellence in business, and vision for future development and growth.

STEVEN KRAFT

Steven Kraft’s retirement marks the end of an incredible 41-year career in public service with the Guelph Public Library and the City of Guelph. His many roles included the Children’s Reference Librarian, Manager of Information Services, Director of the Main Library, Assistant CEO, and most recently, Chief Executive Officer. During his nine and a half years as CEO, he was instrumental in moving the library forward with his strategic leadership and direction - especially during the pandemic – which created strong community connections and partnerships as well as advanced a variety of initiatives including the new Central Library.

Among his many accomplishments, Steven completed a full rebranding, launched a new website, and refreshed the library’s design and collections system wide. He continually provided access to new technologies and focused on safety within the library. He was always committed to providing ways for people to explore their world, enrich their lives, and connect with their community. As Steven always said, libraries transform lives. They are amazing community connectors and continually adapt to serve the patrons in any way they can.

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