UWomen Magazine - 2023 Awards Issue - Bobbi Brown and Steven D. Plofker

WOMEN + INSPIRATION + PURPOSE

INSPIR CHANG

Power Couple

Inspiring Change to SupportHER™

Bobbi Brown – Beauty Industry Titan

Steven D. Plofker

International SupportHER™ Day

Everyone Plays a Role

SupportHER™ Guide

Women of Inspiration™ Awards

2023 Award Winners Feature

Who is a Woman of Inspiration?

Top Company - Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

SupportHER™ Champion

DELL Technologies

SupportHER™ Spotlight

Dean Davidson

D.O. Gibson

Women of Inspiration™ Spotlight

Anna Hilberry

Sharon Grehan

Catherine Bell

Mihae Ahn

Alex Cattoni

Katina Papulkas

Erin Piller

Natalie Holloway

Hannah Isenberg

Roberta Battaglia

Changemaker Spotlight

Dr Suhayya (Sue) Abu Hakima

Natasha Bridgmohan

Dr Lisa Studnicki Hunt

Victoria Nguyen

Amy Friesen

Fiona Hu

Paving the Way for Future Leaders

Feature - Lani Kane-Hanan

WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

Podcast

Listen to inspiring stories and career paths of extra-ordinary women who lead, inspire and motivate.

LISTEN on Spotify WITH MONICA KRETSCHMER

Dear Readers

This year marks the 10th Anniversary of the Universal Womens Network™, where inclusivity has always been at the core of our values. Our network was established as a space where every woman feels a sense of belonging – a platform for connection, learning, empowerment, and celebration, aimed at propelling women forward.

Five years ago, we took a bold step by inviting men to join the conversation as our allies and SupportHERs. We introduced the SupportHER™ category to the Women of Inspiration™ Awards to honor male leaders who champion women’s progress. This initiative led to the International #SupportHER Day, observed annually on the first Friday in June, to raise awareness, facilitate dialogue, and encourage taking action to advance women personally and professionally. Every individual, team, or company has a role to play in fostering change and achieving gender equality, becoming a SupportHER™. My vision is to engage companies fostering inclusivity to be visible champions and engage their workplaces with a common goal, to advance women.

One of my favorite quotes, attributed to Albert Einstein, defines insanity as repeating the same actions but expecting different results. To achieve equality, we must embrace diverse perspectives.

Over the past decade, these words have inspired me to stay focused on our overarching vision, ignore the naysayers, and venture down unconventional paths. This year, we celebrate the growth of our network, the strength of our collective voices, and the partnerships that share our values in promoting inclusivity and instilling hope.

The UWomen Magazine™ was founded to empower, inspire, and spotlight stories, brands, and leaders driving positive change while shining the light on the opportunities for women across all industries. If you can see it, you can be it.

In this special awards edition, we pay tribute to the 2023 Women of Inspiration™ Award Winners from various regions in North America. Each woman has a unique story that doesn’t define her but empowers her. We thank the awardees for stepping into the limelight and creating space for others to do the same.

Meet the remarkable Changemakers leading transformation across diverse industries, transcending borders beyond Canada. Get to know our SupportHER™ Champions and awards partners dedicated to advancing women and what it means to be an ally.

On the cover, meet the Women of Inspiration™ Icon Award recipient, Bobbi Brown, and her SupportHER™ husband, Steven D. Plofker, as they share the stage for the first time, honoring her remarkable journey as a globally recognized entrepreneur and beauty industry leader, showcasing reinvention, and emphasizing the crucial role allies play in supporting women.

This year, we commemorate the 10th Women of Inspiration™ Awards, celebrating entrepreneurs, business leaders, influencers, and changemakers, along with top companies recognized as Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion SupportHER™ Champions. Join us on November 7, 2024 to acknowledge the accomplishments of women who lead, inspire, and motivate. Network with business leaders and visionaries from across North America at Women of Inspiration™ in New York. Visit our website for details to nominate a woman, or apply for an award, or nominate a company.

Our mission at UWomen Magazine™ is to spotlight women, amplify their stories, career journeys, and provide a platform for companies in diverse industries committed to supporting women’s advancement as visible SupportHERs.

I welcome your comments and encourage you to share in your networks. For advertising or partnership opportunities, feel free to contact us! We would be thrilled to have you join us on this journey.

Monica Kretschmer

Founder and CEO, Universal Womens Network™, Women of Inspiration™ Awards, SupportHER™

Photo: Phil Cro

Bobbi Brown and Steven D. Plofker

Gala

“I’M

CONSTANTLY SEARCHING FOR WAYS TO DO BETTER BECAUSE I BELIEVE LIFE IS AN EVOLUTION. IT’S NOT ABOUT REACHING AN END GOAL AND HANGING UP YOUR HAT… IT’S ABOUT CONTINUALLY GROWING.”

– Bobbi Brown

Inspiring Change to SupportHER™

BOBBI BROWN + STEVEN D. PLOFKER,

Beauty industry titan

Women of Inspiration™ Icon Award + SupportHER™ Award

Bobbi Brown is a Woman of Inspiration and Steven D. Plofker, her husband is a SupportHER™ champion. Together, partners in business and life, a role model power couple leading by example to inspire change for the way women and men work together.

We are honoured to recognize Bobbi Brown - a beauty industry titan, world renowned makeup artist, best-selling author, soughtafter speaker, certified health coach with a Women of Inspiration™ Icon Award and husband Steven D. Plofker, real estate developer with a SupportHER™ Award.

A role model power couple leading by example to inspire change for the way women and men work together.

This being their first time together on stage in North America. we celebrate Bobbi, her journey as an entrepreneur, with Steven, the role men play as allies to advance women and together, the secret to their success as a power couple. We hope you enjoy this authentic conversation, banter and pearls of wisdom.

Here is a peek at the phenomenal timeline of Bobbi’s journey!

1991

Makeup artist-entrepreneur Bobbi Brown founded her namesake beauty brand, BobbiBrown.com with a collection of ten natural shade lipsticks that revolutionized the beauty industry.

In the early days, two women were instrumental to supporting Bobbi. The first was a woman she met at a party in New York City who was a Bergdorf buyer who took a chance on her. The second was a friend from Glamour Magazine who offered to write about her. These are two big breaks fueled by women supporting women.

1995

Less than five years later, Bobbi sold the business to Estée Lauder for a reported $75 million. Bobbi remained with Estée Lauder as Chief Creative Control of Bobbi Brown for 22 years. She was encouraged by Leonard Lauder to “just keep doing what she was doing.”

2016

Bobbi shocked the beauty industry when she stepped away from her namesake brand to focus on other things including a lifestyle website, a hotel in Montclair with her husband Steven, and the first make-up artist to do a Master Class.

2018

In 2018, Bobbi together with her husband Steven, opened a boutique hotel called The George in Montclair, New Jersey.

2020

At the age of 63 after her non-complete agreement with Estée Lauder expired, Bobbi launched her second beauty brand, Jones Road Beauty with four simple products. It was reported the brand saw $20 million in revenue in the first year.

2023

Within three years, Jones Road Beauty reported over $100 Million in sales with three freestanding stores.

You have an incredible story. Tell us about your childhood and how you decided to become a makeup artist. BB: My childhood was normal. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, the oldest of three kids. When it was time to go to college, I had no clue what I wanted to do. I followed my friends to college, and after the first year I said to my mom, “I wanted to drop out. I am not interested in anything.” She said, “forget what you’re interested in or how you’re going to make money. Just think about what you like to do.” And I said, “I like to play with makeup.”

There’s Just think about what you like to do. And I said, I like to play with makeup.

She said, why don’t you be a makeup artist? I did not want to go to beauty school. So, I found a college, Emerson College, that allowed me to design my own major. I didn’t have a clue what I was doing. And truthfully, even though I knew what I was doing today, I did not know then. I just dove into it.

Your grit and determination are obvious. Everything you dive into turns to gold. Who was your inspiration when you were growing up? BB: Growing up, I used to watch my papa Sam who had a car dealership. I would go to work with him and watch him be kind to the people that buy cars and kind to his employees. I would help him with his marketing materials, put him in envelopes, lick the stamps and go to the post office and mail them.

So, entrepreneurship was in your family? BB: Yes, I never went to business school, but I learned a lot about business from Papa Sam and my dad who was a lawyer, he had his own practice.

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics is now a billion-dollar global brand that represents a bit under 10% of Estee Lauder with 40 stores and over a thousand store counters and 3,100 makeup artists around the world. What inspired you to start Bobbi Brown?

BB: It was not a straight line. I was a freelance makeup artist and started with ten shades of lipstick, mostly nudes and reds.

Tell us about the challenges you had to overcome in the early years starting Bobbi Brown? BB: The first time around, there were many. I didn’t know anything about business. Luckily, my husband is very smart and was my partner starting this business. In the beginning, I was a creative person, and my husband, the businessperson. In addition to building our company, my husband and I raised three boys while running the business. It wasn’t easy. The good news is I learned a lot. I learned what to do but more importantly, I learned what not to do. There are always challenges. It is what you do with the challenges that makes the biggest difference.

You went from a start up selling lipstick from your home, to selling the company to Estee Lauder in four years. How did you get your brand visible and products into the world? BB: It wasn’t easy. I started just carrying the lipstick in my bag and handing them out to people.

Tell us about your big break and opportunity to get Bobbi Brown into Bergdorf. How did this happen? BB: True story. I was at a party in the city that someone brought me to. I thanked the hostess for having me and I introduced myself, told her what I did, and she told me what she did. She was a cosmetics buyer for Bergdorf. I pitched her right there, told her about my products. It was because of that woman that Bergdorf gave me a chance.

Women supporting women is important. We have a room of champions and SupportHERs, would you agree relationship capital is pure gold. BB: 100%. And people always said when I was growing up, you must be nice to everyone.

You are wearing a special piece of jewelry. Tell us about your necklace and the the story behind it. BB: When I sold the company to Estée Lauders four years after we launched, I remained with the company for 22 years as an employee, Chief Creative. When I left the company seven years ago, Bobbi Brown was a full line make up line, foundations, skincare and brushes. When I sold the

BEAUTY INDUSTRY

company in 1995, I signed a 25 year non-compete. I had four and a half years left on this non-compete. I was 59 and a half when I left and didn’t have any plans or thoughts about what I was going to do next. The first thing I did was to go to a jewelry store and find a charm with the date, 10.20. The ampersand was a sign of my freedom. Ironically, we launched Jones Road Beauty the day the non-compete was up on October 26.

What did it feel like to finally get back into makeup but not be able to use your name? BB: When we signed the non-compete, I knew that I was signing away the rights to my name for beauty and that was okay with me. Selling the company with the name provided a great life for my husband and my family. We’ve been able to send 20 something kids to college because of it. So, it’s okay. They can have my name. I don’t do things the same way.

Once I’ve done it, I’m not going to do it again. I didn’t know I was going to have a second brand until I started making products that I loved, and my friends loved. I thought it was going to be a hobby or maybe I’d start selling them and needed a name for this brand, I didn’t have one.

How did you come up with Jones Road Beauty?

BB: One day I was out for a drive with my husband, and we looked down on Google Maps and I saw Jones Road. And I said Jones Road. What a great name for a cosmetics company. And he said, “I agree.” The name was available, it was a sign, and the rest is history.

How has your idea of beauty evolved as you have gotten older? What is beauty to you now? BB: It is kind of a roller coaster. When you are young you try to be whatever you think you should be or could be, whether it’s your hair, the way you dress or just how comfortable you are when you walk into a room. It is about confidence and being comfortable in your skin. I did not quite know who I was in the beginning. It took me a long time to realize that the more I am myself, the better I feel, the more I enjoy myself. It has taken a while, but beauty to me is simple. I find that people with positive energy and goodness are more beautiful than people that are not. It is not about perfection.

Where does your motivation come from?

Launching a start-up in your 60’s and enjoying your granddaughter? BB: Right now, at this stage in my life feel lucky because I love what I’m doing. I am in charge, mostly, not really, but I’m in charge. And I’ve got a team of people that I’ve brought in or people that they’ve brought into our company. It’s fun for me. There are not a lot of naysayers, corporate ladders or layers to get things done. It is quick and easy.

I believe the best way to learn is to seek advice from others who have achieved success. What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs? How do you ride that roller coaster and the highs and lows? BB: Well, it is a combination. First, you must have support. As you know, my husband Steven has always been my biggest SupportHER. He is beside me when I feel I can’t do this or questions what do I do about this? He’s always like, calm down, we got this. So that’s number one. Number two is you just must take care of yourself. A lot of entrepreneurs forget that if you don’t take care of yourself by eating well and exercising, you’re not going to have the energy that you need to put into things. You need to be open and literally just go for it. If something doesn’t work, take a step back, put it on the side, go back and do it again.

Great advice Bobbi. So, what are your secret sauces for overall wellness? Is there anything you can’t live without? BB: I’ll be 67 in a couple weeks, so my advice is I walk a lot and I use my walking to pick up the phone and check in and bounce ideas with people, my cousin, my sister, my friends. Walking clears my brain. Walking is one of my secrets.

Right now, at this stage in my life feel lucky because I love what I’m doing. I am in charge, mostly, not really, but I’m in charge.

INDUSTRY TITAN

What about hobbies? What do you do for fun? BB: Honestly, one day I was thinking to myself, gosh, I have no hobbies. My husband loves to go play golf. My friends play tennis or pick a ball. They go to the theater. I love working. I said, there’s got to be something that I find fun. And the only thing I could think of was dancing. I love to dance. I’m not particularly good at it, but I found a hip-hop teacher and took lessons with him (Lloyd). And I can’t wait to get back to class.

You’ve got to be open, and you’ve got to keep trying things.

You became an accidental TikTok star last year. When did you go on TikTok and how has this changed your business? BB: I went on TikTok a year after we launched Jones Road. It was advice from a friend in media who said, “Stop what you’re doing, go on TikTok. It’s the biggest thing”. My son who’s our CMO, said, “All right, mom, go.” And all I said was, “Hey, it’s Bobbi. Is there anything you want to know from me?” And I got bombarded with questions. It has been great for business and great for sales, but you cannot just do one thing. I just opened a sub-stack a couple weeks ago. My advice is to, “go check it out” it’s a cool platform. You’ve got to be open, and you’ve got to keep trying things.

What words of advice would you give for someone just getting started on TikTok or trying a new platform? BB: My advice is to try things and just be authentic to you. Don’t try to do what other people do because they’ve already done it. So, what’s authentic to you. What do people want to see from you, or you don’t have to be on it. Right? If you have nothing to share, you don’t have to be on it.

Bobbi, you are a Woman of Inspiration. We have an immense amount of respect for your journey, you are a pioneer who continues to evolve and reinvent yourself. You are just a champion all the way round and surround yourself with other inspiring women. How does it feel for you to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration™? BB: I

mean, it feels great. How could it not feel great? I work hard at what I do, and I absolutely love it when people say thank you for what you’re doing. And I’m certainly not done. I don’t know what my future is going to hold. I don’t. I’m sure this isn’t the last brand. I’m going to create, but it’s where I am now and it’s what I love. And it makes me feel good.

What women have influenced and inspired you?

BB: My mother and grandmother were role models. My aunt, Alice, who’s 92 years old and has the most positive, amazing attitude. And there’s so many women that I know who’ve been in the magazine business, beauty business that I keep in touch with. And they’re coming out of the woodwork these days because they see me doing all these things and they’re proud. They’re also supportive. I’m very lucky.

You also have some very influential women championing you in your business. Why is it so important for women to be supporting other women? BB: There’s no question that having women that are smart, that are accomplished, that are powerful, that are rule-breakers – they give you permission to do what you do and go deeper and go harder and go faster or go slower. I think it’s just important to have women that champion each other for sure.

How can we encourage more women to step into leadership roles? BB: Exactly what we’re doing, what you’re doing with Universal Womens Network and Women of Inspiration. Getting all these women together and hearing other women’s stories, celebrating the successes and giving people inspiration and hope that they can do it for themselves. The ball is rolling and I’m very proud to be apart of it.

That means a lot. Thank you so much, Bobbi. As you can hear from the applause, we all agreed how important it is to celebrate women. I’m in the spotlight right now and I don’t shy away from it because I’m leading by example as do you. But why is stepping into the spotlight so uncomfortable for women? And how do you think you and I and other women can encourage other women to step more into the spotlight and take up space? BB: I think a lot of women worry unnecessarily and I was one of them. I wasn’t always this confident or comfortable in front of the camera. I used to sweat when I had to give a speech or be on stage, or what do I wear or don’t wear. I used to

pack suitcases full of things and not I’ve got a little carry on because I know what my style and what my comfort level is. It takes doing it to get better. I’ve learned it’s okay to be nervous. We just need to do it. We will always figure it out. The experience builds confidence.

Before we welcome your SupportHER™, Steven to join us, why is it so important to celebrate the achievements of women and raise the bar for others to do the same? BB: It’s important because we want young women to lead companies. We want young women to have a voice at the table. I’ve never felt that I didn’t have a voice at the table, and I knew that I could speak up. It’s important that women have the opportunities to speak up. We can make room and create our own tables.

The Universal Womens Network has evolved to invite our allies to the conversation. We are thrilled to have Steven, your SupportHER™, joining us. How are we truly going to achieve equity if we leave half the population out of that conversation? What I loved was so much, you’re very open about sharing Steven’s support. BB: I wouldn’t be where I am today if it was not for my husband and SupportHER, Steven.

I would like to have you talk about your whirlwind story. You’re partners in business and in life. So, tell us about the very beginning. Was it love at first sight? SP: Yes, we were both very smitten at our first meeting. I had heard about Bobbi for years. And finally, Bobbi was single for a very brief time. She had a boyfriend for 12 years. And we went to dinner and that was pretty much it. I mean, something powerful happened. We got engaged in three months; I think.

BB: We did. And I said, well, I’m not moving in with you unless we’re engaged.

Smart lady. So, you’re newly married and starting this business. How did this partnership evolve as co-founders of BobbiBrown.com, your namesake brand? SP: Well, it evolved organically. We never had a plan for anything. We just kind of worked through things as they came up. But I’m going to go back instead. I was an entrepreneur. I had one job my whole life, which lasted two or three years when I got out of graduate school. I worked as a real estate developer. And then I went into business by myself, developing multi-family properties and Hudson County. Then the market crashed right before we

got married or right around the time. And I said, “We had a house, we had a kid.”

BB: No, we were already married.

SP: Okay, we married, but we had a kid and the market crashed. I had a house, a kid, a wife, and a career were fine, but the business was bad. And I said to my wife, I said, “I’ve got a college degree, I have a Harvard degree, I think I’m going to go get a job.” Like, “Someone will hire me to do what I do.”

And Bobbi said, “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard you say.” I needed to hear that because I’m not really cut out to being employed.

BB: No, he does not like listening to people.

SP: No, that is the trick. Yeah, I always know better than everybody else. But in any case, I went to law school and did some small-restate projects. And we started Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and sold lipstick outside the house. And then the rest is history. What would you like to know?

Well, you’re getting a lot of giggles from our guests as they’re loving the story and the banter back and forth. Your story is relatable. Bobbi, you supported Steven and Steven supported you, Bobbi. You worked together and encouraged each other to fulfill your dreams. BB: We have always worked together. I couldn’t imagine this guy standing at a bus stop with a briefcase and an overcoat, which is what all the other husbands in my town did. I just thought that was dumb. And he went to law school but never practiced being a lawyer. Having a business and a partner that knows the law is helpful.

Yes, we were both very smitten at our first meeting.

SP: I’m not cut out to bill people for my time. The point that I want to make, and I think this is lost on most men. I don’t find most men that I meet, successful men are supportive of their partners. They’re just too caught up in themselves. They’re too caught up in being competitive. They can’t accept the fact that their wife, their partner, may be

better at something than they are. I watch it all the time. I run into it weekly. And they just don’t accept that some people and some people who are women are better at some things than they are.

It’s hard for a lot of guys to accept. And I think that’s really holding a lot of women back, not having the support of men, not just their partners, but their bosses, their co-workers.

I think women bring a much different set of skills to the table. And the more companies and people that realize that I think the more successful those companies and people will be.

I think women bring a much different set of skills to the table. And the more companies and people that realize that I think the more successful those companies and people will be.

Yes. Yes, yes! This is music to my years. I know you made the right choice, Steven. SP: That is my message. Too many men look at it like it’s a competition. It is not a competition. Bobbi has certain skills and a drive that are much different than mine. We happen to complement each other just fine.

BB: You never told me to change the color or what something’s named. He doesn’t get involved in that stuff, because that would not work.

Steven, we are celebrating the achievements of women. I am proud to see the room tonight filled with CEOs of companies and so many SupportHER™ (male allies). How do we encourage more men to the table to support our female leaders, Steven? SP: It’s a very difficult one, at least in the U.S. I’m not sure about Canada. It doesn’t seem like our institutions encourage that. The traditional businesses here, finance, and a lot of industries, you know, some women sneak through to the top level, but it’s almost like they must pretend they’re men to do it. And very few people seem to really accept and support women and that means supporting childhood and all kinds of other things that women

must deal with. But men don’t. And there’s different rules. It’s different for women, and until men accept that and accept the input (from women) is not going to be as meaningful or successful. We have raised three boys and so hopefully the boys will learn from example and that’s how you change it. But they must learn on their own, too. What I find is that many men are not as sure as I am. I’m not bragging, but until I know myself and know what I’m good at. I know what I’m not good at and I never really cared what anyone else thinks.

What is the secret to your relationship? SP: I don’t know what people say about us, maybe they think she rules the relationship but the two of us know it’s not a competition; we work together. It is not important what other people say. If I did not have entrepreneurial and business skills and I was a stayat-home dad and I was happy with that, I wouldn’t care what anybody said or didn’t say because it’s not about society. It’s about what works for me, what works for Bobbi and what works for us.

BB: Even when we were early married and our kids were sick or got chicken pocks and something happened, Steven stepped in because I had to leave town. I knew Steven was always there.

SP: It is all about balance. I don’t really like putting dishes away and you don’t feel like making dinner that often. You’re good with your gym. And I don’t like folding laundry. But other than that, when it comes to kids, I was happy about being that support and it works for us because I don’t need to spotlight. I don’t want it. Bobbi’s not like that. Bobby loves the attention. So, for us, it works very well.

BB: We have different personality types. I might be in a more competitive environment. It is not that I love the attention. I am comfortable in it.

How does it feel to see Bobbi celebrated as a Woman of Inspiration™ for all her hard work and the lifetime of her achievements? As you know, the people closest to us experience and see the roller-coaster. SP: It is well deserved. It feels very natural because she’s only being herself and she’s only contributing valuable things. It’s wonderful that it’s recognized. And no matter what she says, she loves it. She loves being recognized for her achievements and for her contributions. I could not be prouder of Bobbi, and I am very proud of being a SupportHER™ to Bobbi through these years.

Said like a true SupportHER™, Steven. Thank you, both for sharing your wisdom, insights on working together and the role our allies play to champions for women. It is refreshing and authentic. Now a question from our partners at Gilead Sciences. Sharon: A lot of times I think our greatest success comes out of learning and the lessons we get out of our worst failures. Can you share one of your worst failures, how that got you to achieve the success that you have today? BB: Well, for me personally, after I left Bobby Brown Cosmetics, I started a wellness brand that we launched at Walmart and online. I put my heart and soul into it and worked hard, but it was not successful. In the end, I was happy to walk away from it and had Jones Road to look forward to, too. It’s good to not be successful at everything, that’s how you learn.

Next, we would like to invite Naz from Dell Technologies. Naz: It seems like you’ve gone through a lot of changes, Bobbi. What advice do you have for those of us who are afraid of change? BB: Well, you know, it’s scary. You can’t really take a big change unless you are ready and able unless you can afford to pay your rent and you have things set up. Sometimes you just must judge what’s more important. Do I take this chance, or do I stay doing what I’m doing? But sometimes you just must take a chance. That’s only something that you can decide.

Great question, Naz. Thank you, Bobbi. We would like to invite Anna from National Bank Financial who has one final question. Anna: What would you tell your younger self? What lesson would you share with yourself? BB: I think we should both answer that. I am going to answer it first. I would tell my younger self to chill, to breathe, that somehow, it’s going to work out, that you are going to find, you know, the love of your life, you are going to have kids and a successful career. I would say just stop worrying so much.

SP: I’m sorry I didn’t go on the Concord 40 years ago. It was a supersonic plane that went from New York to London or Paris in three hours. Other than

that, I don’t have any regrets. The lesson? To live with no regrets.

You know, Bobbi, I believe you started out as an independent makeup artist. Monica has talked about how he stepped into the spotlight, different things like that. How did you go about finding clients? BB: When I first came to New York, I didn’t know anyone. There wasn’t any internet. And I literally took out Yellow Pages. It was kind of like the Google of our times. I opened the Yellow Pages and looked up modeling agencies and I started just making phone calls and making appointments. I didn’t have any clients. I had nothing. I put an ad in a local newspaper. I got someone, one person called and then somehow it just started getting clients. But it took a long time.

SP: It was not an overnight thing. Bobbi’s a hustler though, if you don’t know about her. She is singlefocused and relentless when she sees a direction.

Thank you, Bobbi, and Steven for the authentic conversation and wisdom. We enjoyed the banter and lessons you shared.

Congratulations Bobbi, on your recognition as a Woman of Inspiration and the launch of Jones Road Beauty. You are an icon that inspires us all. We look forward to seeing Jones Road Beauty’s continued growth in New York, Palm Beach, London, Chicago and more to come!

Thank you, Steven for bring a visible SupportHER. The world needs to hear more of these conversations where we work to support each other and examples of women, like yourself Bobbi who pave the way for others to do the same.

TOGETHER, WE HAVE THE POWER TO

CHANGE THE WORLD.

– Michael Dell

2023 TOP COMPANY

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

SUPPORTHER™ CHAMPION

– DELL TECHNOLOGIES

DELL Technologies 2023 Top Company Award

Pamela Pelletier Country Manager and Managing Director, DELL Technologies

Top Companies for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are committed to fostering inclusive cultures and visible SupportHER™ Champions for advancing women. This award recognizes companies taking meaningful action to inspire change for equity.

Top Companies are leaders in their industry, fostering an inclusive culture, committed to the advancement of women, and diverse leadership. They are leaders in their sector committed to leveling the playing field. They inspire and empower others to join them in their efforts to advance women. They commit to creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all. They recognize the achievements of leaders within their company and raise the bar as a visible SupportHER™ Champion in their industry.

They inspire and empower others to join them in their efforts to advance women.

The Universal Womens Network™ is proud to partner with DELL Technologies and recognizes them as a 2023 Top Company – Equity, Diversity, Inclusion SupportHER™ Champion.

Pamela is a passionate and high-impact leader with a proven leadership track record and over 20 years of experience driving sales growth and career development in the technology industry. As the Country Leader and Managing Manager, she is responsible for the strategic direction, growth, and performance of Dell Technologies Canada. Her greatest passion is bringing people together and helping them to reach their full potential. She coaches and mentors’ individuals at Dell Technologies and in the IT industry. She is the executive sponsor for the Dell Canada Women in Action ERG, an ambassador for the Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network, and leads several groups supporting Inclusion and equity for Women in IT.

Tell us about your initiatives or programs to advance women within your company. Dell Technologies’ 2030 moonshot goals for advancement of women:

1. By 2030, 50% of our global workforce and 40% of our global people leaders will be those who identify as women

2. Each year through 2030, 50% of the people empowered by our social initiatives will be girls, women, or underrepresented groups.

In Canada, Dell has put several initiatives in place to ensure the advancement of women both within and outside of the company. Internal programs include Aspiring Leaders Program, Field Readiness Program, Releasing Female Potential Program for high-potential mid-career female employees, Mentorship Programs, many professional development resources and opportunities.

Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN) has brought women entrepreneurs together from around the world to help them connect with each other, scale their businesses, and ultimately succeed.

Tell us about your initiatives to support allyship and visible minorities. Outside of formal programs and initiative, Dell has many Employee Resource Groups in place to foster a diverse and inclusive culture. These ERGs include Women in Action, Black Networking Alliance, Mosaic, Asians in Action, True Ability and many more! ERGs play a crucial role in fostering a sense of connection and belonging among marginalized groups and remote workers. Allies are always invited to join events, learn, and support their colleagues. The ultimate goal is to cultivate an inclusive atmosphere where individuals can bring their authentic selves to work and receive the necessary support for their personal and career development.

How do you promote and empower female leaders within your company? DELL is a destination employer for women, where everyone drives to create an inclusive environment, and

women are enabled to achieve their goals at each point in their journey. Dell provides development, leadership, and networking opportunities designed to empower, retain, and attract women by focusing on the following key areas:

- Creating an ecosystem of support at every level of the organization where leaders and team members support women to create a trusted community of belonging for all women and supporters

- Professional Development through targeted programs, mentoring and so much more.

- Supporting Social Responsibility by giving back to local communities

- Significant leadership, networking, and professional growth

- Partner with customers on shared D&I initiatives

Tell us about the initiatives for women and visible minorities. We recognize that access to connectivity is key to education, healthcare, and a globally competitive and diverse workforce. We believe the private and public sectors can work together to address digital inequities. Additionally, our mission in supporting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is to build innovative partnerships and programs to create pathways for talent to enter and reenter STEM-related jobs through signature and skillbuilding programs, including Girls Who Game, Student TechCrew and Solar Community Hubs.

How is your company inspiring change in your ecosystem to advance women. For more than a decade, the Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN) has brought women entrepreneurs together from around the world to help them connect with each other, scale their businesses, and ultimately succeed. The DWEN community welcomes all levels of entrepreneurs, from start-ups to scale-ups. Joining DWEN provides access to women entrepreneurs from around the world and valuable resources to grow their business including the latest technology, access to funding resources, and best practices from a global network of members.

For more information, visit: dwen.com/en-us

TECHNOLOGY

Information technologies and connectivity for essential needs

SKILLS

Programs and resources that build digital skills

NETWORKS

Community building and support that move communities toward digital equity

Changemaker Spotlight

Changemakers are visionary female leaders in their respective industries. They are trailblazers who pave new paths, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. These women possess an unwavering determination and a passion for innovation that drives them to break barriers and challenge the status quo. Through their relentless efforts, they create opportunities not just for themselves but for entire networks, workplaces and communities, fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment.

Their contributions span across various fields, from technology and science to arts and social justice. They advocate for gender equality, champion diversity, and work tirelessly to address pressing global issues. These changemakers often mentor the next generation of leaders, imparting wisdom and encouragement to those who aspire to make a difference.

In sharing their stories and celebrating their achievements, we recognize the profound impact they have on shaping a better world. Their stories serve as powerful reminders that with courage, vision, and perseverance, anything is possible. These extraordinary women remind us that leadership knows no bounds and that each of us has the potential to be a catalyst for positive change in our own unique way.

DR. SUHAYYA (SUE) ABU-HAKIMA

Founder and CEO, Alstari Corporation, Author, Lessons Learned

on AI Startups

2020 Women of Inspiration Game Impact Award | 2023 Women of Inspiration Legend

Alstari.com

Dr. Suhayya (Sue) Abu-Hakima is the co-founder/ CEO of Alstari Corporation, her third and most recent tech start-up in AI. She is an entrepreneur, innovator, inventor and author. Her 35-plus years in tech have included running an AI lab at NRC, start-ups AmikaNow! and Amika Mobile. She has served on the National and Ontario Centers of Excellence. She has been granted 48 international patents in AI, messaging, security and emergency communications authored in her two successful AI startups. She has published over 100 papers in AI and given hundreds of invited speeches on entrepreneurship, AI and tech. She has won numerous awards for innovation and entrepreneurship and was vested into the Order of Ontario and holds the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for her contributions to public safety and Canada.

...she has established an exemplary record as an innovator, Industry leader, employer, and a technology pioneer.

Sue is Co-Founder CEO of three start-ups in AI, her latest, Alstari, is currently focused on expert services in artificial intelligence and security. Sue was also the CoFounder CEO of Amika Mobile, focussed on public safety and security and was acquired by Genasys in Oct 2020 for its emergency communications business where she transitioned it as VP. Sue is a rare woman technology CEO who has a reputation for excellence and innovation. Sue has both a Masters and PhD in AI. As CEO, she provides the vision for her companies and their products, directing business strategy, ensuring product development matches customer pain points. Sue is also a key inventor and innovator of 48 international patents related to AI, security, public safety, and messaging. Her first company, AmikaNow! was launched as a spin-off from NRC government R&D labs in 1998 and was focussed on

AI and automatic content analysis. Its Compliance Business was acquired by Entrust for its secure messaging platform in 2004. As Entrust VP Content Technology, Sue transitioned the compliance business. As a CEO she creates hundreds of jobs in AI, software, Security, Messaging, Business Development, Sales, and Operations.

Sue holds a McGill University B.Eng. and has honors M.Eng. and Doctorate degrees from Carleton University in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Sue has been an adjunct Professor at both Carleton and University of Ottawa and has mentored countless students. She served as a Director and Vice Chair for Ontario Centres of Excellence for 7 years and was on the Private Sector Advisory Board for National Centres of Excellence for 6 years and continues to advise when called on to the National Centers of Excellence overseen by NSERC. She was an advisor for the Big Data Institute of Dalhousie University as well as the Advisory Board on Innovation at McGill University. Sue is a Director on the ENCQOR board which is deploying 5G to SMEs with $400M in support from the feds and Quebec and Ontario.

During her 39 years in technology, she has established an exemplary record as an innovator, Industry leader, employer, and a technology pioneer. As many as 40 Global Companies have cited her pioneering patents over 2400 times including Google, Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, Cisco, Motorola, IBM, Ford, Blackberry, Xerox, Yahoo!, etc.

Amika Mobile under Sue’s leadership won 24 International awards including the Top 10 companies to watch by IDC, ASIS Accolades for Critical and Emergency communications and situational awareness. Amika Mobile also won the US GOVIES 6 times from 2015 to 2020 both Platinum and Gold Awards for outstanding product in Emergency Communications.

Sue is an expert on entrepreneurship and published her book “Entrepreneur Heretic or Hero of Innovation - Lessons from Two-time successful AI tech startup Entrepreneur” in April 2024. It is available on Amazon.

A woman of inspiration is one who motivates others through her leadership and perseverance.

Sue has also published and presented over 125 papers still cited today in AI, she authored the Amika Mobile Blog and writes the @SuhaAlert twitter feed. Sue is often an invited speaker and has spoken at ASIS about AI, RSA, Inbox, NetSeC, CTIA and Burton Catalyst as well as plenary speeches on innovation and entrepreneurship and 5G. She has also contributed to the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Women Entrepreneurs and been asked as a witness to Parliamentary Committees on small business and government procurement strategies. Sue is an avid hockey fan.

Sue was invested into the Order of Ontario in 2011 and was given the Queen Elizabeth II Medal for Service to Canada in June 2012. Sue was named to the Top 25 by the Women of Influence recognizing her for entrepreneurship and business acumen and sharing a position with only 5 other women as Top in Business in Canada. She also won 2 WXN Top 100 Women in Canada awards in the Trailblazers and Trendsetters category. Most recently she won the Global Impact Award in 2021 and the Legends Award in 2023 as a Woman of Inspiration from the Universal Women’s Network.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration? A woman of inspiration is one who motivates others through her leadership and perseverance. She is driven by a passion and a love of what she is working or focusing on. She sometimes appears to move mountains to achieve her goal. She is also someone who gives back to her community while living her passion.

What does being a Changemaker mean to you? Someone who is intent on changing the status quo and takes risks to achieve her goals. Changemakers work hard and do not accept conventions if they do not fit their goals.

What did you want to be when you grew up? When I graduated from Engineering at McGill University several decades ago, I was intent on building robots. My path took me to Artificial Intelligence (AI) instead after I took a course and fell in love with the subject. After earning both a Masters and Doctorate in AI, I spun my first AI startup from government R&D labs and became an entrepreneur. Once that one exited successfully, I launched a second AI startup that also exited successfully. I have now launched a third startup in AI.

What is one piece of wisdom you would share with young women today? Young women should expect bias and sexism throughout their careers and lives. It is important for them to gather tools that help shield them from the bias so they do not get derailed. I believe that If you listen to the naysayers and bullies, you may become frozen and not progress. Learn to rise above the negativity and look for others that can help you achieve your goals by feeding you positive energy.

Tell us about one of your most significant accomplishments? My most significant accomplishments are my two children who are now in STEM fields as well as my masters and doctorate in AI and my two successfully exited AI startups. I am a leader and expert in AI and I have spent 40 years in the field with 20 as a successful entrepreneur. I feel very blessed.

What is your definition of success? My definition of success is achieving balance in life with family, career and community. This is by no means an easy accomplishment to achieve. One has to be mindful of balance and it is often a big challenge to achieve.

What do you value most about your role as a leader? I value my honesty and accomplishments through hard work without compromising my integrity.

Recognizing the achievements of women important. Why? Women are often overlooked and downtrodden. It is important to highlight women who have led so many battles in life and nurtured so many children to success. For example, during the COVID 19 pandemic, the majority of healthcare workers and services personnel in retail such as groceries and pharmacies have been women. Women earn 89 cents for every dollar their male counterparts receive according to the wage pay gap https://canadianwomen.org/thefacts/the-gender-pay-gap/ May 7/2023. This has to change and women have to raise their collective voices to ensure this happens.

What is the biggest barrier you have overcome that has shaped you as a leader? My biggest barrier was raising capital for my startups. I overcame it with continuous and constant innovation. I built strong startup teams while being very opportunistic with angel investors and government innovation programs. As such, I could build strong startups and not rely on financing from venture funds or banks as they considered my AI startups too risky to fund. Fast forward two decades later and now more effort is being made to fund both AI and female led ventures. It would be interesting to look at the statistics and evaluate if indeed we are seeing more funding for women.

Tell us about the defining moment that inspired you to change, shift or pivot to your current path? In both startups in AI we had to pivot hard because of market hurricanes such as the 911 attacks, downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic. If I did not pivot, our businesses would have failed. You also sometimes have to pivot in life to support family which I have also faced head on. Making changes to support family is very important and requires hard decisions. My best advice on that front is to evaluate options and try and make the best decision you can so you do not regret the choice in the future.

What do you admire most about female leaders? What is the best advice you ever received? Female CEO leaders are typically collaborative and do not compete with their teams. Their goal is to build up their teams and individuals so that they may all collectively succeed. The best advice I ever received was to stay very focused on the outcome and keep it in front of me.

Tell us about your SupportHERS and the role they play to champion you? I have had countless supporters - both men and women. My startups have had boards of directors and advisors. They have been there to advise me and give me alternatives on various decisions. There have also been many individuals in the community cheering for my startups to succeed. I will also always be grateful to my customers who in some ways helped us push the innovation envelope. The majority of these individuals have been men as there are not a lot of women in tech and at the executive levels of business.

Changemakers work hard and do not accept conventions if they do not fit their goals.

Have you experienced impostor syndrome and, if so, how have you overcome it? I have experienced impostor syndrome. It is an odd feeling to walk into a room and sometimes wonder how I will achieve the goal I set for myself. The key for me was to persevere, stay innovative and stay focused to avoid that feeling. I would also add that I learned to celebrate our successes as a team no matter how large or small.

What do you do to get unstuck and stay motivated? I swim every second day to make sure my mind stays clear. I also take walks and spend time with family. Sometimes when you distract yourself, you get unstuck.

What are your self-care non-negotiables? My sports and family time are non-negotiable.

Where do you see yourself in five years? I see myself as a successful entrepreneur, author and community builder. I have written a lessons learned book about my entrepreneurial journey in AI and tech. My book is like a recipe book for succeeding at startup. It is also about my many influences to achieve successful exits. I very much look forward to helping the upcoming generation of entrepreneurs learn from my experience and succeed in their own right.

In 2003 when Natasha began her journey into the financial sector, she had a vision of changing

In 2003 when Natasha began her journey into the financial sector, she had a vision of changing people’s lives in the most positive way she could with the gifts she was given. She quickly realized that to truly make a difference she would have to fully embrace what makes her unique in this industry. She may be a numbers woman with many professional achievements under her belt, but her heart lies in empowerment through education and celebrating successes. Focusing on those two things has brought her clients an abundance of financial success which in turn makes her heart sing.

Natasha Bridgmohan, AMP is the President & Chief Visionary Officer of The BridgGroup of Companies and is proud of her strong commitment and willingness to help others succeed. As a charismatic, energetic and motivational leader and speaker, she attributes her success to something she calls Customer Lifetime Value Experience (CLVE). Natasha and her entire team believe in supporting clients through all stages of life providing them with financial solutions when they’re first starting, deciding their next steps when they become firsttime home buyers, empty nesters, retirees and through all stages of life!

NATASHA BRIDGMOHAN

I started The BridgGroup of Companies back in 2003. I gave myself the title of President and CEO because that’s what I thought I was supposed to be. The business culture recognizes these to be significant titles that immediately tell others what you do and who you are. For 15 years I accepted them and didn’t give it much more thought. They didn’t feel like “me” but I moved on.

I have always been a bit of a trailblazer, heck, being an immigrant woman of colour in the financial industry in itself was not the norm when I started. I quickly realized that to truly make a difference, I would have to fully embrace what makes me unique in this industry. I may be a numbers girl, but my heart lies in empowerment through education and celebrating achievements. Focusing on those two things has brought my clients an abundance of financial success, which in turn makes my heart sing.

I have run my business with kindness, compassion and love since its inception. Something that is not traditionally done in the financial world. In most places you are an application without a face, you are the sum of your credit score and your ability to make your payments on time. Yes, these things matter, but they are not the entire story.

Chief Visionary Officer and President of the BridgGroup of Companies

Thebridggroup.ca

It’s acknowledging the human spirit within a race that faced inhumane crimes and are still standing.

Over the last 16 years I have met everyone from single mothers, new immigrant families, divorcing couples, newlyweds, retirees, millennials, millionaires, billionaires and everything in between and what I can tell you is this… every story is unique and every solution is just as unique. If I went solely on their applications, I would most likely have had to turn most of them away, however, this is not who I am. I am not going to be the one who tells that single mother she can never leave a legacy for her children. I won’t be the one who leaves the widowed father out in the cold. There are solutions for EVERY scenario, and I will not stop until I find it. This is what sets me on fire, this is what brings me joy.

I have always maintained that knowledge is power. I instill this in my children, my team, my colleagues, my partners and my clients. Stress comes from not knowing. Let me rephrase, HUGE amounts of stress, and disease-causing stress come from not knowing. I can’t tell you how many people have left my office saying… I wish I knew this a week ago, a month ago, years ago. I wish I met you earlier or where have you been all my life?

Hearing this is a double-edged sword to me, on one hand, I’m so happy they are stress-free, on the other hand I know they would have saved themselves a lot of anxiety if they just knew the right information sooner.

This is why I run free financial literacy workshops for kids, teens, young adults, families and seniors. I do them in my office, at schools, for clubs, organizations, businesses, and women’s and men’s groups…. ANYWHERE I CAN! I am trying to eliminate the words… I wish I knew this a week ago, a month ago, years ago. I wish I met you earlier or where have you been all my life? This is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. The delight/relief/ joy on people’s faces when they know their options are what I live for.

I mentioned above that my heart lies in two places… one is in education and the second is in celebrating achievements. 10 years ago, we planned our 1st Investor Awards Gala with the intention of celebrating, on a larger scale, our clients’ personal visions coming to life. It was a small affair with big dreams present. We called each client up and presented them with a beautiful glass award that had their name inscribed on the front and the financial achievement they had accomplished. They were thrilled!! We were thrilled!! My heart was full

At work, I run a tight ship. I have been in business for 16 years so I know what it takes to make things run smoothly. I have checklists and processes for everything. Just like the journal I offload my thoughts into for a stress-free night’s sleep, I use checklists to eliminate mistakes in the office.

If you’re an entrepreneur, checklists are crucial. It is very easy for a business-for-self-person to get lost in the small unimportant things that can eat up a day. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

A woman of inspiration is someone who ignites the spark within others when the amber is barely glowing. A pivotal impressionable woman who leaves people thinking deeply about their future. A remarkable woman who continues to climb over mountains of challenges and obstacles that deter them from achieving significant goals but wears down that resistance with persistence. An inspiration strikes within any given moment that allows women of inspiration to continue to see good in others and seek out opportunities for success!

What does being a Changemaker mean to you?

A changemaker is an individual who takes each opportunity to strike inspiration and find ways to innovate current standards for the betterment of the community. An individual who breaks barriers set to withhold them from fulfilling their and other’s maximum potential. A changemaker provides creative solutions to social and economic matters that seem otherwise complex to resolve with a simple solution. Change happens every day all around us, whether its impact ripples towards us or not, change is present. Changemakers set meaningful and purposeful intentions to inspire others to make changes in their own lives by being trail blazer.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up I always wanted to become a doctor or lawyer to help change people’s lives for the better, as my main goal was to be able to help change as many lives as possible for a brighter and happier future. Being raised as a refugee immigrant, discrimination and prejudice were a daily occurrence at school and in my community. I realized I wanted to help change lives for the betterment of the country I lived in and would one day raise my children in the same country. I did not become what my younger self wanted me to be, but I did achieve my goal of changing lives. I do not heal people physically, but I do heal them financially through sound expert advice from a subject matter expert, myself.

What is one piece of wisdom you would share with young women today? One piece of wisdom I would share with young women today is to know your worth and not let anyone tell you otherwise. In today’s day and age, social media is distracting. The constant comparison to the unrealistic standards being advertised by giant media corporations is detrimental to young women across the globe. It is becoming increasingly difficult to have confidence and maintain one’s mental health. Women are pitted against each other in a competition of beauty,

intelligence and wit. It is the unfortunate reality we have to face. I hope for future generations, that knowing your worth apart from the false advertising on mainstream media channels, is instilled in each young woman’s mindset. As I can only hope, that we come to appreciate the uniqueness of each human being rather than discriminate against. We are our own worst enemy, or our own best friend. Choose love, not hate.

Tell us about one of your most significant accomplishments? Choosing the single most significant accomplishment in my decades of becoming a subject matter expert was a thoughtprovoking question, as I feel each accolade has impacted my life significantly and uniquely. However, my most significant accomplishment was discovering the balance of being a wife, mother, and business owner all at the same time. Realizing that I had to switch gears after coming home from work was a mental challenge, but not one that I could not overcome. After equipping myself with the essential skill-sets, I learned how to become a trailblazer in the financial industry and break barriers all whilst managing my role as an attentive and present mother and partner.

Recognizing the achievements of women important. Why? Women have been historically undermined and withheld from opportunities for centuries. As we have progressed slowly since the start of the 20th century, women have consistently broken barriers in many prestigious industries and achieved many accolades. The importance of such recognition is to empower women to continue striving for greatness and not let archaic limitations restrict them from becoming the greatest version of themselves. Through recognition we inspire younger women to have faith in the changing world that will enable them to innovate, create and change.

What is your definition of success? Success can be measured numerically to keep track of growth and monitor progression. For my company, the BridgGroup of Companies, this is true. However, not all success is statistical. Success has many variances in the way it is perceived. As the president of the BridgGroup of Companies, success is measured in the recognition I receive and the presence I establish in my community. My definition of success is the achievement of goals I have set for myself for empowerment, selfawareness, and happiness. I am constantly setting goals for myself in yearly increments to keep track of growth as a leader and mother and holding myself accountable to these goals.

What do you value most about your role as a leader? As a leader, what I value most is the ability it has given to help change lives within my company, clients, staff and family. As my Marvel-loving family refers to it, with great power comes great responsibility. The ability to impose change on the individuals I interact with every day of my life has given me a new perspective on life. Leadership has added to my life’s purpose and presented me with opportunities for empowerment. Being a leader has become one of my greatest characteristics that came at a priceless cost.

What is the biggest barrier you have overcome that has shaped you as a leader? As an established financial business owner for over 20 years, I have encountered prejudice from other professionals in the financial industry based on my race, ethnicity, religion, and gender, things that I could not change about myself. This discrimination inhibited my growth and access to opportunities in the earlier stages of my career. It was discouraging to realize that my identity was deterring me from reaching my goals. Like many things in life, this was a mind-overmatter situation. I enforced an assertive attitude to show that I am, indeed, an award-winning subject matter expert and more than capable to exceed standard service expectations. The biggest barrier I overcame that has shaped me as a leader was the dated societal discrimination that has yet to fully be phased out of present-day mindsets.

Tell us about the defining moment that inspired you to change, shift or pivot to your current path? A defining moment that inspired me to shift my mindset was learning the true meaning of life. This entailed fully understanding the cycle of life, birth and death, day and night, the list goes on. Experiencing the loss of a loved one shook me irrevocably as it changed my perspective on the way I valued my time on Earth. Furthermore, giving birth to my two children has made me realize as a woman I am capable of creating life, a gift. By my side through the deaths and the births was my husband, who shares this journey of life and has supported me through it all, for better and worse. Instead of hyper-focusing on what was in front of me, I gained a macro view which has enabled me to set bigger goals for myself.

What do you admire most about female leaders? What is the best advice you ever received? There are many characteristics and values that I admire about female leaders, their perseverance, resilience, determination, unwavering mindset and much

[ CHANGEMAKER ]

more. Over a century of being undermined and discriminated against, their excellence continues to be a beacon of hope for young women around the globe. What I admire most about female leaders is the inspiration they instill in future generations. The best advice I have ever received is that attitude is everything. It is important to remain grounded and humble, as each opportunity presented is a chance to learn, grow and be better.

Tell us about your SupportHERS and the role they play to champion you? My SupportHER are the women who have inspired many different angles of my life. My grandmother showed me the value of relationships and family unity, whereas my mother instilled the value of persistence, faith, and determination. For a large portion of my life, they were the two most important women in my life. Soon after I was married, my mother-in-law displayed to me the importance of being fearless, speaking up and never giving up on your children, no matter the cost.

Have you experienced impostor syndrome and, if so, how have you overcome it? Impostor syndrome was an experience I could not fathom. The sudden onset of anxiety I would feel when I would have productive successful weeks was uncalled for. I would imagine myself to be happy and proud of weeks such as those. I found myself in denial, attempting to convince myself that the success I was experiencing was only a string of good luck. I started to anticipate the impending downfall, as it all felt too good to be true. It was only when I surrounded myself with like-minded individuals, who have succeeded in their profession, was I able to ease my mind of these worries. The perception of being an undeserving individual to receive such accolades and recognition was put at ease when I read of similar experiences, spoke to like-minded professionals and began practicing meditation.

What do you do to get unstuck and stay motivated? When I feel stagnant in my life, I like to redirect my energy to self-care to give myself that boost of revitalization. By focusing on eating healthy, reading novels, journaling daily, and meditating I can find motivation every day to be the best version of myself possible, for my family, my company and most importantly, myself. While practicing those self-care activities, I actively take part in selfreflection. This allows me to better align myself with what goals I have set and listen to the needs of my body and mind. While you can be your own worst enemy, you can also be your own best friend.

What are your self-care non-negotiables? As a business owner finding time for self-care in the earlier developmental stages of my company seemed impossible. However, as my company expanded and became more established, I realized the importance of non-negotiable self-care activities that helped me reduce the accumulation of stress and anxiety I was experiencing. Physical upkeep has helped me gain self-confidence and happiness within myself, as first impressions are irretrievable. By supporting other local businesses, I found myself appreciating taking care of my nails, hair, skin and body. I discovered solitude in swimming, as water has always presented as a calming peaceful environment where my mind would be at ease. Swimming has become a nonnegotiable self-care essential in my life.

What keeps you up at night? One’s perception of time changes as we get older because we inherently correlate the time passing to the time we have already lived. And this fact is what keeps me up at night. The overwhelming all-consuming notion that I am running out of time on this planet washes a wave of anxiety over me before I close my eyes to sleep. Every day is indeed a blessing and should not be taken for granted, however, our time is numbered. If I could wish upon a star for more days, more years, more decades, I know it would be selfish, but all I hope to accomplish is limited to the time I have left on Earth.

If I could wish upon a star for more days, more years, more decades, I know it would be selfish, but all I hope to accomplish is limited to the time I have left on Earth.

Where do you see yourself in five years? In 5 years, I hope that after decades of hard work, late nights, long shifts, and sacrifice, I will be able to no longer be the CEO of the BridgGroup of Companies, but rather become the founder. After the transition of my role, I envision myself spending the cold Canadian winter months in a Southern home and coming home to the great North for the hot summer months. To replenish my Vitamin D and enjoy sunshine year-round and enjoy some much-needed quality downtime with the love of my life. I hope to enjoy the weather and rays of the sun, whilst still being able to run my business semi-remotely.

Born in Montreal, Lisa obtained her Degree in Natural Sciences from John Abbott College and then went on to complete her Bachelor of Science (Honours B.Sc., 2000) and Master of Science (M.Sc., Chemistry, 2002) at the University of Toronto. She then completed her Ph.D. in Organic Polymer Chemistry (Dr. Rer. Nat., 2006) at Friedrich-Schiller University in Jena, Germany.

Lisa achieved her Professional Sales Designation from the Canadian Professional Sales Association (CPSA) in 2008 and then went on to represent Canada as a member of the Young Entrepreneur’s Delegation at the G20 in 2010. Lisa attended Harvard Business School in 2015 to study entrepreneurship under Clayton Christensen. She then completed the “Marketing Innovation” course at the MIT Sloan School of Management in 2017.

Dr. Studnicki Hunt co-founded GL CHEMTEC INTERNATIONAL in 2002, an organization providing contract research, custom synthesis, and drug discovery to pharmaceutical, biotech, and materialsbased companies worldwide. GL CHEMTEC is located in Oakville, Ontario.

DR. LISA STUDNICKI HUNT

I can honestly say that I have never thought about writing “My Story” until now. I’ve not taken many opportunities to just stop and reflect on the big picture of “where am I now” and “how did I get here”. This is an interesting exercise and if you’ve not already done it, I would highly recommend it as you can see how different factors and experiences in your life have made you who you are now.

I was born in Montreal to wonderful parents, Peter and Esther Studnicki. I was a very “challenging” baby and I wonder how my mom kept her sanity while I cried and screamed through the first few years of my life. Needless to say, I am an only child. My parents inspired me to always work hard and to have confidence in myself during my childhood. This went a long way in my life, and I will always be grateful to them. I was incredibly fortunate to grow up happy and loved.

I loved school and I have the fondest memories of Dorset Elementary School, MacDonald High School, John Abbott College, the University of Toronto, and of Friedrich-Schiller University. I played clarinet and piano in the high school bands, played football and field hockey, and took as many different classes as I could. I also learned French and German along the way. I didn’t know what career path I wanted to pursue but I made sure to experience as much as I could during my academic career. This is something that I would definitely recommend. The farther you go in your education, the more interesting subjects you will encounter, and you may be drawn to something that you hadn’t expected to enjoy! For me, this was chemistry.

Co-Founder & COO, GL Chemtec International

2023 Women of Inspiration™ Global Impact Award

https://www.glchemtec.ca

My parents inspired me to always work hard and to have confidence in myself during my childhood.

I knew early on that I would not be following a traditional career path. I particularly enjoyed the art and business electives that I took in university while pursuing my Bachelor of Science. I really didn’t fit into the mold of a chemist, per se, but times were changing, and opportunities were arising that weren’t traditionally available to scientists. You no longer had to join a big Pharma company upon completion of your Ph.D. You could create something different.

When I started my Masters studies, I knew I wanted to start a business. I met my business partner, Dr. Gamil Alhakimi, at the University of Toronto and it was then that GL CHEMTEC was born on paper. We both had the same vision of creating an organization that would become an innovation powerhouse. Armed with no money and copies of “Think and Grow Rich”, we burned our bridges and set out to make chemicals for the major R&D discovery companies, from Roche to Bayer. Looking back on that day, almost 22 years ago, I wonder how we ever survived it all. Somehow, you just do. I can’t emphasize how important it is to dig in and work hard when you’re young. The sacrifices will pay off down the line!

I quickly learned that in a traditional Pharma setting, it would be essential for me to gain my Ph.D. to build my credibility and I therefore headed to Germany to study under Dr. Elisabeth Klemm. This was an amazing experience as I was able to build the GL CHEMTEC labs simultaneously. Dr. Ulli Krull at the University of Toronto was instrumental in supporting me and GL CHEMTEC at this phase and I will forever be grateful to him for his encouragement.

In 2022, we sold a stake of GL CHEMTEC to a private equity firm in order to grow to the next level and to make the company a world leader in Drug Development. The hard work paid off as we were recognized as a “Disruptive Company to Watch” across the industry. In addition to this exciting event, I recently celebrated my five-year anniversary with my wonderful husband, Dr. Kevin Hunt. We met in our late thirties when we were both not looking for relationships. Isn’t that the way they say it happens? He really is my other half and we both sacrificed a lot to get to where we are today. He is a world-leader in drug discovery and design, and I am so proud to share my life with him.

What does the future hold? I’m really not sure. All that I know is that I will continue to be thankful for my health and I will continue to try to give back to my community. I am proud to support local organizations like Oakville Meals on Wheels, the Oakville Humane Society, and World Vision. I have been blessed throughout my life and I believe that it is our responsibility to help and encourage others to succeed in turn.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was young, I wanted to be everything from a musician to a quarterback to a surgeon to an artist! I enjoyed learning so many different things that I was never able to set my sights on just one profession. I think Diane Von Furstenberg said it best, ““I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, but I knew the woman I wanted to become.” I was committed to being independent in order to be able to make the right decisions for me.

Tell us about your SupportHERs

One thing I really love about the Universal Womens Network is their recognition of male allyship. It is only by working side by side with progressive men that we will make real change in workplaces that have been traditionally male dominated.

My SupportHERs are my husband and my parents. They are by my side every single day. They encourage me to be my best and they love me unconditionally. I could not ask for more. One thing I really love about the Universal Womens Network is their recognition of male allyship. It is only by working side by side with progressive men that we will make real change in workplaces that have been traditionally male dominated.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

For me, an inspiring woman is a woman who knows herself well enough to acknowledge her strengths and weaknesses. In this way she is able to confidently utilize her own unique skillset to contribute to society. She spends her days working diligently in her chosen field for the benefit of others. She is honest and independent, strong but humble, always making herself available to encourage and mentor the people around her. She never stops learning or trying to better herself. She knows the woman she wants to be.

Tell us about your most significant accomplishments. One of my most significant accomplishments was obtaining my Ph.D. from Germany in my mid-twenties after having broken my back. I was not someone who took time to look after myself as a young person, I just kept going and going, thinking that I would never run out of energy. Working insane hours, lifting very heavy equipment and solvents in the lab, and not giving my body the chance to properly regenerate every day led my back to give way. I lived through excruciating pain for several years before undergoing emergency surgery. The fact that I am walking today is miraculous, my prayers were answered, and I do not take a single day for granted. I have come back to full strength over time.

My definition of success is unique to me and yours should be unique to you. We are all walking different paths.

What is your definition of success? My definition of success is unique to me and yours should be unique to you. We are all walking different paths. I’ve created a role in my life where I can try to contribute to society and help people every day. This brings me joy and contentment. I celebrate being mentally and physically healthy in order to continue to learn every day so I can be productive and useful.

What do you do to stay motivated or get unstuck? I exercise and make lists daily! There is a great deal of satisfaction that comes from completing a tough workout and scratching off “completed” items from my “to-do” lists all day long.

What words of wisdom can you share with young women today? I have a few - I would absolutely advise them to become independent, financially and otherwise. This gives you the great privilege of making choices based on your beliefs, your vision, and your principles. It is incredibly freeing. As part of this, become as educated as you can in whatever field you choose. Your brain will thank you as you age. Also, don’t feel pressured to make other people’s timing match your own – sacrifice and hard work at a young age pay off down the line so live according to your schedule and just dig in and get started!

What does be a changemaker mean to you? For me it means being unafraid to pursue your goals even when your path does not look like anyone else’s. You can’t be worried about what anyone says about you because you are totally committed to achieving your end goals.

Words of wisdom to inspire change? Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you are right. – Henry Ford. This is the absolute truth so take care to keep your thoughts focused and positive. When you wake up in the morning, give thanks for the opportunity to live another day and don’t doubt that you are unique and important. There is no limit to what you can achieve, and it is my mission to encourage young women to realize this about themselves.

Vice President, Direct Financial Services, Capital Markets, CIBC

2021 Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader | cibc.com

VICTORIA NGUYEN

Victoria Nguyen, ICD.D is an accomplished business executive and transformation professional. She is Vice President, Direct Financial Services in Capital Markets at CIBC. Currently head of business operations, accountable for strategic initiatives, risk and governance controls. Victoria’s career spans over 29 years leading large scale change in Financial Services for many of North America’s best-known brands.

She is Chair of the Heart & Stroke Foundation’s Ontario & Nunavut Advisory Board and on the Canadian National Task Force for Women’s Economic Justice (CCFWE). Victoria has also served on various non-profit Ontario boards. She is a volunteer and mentor for a number of charitable communities including Ascend Canada, Friends of Ruby (a home for LGBTQ2+ Youth) and the Canadian Chinese Finance Association (CCFA).

My Story: Imagine close to 300 men, women and children crammed together on the decks of a leaky 60 ft long wooden boat. These local fishing vessels were not equipped for long ocean voyages and many have lost their lives adrift on them. Like many newcomers to Canada, my family and I left a war torn country in search of a better life. We escaped Vietnam as refugees known as “The Boat People”.

I had to

overcome gender biases and visible minority stereotypes.

A Universal Womens Network™ – Women of Inspiration Authentic Leader Award recipient and named Top 100 Women of Inspiration in Canada. Victoria is an active EDI enthusiast, public speaker, book contributor and published author in various forums.

I am a first generation Vietnamese Canadian immigrant who grew up in a small Dutch farming community in Northern Alberta where my primary educational years were spent with no one that looked like me. The Vietnamese culture was not well known back then aside from images and accounts of the horrific war – kids would tease me for looking different, made fun of the foods I ate, my accent and my struggles in learning a new culture. It would be years before we moved to the city where there was more ethnic diversity.

My journey to becoming an executive in the North American Financial Services industry was not easy. Being different could be a double edged sword. Starting with my undergrad in Electrical Engineering, I remember arriving late to one of my courses to have the professor say to me, “You’re in the wrong place, home-economics is in the other building.” On some consulting engagements when leading vendor negotiations, I was asked to get coffee for the participants or referred to as the “numbers cruncher”; the finance person on the deal. I had to overcome gender biases and visible minority stereotypes.

In those moments I was embarrassed. With that professor, I berated myself for being late and making myself an easy target for him. At the vendor negotiations, I made light of the erroneous remarks – got coffees, did some number crunching AND ensured we did proper introductions with role accountabilities at the beginning of every session. Over time I came to recognize that these biases and stereotypes were present not only in the professions we choose but also in our perception of leadership types. We believe that women should be more nurturing, caring, sympathetic, and at times subservient while men should be assertive, decisive, strong, etc. We also know that the leader prototype shares characteristics with the male stereotypes of being self-reliant, assertive, dominant and competitive. For most women, we are encouraged to emulate male characteristics to further our careers, often there too few female leaders who could serve as career role models for us.

My advice on this is... embrace and leverage your differences by turning them into a competitive advantage, then build a healthy network of good mentors and sponsors who can further support your ambition.

As a visible minority woman and leader, I’ve had to do a balancing act to help garner the respect of my colleagues. I am demanding, setting high standards for my teams and at the same time caring, in providing support to achieve those standards. I’ve had to demonstrate both my authoritative and participative self; showing that while I’m in charge, I am also encouraging others to have a voice. We have to find the courage and our inner strength to push beyond these boundaries, stereotypes, biases - be it gender, race or social status.

My journey to the glass ceiling commenced in earnest when I was told that I was too young, too inexperienced and had to ‘pay my dues’ in demotions to get promotions. I lacked exposure to multiple facets of the bank therefore would not be considered for an executive appointment. I had to overcome the perception of not being good enough.

There were moments of frustration, self-doubt and if I were completely honest - a good dose of self-pity. Tackling my own insecurities and biases helped me to better define what success was for me. Managing the perceptions of others requires the maturity to objectively view my actions through the lens of the other person and adjust accordingly. I would strive to learn - either by formal education or through the learnings of others. This helped me continuously improve my technical skills, communication styles, to better articulate opportunities and acquire a healthy dose of humility. Instead of taking those demotions, I broadened my horizons through taking on more progressively challenging consulting roles with different companies. In a relatively short period of time, I worked with a variety of teams, exposed to every type of leadership style and had to dig myself out of a couple of messes. You don’t have to go down the consulting path, you can also gain breath of experience working in different lines of businesses, volunteering or charitable work. I learned that being ‘good enough’ is a frame of mind, not a statement of fact; and learning off the failures of others was a lot less painful!

Although I landed my first banking job largely due to my ability to service customers in that community in both English and Vietnamese, being different was a challenge. The Asian banking strategy was in its infancy back then; I recall a time when an older, Caucasian man refused to having his GIC opened by me, his statement was: “I want to be serviced by my own kind.” I had to overcome ethnic discrimination and racism

At that time these statements were not all that uncommon and I was not equipped to stand up for myself. As I was fuming internally, I calmly relayed his request to my manager; to my complete surprise, she escalated to the branch manager –who upon hearing of the incident, invited the man into his office where he offered to close out all of that client’s accounts because discrimination was not tolerated in our workplace. It took another white man standing up for me, for me to realize my own worth. I learned the importance of support and advocacy; as an individual I was a victim of racism, as part of a like-minded community we could be a movement for equality. My advice on this is... embrace and leverage your differences by turning them into a competitive advantage, then build a healthy network of good mentors and sponsors who can further support your ambition.

“Have any or all of these things gone away after my executive appointments?” the answer is absolutely not! Positions and titles do not define who we are; it may afford us with more access to information, resources, responsibilities and decision making authority. BUT it cannot change our gender, skin color or ethnicity. The higher up in the corporate structure, the more scrutiny we face while being more accountable for the successes of those around us. It is incumbent on very person to be aware of the perceptions, stereotypes and racism that exists and every leader must take accountability in building more inclusive and diverse teams to achieve balance. Becoming a leader is a journey full of challenges – every challenge is a lesson and in every lesson there is a gift. We must all continue to push boundaries, maintain our curiosity, embrace our differences and define our own success so that the roadmap of achievement is uniquely ours. We also need to do better in advocating for one another, overcome our insecurities and biases to ensure a more inclusive future.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up with a single parent in an immigrant family, I watched my mother take on multiple jobs to provide for us. I aspired to be in a profession that would offer regular hours and vacation time. ADVICE: Pursue the career that you love, that has meaning and trust that the money will follow.

What is the biggest lesson you have learnt?

Believe in yourself. Being confident manifests itself in many ways, but it starts from within. Having that self-confidence enabled me to ask for what I needed and wanted in my career.

How do you get unstuck or stay motivated?

A learning from Daniel Goleman’s ‘Emotional Intelligence’ on recognizing your “triggers” helps me to break out of whatever loop I happen to be in. Coupled with some mindfulness exercises to remind myself of all things I should be grateful for and/or give myself permission to have that pityfest as needed.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

A woman who is unapologetically ambitious, who is able to inspire others to be their best selves and who can lead with humility.

What leadership trait are you most proud of?

Collaboration. I am often described as being the “glue” that holds teams and groups together. I find it rewarding and gain a deep sense of accomplishment when I am able to bring together and align an array of diverse talents to achieve a common goal.

Absolutely. Financial freedom would allow me to be more creative and take on more risk. I am blessed to be in a career that I love; money has not been the driving force for some time and hence would not alter the path to my success.

What is your definition of success? Success for me is the ability to spend time doing what I love. I’ve inherited a deep sense of family and relationship values from my mother – she was a single mom to 5 children. Watching her make sacrifices to provide for us fueled my drive to achieve financial success so that I would not have to sacrifice time with loved ones.

Success for me is the ability to spend time doing what I love.

How would you describe your leadership? My prominent leadership style is what is coined as ‘servant leadership’. I have high expectations of my team while doing everything in my power to support each member in achieving their goals. Our collective success is greater than what we can each accomplish alone

As a best-selling author and expert in the senior living industry, Amy Friesen has worked with seniors and their families throughout the world. Amy founded Tea & Toast in 2014 to help seniors and their families gain access to better choices and reduce the stress and overwhelm felt. Treating each client holistically not only ensures a happier and healthier individual but also aids in a successful transition to senior living.

Amy has been recognized by the House of Commons for her 2018 Businesswoman of the Year Award as well as being a 2019 Forty Under 40 recipient.

My journey began in an unlikely industry postgraduation, where I discovered a passion for working with seniors and excelled in sales and marketing. However, after enduring an abusive relationship and facing similar toxicity in the workplace, I knew it was time for change. Seizing a new opportunity, I launched my own business within two months, and since then, I've never glanced back.

Throughout this journey, I realized a glaring gap: families were not receiving the support they desperately needed. This realization fueled my personal mission to advocate for and assist families in any way I could. It became more than just a business venture; it became my passion and purpose.

AMY FRIESEN

What

is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

A woman of inspiration is someone who, despite facing obstacles and uncertainties, continues to move forward with determination and resilience. She exemplifies strength and perseverance, inspiring others by overcoming challenges and staying true to her path.

What does being a Changemaker mean to you? To me, being a changemaker means persevering through obstacles and uncertainties with determination and purpose. It involves taking action to drive positive change, regardless of the challenges, and continuously pushing forward to make a meaningful impact.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

This isn’t a question I can answer with certainty, as nothing specific stands out. However, I have always been interested in business. I attribute this interest to watching my dad run his small businesses when I was younger. Even today, he continually creates products and sells them locally, which inspires my fascination with entrepreneurship.

Founder and CEO, Tea and Toast

Teaandtoast.ca

It became more than just a business venture; it became my passion and purpose.

What is one piece of wisdom you would share with young women today? One piece of wisdom I would share with a younger woman today is this: While it’s exciting to jump into business with enthusiasm, make sure you have your foundation in order. Establish solid systems to run your business effectively, and align yourself with the right professionals, such as legal and accounting experts. Mistakes in these areas can be costly and timeconsuming to correct, so it’s crucial to get them right from the start.

Tell us about one of your most significant accomplishments? One of my most significant accomplishments was being honored as Business Woman of the Year. This recognition is particularly meaningful because leaders in the senior industry, especially women, are seldom acknowledged. I felt immense pride in receiving this award, not only for breaking through in a typically underrecognized field but also for the immense energy and dedication I had invested as a business owner. As small business owners, we often don’t receive such recognition, so this accolade was truly gratifying.

Recognizing the achievements of women important. Why? Recognizing the achievements of women is crucial because women are still underrepresented in the business world. Many speaking panels, accolades, and opportunities often go to men for various reasons, including the fact that many women don’t step up for these opportunities. By highlighting women’s accomplishments, we encourage more women to seize these opportunities and share their voices, fostering greater diversity and inclusion in leadership and decision-making roles.

What is your definition of success? My definition of success is identifying an opportunity for improvement and exceeding your own personal expectations in achieving it.

What is the biggest barrier you have overcome that has shaped you as a leader? The biggest barrier I’ve overcome is finding my own voice. For 13 years, including the early part of my career, I was in a very abusive relationship and marriage. Once I identified what I needed and walked away from that relationship, I was able to fully be myself. This transformation allowed me to grow into the leader I am today, something I never could have achieved in my previous life.

What do you admire most about female leaders? What is the best advice you ever received? What I admire most about female leaders is their willingness to speak up, mentor, and share advice. The best advice I’ve received came from another woman business owner and coach. She asked me, “Do you feel your services are valuable?” When I replied, “Extremely,” she followed up with, “Would you pay for your service?” This simple yet powerful question made me reflect on the value of what I offer and encouraged me to prioritize my worth.

Tell us about your SupportHERS and the role they play to champion you? My SupportHERs come in various forms. There are those in my inner circle— colleagues, my husband, and my best friend— who support me daily, offering invaluable insights and encouragement. Then there are consistent supporters, like my personal Facebook followers, who actively engage with my ideas and content, sharing and liking posts. Their unwavering support and enthusiasm not only motivate me but also play a vital role in championing my endeavors. Whether it’s bouncing ideas off of them or seeing them rally behind my initiatives, their presence strengthens my journey as a leader.

Have you experienced impostor syndrome and, if so, how have you overcome it? Yes, I believe many business owners, especially female entrepreneurs, experience impostor syndrome at some point. Overcoming it isn’t easy, and it’s something I’ve had to continuously keep in check. I’ve learned to recognize the feeling and acknowledge it, which allows me to move past constantly secondguessing myself, particularly when I know deep down that I’ve made the right decisions. Naming and understanding impostor syndrome has been key to gaining confidence and staying focused on my goals.

By highlighting women’s accomplishments, we encourage more women to seize these opportunities and share their voices, fostering greater diversity and inclusion

in leadership and decision-making roles.

What do you do to get unstuck and stay motivated? When I’m feeling stuck, I prioritize taking a break, whether it’s for a few minutes, hours, days, or even a week. I’ve found that often, feeling stuck is a sign of burnout, and stepping away allows me to recharge and regain clarity. During this time, I disconnect from work and engage in activities that relax and inspire me, such as going for walks or spending time with loved ones. By giving myself space, I find that my creativity naturally returns, and I feel motivated to dive back into my projects with renewed energy and perspective.

Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I envision myself deeply entrenched in the industry, constantly adapting and evolving to meet the needs of families. Whether it’s through education, guidance, or innovative solutions, I’m committed to making a meaningful impact in whatever capacity I find myself in.

Fiona Hu is a director leading multi-asset analytics for RBC’s digital platform. Over the past years, she has established and led Canadian Quantitative Sales Trading team under DSCI at RBC Capital Markets. With a background in engineering, Fiona has been playing a critical role in key trading initiatives involving cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. Over the last eight years, she has been leading the transformation of the trading business at RBC and grooming junior talent while creating an innovative and learningoriented culture. Outside of work, Fiona has been actively promoting equal access to education and she initiated a charity campaign called ‘Reading for the Future’ and raised over $80k to support underprivileged communities over the past 2 years.

My Story: In the bustling city of Shanghai, I embarked on a transformative journey that would shape my life’s trajectory. As a young child with big dreams, I faced the daunting challenge of uprooting my life from China to embrace the opportunities that awaited me in Canada.

FIONA HU

Upon arriving in the vibrant and diverse city of Toronto, I was immediately greeted by the rich tapestry of cultures that wove the fabric of my new home. The transition, however, wasn’t without its hurdles. The language barrier proved to be a formidable adversary, but I was undeterred. With unwavering determination, I immersed myself in English language classes, spending countless hours honing my skills.

Each word I learned was a step closer to unlocking the doors of communication and connection. As I journeyed through high school, my resilience bore fruit. Through countless hours of dedication and hard work, I ascended to the top ranks of my class. My academic achievements shone brightly, a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence that had become my hallmark.

As my university years unfolded, I channeled my passion and resilience into a career that would redefine my narrative once more. The RBC Capital Markets, a bastion of financial innovation, became my platform for change. Armed with my unique blend of experiences, I immersed myself in the world of quantitative trading. Through collaboration, innovation, and an insatiable curiosity, I led transformations that shattered existing paradigms.

Director, Royal Bank of Canada

https://www.rbccm.com/en/

My parents inspired me to always work hard and to have confidence in myself during my childhood.

In the heart of RBC’s trading floor, I found myself at the nexus of data, strategy, and opportunity. My ability to navigate languages and cultures seamlessly became an asset, enabling me to discern patterns and trends that others might overlook. With each calculated move, I brought value not only to the institution but also to the clients we served.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

“Women of inspiration” refers to individuals who inspire and uplift others through their actions, achievements, and qualities. These women serve as role models and sources of motivation, often making a positive impact on their communities, professions, or fields of interest. They demonstrate exceptional leadership, resilience, determination, and a commitment to creating meaningful change.

What does being a Changemaker mean to you?

Being a change maker means taking proactive steps to make a positive impact on the world around you. It involves recognizing areas where improvement is needed, envisioning a better future, and then taking concrete actions to bring about that transformation. Change makers are individuals who are not content with the status quo and are willing to challenge norms, systems, and structures in pursuit of progress.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was growing up, I held a heartfelt aspiration to become an actress. The world of storytelling and performance captivated me in a way that nothing else could. I would often find myself lost in the magic of movies, plays, and TV shows, mesmerized by the ability of actors to transport audiences to different worlds and emotions.

What is one piece of wisdom you would share with young women today? One invaluable piece of wisdom I would share with young girls is to believe in their own power and potential. Too often, societal norms, stereotypes, and self-doubt can cast shadows on their aspirations. However, it’s crucial for them to recognize that they possess the capability to achieve greatness in any field they choose.

Tell us about one of your most significant accomplishments? Spearheading the creation of a groundbreaking quantitative sales trading team that has redefined the landscape of electronic sales trading. Through a visionary approach that blended cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence, and strategic thinking, I embarked on a journey to not only revolutionize trading practices but also provide invaluable solutions to our clients.

Recognizing the evolving demands of the financial industry, I conceptualized and developed a team that harnessed the power of quantitative analysis. This team was dedicated to leveraging datadriven insights to navigate the complexities of the trading world, enabling us to make swift, informed decisions in a rapidly changing market.

Recognizing the achievements of women important. Why? Representation and Visibility, Inspiration, Empowerment, Change in Perceptions.

What is your definition of success? Goal Achievement: Success often involves setting and reaching specific goals, whether they are related to career, education, personal growth, relationships, or other areas of life.

Continuous Growth: Success isn’t static; it involves ongoing growth and development. It’s about consistently learning, adapting, and evolving to become a better version of oneself.

Balance: Success isn’t limited to excelling in just one area of life. It’s about achieving a balance between various aspects, such as career, relationships, health, and personal interests.

What do you value most about your role as a leader? Impact: Leaders value the ability to make a positive impact on their team, organization, or community. They aim to create meaningful change and contribute to the betterment of those they lead.

Empowerment: Empowering team members to reach their full potential is a rewarding aspect of leadership. Seeing others develop skills, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals brings a sense of accomplishment.

Collaboration: Leaders recognize the power of collaboration. Building strong, cohesive teams and fostering a culture of collaboration allows them to collectively tackle complex challenges and achieve more than what individuals could accomplish alone.

What is the biggest barrier you have overcome that has shaped you as a leader? In the early stages of my leadership journey, self-doubt occasionally crept in, causing me to question my abilities and qualifications. Impostor syndrome whispered that my achievements were mere coincidences, and any recognition I received was undeserved. This psychological barrier made me second-guess my decisions and contributions, despite evidence of positive outcomes.

Addressing this challenge required a journey of self-reflection, growth, and self-compassion. I embarked on a process of acknowledging my accomplishments and internalizing that they were the result of hard work, dedication, and competence. I actively sought out opportunities to learn, improve, and expand my skill set, which gradually bolstered my self-assurance.

Tell us about the defining moment that inspired you to change, shift or pivot to your current path? The defining moment that prompted a pivotal shift in my career path came after a series of notable achievements in equity trading. While the established trading team had provided a platform for growth and success, I found myself yearning for new horizons and a broader understanding of the financial landscape. It was a moment of clarity that sparked my decision to embark on a new journey in multi-asset trading analytics.

Female leaders often possess a strong sense of empathy and emotional intelligence. They can connect with others on a deeper level, understand diverse perspectives, and create inclusive environments.

Having achieved considerable success in the realm of equity trading, it became evident that I had mastered a specific domain within the financial industry. However, I felt a deep curiosity and an eagerness to explore beyond the confines of that niche. This realization dawned on me during a moment of introspection, where I contemplated my aspirations for the future and the potential avenues for growth.

What do you admire most about female leaders? What is the best advice you ever received? Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Female leaders often possess a strong sense of empathy and emotional intelligence. They can connect with others on a deeper level, understand diverse perspectives, and create inclusive environments.

Tell us about your SupportHERS and the role they play to champion you? Emotional Support: My SupportHERs play a crucial role in providing emotional support when I face difficulties or feel down. Whether dealing with setbacks, navigating uncertainty, or managing stress, their presence and understanding offer a source of comfort.

Strategic Planning and Problem-Solving: When confronted with complex challenges, my supporters step in to collaborate on strategic planning. We engage in brainstorming sessions, analyzing various angles of the issue, and identifying potential solutions. Their diverse perspectives and insights often shed light on aspects I might not have considered.

Have you experienced impostor syndrome and, if so, how have you overcome it? Yes I have, I used the three ways below to overcome:

1. Celebrate Achievements: Keep a record of your accomplishments, whether big or small. Reflect on your progress and acknowledge your successes, reinforcing your sense of competence.

2. Talk About It: Open up to trusted friends, mentors, or colleagues about your impostor feelings. Often, discussing your experiences can provide perspective and validation, helping you realize you’re not alone.

3. Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid setting overly high expectations for yourself. Break down tasks into manageable steps and set achievable goals, allowing you to track your progress.

What do you do to get unstuck and stay motivated? To maintain motivation and avoid burnout, I recognize the importance of giving myself a break. Taking regular breaks is essential for my well-being and productivity. I follow a structured routine that includes scheduled breaks throughout my workday. These breaks allow me to step away from tasks, clear my mind, and recharge .During breaks, I practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or a short walk. These moments of mindfulness help reduce stress and increase focus.

What are your self-care non-negotiables? Sleep: Ensuring an adequate amount of quality sleep is essential for overall well-being and functioning. Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical activity, whether through exercise, yoga, or stretching, contributes to physical health and mental well-being.

Healthy Nutrition: Consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients provides the necessary energy and sustenance for the body.

Mental Breaks: Taking breaks from work or daily routines to clear the mind, practice mindfulness, or engage in relaxation techniques is crucial.

Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I see myself as a thriving entrepreneur who has successfully launched and established my own company, while also living a fulfilling life on a farm. This dual pursuit reflects my ambition, passion for innovation, and desire for a balanced lifestyle.

TRIBUTE TO ALL WOMEN!!

“You want to be inspired –that’s what this book is. Story after story of inspirational women and SupportHER™ allies. Transformational and something that everyone should read. Women are driving change!”

IN A WORLD CONSTANTLY CHANGING, THERE IS ALWAYS AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN, UNLEARN, AND LEARN AGAIN BY INTERCHANGING BETWEEN THE ROLE OF A MENTEE AND BECOMING THE MENTOR TO OTHERS

– Lani Kane-Hanan

[ PAVING THE WAY FOR LEADERS ]

PAVING THE WAY FOR FUTURE LEADERS

By Lani Kane-Hanan

At an early age, Lani Kane-Hanan knew she wanted to be a future leader in the hospitality industry. Inspired by her grandfather’s legacy as the GM of a historic Kansas City hotel, Lani gained a profound understanding of client-centric hospitality. The hotel, built in 1925, was the largest apartment styled hotel in the city and ahead of its time. It was designed by pioneering architect Nelle Peters, one of the few female architects of her time, who showed Lani that you could truly accomplish anything that you set your mind to!

With the inspiration from these two role models in her life, and love of the industry, Lani completed her B.S. and M.S. in Hospitality Management from Florida International University (FIU)- Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. She later served as an adjunct professor there, and on their Executive Advisory Board. Now as a valued member of the Executive Advisory Board, where she imparts invaluable real-world insights to future industry leaders, Lani is passionate about mentorship and educates future graduates on the importance of leadership, integrity, ethics, and giving back to others.

an estimated 10% of executive-level positions, such as the CEO, being held by women in the hospitality industry, Lani was inspired to become the co-founder and past president of Women in the Industry (WIN), a subcommittee under ARDA that focuses on inclusion, mentorship, and networking to help those entering the field of hospitality. As a mother herself, Lani knows firsthand the challenges women face while balancing work-life commitments, and (WIN) was an important milestone that established a foundation for women to advocate, educate, provide resources, encourage philanthropy, and support other women in their careers.

In addition, Lani is a Board Member of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA)’s Castell Forward Project, an initiative designed to empower young women in hospitality. Throughout Lani’s career, her passion for mentorship is one element of her legacy and is echoed in her recent interview on DEI Advisors, where she discussed the importance of becoming a mentee and mentor at every level of your career.

From her early experiences, Lani also learned the impact that creating a special place for a child could have on their lives. Her time spent in the hotel she loved with her grandfather led her to become a Board Member for the South Florida chapter of Make-A-Wish, an organization that grants wishes and creates special places for children with life threatening illnesses.

Lani is also an active member of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) and serves on their Board of Directors and Foundation Board. With only ...established a foundation for women to advocate, educate, provide resources, encourage philanthropy, and support other women in their careers

With over 25 years of experience in the travel and leisure industry, Lani was selected for the team responsible for forming Marriott Vacations Worldwide (MVW), a spinoff of the well-known Marriott hotels that operates as its own standalone public company. She went on to hold numerous leadership roles there including the EVP and Chief Development and Product Officer where she focused on growth initiatives through the development of reimagined products, resorts, brands, experiences, and partnerships.

In 2023, Lani embarked on her newest journey and became the CEO of Open Network Exchange (ONE), a global leader in digital business solutions amongst the travel, hospitality, retail and financial

sectors. Lani’s open and transparent leadership style created an instant connection with the employees at ONE. Often times, Lani can be seen on roller skates motivating the team and publishes a regular communication known as ‘Lani’s Lane,’ using custom jingles and poems to infuse creativity and joy into the workplace.

There is no milestone that cannot be achieved when a leader operates with passion, purpose, and relentless pursuit of excellence for their clients, associates, and shareholders.

In Lani’s inaugural year at ONE, she has led the team to achieve record breaking sales resulting in a 450% increase in revenue growth from the prior year while also receiving the 2023 CX Excellence Award by NICE for ONE’s commitment towards supporting their customers. In addition, with ONE’s incredible growth, Lani and the company’s founders secured a new 70,000 square foot building that includes state-ofthe-art technology with a private fitness center, basketball court, locker rooms, and collaboration spaces to provide employees an environment to thrive.

As CEO, Lani champions an inclusive culture, where everyone feels valued. In today’s world, it is important to embrace different perspectives to create forward thinking strategies to be ahead of the game. There is no milestone that cannot be achieved when a leader operates with passion, purpose, and relentless pursuit of excellence for their clients, associates, and shareholders.

This year, ONE continues to experience record breaking sales months and is projected to reach new milestones thanks to the team’s ability to embrace the power of team unity, ONE’s reputation for excellence, new additions to the leadership team, employee appreciation initiatives, and infusing fun team building activities to enhance the company’s culture. Given Lani’s leadership skills and past accomplishments, there is no surprise that she was recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Miami for 2023, 2024, and will continue to make headlines for years to come!

INCLUSIVE LEAD HER™ SERIES

SupportHER™ Certification | Leadership Development

SupportHER™ enables organizations to develop inclusive leaders and support a workplace culture of diversity, inclusion and equity where all women feel seen, heard and valued. Our programs are designed and facilitated to engage participants and encourage participation. The models are created intended to build on prior leading as part of certification or stand alone. Certification available for completion of all modules. Custom workshops and coaching available.

MODULE 1: Being a SupportHER™

• Discuss the Top 10 Challenges that women face in the workplace

• Identify ways to create a culture that supports women and enables allyship

• Understand the importance of having Mentors, Coaches and Sponsors

MODULE 2: Inclusive LeadHER™

• Discuss challenges that women face in the workplace

• Examine how to build women up through professional development and leadership

• Identify ways to be an ally and SupportHER™

MODULE 3: Raising the Bar for Diversity & Inclusion

• Address unconscious bias and microaggressions towards women

• Discuss ways to demonstrate inclusive leadership

• Examine internal processes, policies and procedures to maximize diverse talent

MODULE 4: BrandHER™

• Discuss roles, responsibilities, challenges and opportunities

• Discuss opportunities for women to leverage their skills and expertise to build through leadership

• Discuss ways to demonstrate thought leadership

• Identify ways to develop your thought leadership voice and branding

Module 5: IncludeHER™

• Discover the conclusive workplace undercurrents that create toxic environments

• Learn what is normalized by leadership and influencers that leads to behaviours of fitting in

• Discover five scientifically proven workplace tested inclusion and belonging tactics

• Examine the practical communication for leaders to positively impact the workplace

We are championing for women in our networks, communities and workplaces!

Together We Are Stronger!

Everyone can play a role to promote gender equality. The Universal Womens Network™ works with like-minded individuals and companies committed to moving the needle to advance women! Become a visible SupportHER™. Contact us to learn about Sponsorship opportunities for the Women of Inspiration™ Awards. Become a Corporate Member. Become SupportHER™ Certified!

• Certification Program

• SupportHER™ Membership

• SupportHER™ – Champion Council

• Women of Inspiration™ Awards –Nominate a SupportHER™!

• Sponsorship

• Nominate a Top Company - Equity, Diversity & Inclusion SupportHER™ Champion

Become a Visible Champion and SupportHER™ universalwomensnetwork.com

Everyone Plays a Role to SupportHER™

International SupportHER™ Day takes place on the first Friday in June, annually. While the day itself may pass by, today is the perfect opportunity to be a visible SupportHER™.

According to the United Nations Progress on the Sustainability Development Goals, it will take 286 years to close the global gender gap.

Women’s representation in positions of power and decision-making remains below parity.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED?

Become a Visible SupportHER™.

Whether you are an individual, a business, or an organization, your involvement can make a significant difference. Here are some ways to take immediate action:

• Cultivate a SupportHER Culture of Inclusivity –Establish an environment that values gender equality and diverse leadership, where all voices and perspectives are respected and included. Ensuring a safe space for women is crucial.

• Lead by Example – Encourage men in leadership positions to set the precedent by advocating for women in their networks, workplaces, and communities. Demonstrating behaviors that endorse gender equality is essential.

• Model Supportive Behaviors – Urge men to speak up, support, and address inappropriate conduct. Act as an advocate when women are not present.

• CEO Statement and Influential Leadership –When leaders in influential decision-making roles endorse gender equality and women's advancement, it establishes the organization's stance and showcases its dedication to women's progress.

• SupportHER through Action – Provide opportunities for women to advance in their careers or businesses. Offer references, testimonials, and demonstrate your backing. Invest in their enterprises, purchase their products or services.

• Share Your Commitment – Use social media platforms to share your commitment to gender equality. Amplify the voices of women and advocate for their advancement. #SupportHER

• Invest in Education and Training – Allocate resources to education and training to eliminate existing biases.

• Engage Men in Conversations – Promote collaborative leadership where men and women work together. Encouraging men's involvement encourages others to participate.

• Promote Open Dialogue – Advocate for ongoing open discussions where every voice is valued. Sustaining dialogues is crucial.

• Acknowledge and Celebrate Male Allies – Recognizing individuals, both men and women, dedicated to gender equality sets a positive example. Observing leaders championing gender equality and women's rights encourages others to follow suit.

• Support Women-Owned Businesses –Demonstrate your support by investing in women-owned businesses.

• Showcase Leadership – When we see it, we can be it. Showcasing men in leadership roles to sharing their experiences provides a powerful opportunity for empowerment and continuous learnings and a pathway for others to follow.

• Create Opportunities for Women – Opportunities are available for women in underrepresented sectors. Lead visibly in your field as a supporter of women. Regardless of the industry, there are chances to inspire change.

• Celebrate Success Stories – Highlight and celebrate the achievements of women in your network and workplace. Sharing the success stories inspires others and reinforces the importance of gender equality.

• Establish Policies and Initiatives – Men play an important role to create, support and promote policies and initiatives to promote gender equality, level the playing for pay equity, equal opportunities for women to progress and further their careers and create a safe workplaces and environments where everyone thrives.

• Advocate for Policy Change – Engage with policymakers to advocate for laws and regulations that promote gender equality. Support initiatives that aim to eliminate barriers for women in the workforce.

• Mentor and Sponsor Women – Offer mentorship or sponsorship to women in your network. Provide guidance, share your expertise, and open doors to new opportunities. Male allies can provide valuable insights, access to key networks and experiences that can pave the way for future leaders to rise.

• Collaborate with Women-Led Initiatives –Partner with organizations and initiatives that support women's progress and engage men to the conversation. Collaboration amplifies efforts and creates a greater impact.

• Panels, Workshops and Trainings – Organize events focused on gender equality, leadership development, and empowerment. Provide a platform for women together with men to learn, grow, and connect.

DID YOU KNOW?

91.2% OF FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES CEOs ARE MEN*

76% OF ALL C-SUITE DECISION-MAKING POSITIONS ARE OCCUPIED BY MEN*

Join us in welcoming men to be a part of the solution and take meaningful steps to promote the advancement of women.

Imagine the impact if each person takes one action to support women!

*According to a recent finding in Fast Company

WHY SUPPORTHER?

• Empowering Women Empowers All – When women succeed, communities and economies benefit. Gender equality is not just a women's issue; it is a societal and economic imperative.

• Building Sustainable Futures – Achieving gender parity is essential for sustainable development. By supporting women, we pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for everyone.

• Enhancing Innovation and Creativity – Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, leading to more innovative solutions and creative problem-solving. Supporting women in leadership roles drives progress and out-ofthe-box thinking.

• Fostering Inclusive Workplaces – Inclusive workplaces where women thrive are more productive and harmonious. Encouraging gender diversity fosters a culture of respect, collaboration, and mutual support.

• Global Impact – Your support transcends borders. By promoting gender equality, you contribute to global progress and solidarity, helping to bridge the gender gap worldwide.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL SUPPORTHER™ DAY

International SupportHER™ Day, founded in 2023, by Monica Kretschmer, CEO, Universal Womens Network™ and Women of Inspiration™ Awards to engage everyone to play a role to SupportHER™. The Universal Womens Network™ is on a mission to unlock the ripple to advance women and welcome men to the conversation as SupportHER champions. In 2018, she coined the lexicon, SupportHER™ as a word to promote male allies championing women in their networks, workplaces and communities. The Universal Womens Network™ partners with companies committed to engaging allies as SupportHERs through media, events, awards and programing.

International SupportHER™ Day is an opportunity to take action to champion for a woman to succeed.

It is more than a moment, it is a movement to inspire change, pave the way for future leaders and close the gender gap!

We invite you to become a visible SupportHER™ as an Individual or corporate founding partner.

Together, we can create a world where every woman has the opportunity to succeed.

By becoming a visible SupportHER™, you join a movement that is dedicated to closing the gender gap and fostering a future where everyone thrives.

Join us today as an individual or corporate founding partner and be a catalyst for change.

Interested in being a visible SupportHER™ Partner?

Contact: monica@universalwomensnetwork.com

Visit: universalwomensnetwork.com

Together we are stronger.

Monica Kretschmer Founder and CEO, Universal Womens Network™, Women of Inspiration™ Awards, SupportHER™

SupportHER™ Spotlight

Tell us about your story. What inspired you to start your business? My journey into jewelry design began during a trip to South Africa. The vibrant culture and stunning landscapes ignited my passion for creating pieces that capture elegance and the spirit of adventure. When I returned to Canada, I was determined to build a brand that not only reflected my experiences but also stood for quality craftsmanship and timeless style. I started my business with the goal of designing jewelry that empowers individuals to express their unique style and confidence.

Where do you find your inspiration? I draw inspiration from my travels, art, architecture, and the incredible women I meet. Every collection begins with a story or a place that has left a profound impact on me. My aim is to create pieces that resonate on a personal level with each wearer, evoking a sense of uniqueness and confidence.

DEAN DAVIDSON

Tell us about your goals or key initiatives you are excited about. I am excited about our initiative to dive deeper into the soul of our company through a rebrand that will launch this fall. This rebrand represents more than just a visual overhaul; it is a comprehensive effort to align our company's identity with our core values, mission, and vision for the future. Additionally, we plan to create a mentorship program for aspiring female jewelry designers, providing them with the tools and guidance to succeed in the industry.

Why is celebrating the achievements of women important to you? Celebrating the achievements of women is crucial because it acknowledges their contributions and inspires future generations. Women's successes often pave the way for others to follow, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. By highlighting these achievements, we not only honor the individuals but also promote a culture of equality and empowerment.

CEO and Designer, Dean Davidson

2023 Women of Inspiration™ SupportHER Award

I draw inspiration from my travels, art, architecture, and the incredible women I meet.

How does it feel to be recognized as a SupportHER™ (male Allie)? It is an incredible honor to be recognized as a SupportHER. This acknowledgment reinforces my commitment to advocating for gender equality and supporting women in all aspects of life. Being a male ally means actively participating in the conversation and taking concrete steps to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Tell us about a Woman of Inspiration who inspires you? One Woman of Inspiration who continually inspires me is my mother. Her resilience, creativity, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping who I am today. She taught me the importance of hard work, compassion, and the belief that anything is possible with determination and dedication.

By supporting each other and standing together, we can make meaningful strides towards a more inclusive future.

Men hold 95% of positions of power in Fortune companies; how can we encourage more men to speak up and be visible SupportHERs? Encouraging more men to speak up and be visible SupportHERs starts with education and awareness. Men need to understand the challenges women face and recognize their role in addressing these issues. Companies can facilitate this by promoting gender diversity, offering training on unconscious bias, and creating platforms for men to actively participate in diversity and inclusion initiatives. Publicly celebrating male allies who support gender equality can also inspire others to follow suit.

How do you see men playing a more significant role in advancing women? Men can play a more significant role in advancing women by using their positions of influence to advocate for equal opportunities and fair treatment. This includes mentoring women, sponsoring female talent, and ensuring women's voices are heard in decisionmaking processes. By challenging discriminatory practices and promoting a culture of respect and inclusion, men can help create a more equitable landscape for everyone.

Tell us about the female role models who have inspired you? Who are your biggest SupportHERs? Alongside my mother, other female role models who have inspired me include the many women who have supported me on this journey. They are a big part of the reason for my success today. My biggest SupportHERs include my team, many of whom are talented women who bring diverse perspectives and strengths to our work.

As a SupportHER™, why is it important for men to be part of the conversation? It is crucial for men to be part of the conversation because gender equality affects everyone. Men's participation helps to break down traditional gender roles and promotes a more balanced and inclusive society. When men stand alongside women in the fight for equality, it amplifies the message and accelerates progress, ensuring that the responsibility for change is shared.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who leads by example, breaking barriers and defying odds with grace and determination. She is a trailblazer who empowers others through her actions, words, and achievements, inspiring both women and men to strive for greatness and advocate for equality.

Would you like to add anything else? I'd like to add that the journey toward gender equality is a collective effort. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger goal of creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. By supporting each other and standing together, we can make meaningful strides towards a more inclusive future.

Proud partner for the Women of Inspiration Awards.

Duane Gibson, aka D.O., is a two-time Guinness World Record-setting rapper, author, music executive and motivational speaker who has inspired hundreds of thousands of youth since 2001. He set a Guinness World Record by freestyling for 8 hours and 45 minutes and has performed worldwide, performing multiple tours in Asia, Europe, United States and touring nationally in Canada.

Gibson has performed more than 3500 shows at schools across Canada. In 2023, D.O. completed a 100-show cross-Canada Black Canadian history school tour, including a virtual conference, which was attended by over one hundred thousand youth from across Canada.

As a music executive, Gibson has helped over fifty artists secure hundreds of grants for recording and touring and coordinated over one hundred performance opportunities for artists internationally. D.O. has had Snoop Dogg provide him with freestyle topics, had several videos play on MuchMusic, and Drake even appeared in one.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

I think a Woman of Inspiration is someone who leads with courage and compassion and continues to break barriers to reach higher levels, which in turn helps encourage more young women. But she also helps inspire men to be better and to be part of the solution, realizing that we aren’t that much different and that together, we can make the World a better place for a young generation of men and women.

D.O. GIBSON

What inspired you to start your business? Ever since I was a kid, I had a love of Hip-Hop music and wanted to be a rapper. But in the 90’s it wasn’t common for a Canadian kid from a small town to be able to achieve this dream. I learned I wanted to start my business during university when I started producing mixtape CD’s out of my dorm room. I sold those to students and started reading books on the industry and attending industry events. It was on a trip to Cannes, France to attend a music conference where I met Chuck D from the iconic group Public Enemy who gave me priceless advice – the music industry was changing due to technology, and that the best way to achieve success as an artist in the 21st century was by taking charge of your career and building your own label – so that’s what I did.

Why is celebrating the achievements of women important to you? I’m reminded by 2pac’s lyrics on “Keep Your Head Up” - And since we all came from a woman. Got our name from a woman and our game from a woman… Time to heal our women, be real to our women.”

World Record-Setting Rapper, Author, Music Executive and Motivational Speaker

2023 Women of Inspiration™ SupportHER Award

a Woman of Inspiration... also helps inspire men to be better and to be part of the solution, realizing that we aren’t that much different and that together, we can make the World a better place for a young generation of men and women.

2Pac has always been one of my favorite rappers and I love this lyric because sometimes

people incorrectly assume that most Hip-Hop is misogynistic. I’ve chosen the 2pac approach because I think it’s important to honour women and their accomplishments.

How does it feel to be recognized as a SupportHER? It was amazing! I appreciated being recognized because it was unexpected – I wasn’t thinking that I would receive an award. I think that most people are similar to me – you do the work but don’t expect to be celebrated, so when it happens it is a great feeling. And only makes you want to do more work.

Men hold 95% of positions of power in Fortune companies; how can we encourage more men to speak up and be visible SupportHERs? I think the word “allie” is so powerful because I find men don’t realize that they can be part of the solution. I think that by highlighting men that are SupportHER’s has the ability to be a domino effect in helping inspire more young men to play a key role in speaking up.

Tell us about a Woman of Inspiration who inspires you? It’s hard to name one! But I have to say Viola Desmond. I get a chance to tell her story almost every day to students across the country. It is such a powerful story – how she sat down at a movie theatre to stand up against segregation. I love being able to tell youth how she was an entrepreneur – selling beauty products and starting a school to help young hairdressers. I think she’s a great example for young women around the world.

Tell us about the female role models in your world? I am fortunate to have many female role models in my family. I would have to start with my mom. She always encouraged me to read, which was important for me to have more role models. There are so many strong women in my family that I feel blessed to be able to look to them. I wrote Appreciate Ya for all the women.

Appreciate Ya

I was raised by a strong woman

She taught me to grow and listen

Be wise with my decisions…

I remember she was doin’ courses

‘till the time that we got the mortgage

Maybe its ‘cause that I’m getting older

Thinkin’ every they told ya

Everything that you owe, yeah

Shout to all mothers

Helpin’ us to be strong brothers

Can’t wait for the next wine sippin’

Remicin’… exchanging stories of when we each children

I wish there was a way to pay you back

So I all I wanted to do is to say

Dear momma, you my Afeni

A white woman raised a strong black man, feel me?

I don’t know what else to say to ya…

Except I appreciate ya...

Tell us about the background of the Canada Women’s Expo. What inspired you to get involved? The Canada Women’s Expo, formerly known as the West Coast Women’s Show, has been held at TRADEX in Abbotsford since 2001. Over the years, it has grown to become the largest women’s event in Western Canada and the second largest in Canada – selected for Tradeshow Weeks 2007, 2008 and 2009 lists of 50 Fastest-Growing Shows in North America; and frequently appearing on BizBash’s Top 100 Events in Vancouver list.

This year, we are excited to expand to Calgary, marking a significant milestone in our journey. Our company is owned by a husband-and-wife team with event experience dating back to Expo 86.

I got involved with the event in 2016 when my fiancée’s parents, the owners, needed a new website. With a background in Computer Science, I jumped in to help and quickly learned everything there was to know about the event. Eight years later, I am deeply committed to our mission.

Tell us about your vision and goals for the event?

In the past, we have had the pleasure of hosting speakers such as Cheryl Hickey, Tessa Virtue, Stephanie Labbe, Bif Naked, and Anna Olson. While we have always included diverse female speakers covering a range of important topics, we have recognized a significant gap in the market for

ROBERT HALLAHAN

accessible, meaningful, and empowering content tailored to a diverse range of women.

High-priced women’s summits and conferences often exclude the majority of women who could benefit the most from such content. For instance, a recent summit in Whistler was priced at $2,000 per ticket, making it inaccessible for many.

In response, we are shifting our focus to expand this empowering content alongside our traditional consumer show elements. Our goal is to create a joint summit and consumer show, maintaining the fun and engaging atmosphere while introducing a broader range of diverse female speakers on multiple stages. These speakers will cover crucial topics such as women’s empowerment, health, entrepreneurship, menopause, mental health, and financial literacy.

We are committed to keeping our entry price between $10 and $15, ensuring that our event remains accessible to as many women as possible –every presentation on every stage is included in the price of admission. By bringing dozens of female speakers to our event, we aim to inspire and motivate women facing various challenges, ensuring they know they are not alone and that there is a community ready to support them.

Show Manager, Canada Women’s Expo

Canadawomensexpo.com

By bringing dozens of female speakers to our event, we aim to inspire and motivate women facing various challenges, ensuring they know they are not alone and that there is a community ready to support them.

Additionally, 90% of our exhibitors are SMEs owned or operated by women, highlighting our commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and small business owners.

We are thrilled to partner with the Universal Womens Network™ because their mission closely aligns with our own goals of celebrating and advancing female entrepreneurship.

What excites you about having the Universal Womens Network as a partner? We are thrilled to partner with the Universal Womens Network™ because their mission closely aligns with our own goals of celebrating and advancing female entrepreneurship. Both of our organizations are dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible platform for all women to connect, grow, and thrive. The partnership with UWN enhances our ability to provide a supportive environment that not only empowers women in business and leadership but also offers an entertaining and fun event. Furthermore, this collaboration presents an incredible opportunity for both organizations to enhance each other’s visibility and expand our collective reach and impact, fostering a community committed to gender equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Men hold 95% of positions of power in Fortune companies; how can we encourage more men to speak up and be visible SupportHERs? At the Canada Women’s Expo, we embody the spirit of equality and collaboration in every aspect of our event planning and execution. While my official title is Show Manager, our Show Management Team, which includes Lara and Tracey—our Exhibit Sales Agents—functions on an egalitarian basis. Titles aside, we make decisions collectively, run ideas by each other, and ensure that every voice carries equal weight. Our weekly meetings and daily calls are a testament to this collaborative process.

1. Promote a Collaborative Culture: Men should be encouraged to work in environments that value collaboration and equality. At the Canada Women’s Expo, our Show Management Team operates on the principle that every voice matters equally, regardless of official titles. By fostering a culture where ideas are shared openly and decisions are made collectively, we set a positive example of inclusivity.

2. Lead by Example: Men in leadership roles can demonstrate their support for gender equality through their actions. This includes valuing the contributions of female colleagues and sharing leadership responsibilities. When men visibly support their female colleagues, it sets a powerful precedent.

3. Mentorship and Advocacy: Encouraging men to mentor and advocate for women can significantly impact gender equality. This involves men using their influence to support the advancement of female colleagues, providing guidance, and creating opportunities for their growth.

4. Support and Implement Equitable Policies: Men can advocate for policies that promote gender equality, such as equal pay, flexible working conditions, and transparent career advancement paths. These policies help create a more inclusive workplace.

5. Engage in Open Dialogue: Regular, open conversations about gender equality can help raise awareness and foster a supportive environment. Encouraging men to participate in these discussions can lead to greater understanding and commitment to gender equality.

6. Participate in Training Programs: Organizations can offer training programs that address unconscious biases and educate employees about the importance of gender equality. Men who participate in these programs are better equipped to support their female colleagues effectively.

7. Support from Leadership: Men in top leadership positions need to be vocal supporters of gender equality. Their endorsement can inspire others to follow suit and create a ripple effect throughout the organization.

8. Recognize and Celebrate Male Allies: Highlighting and celebrating men who actively support gender equality can motivate others to do the same. Recognition programs can showcase the positive impact of male allies.

Being a SupportHER™, both personally and professionally, means actively fostering an environment where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a tangible reality.

What does being a SupportHER mean to you personally and professionally? Being a SupportHER™, both personally and professionally, means actively fostering an environment where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a tangible reality. Personally, it involves championing inclusivity, continuously educating myself on gender issues, and supporting the women in my life through mentorship and advocacy. Professionally, it translates to collaborative leadership within our Show Management Team, where every voice is valued equally, regardless of title. It also includes promoting equitable policies, engaging in open dialogues about gender biases, and celebrating the achievements of women in our industry. This holistic approach not only enhances our organizational culture but also contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society.

How do you see men playing a more significant role in advancing women? Men play a crucial role in promoting women’s advancement by actively engaging in mentorship and advocacy, combating gender biases, and fostering inclusivity. By providing guidance and support to female colleagues through mentorship programs, men can help create pathways for women to thrive professionally. Additionally, challenging workplace stereotypes and advocating for gender equality policies such as fair pay and flexible work schedules are important steps that men can take to promote gender equity. Leading with integrity and cultivating an atmosphere of respect and cooperation are essential strategies for men to contribute effectively towards the progress of women in their careers.

Tell us about the female role models who have inspired you? My biggest inspiration is my wife. She experienced a stroke at age 6 due to an aortic aneurysm and became only the second person in medical history to have a stroke for that reason. Following open-heart surgery, she developed right-sided hemi-dystonia, similar to cerebral palsy.

Despite years of physio, medications, and injections, and being told she would never lead a normal life or have a family, she persevered. At 22, she underwent Deep Brain Stimulation, and two years later, she moved to Scotland alone, where we met. Now, nine years later, we have an almost three-year-old daughter. Her strength, resilience, and refusal to let her disability define her life inspire me daily.

Tell us about a Woman of Inspiration who inspires you? Pamela Pelletier, the Country Leader and Managing Director of Dell Technologies Canada. With a background in technology and an MSc in Computer Science, I am all too aware of how male-dominated the tech industry can be. Tracey, part of our management team, was a Sales Account Executive for three decades in the tech industry – she was often the only woman in the room. Pamela’s dedication to driving sales growth and career development over her 20-year career is impressive, but what truly inspires me is her commitment to inclusivity and the advancement of women in IT. She leads several groups supporting inclusion and equity, including being the executive sponsor for the Dell Canada Women in Action ERG and an ambassador for the Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network.

The Universal Womens Network™ is proud to partner with the Canada Women’s Expo and the Empowerment Stage featuring inspiring conversations with business leaders committed to SupportHER™.

2023 Women of

Inspiration™ Awards

[ 2024 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARDS ]

Women of Inspiration™ Awards recognizes the achievements of women who lead, inspire and motivate across North America. We celebrate women from diverse industries and stages of life along with the allies who SupportHER™.

A Woman of Inspiration™ is an extraordinary woman who inspires those around her to be more and do more. She is an everyday hero, entrepreneur, CEO, business leader, changemaker, game-changer and role model who leads by example with courage, confidence, commitment, and integrity.

A Woman of Inspiration™ is an extraordinary woman who inspires those around her to be more and do more.

She uses her influence and position of power to inspire change. She is admired and respected for her resilience, leadership and humility. She has grit and fights for what she believes in, regardless of the barriers. She isn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves. She ignores the naysayers and fearlessly steps outside of her comfort zone to pave the road for others to follow. A Woman of Inspiration doesn’t wait for opportunities, she creates them!

According to the United Nations Progress on the Sustainability Development Goals, it will take 286 years to close the global gender gap. Women’s representation in positions of power and decision-making remains below parity. By recognizing the accomplishments of women, we value her contribution while inspiring other women to do the same.

This year, we celebrate women inspiring change in their networks, workplaces and communities.

Who is a Woman of Inspiration™?

A Woman of Inspiration™ is a woman who inspires and motivates others through her words, actions, and achievements. She may be someone who has overcome challenges or adversity, or who has made a significant impact as an entrepreneur or leader within in her workplace, community or industry. A Woman of Inspiration™ is admired for her strength, resilience, determination, and leadership. She is seen as a role model and a source of guidance and support for those around her. A Woman of Inspiration™ is someone who leads by example, strives for excellence and demonstrates the ability to inspire and motivate others to be the best versions of themselves.

Why is Celebrating Women Important?

Celebrating women recognizes and honors their achievements and contributions. Recognizing women brings awareness to the contribution women are making in the economy, female entrepreneurship, and in industries underrepresented by women. Recognizing women inspires change for gender equality and challenges societal norms and stereotypes that may limit the potential of women and girls. By recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women, we can work to create a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.

What is a SupportHER™?

SupportHER™s are male champions promoting the success and advancement for women in their networks, workplaces, and communities.

A SupportHER™ is an ally (male or female) who offers guidance, encouragement and resources to help women achieve their goals, build their business or succeed in their careers.

A SupportHER™ is a team player who champions for the inclusion of women in the goals and the vision of the enterprise and who paves the road to empower women in leadership roles.

NOMINATION PROCESS + TIMELINE

Step 1: Nominate or Apply

- Nominate a Woman or SupportHER™

https://universalwomensnetwork.com/womeninspiration/women-of-inspiration-awards/

- Nominate a Company

https://universalwomensnetwork.com/nominatetop-company-equity-diversity-and-inclusionsupporther-champion/

Step 2: Complete the Nomination Package

All Nomination Packages must be submitted by the deadline to be eligible.

Step 3: Purchase your tickets for the Women of Inspiration™ Awards

Learn more: universalwomensnetwork.com

- Selection Committee Judging July – August

- Top Women of Inspiration™ Finalists Announced on September 6

- Women of Inspiration™ Awards + Top Company – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) SupportHER™ Champion Announced on November 7

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARDS ]

Women of Inspiration™ Award Categories

Award Categories (Individual and Company)

Advocate and Catalyst for Change Award

Arts and Entertainment Award

Authentic Leader Award

BIPOC Leader Award

Dream Builder Award

Game Changer Award

Global Impact Award

Icon Award

Influencer Award

Inspire Award

Legend Award

Lifetime Achievement Award

Public Service Award

Rising Leader Award

SupportHER™ (Male Ally) Award

Trailblazer (STEM) Award

Vision Builder Award

Women-Led Award

Women in Media Award

Youth Excellence Award

TOP COMPANY LIST

Nominate a Company Today!

Be a Visible SupportHER and Top Company!

The Top Companies – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) SupportHER™ Champions

List recognizes companies that have demonstrated a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. This award honors industry leaders who are taking meaningful action to create an inclusive culture, promote allyship and support the advancement of women and underrepresented groups.

- Are you a Company that values Equity, Diversity and Inclusion?

- Are you in the process of taking meaningful actions to create an inclusive culture?

- Do you promote allyship and the advancement of women and underrepresented groups?

- Do you want to share your commitment and dedication to the work you are doing but are uncertain of how you can do this?

Apply to be a Top Company and demonstrate that you value initiatives and making change!

Award Criteria – Top Company may be in the Public or the Private sector with a headquarters in Canada. Eligible candidates will show evidence of some or all the following:

- Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion with policies and practices

- Commitment to leading by example with female leaders in senior roles

- Commitment to initiatives to support the advancement of women in decision-making and leadership roles

- Commitment to diverse membership on the board of directors

- Commitment to allyship to create an equitable workplace

Recognize Your Leaders

- Contact us to build your rewards and recognition program as a visible SupportHER.

- Become an event partner!

Learn more: https://universalwomensnetwork. com/nominate-top-company-equity-diversityand-inclusion-supporther-champion/

WHY RECOGNITION MATTERS

Why is it critical to recognize the achievements of women? We need to see female leaders in positions of power as role models to learn from and aspire to be! When we see female entrepreneurs and women in leadership roles, we see what is possible. We inspire hope. When we learn about their journeys, what motivates them, how they overcame barriers and the steps they took along, we are empowered to do the same. When we celebrate their successes, we give permission for others to step into the spotlight and do the same. When we recognize their work, we pave the path for future leaders.

Every woman brings value to the table contributing unique skills, backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. We as women, foster innovation, embrace inclusion and have the power to influence others to do the same.

The Women of Inspiration™ Awards program recognizes inspiring women from diverse backgrounds, industries, and stages of life who lead, inspire and motivate. They have one thing in common. They are role models. They are entrepreneurs, changemakers and business leaders carving their own paths who inspire change.

Study after study shows, that by advancing gender equality and women’s participation in the economy, Canada could add up to $150 billion in GDP by 2026.

According to the World Economic Forum’s 2021 Global Gender Gap Report. The report estimates that it will take an average of 135.6 years for women and men to reach parity on a range of factors worldwide, instead of the 99.5 years outlined in the 2020 report.

Elevating, recognizing, and investing in women in leadership is critical. We cannot wait.

Recognizing a woman:

- Validates her worth and the impact she makes

- Builds credibility in her industry

- Paves the path for others

- Elevates her thought leadership

- Reconfirms she is on the right path and builds confidence

- Encourages other women to start business or leadership roles

- Brings awareness to industries underrepresented by women

- Inspires our future generation of young women

- Enables others to learn from her journey, wisdom and experiences

- Connects her with other change makers, visionaries

- Provides her with new opportunities and connections

- Provides local, national, and global visibility.

- Empower others to dream big

- Elevates the diversity of culture, backgrounds, and industries

- Creates part of her legacy

- Motivates her to keep going

- Representation matters - when we celebrate one woman, we celebrate all women

We all play a role to SupportHER™. The collective voices of people in our networks, our families, and our teams play a critical role to advance women personally and professionally. Let her know you VALUE her contribution. SupportHER™ on her journey! Nominate a woman or SupportHER™ (Male Ally) who we need to know about!

Visit: universalwomensnetwork.com

Selection Committee

As the chair and co-chair of the Women of Inspiration™ (WOI) Awards Selection Committee, it is our distinct honour to acknowledge all who played a role in the selection process and extend our heartfelt gratitude. While the task of evaluating so many outstanding nominees is never an easy one, your collective efforts have ensured that our choices reflect the highest standards of quality and integrity.

We begin by acknowledging the dedication each WOI committee member has shown throughout this journey spending countless volunteer hours reviewing applications. Your mindful deliberations and your attention to details underscore your unwavering pledge to recognize the remarkable women who inspire us all and the SupportHERs who champion them. Your diverse perspectives and insights have enriched our decision-making process. For this, we are profoundly grateful.

To the WOI nominees, we extend our admiration and respect. You each represent a beacon of courage as you bravely step into the spotlight. Reading the stories of your achievements, your perseverance in the face of challenges, and your relentless pursuit of success was inspiring. You have demonstrated what is possible to achieve through hard work and determination. While we could not choose everyone to be an award winner, the letters of support you shared show your contributions have not gone unnoticed, and they have significantly enriched the fabric of success for women everywhere.

To the 2023 Women of Inspiration™ award winners, we say congratulations! The strength of your accomplishments stands as a testament to what can be achieved through exceptional leadership and vision. May you experience continued success and may you rise to mentor others as you navigate toward your goals and your future successes. May you always be a source of inspiration.

While our selection work as a committee is about recognizing individual achievements, it is also about honoring the collective contributions of women who inspire and lead. It is about acknowledging the impact inspiring women are having on their communities, industries, and the world at large. We applaud the women whose example challenges stereotypes and creates opportunities for women everywhere.

In closing, we are active members of the Universal Womens Network and the WOI awards alumni with our own stories, award-winning and international status. We reiterate our deepest gratitude to the selection committee team for the time and dedication to serve. To the nominees and award winners, thank you for your participation, and your commitment to stand up and stand out. You are the embodiment of inspiration, and we are certain your stories will continue to motivate and empower women for generations to come.

With sincere appreciation and warmest regards,

Donna Dahl and Patricia Gagic

When we recognize leaders in positions of power, we empower others to see what is possible. Congratulations to our Award winners and thank you to our dedicated Selection Committee for inspiring change!

– Monica Kretschmer

Donna Dahl

Master Empowerment

Coach - Chair, WOI Selection Committee

2016 Woman of Inspiration™ Lifetime Achievement Award

Patricia Gagic

International ArtistCo-Chair, WOI Selection Committee

2020 Woman of Inspiration™ Lifetime Achievement Award

Kyla Lee

Lawyer, Acumen Law Corporation

2019 Women of Inspiration Indigenous Leader Award

Siobhan Calderbank

Managing Director of Talent, AIMCo.

2019 Women of Inspiration Diversity and Inclusion Award

Rhonda Goldberg

Founder, Oh! Naturals

2019 Women of Inspiration Inspire Award

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

ADVOCATE & CATALYST FOR CHANGE AWARD CHLOE DUBOIS

Ocean Legacy Foundation, Co-founder and Executive Director

A Woman of Inspiration is a woman who has scarified and continue to give their lives for freedom and the acquisition of basic human rights, to those who lead with compassion, curiosity and empathy.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

ADVOCATE & CATALYST FOR CHANGE AWARD DR. PARUL DUA MAKKAR

PDM Family Dental, Dentist

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who has overcome challenges and preserved. One who isn’t afraid to show her downfalls, vulnerabilities and knows how to rise from adversity. One who stays grounded and helps others along the way to rise above.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

ADVOCATE & CATALYST FOR CHANGE AWARD HEATHER MCWILLIAM

Brave Inspires Brave, Founder and CEO

A Woman of Inspiration knows that success arrives on the other side of the mountains we climb. She knows the value in herself and those around her are equal and that together we are stronger. She sees the best in others and believes in the good of humanity.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

ADVOCATE & CATALYST FOR CHANGE AWARD KATLYN KOTILA

Northern Ontario Pride Connection, Co-Founder

A Woman of Inspiration embodies the remarkable power to uplift others through her exceptional talents, fostering an environment where individuals thrive and reach their full potential. She serves as a role model within her community setting an example for others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

ADVOCATE & CATALYST FOR CHANGE AWARD ESTHER IJEWERE

Women of Rubies, Founder

A Woman of Inspiration is simply a woman who can fill someone with the desire or urge to do something significant. It’s a woman who appreciates life and creates a better world for others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

ADVOCATE AND CATALYST FOR CHANGE SALLY ZHAO

The Immigrant Education Society, President and Chief Executive Officer

A Woman of Inspiration does not have to do with her tangible success, but rather, her ability to incite positive change by encouraging and supporting others. She is an ever-evolving being, who acknowledges others with empathy and understanding

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ ADVOCATE AND CATALYST FOR CHANGE SONA SHAH

My Private Professor, LLC, CEO and Founder

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who is audaciously authentic and optimistic. She is an individual who overcomes challenges and rises to create and seize opportunities. She is a woman who leads with love, compassion and grace.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ ADVOCATE AND CATALYST FOR CHANGE VALPRESIOUS HAM-DAVIS

Flowers Education Health & Fitness and Brightbloom Centers, Executive Director, Operations Director

A Woman of Inspiration is a woman who lives firmly in her purpose and encourages the people around her to do the same.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD PRESENTED BY CIBC ALANNA FONSECA

Cronos Group Inc., Vice President, Marketing and Innovation, North America

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who lifts other women up and is willing to ensure their values are heard and reflected in the workplace and throughout their careers.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD PRESENTED BY CIBC

CHANDRA

DONELSON

Unites States Air Force, Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer

A Woman of Inspiration is being unapologetically me and having the courage to take the first step. She is a remarkable individual who embodies strength, resilience, and compassion, uplifting those around her through her actions, achievements, and character.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD PRESENTED BY CIBC ERINN PILLER

TikTok, Head of Business Marketing.

A Woman of Inspiration is a leader in the everyday, not just in the moments that matter. She inspires those around her to bring their best selves, to strive to bring the best version of themselves to work and to life every single day.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD PRESENTED BY CIBC GINA IZUMI

SAP Canada, Senior Vice President Sales, SAP Canada Growth Markets

A Woman of Inspiration is an individual who uses her expertise, leadership, and personal qualities to inspire, motivate and shape the world around her. She possesses a strong sense of purpose, determination and resilience.

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD

PRESENTED BY CIBC HELEN MIX

Boardwalk REIT, Vice President, People

A Woman of Inspiration is one who doesn’t let barriers get in her way no matter how difficult they may seem. She continues to pursue her dreams even when everyone tells her there is no way she can achieve them.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD

PRESENTED BY CIBC

JAIME RAYMOND

Square One Shopping Centre Security, Security Manager

A Woman of Inspiration emanates strength and purpose by believing in themselves and others. They demonstrate empathy, encouragement and the support of others, while breaking down barriers and thinking outside the box. Glass ceilings are meant to be broken.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD

PRESENTED BY CIBC

NATALIE HOLLOWAY

Danone Inc., Vice President of Insights, Strategy and Transformation

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who is unapologetically herself. Someone that has grown and accomplished many things, but who has done it with grace and humbleness, not off the backs of others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD

PRESENTED BY CIBC

REBECCA PANG

RBC, Vice President

A Woman of Inspiration is not defined by her accomplishments alone, but also by her character and values. Someone who is passionate about making a positive impact on the world and takes action to make a difference.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

AUTHENTIC LEADER AWARD

PRESENTED BY CIBC

SHARON GREHAN

Gilead Sciences, Executive Director

Business Strategy & Operations

Global Lead for Women at Gilead

Women of Inspiration genuinely care about others, make them feel valued and give them the confidence, motivation and support to overcome challenges. They approach changing the world through inspiring one person after another.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ BIPOC LEADER AWARD

DIANA CUERVO

Blackstone, Principal

A Woman of Inspiration leads by example with dignity, resilience, drive, a strong work ethic, and empathy. She’s humble but recognizes her incredible abilities as a woman, and she always stands up, supports, and encourages other women.

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INFLUENCER AWARD

LAUREN CASTELINO

Green Career Centre, Executive Director

A Woman of Inspiration is determined, passionate, and fearless. She stands up for herself and her cause, displaying creativity, kindness, and resilience. Her actions uplift others and leave a positive impact. She serves as a role model, inspiring others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ BIPOC LEADER AWARD

MICHELLE GIBSON-MORGAN

Pathways, Senior Manager - Learning (Head of Learning and Development)

A Woman of Inspiration is a leader, influencer, role model and encourager. For me, it signifies uplifting and impacting the personal and professional lives of persons in my spheres of influence. Even without formal titles.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ SUPPORTHER™ (ALLIE) AWARD

ANNA HILBERRY

National Bank Financial, Wealth Management Advisor, Portfolio Manager

A Woman of Inspiration busts through barriers like they don’t exist, a woman who’s not afraid to be herself. She’s a person that leads by example and inspires others to shine. Everyone is better for knowing her.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ SUPPORTHER™ (ALLIE) AWARD

D.O. GIBSON

Rapper, Motivational Speaker

A Woman of Inspiration leads with courage and compassion and continues to break barriers to reach higher levels and in turn encourages other young women. She helps inspire men to be better and to be part of the solution.

WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ BIPOC LEADER AWARD

ECC Hive Inc. Co Founder and CEO

A Woman of Inspiration is someone whose impact is the light that is illuminating and empowering the tribe.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ SUPPORTHER™ (ALLIE) AWARD

DEAN DAVIDSON

Dean Davidson, Designer and Owner

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who leads by example, breaking barriers and defying odds with grace and determination. She is a trailblazer who empowers others through her actions, words, and achievements, inspiring both women and men to strive for greatness.

2023

SANCHARI SEN RAI

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

SUPPORTHER™ (ALLIE) AWARD ERIC MAFFERT

Danone, Senior Marketing Director

A Woman of Inspiration defends a strong, unique, singular and eye-opening and game-changer opinion that generates a change through her words or actions. She has a strong determination to fight for justice and defy the status quo.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ SUPPORTHER™ (ALLIE) AWARD JONATHAN DUROCHER

National Bank Financial Wealth Management, President

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ SUPPORTHER™ (ALLIE) AWARD MARIE-EVE LEMIEUX-ROY

Danone, Director of Scale and Shopper Marketing

A Woman of Inspiration empowers women by being an ally for equality and opportunity for women. She inspires other women by her leadership inside and outside of the organization and celebrates other women’s achievements.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ SUPPORTHER™ (ALLIE) AWARD NARINE DAT SOOKRAM

Clinical Private Practice, Social Worker, Psychotherapist

A Woman of Inspiration is a woman who respects her values and does the greatest job in the world, such as being stay-at-home mom, cooking, cleaning, and making sure that everyone else is okay. She fragile yet strong.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ TOP COMPANY - EQUITY, DIVERSITY, INCLUSION SUPPORTHER™ CHAMPION PAMELA PELLETIER

DELL Technologies, Country Lead and Managing Director

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AWARD PRESENTED BY DELL TECHNOLOGIES CANDICE HARDIE

DNA Communications, Vice President, Client Experience

A Woman of Inspiration is relentless and resilient in her pursuit of success. She does not shy away from challenges of any kind, but handles them with a cool, calm and collected vibe, always confident in her ability to overcome.

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AWARD PRESENTED BY DELL TECHNOLOGIES

FARHANA MAHBUB

RBC, Senior Director, Strategic Initiatives

A Woman of Inspiration is a champion for change - simply put a change agent that paves the way for the next generation of leaders.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AWARD PRESENTED BY DELL TECHNOLOGIES

MIHAE AHN

ProServeIT Corporation, Vice President of Marketing

A Women of Inspiration turn adversaries into opportunities; speak up against injustice; use their platform to give back instead of using it only for their own self-interest; continue to show up despite the difficulties and fear; and have courage to challenge norms.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AWARD PRESENTED BY DELL TECHNOLOGIES PATRICE DE PEIZA

Ontario Health, Manager, Special ProjectsEquity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism

A Woman of Inspiration is humble yet knows her worth. She exudes a quiet strength and is comfortable in her own skin. She is a role model, supporting and uplifting those behind her. She shows up with her authentic self.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DREAM BUILDER AWARD

ANGELICA GONCALVES

Ellis Don, Consultant and Podcast Host

A Woman of Inspiration breaks down barriers and overcomes the challenges of everyday life. Women, who have an impacting story of struggle, compassion, power, encouragement that can motivate and encourage others to follow their dreams.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DREAM BUILDER AWARD ELYSE WELCH

Carolina Retail Experts, Partner

A Woman of Inspiration acts with integrity. She pushes herself out of her comfort zone, grows from mistakes, shares her experiences and knows fear is the brink of growth.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DREAM BUILDER AWARD LINDSEY HALTER

Carolina Retail Experts, Partner

A Woman of Inspiration offers thoughtful leadership to their fellow peers and colleagues. Through thoughtful leadership, a Woman of Inspiration can help to empower one another and lift up those around them

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ DREAM BUILDER AWARD

RUTH

ALEXANDER

RARE Group with Coldwell Banker Mountain Central, Licensed Realtor and Founder, RARE Group

A Women of Inspiration is a determined woman who turns her life around despite any a major life setback. She has an internal fire that won’t be dimmed as she grows stronger and recognizes her worth and the genuine light she has to offer the world.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT AWARD

HANNAH ISENBERG

Isenberg Entertainment, Owner, Operator

A Woman of Inspiration challenges how ‘being a woman’ is perceived to society. She carves a unique path of wisdom and grit, accomplishing feats no matter what anyone else has to say about it

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT AWARD

RAMYA KAPADIA

Natyarpana School Of Dance & Music, Artistic Director

By definition, a Woman of Inspiration is inspiring. She leads by example, through dedication, kindness and unwavering faith, by nurturing the qualities inherent in those around her, by being a voice for the voiceless and by motivating others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN IN MEDIA AWARD

JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ

Living Luxe Magazine, Publisher

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who helps other women be their best. For me, Jeanne Beker a Woman of Inspiration. We have been friends for a decade, and she truly does her best to inspire others despite her trials and tribulations.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INFLUENCER AWARD

ASHLEY OTTESEN

Actor, Actress

All the Women of Inspiration who have inspired me in the past have been those who stood strong in the face of adversity and come out on top. The ones who never gave up against all odds.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ GAME CHANGER AWARD

ALEXANDRA CATTONI

Copy Posse, Founder and CEO

A Woman of Inspiration is unapologetically herself, utilizes her strengths and leverages her weakness to grow her business. She isn’t afraid to be vulnerable. She is generous on her journey and leads by encouraging leadership in others.

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ GLOBAL IMPACT AWARD

LISA STUDNICKI HUNT

GL CHEMTEC INTERNATIONAL, Co-Founder and COO

A Woman of Inspiration is a woman who knows herself well enough to acknowledge her strengths and weaknesses. In this way she is able to confidently utilize her own unique skill-set to contribute to society.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD ANITA BHANDARI

City of Burnaby, Chief Human Resources Officer

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who embodies strength, resilience, and determination. She overcomes challenges and obstacles, inspiring those around her with her unwavering spirit. She empowers others to find their own voice and live their lives authentically.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ LEGENDS AWARD DR.

Alstari Corporation, Co-Founder and CEO

Women have to overcome BRICK not glass ceilings, in business and in tech - especially in financing. There is still sexism and racism in business and in tech. Women of Inspiration believe you can win in the end.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ YOUTH EXCELLENCE AWARD PRESENTED BY NATIONAL BANK FINANCIAL –HILBERRY WEALTH MANAGEMENT

ROBERTA BATTAGLIA

Singer-Songwriter and Actress

A Woman of Inspiration in my eyes is a woman who does not let her fears overcome her power as a woman. A woman who is brave, courageous and shares her story in which she inspires others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD

ADEJISOLA ATIBA

Council of Nigerian Professionals Inc., Founder and President

A Woman of Inspiration honors herself, everyone around her, has a purpose, focused, purposeful, and intentionally impacts her world.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD

DEBORAH ARSENAULT

Region of Peel, Head of HR

A Woman of Inspiration is the ability to make a positive difference in her community, professionally despite the odds.

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD

JANE MCCORMICK

McCormick Consulting Group Limited, Managing Director

A Woman of Inspiration is one who lives life through kindness, integrity and humility. She leads through wisdom and empathy: a trailblazer that, once having found the path, returns to guide others rather than expecting them to follow on their own.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD

JENNIFER WALKER

Carruthers Walker Financial, Financial Planner, Partner

A Woman of Inspiration leads through example, uplifting all of those around her. She is a woman who does not hide her struggles or fears but embraces them and allows other to help and learn together

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD

KAREN BANNISTER

Centurion Asset Management, Vice President, Marketing

A Woman of Inspiration defies all odds, demonstrates resilience, overcomes challenges, and leads her life with integrity. She challenges societal norms, pushes boundaries, stands up for what is right and advocates for equality, justice, and positive change.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD

LAURA DESVEAUX

Trillium Health Partners / Women Who Lead, Scientific Director and Founder

A Woman of Inspiration doesn’t set out to change the world she achieves her impact by giving her time and attention to those she meets, changing the world one person at a time and creating ripples that turn into waves.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD NIRU PRASAD

Retired Physician

A Woman of Inspiration makes the most of her circumstances, whatever they may be. She forges her own path and becomes the best she can be.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ INSPIRE AWARD

7th Laurel Immigration Consulting Inc., Founder and Principal Consultant

A Woman of Inspiration exemplifies extraordinary qualities and unwavering resilience in adversity, boldly stands up for what is right, regardless of threats and opposition, and lends her voice to meaningful discussions and disrupts the status quo.

OLAITAN ONYEBUOHA

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ RISING LEADER AWARD

JABEEN BOGA

Ashton College, HR Instructor and Regional HR Business Partner

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who selflessly dedicates themselves to making a positive impact in her community locally and around the world. She is committed towards change and works relentlessly to break down barriers and uplift others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ RISING LEADER AWARD

MEGHAN MONK

Sysco, Director of Business Specialists

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who stands behind you and watches you shine, someone who stands in front of you to take the heat and also walks alongside you when you need them the most.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ RISING LEADER AWARD

African Canadian Weddings / A Sacred Motherhood, Founder and CEO

A Woman of Inspiration is a remarkable woman who embodies strength, courage, and resilience while serving as a source of motivation and empowerment for others. She is a role model, who is known for breaking barriers and challenging status quo.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ RISING LEADER AWARD

RAVEENA KOHLI

Bristlecone, Practice Lead, Organization Change Management

A Woman of Inspiration is a trailblazer, a mentor, and a catalyst for positive transformation. She leaves an indelible mark on the world, inspiring others to embrace their own power and make a difference. She believes that nothing is impossible.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ RISING LEADER AWARD

YANA PEREGUDINA

Toyota Canada Inc., Process Management Analyst

A Woman of Inspiration is a guiding light who leads, motivates, and inspires others by her example. Through open communication and unwavering support, she stays close to those around her, offering advice, direction, and availability.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ TRAILBLAZER (STEM) AWARD

Dell Technologies, Sr. Education Strategist

A Woman of Inspiration is a selfless force that enriches the world. She empowers those around her, prioritizing others over herself. She works relentlessly to bring positive change. Though challenges and failures may arise, she views the temporary and never gives up.

KATINA PAPULKAS

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

TRAILBLAZER (STEM) AWARD MARGO STOREY

Cronos Group Inc., Senior Manager, Extraction and Separation at Cronos Group

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who recognizes that gaining accolades and influence should not be a primary goal but knows that it is more meaningful and impactful to provide support and mentorship that uplifts and empowers other women.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

TRAILBLAZER (STEM) AWARD

NARDIN SAMUEL

Cove Neurosciences Inc., Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer

A Woman of Inspiration is someone with the desire or urge to do something unique. She cares for the wellbeing of others and strives to create a better world. She is the one who values kindness, sincerity and strong and unabated commitment towards others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

TRAILBLAZER (STEM) AWARD SERENA CHAN

The Capital Markets Company, Partner

A Woman of Inspiration is a woman who can motivate someone with the desire or urge to do something worthwhile, something that contributes a better world. A woman who leads by example, lives on purpose, inspires others in her day to day.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™

VISION BUILDER AWARD CATHERINE BELL

The Awakened Company, CEO and Founder

A Woman of Inspiration is a visionary, she holds a transformative vision for the future and moves towards it with determination. She is versatile and multidimensional, transitioning between diverse roles.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ VISION BUILDER AWARD

DANIELLE MILLMAN

Otter Learning, President

A Woman of Inspiration is one who allows others to dream bigger and see more opportunity for themselves than they originally thought possible. The way she models her success inspires others to achieve greater things.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ VISION BUILDER AWARD SUE FINKAM

FireStarter, LLC, Founder and CEO

A Woman of Inspiration is one who allows others to dream bigger and see more opportunity for themselves than they originally thought possible. The way she models her success inspires others to achieve greater things.

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ VISION BUILDER AWARD

TRACY F. BARRY

GROW Women Leaders, CEO and Founder

A Woman of Inspiration is a remarkable individual who shows leadership, courage, and resilience in both her personal and professional life. She sets an example and inspires other women to achieve their goals and reach their potential.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

ANNA DIBELLA

ProFix Accounting & Strategy, CEO and Founder

A Woman of Inspiration can create and execute a vision different from the status quo. If you can dream it, you can build it and the possibilities are endless.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

Faulhaber Communications, CEO and Founder

A Woman of Inspiration recognizes the importance of supporting the development of fellow women, nurturing their potential and fostering empowerment. She is a beacon of light, inspiring those around her to embrace their strength.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

DR. STEPHANIE DINSMORE

Mindful Path Counselling, Clinical Director/ Business Owner

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who beats the odds, perseveres, and keeps going even when the world is telling her to stop. She inspires not only herself, the women of her community, but on a greater scale, even the world.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

LAURA SILVER

Blue Door Agency, CEO

A Woman of Inspiration is a person who is relentlessly, but somehow effortlessly, resilient and who raises others up through every day, simple interactions in business and life.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

MARCIE KIZIAK

Nova Cannabis, Chief Executive Officer

A Woman of Inspiration is a champion of equity and positive change, she values empowerment, and inclusion, and fearlessly engages in tough conversations to drive the progress of her teams. She leads by example.

CHRISTINE FAULHABER

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARD WINNERS ]

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

MARJORIE DIXON

Anova Fertility & Reproductive Health, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) Founder, CEO and Medical Director

A Woman of Inspiration empowers other females, professionally and personally. My parents taught me never to back away from a challenge. Women who up the ante, instead of staying content with the status quo, are tomorrow’s leaders

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARD

Feghali Group Inc and FGI Family Homes, Founder and CEO

When you see a star in the sky, and it shines brighter than the others and you feel compelled to follow it with your eyes; that is a Woman of Inspiration. She brings peace, clarity to others, gifts of abundance and electrifies those around her to act.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ WOMEN-LED AWARDL SHARON BONNER

Bright Ideas Event Agency, CEO and Founder

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who genuinely wants to share their tips and cares about the people she is sharing them with. I have mentored female interns from all over the world and inspired them to dream big and never give up on their dreams

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ HONORARY ICON AWARD

Jones Road Beauty, Beauty Industry Titan, Founder and CEO

House of CACOSA Inc., Founder

A Woman of Inspiration refers to a woman who serves as a source of motivation, admiration, and empowerment for others. She is someone who possesses exceptional qualities, achievements, or contributions that inspire and uplift others.

2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ HONORARY SUPPORTHER AWARD STEVEN D. PLOFKER

Jones Road Beauty, Real Estate Developer, Co-Founder

ThankSponsors!you

WOMEN OF INSPIRATION ™ AWARDS 2023

We are proud to partner with Top Companies committed to the advancement of women. Thank you to our Awards Sponsors for paving the way to inspire change.

The Women of Inspiration™ Awards recognizes the achievements of women who lead, inspire and motivate. We celebrate women from diverse industries and stages of life along with the male allies who SupportHER™.

[ 2023 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARDS TESTIMONIALS

My husband Steven and I were honored to be part of the Women of Inspiration Awards program,” said Bobbi Brown, founder and CCO of Jones Road Beauty and a Women of Inspiration award winner. “The Universal Women’s Network mission is to celebrate the achievements of women who lead, inspire, and motivate each other. They also understand that anyone who is successful rarely gets there alone. My husband Steven has been my partner in both business and life. Without him, I wouldn’t have achieved all the success I’ve had. Thank you to the Universal Women’s Network for recognizing both Steven and I and for spotlighting the allies who rally around successful women and take pride in their success.

– Bobbi Brown

As a designer of women’s jewelry, I am inspired by the remarkable women I’ve encountered on my journey. Their stories and spirits infuse every piece I create, shaping me as an artist. Participating in the Women of Inspiration™ Award was more than an event; it was a celebration of the achievements of women who have paved the way for others. To be honoured as a SupportHER™ myself was a truly humbling experience. The Universal Women’s Networks mission deeply resonates with me, and I am thrilled to unite with this organization to create a platform that not only recognizes but also celebrates the extraordinary achievements of women worldwide.

– Dean Davidson, Designer, Owner, Dean Davidson

It’s exciting and inspiring to meet that many amazing human beings in one setting. The women were awesome! From scientists to medical specialists, singers, dancers, artists, finance specialists and more. Every one of them was incredible in their own right. I came away feeling empowered.

– Anna Hilberry, Portfolio Manager, National Bank Financial, Hilberry Wealth Management Group, Women of Inspiration™ SupportHER™ Award

Simply humbling to be in the midst of such accomplished and inspiring women across industries within North America! Celebrating the successes of women and the SupportHER™ men will universally drive the change we need to create an equitable future. Congratulations to all the award recipients – your continued accomplishments will serve as a beacon of hope for so many others.

– Victoria Nguyen, ICD.D Vice President, Direct Financial Services-Simplii Operations, CIBC Capital Markets, 2020 Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader

The Women of Inspiration Award Gala was an incredible celebration of female empowerment and achievement. I was very inspired by the remarkable stories and accomplishments we heard from the various women and “SupportHERs” tonight. I also just had a really great time at our Roche table where we had an amazing blend of some of our most senior leaders as well as some very early in their career colleagues, all very different women, but all equally inspiring.

– Brigette Nolet, President and CEO, Roche Canada Pharma

At Gilead Sciences, we set – and achieve – bold ambitions to create a healthier world for all people. From our pioneering virology medicines to our growing impact in oncology, we’re delivering innovations once thought impossible in medicine. As we develop innovative medicines for life-threatening diseases, we recognize it takes more than medicine to improve wellbeing for people around the world.

We know we are a stronger company and that innovation flourishes when we are informed by a diverse set of backgrounds, experiences and points of view. Our Women at Gilead employee resource group focuses on enhancing gender equity for women in opportunities and experiences at all levels.

We are incredibly proud to be a sponsor for the Women of Inspiration™ awards which recognizes the achievements of women who lead, inspire and motivate others.

– Sharon Grehan, Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader Award

It was an honour to be recognized amongst so many women role models who leverage their influence and positions to inspire change. Thank you, Universal Womens Network™ for leading the way and providing the format and opportunity to celebrate, while also continuing to advance women’s agenda across North America. For me it was extra special to be surrounded by my family and see three generations of women together who truly inspire each other. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to share that moment with them.

#AspireHigher

– Gina Izumi, Senior Vice President, SAP Canada, 2023 Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader Award

As a proud recipient of the Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader award, I must express my sincere gratitude for the unforgettable gala experience - From the splendid performances to the insightful interview with Bobbi Brown, every detail of the night was meticulously crafted, ensuring a memorable evening. Receiving the Authentic Leadership award was a humbling honor, and the opportunity to network with fellow remarkable women and winners was truly inspiring. I deeply appreciate the inspiring work of the Universal Women Network™ over the years, uplifting and empowering all of us to greater heights.

– Rebecca Pang- RBC, Vice President, Treasury Solutions, 2023 Women of Inspiration Authentic Leader Award

I’m very honoured to be recognized with a 2023 Women of Inspiration™ Award, and to share this award with my amazing network of support that includes my family, friends, mentors, and colleagues. My entire experience, throughout the nomination process to receiving this honour from the Universal Women’s Network, has been one of the most humbling, rewarding achievements of my career that I’ll never forget. I’m proud to now be a part of the UWN’s extraordinary and diverse alumni of winners and look forward to connecting with more Women of Inspiration in the future.

– Alanna Fonesca, Vice President, Marketing and Innovation for North America at Cronos Group Inc., Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader Award

2023 Women of Inspiration™ Awards

Celebrating women making an impact – Congratulations to our 2023 winners!

The Women of Inspiration™ Awards program shines the spotlight on ambitious and inspiring women from diverse backgrounds, industries and stages of life. They have one things in common. They are role models. They are entrepreneurs, Changemakers and business leaders who inspire change.

Thank you for Raising the Bar for women to succeed! Looking forward to the journey ahead.

Monica Kretschmer

Founder and CEO, Universal Womens Network™, Women of Inspiration™ Awards, SupportHER™

BECOME A SPONSOR TODAY!

WOMEN OF INSPIRATION LEAD, INSPIRE AND MOTIVATE!

September 6, 2024

Top Women of Inspiration™ announced

November 7, 2024

Women of Inspiration Awards Announced (live event).

VIP Reception Inspirational Speakers and Keynote Red Carpet Awards

Corporate Tables and Sponsorship Available

This is the event of the season not to miss!

Event Tickets and Details

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2024 WOMEN OF INSPIRATION™ AWARDS

Nominate a Woman or Apply!

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Nominate a Top Company – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) SupportHER™ Champion.

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WHO IS A WOMAN OF INSPIRATION?

A Woman of Inspiration™ is an extraordinary woman who inspires those around her to be more and do more. She is an everyday hero, entrepreneur, CEO, business leader, changemaker, game-changer and role model. She uses her influence and position of power to inspire change. She is admired and respected for her resilience, leadership and humility. She has grit and fights for what she believes in, regardless of the barriers. She isn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves. She ignores the naysayers and fearlessly steps outside of her comfort zone to pave the road for others to follow.

NOMINATE OR APPLY NOW! universalwomensnetwork.com

AWARD CATEGORIES

Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award

Authentic Leader Award

BIPOC Leader Award

Dream Builder Award

Bring awareness and visibility to your brand as an industry leader.

Engage and celebrate your leaders.

Icon Award

Influencer/Creator Award

Inspire Award

Game Changer Award

Global Impact Award

Legend Award

Lifetime Achievement Award

Public Service Award

Top Company - Equity, Diversity, Inclusion SupportHER Champion

Rising Leader Award

SupportHER™ (Ally) Award *Male/Female Trailblazer (STEM) Award

Women-Led Award

Women in Media Award

Vision Builder Award

Youth Excellence Award

INSPIRING CHANGE FOR

Equality

According to the World Economic Forum, it will take 135.6 years globally. We cannot wait.

Become a visible SupportHER™ and leader in your industry!

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Women of Inspiration™ Spotlight

Wealth Management Advisor, Portfolio Manager – National Bank Financial | 2023 Women of Inspiration™ SupportHER Award

ANNA HILBERRY

Anna’s accomplishments in wealth management, client service excellence, professional collaborations, and financial literacy, set her apart from her peers. She has earned NBF’s Rising Star award which recognizes a young advisor that best combines passion, client commitment and business growth. She has also earned the Wealth Management Advisor title which acknowledges her devotion to educating and advising clients on the benefits of comprehensive planning. She is a leading ambassador for our women in wealth and mentors’ women students and interns. Anna’s drive, confidence, proactive spirit, openness to feedback and dedication to her clients is impressive. She is a model for aspiring advisors.

Closing the gender gap boosts the global economy and can substantially grow global GDP.

Why is recognizing the achievements of women critical? Recognizing women’s achievements paves the way for those that follow and broadens our consciousness on equalizing representation. Closing the gender gap boosts the global economy and can substantially grow global GDP. It’s the right thing to do and its good business. Recognizing value inspires our youth and invokes positive change.

Tell us about your SupportHER’s and the importance of male allyship My SupportHER’s both male and female have been game changers for me. They raised me up when I fell down. They gave me validation when I needed it most. As a single mother raising two young children while working in a challenging and demanding industry, there’s been times when it was so hard, times where I was struggling emotionally with the weight of responsibility. Having a kind mentor reach out to you and say “you can do it” and “I believe in you” was invaluable to me. We need male allyship

because they’re half the equation. It’s more than support, it’s about not being discounted. When a person is discounted, all that creativity, new ideas and skill set is lost. Discounting a percentage of the population means their value is lost to the greater good. When one person is limited, everyone loses.

Define a Woman of Inspiration. A Woman of Inspiration to me is a woman who busts through barriers like they don’t exist, a woman who’s not afraid to be herself. She’s a person that leads by example and inspires others to shine. Someone who everyone is better for knowing her.

What it feels like to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? In 2024 when I looked around the room at the Women of Inspiration Gala it was incredible. Those women are rule breakers, myth Crushers, they push the boundaries of what society thinks a women SHOULD be, they are who they WANT to be. Each and every one of them is amazing in their own right. They don’t accept society’s limits, the only limits they put on themselves are their own. They are Bold, They are Strong and they are Bright, inside and out. To be named a Women of Inspiration, to be counted amongst these women is a life highlight. Its humbling, exciting and inspiring all at once.

Share your words of wisdom to inspire change. Invoking change is like climbing a mountain. You do it one step at a time. We continue the path that our mothers and our grandmothers started. By Recognizing Women’s achievements along the way we encourage our daughters and our granddaughters to continue the journey once we are gone. When men to join us we reach the peak sooner. One day we’ll look back and realize we’re at the top of the mountain.

National Bank Financial (NBF) would like to acknowledge the great work that the Universal Women’s Network does to recognize extraordinary women across Canada.

Congratulations to all of the nominees for the 2023 Women of Inspiration Awards, in particular, our own Anna Hilberry, Wealth Advisor & Portfolio Manager with NBF in Duncan, BC for this impressive nomination. Anna’s passion is relentless and her commitment for doing what is right for her clients goes above and beyond. anna.hilberry@nbc.ca nbfwm.ca/hilberry-group 1-800-361-8838

Executive Director Business Strategy & Operations | Global Lead for Women at Gilead |2023 Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader Award

SHARON GREHAN

Sharon Grehan, PhD serves as the Global Lead for the Women at Gilead ERG. Sharon drives global strategy and provides actionable counsel and support to >7,200 employees, with significant impact to the business and employees. She also serves as a strategic partner to relevant industry groups, diversity organizations, and associations. A strong leader with high levels of team motivation, engagement, performance and empowerment, she has mentored hundreds of employees and is a role model for authentic leadership.

Before joining Gilead, Sharon conducted postdoctoral research at the Gladstone Institutes and became partner in a local strategic consulting company. Sharon has an MSc in Biotechnology from NUI Galway and a PhD in Molecular Biology from Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. She has authored 12 peer reviewed manuscripts in various fields of research and is a current board member with a variety of organizations.

I believe I have a responsibility to empower women to embrace opportunities beyond the limits of their imagination

How does it feel to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? I was incredibly honored, overwhelmed and excited to be nominated as a Woman of Inspiration. This award is a reminder that you don’t have to be extraordinary to be a Woman of Inspiration and is a significant highlight for me personally as well as professionally. Imposter syndrome is real for many, me included. I see in others what they don’t see in themselves and receiving this nomination and award reminds me to practice what I preach. I am reminded of my responsibility to speak when I see unfairness, to raise my son to recognize the importance of equality, to create opportunities for others and to stay true to myself. This award is a reminder to view overcoming adversity as one of my strengths.

Tell us about your SupportHER’s and the importance of allyship. My parents were my earliest advocates, and I am incredibly fortunate to have met many others along my journey. The people who supported me and helped shape my career and life decisions include professors, C-suite executives, colleagues,

friends, managers, direct reports, mentors, mentees and family. The encouragement and inspiration I get from the people I have encountered over the years is invaluable. My strongest supporters have encouraged me to consider career paths I would not have previously considered, they saw something in me that I couldn’t see and helped to bring that out in me. The greatest gift of all has been encouragement both professionally and personally and I am delighted to now be in a position to support and encourage others on their own journeys.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration? A Women of Inspiration genuinely care about others, make them feel valued and give them the confidence, motivation and support to overcome challenges. They approach changing the world through inspiring one person after another.

What does success mean to you? I believe that success is a relative term and will look different for everyone. I don’t think of it as a goal to be achieved, but a mindset of continually doing your best, being as happy as possible and helping others to do the same for themselves. Success involves positivity following failure, doing something you love or feel passionate about, and feeling good about yourself, your work and your impact.

How are you inspiring change to advance women in business? I believe I have a responsibility to empower women to embrace opportunities beyond the limits of their imagination and to do so while being their authentic selves. I lead by example and show that EQ is just as critical as IQ to bring out the best in others. The world needs inspirational female leaders, now more than ever, and I am honored to be nominated as one.

Catherine Bell is an inspiring, empowered, and strong leader. She is a serial entrepreneur, bestselling author, community engaged advocate, mother, and CEO who shows up every single day. Catherine founded a profit 500 company, BluEra, which she successfully sold after the start of her company – The Awakened Company. Catherine then wrote her best-selling business book “The Awakened Company” which covers the Awakened Process that Catherine created during her BluEra days - she realized she had a business model that needed to be shared with the world – so she went on to do just that. Catherine now works with organizations internationally to bring humanity back into the workforce, by igniting passion, purpose, and engagement within workplace culture.

In addition to redefining the future of the corporate world, Catherine shares her insight and wisdom through the Enneagram to people internationally. Promoting self-development, awareness, and discovery, which she teaches in the workplace as well.

Why is recognizing the achievements of women critical? It is so critical because if we don’t see, feel, and experience female examples it is challenging to lead. For example, I believed it was possible to write a book and lead a business because my Aunt Ruth did so. Since then many women and men have supported and recognized my often micro-actions, and in so doing caused me to keep on figuring out the challenges of leading organizations and being a serial entrepreneur.

CATHERINE BELL

Tell us about your SupportHER’s and the importance of male allyship. I would not be who I am without males who walk beside me from my husband helping with our sons, and leading a renewable energy company, to my colleagues who coach at the Awakened Company, to my collaborator, who is getting me to use my voice more, to my remarkable teachers. My father, who passed at 64, was probably my biggest ally, instilling in me, “Where there is a will, there is a way.”

Define a Woman of Inspiration. A Woman of Inspiration is a woman who embodies her vision – however big or small that may be.

Where there is a will, there is a way.

What does it feel like to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? I live in gratitude for what Monica has created. It has helped me to feel more empowered in The Awakened Company work of helping organizations create healthier cultures by igniting leadership and healthy relationships.

What is the change you inspire to make? What is occurring in your internal & external environment now is most important, not what happened yesterday or may happen in the future. In inspiring change, be unconcerned how someone else responds to you if you are coming from presence. We can only really change ourselves. Consider who do you want to be, and living from this place, and allowing universal clues to inform you.

I am writing a book on creativity with my collaborator, Russ Hudson. I invite everyone into the creative flow that is just waiting for us to relax enough to find it. So, relaxation is about inspiring change. Drop into the raw reality of being, so that it becomes us, and allow change to emerge from this place and in so doing we change everything.

CEO, The Awakened Company | 2023 Women of Inspiration™ Vision Builder Award

VP

Marketing, ProserveIT, 2023 Women of Inspiration™ Diversity and Inclusion Award presented by DELL Technologies

MIHAE AHN

Mihae Ahn, MBA is Vice President of Marketing at ProServeIT Corporation, a technology consulting firm based in Greater Toronto Area, Canada. With her interest and commitment for equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB), she has also assumed an unofficial role of Chief Diversity Officer.

During the day at work, Mihae partners with technology giants like Microsoft and Meta to help organizations adopt cutting edge technologies and leads various EDIB initiatives. In the evening, she spends time with her daughter and husband, and works on her next book.

Mihae is a self-made marketing executive, an author, a mother, a wife, and a life-long learner. Having been on the streets marching for the causes closest to her heart, she continues to devote her time and energy to do her part to foster parity, justice, and equity.

Doing my part to foster parity and equity in my own authentic way is what gives me the sense of achievement and purpose.

How does it feel to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? This means that the work I have been doing to inspire and elevate women matters. And I see it as an encouragement to continue the work and do more of it. My work only just began.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration? Women of inspiration turn adversaries into opportunities; speak up against injustice; use their platform to give back instead of using it only for their own self-interest; continue to show up despite the difficulties and fear; and have courage to challenge the norms as opposed to blindly conforming.

Tell us about your SupportHERs. I have my family, friends, and colleagues who have supported me throughout my journey. In addition, I have many secret mentors. They are the authors of the books that have guided me. I am a book nerd and often rely on books to gain clarity and encouragement. The most significant SupportHERs who give me the endless energy, inspiration, and encouragement are my 5-year-old daughter and her friends. Their authenticity, love, empathy, and courage fuel me like nothing else ever has.

What is your definition of success? Being able to wake up energized to start my day to do what I love, and being able to go to bed satisfied with what I have achieved that day. Having freedom to do the work I love. Doing my part to foster parity and equity in my own authentic way is what gives me the sense of achievement and purpose.

How are you inspiring change to advance women in business? By showing up as my whole self and advocating the changes that will help advance women in business. I believe the most impactful thing each of us can do is to have courage and vulnerability to show up as our whole self even when we don’t meet the norms and stereotypes. To create a dent on the typical image of a white man that comes to many people’s mind when they hear the word, “leader”.

Since 2011, she’s worked with many leading transformational businesses by writing high-converting sales copy, scaling multi-million-dollar brands, and crafting iconic promotional campaigns. In 2020, she launched the Copy Posse — the raddest, baddest crew of copywriters, marketers, and entrepreneurs from around the world on a mission to “de-douchify” the Internet, redefine modern marketing and build an empathy empire.The Copy Posse believes that you have the power to create the life of your dreams, build a lucrative business AND make an impact on humanity with the type of marketing that today’s businesses need and audiences crave. Through their online programs and communities, they’ve helped over 300,000 rad humans find more freedom, have more fun and sell more products and services without selling out on their integrity.

Why is recognizing the achievements of women critical? Women bring a creative, empathetic, and collaborative approach to leadership that can transform industries, disrupt the status quo and redefine success. Too often I’ve been one of the few (or the only) women in the room, so I know firsthand how important it is to see other women breaking barriers and setting new standards in business, marketing and entrepreneurship. It’s a powerful reminder that our voice needs to be heard (and loud)... and that our work is essential to inspire more and more women to step into their power.

Tell us about your SupportHER’s. My team — a group of 10 amazing women from Canada and around the world who share their brilliance, who share my mission, who inspire me and keep me accountable, who allow me to be vulnerable, and who are willing to take risks with me even when we

ALEX CATTONI

have no idea how to get there!

My dad, the first entrepreneur I knew, who gave me quiet support and encouragement when I decided to put law school on hold and move across the world to accept a marketing internship at a small startup (where I would later become the Creative Director).

My mother, who always told me I could do anything I set my mind to and who led by example in her own life and career. Whenever sneaky imposter syndrome would sneak in as I worked to shatter glass ceilings, her voice would be in my head, assuring me that I absolutely do belong, that I absolutely can do this and that as long as I keep betting on myself, I will win.

What it feels like to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? It means that every time I trusted my intuition, spoke up for myself, and broke a few rules, I did something right. In a male-dominated industry that still uses manipulative, hypey, and severely outdated sales tactics to get attention — it feels amazing to be recognized for doing things differently. This recognition means everything to me and makes every single late night, uncomfortable conversation, and tough learning lesson that led me here worth it. The cherry on top will be if my story inspires even one shy little girl to bet on herself, speak up and go for what she wants.

Winning the Game Changer Award also shows my community (mostly women) that when you put in the work, believe in yourself and stay committed to your mission, you are a force to be reckoned with.

What is the change you inspire to make? Don’t follow the rules... don’t break the rules... make your own rules. This is the motto we eat, breathe, and live by at the Copy Posse. We’re not interested in falling in line and doing what everyone else is doing. We’re interested in making everyone else stop and go... “Wow, we want to do it like that.”

We believe you have the power to create the life of your dreams, build a lucrative business AND make an impact on humanity with the type of marketing that today’s businesses need, and today’s audiences crave.

Remember, your message matters and your words can change the world and there is more than one path to success. Forge your own path.

Define your own success. Make your own action plan.

Build a business that feels good to YOU.

Founder, the Copy Posse | 2023 Women of Inspiration™ Game Changer Award

Sr.

Education Strategist, DELL Technologies | 2023 Women of Inspiration

Trailblazer Award

KATINA PAPULKAS

Katina Papulkas is a Senior Education Strategist at Dell Technologies and is committed to serving students across Canada. She is an experienced educator with a background in teaching, online learning, leadership, assessment, and educational technology. In her two-decade tenure in education at the Toronto DSB, she has been an instructional leader and administrator, where she designed and implemented system-wide initiatives to amplify learning through technology. In her role at Dell, Katina has started up innovative programs such as Girls Who Game and Soar with MENTOR to support girls and women in STEM in a fun and joyful way. Katina has been at Dell for five years and enjoys every new challenge and opportunity presented!

Tell us about your SupportHERs. I have been blessed with mentors and supporters throughout my life. At Dell, our Women in Action ERG have the most incredible women and allies who take care of each other and always lend support when needed. In fact, they are the ones who made me submit my nomination package. My Canadian Dell team is amazing; they are there when I need them the most. Girls Who Game, Soar with Mentor and Data Dunkers would not be a success without their support and participation!

To me, genuine success is measured by the positive impact we make on others’ lives, not merely personal gains or achievements.

How does it feel to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? Being recognized as a Woman of Inspiration is a sincere honour, one I humbly find challenging to accept, though I’m working on it. When starting initiatives to empower others, awards and accolades are never the focus; it’s about making a meaningful impact on other people’s lives. Women of Inspiration simply do the work and move on to the next challenge. Yet, to be acknowledged by my girls, peers, and colleagues brings a smile to my face. In fact, it’s essential to pause, breathe, and reflect upon the progress made, celebrating accomplishments and sharing the stories with those around me. This recognition fills my heart with joy and gratitude.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration? A Woman of Inspiration is a selfless force that enriches the world. She empowers those around her, prioritizing others over herself. She works relentlessly to bring positive change. Though challenges and failures may arise, she views them as temporary setbacks and never gives up. With unwavering resilience, she keeps moving forward, sideways, or in any direction necessary, always striving to make the world better for others.

Finally, my family is my greatest strength. My Big Fat Greek Family, from parents to siblings, have played pivotal roles. My husband of 25 years, Oliver, and my daughters, Mikhaila and Zoe, are my cheerleaders, encouraging me every step of the way. I am so grateful for this network of SupportHERs.

What is your definition of success? To me, genuine success is measured by the positive impact we make on others’ lives, not merely personal gains or achievements. Creating a fair and just world requires ensuring everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential, whatever that may be. It is a collective responsibility, and as a society, we must work together to turn this dream into reality.

How are you inspiring change to advance women in business? I have taken on the leadership role of our Dell’s Women in Action Pillar for Business and Innovation. Our pillar objective is to empower women, both internally and externally. All our pillar activities are in support of women moving forward, for example financial literacy webinars. Furthermore, I participated in a digital think tank with ICTC to help with the creation of a report on “Empowering Women in the Digital Economy: Addressing Tech’s Untapped Potential.”

Erinn Piller, Head of Business Marketing at TikTok Canada, is leading a world-class team dedicated to empowering marketers with solutions that drive authentic connections and business results. With over 15 years of experience in developing and implementing innovative communication and marketing strategies, Erinn has worked with leading entertainment and digital brands and platforms in Canada, including Global Entertainment, Food Network, STACKTV, and Disney. She has also driven brand excellence and leadership across leading NGOs worldwide, including WWF and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

In addition to her role at TikTok, Erinn sits on the B2B Executive Committee with the CMA and is a Director with the Charles H. Ivey Foundation which invests in community organizations supporting youth at risk.

How does it feel to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? There is no greater honour than being recognized by a community of peers and fellow inspirational female leaders. More importantly, it creates new opportunities to not only drive greater mentorship but hopefully help inspire future leaders to continue to strive for excellence in their craft.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

A Woman of Inspiration is a leader in the everyday, not just in the moments that matter. She inspires those around her to bring their best selves, to strive to bring the best version of themselves to work and to life every single day. She is a champion for all women, a role model, and a generational changemaker. She leads with courage, conviction, integrity, and always brings empathy and sound judgement.

ERIN PILLER

Tell us about your SupportHERs. I have been fortunate enough to have more than one phenomenal mentor in my life:

Jennifer McEvoy: Jennifer will forever be one of the greatest mentors I have had the privilege of working with. Her sound judgement and calm-underpressure approach to any challenge truly shaped the person I am today. She is a visionary and one of the most strategic leaders I have ever worked with.

Kate Conrad: I met Kate at a pivotal moment in my life. My mother was losing her battle with cancer and Kate was by my side every step of the way. She not only guided me professionally through this incredibly hard time, but she was my guiding star personally as I navigated caring for my mother while pursuing my career. Sometimes the people we need most in those moments just show up and I truly believe that Kate was that person, both as a mentor and as a friend.

Head of Business Marketing, TikTok | 2023 Women of Inspiration Authentic Leader Award

A Woman of Inspiration is a leader in the everyday, not just in the moments that matter.

What is your definition of success? Success is:

• Living a life of gratitude every single day.

• Being able to look at your children with tremendous pride in the young adults they are turning out to be.

• Feeling immense pride of my career journey. It was not a straight line; what career path ever is? It was circuitous, bumpy, and loaded with moments of opportunity and luck. Looking back on where I have come from makes me feel incredibly successful in where I have gotten.

How are you inspiring change to advance women in business? The rhetoric is no longer enough. We need to see action from leadership. I have remained committed to:

• Celebrating women who are demonstrating incredible work, commitment, and ambition

• Supporting mums who are trying to balance the chaos or career success with motherhood.

• Raising the profile of women who don’t always get recognized for their work.

• Hiring females in roles where they are able to show what they are truly made of.

NATALIE HOLLOWAY

Vice President of Insights, Strategy and Transformation | 2023

Women of Inspiration™

Authentic Leader Award presented by CIBC

Success is a feeling of pride and accomplishment within.

Natalie Holloway is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of dedicated service to Danone Canada and the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) industry. Starting her career in sales, Natalie has steadily risen through the ranks at Danone Canada, showcasing her unwavering commitment to both people and results. As the Vice President of Insights, Strategy, and Transformation and a member of the Canadian leadership team since 2021, Natalie spearheads the strategic development efforts, planning, and generation of valuable insights and business intelligence for the organization. Her innovative approach has revitalized Danone Canada’s annual planning process, leading to enhanced efficiencies, clear priorities, and increased crossfunctional collaboration, resulting in notable business outcomes. She and her team have also played a significant role in optimizing product organization on retail shelves, ensuring that customers’ needs remain at the forefront of all decision-making processes, from marketing to retail distribution. Her compassionate leadership style has made her a well-respected figure throughout the organization, and she serves as a mentor and executive sponsor to the next generation of leaders at Danone through her support of the organization’s women leadership employee resource group. Natalie holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta and lives in Edmonton.

What does it mean to be recognized? It is a true honour. I am humbled as I have simply been me. I don’t see myself as inspirational, as often I spend my days gaining inspiration and learning from all of those around me.

What is your definition of a Woman of Inspiration?

A Woman of Inspiration is someone who is unapologetically herself. Someone that has grown and accomplished many things, but who has done

it with grace and humbleness, not off the backs of others. A woman of inspiration recognizes and encourages those around her, as she knows she is only as good as they way she leaves people feeling.

Tell us about your SupportHER’s. In business I have had many mentors, both male and female who have been a great sounding board, who have believed in me, and who have encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone. I work with many inspirational women on our leadership team who are authentic and open, who gave me the runway to be myself. My parents of course were my biggest supporters. They encouraged me to just go for it. Sometimes things are uncomfortable and sometimes things just don’t go your way, but everything is a learning opportunity so embrace it.

How would you define success? Success is a feeling of pride and accomplishment within. Success for me is not an accolade or a promotion, it is a feeling of pride that comes from many different things. It could be winning that Tuesday evening sports game, or it could be finally getting your toddler to sleep through the night, or it could be that big promotion that you have been dreaming about your whole career.

How are you inspiring change for women in business? I have been part of the mentorship program both formally and informally for many years at Danone. I am also the Executive Sponsor for our LIFT (Leading and Inspiring Female Talent) ERG. I have an open-door policy where anyone can come to chat.

Hannah Isenberg is a multifaceted artist from Toronto, Canada. With much success in the realms of the arts, Hannah is humbled and grateful to be considered a professional dancer, choreographer, adjudicator, musician, actor, designer and photographer. Her work has allowed her to share her passions with communities in 35+ countries, providing learning opportunities to all ages in the arts. Hannah is honoured to travel worldwide as a dance adjudicator, providing encouragement for young dancers, as she once was. This year, she has introduced a personal mentoring scholarship to dancers in their senior year of high school, providing them with resources and tools they will need to expand into the professional world of the arts.

What it feels like to be recognized as a Woman of Inspiration? Being recognized as a Woman of Inspiration is one of the highest honors I have ever had the privilege of receiving. To have the unique voice I have built for myself heard by others makes everything I have worked for worth it. Women are strong and special, each deserving opportunity and encouragement in their fields. To be able to provide insight and mentorship to those who were once in my shoes means the absolute world to me.

Tell us about your SupportHER’s I have been inspired by so many incredible women in my life. Wendy Laidlaw was my dance instructor and mentor as a young girl who has grown into one of my closest friends. Watching her overcome hurdles with grace throughout her life helped me develop my own

HANNAH ISENBERG

strength and my own backbone. I can never thank her enough for everything she has done for me.

I lovingly tell people that “Patricia Gagic” is who I want to be when I grow up” - and I mean it. I am completely enthralled by her work ethic, by her wisdom and by her humanity. Her impact on my life, the way I view myself as a human being and as an artist, is unmatched. These two women in particular have shaped my full form in every aspect. I am forever grateful for their words, their values and their time.

How would you define success? Success is in the eye of the beholder; it does not happen by chance. It takes hard work, rejection and attempts leading to failure. It’s what you do with those trials that build your own success, whatever that means to you.

How are you inspiring change for women in business? I hope to inspire women to take up the space they are meant to feel isn’t for them. You don’t have to live by one label - you can be a woman in business, a mother (if you choose), a lover and a human being worth everything you’ve worked hard for, all wrapped into one. With guidance, with friendship and with community, we have the capability to create change together.

Owner and Operator, Isenberg Entertainment |

2023 Women of Inspiration™ Arts and Entertainment Award

With gratitude! Hannah and her team, comprising talented female dancers, choreographed the impeccable “On Purpose” Opening Show for the 2023 Women of Inspiration™ Awards. Their performance set the perfect tone for a memorable experience dedicated to celebrating women’s accomplishments.

– Monica Kretschmer

Singer, Song-writer and Actress | 2023

Women of Inspiration™ Youth Excellence Award

Presented by National Bank Financial

ROBERTA BATTAGLIA

AGT Season 15 Golden Buzzer Winner, 4th Overall Finalist on America’s Got Talent where Sofia Vergara hits her first-ever Golden Buzzer on AGT for Roberta. To date, 91M people have viewed Roberta’s dazzling performance from around the world. Roberta is a dynamic, new young vocalist from Toronto, Canada. Born into a musical family, Roberta began her singing career at the astonishing age of three years alongside her father, Alessandro and together the duo have graced many stages from local community performances to galas and noted charity events. Roberta has been busy performing at various high-profile events and functions in both Canada and the USA. A second-generation Italian Canadian, Roberta is fluent in both English and Italian and performs a diverse repertoire of music in both languages ranging from ballads and top-40 hits to high-octane pop.

Passionate and well ahead of her time in both skill and maturity, many consider Roberta an old soul who utilizes her many talents for the greater good.

Passionate and well ahead of her time in both skill and maturity, many consider Roberta an old soul who utilizes her many talents for the greater good. Roberta launched her own charitable initiative designing bracelets, donating 100% of the sales to Toronto’s world-renowned

SickKids Hospital. “It’s about kids helping kids,” explains the philanthropic artist. “I just want to see people smile. I love making everyone happy.”

In November 2023, Roberta released her first original song called TRUCE. Streaming in all social media platforms. Roberta gave a powerful performed of TRUCE, live at the Women of Inspiration ™Awards.

Tell us about your SupportHER’s My biggest SupportHERs are my parents. I’m so thankful for all my SupportHERs that have been following me since day one.

How would you define success? My definition of success isn’t just popularity or wealth. My definition of success is when you have found yourself and found peace with yourself on your own as a person and found that passion you would like to pursue in your life.

How are you inspiring change for women in business? To be themselves and to be strong. And overall have faith in themselves.

–2024–MEMBER

UWN BECOME A MEMBER

A GLOBAL PLATFORM COMMITTED TO EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION.

The Universal Womens Network™ is a global platform committed to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), by raising the bar to advance women in their network, community, and workplaces. We recognize the achievements of women through the Women of Inspiration™ Awards. We are advocates of women-owned and women-led businesses, and champion female entrepreneurs along with allies who SupportHER™!

Our global network promotes the advancement of women. We recognize and celebrate thought leaders, business leaders, entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals from diverse industries and backgrounds and work with like-minded organizations committed to inclusivity and moving the needle to close the gender gap!

We are Stewards of Diversity™ and dedicated to the unity of humanity by acknowledging our differences, asking questions, and valuing voices at all levels. We do not tolerate bullying, hatred, or racism at any level.

The Universal Womens Network offers opportunity for business leaders, CEO’s, individuals or organizations at all levels to connect, learn, empower and celebrate. We are committed to elevating women to succeed personally and professionally. Learn about our Membership, Events, Leadership Programs, Success Summit, Women of Inspiration™ Awards, Women of Inspiration™ Book, Podcast, Universal Women-Led™ Certification, Universal Coach Masters™, Speaker Bureau and more!

Become a Member!

Get Certified! Get Visible!

Universal Women-Owned™ | Women-Led Certification

Certifying your business opens opportunities for you to position your company. Certification allows businesswomen to increase visibility and connect to opportunities that otherwise may not be available to them — such as access to key supplier diversity and procurement executives.

Approximately 97% of Fortune 500 companies have a supplier diversity program where they attribute a percentage of their annual spending to sourcing from under-represented diverse suppliers (including women-owned, women-led businesses). With these contracts available to diverse suppliers, it provides an invaluable opportunity for women to grow and internationalize their business.

Gain the advantage of submitting RFP as many municipalities have mandates to support women-owned/ led businesses. While it is not a guarantee, it separates you from the rest!

Universal Women-Owned™

• 51% owned by one or more women,

• Managed by a female principal executive or;

• Controlled or operated by women in crucial business making decisions (dealing with the company’s finances, operations, personnel, or strategy)

Women-Owned Certification

Proudly market your business publicly as WomenOwned/Led

• Opportunities for your business to increase revenue

• Access to key diversity and procurement executives

• Connect with buyers who have mandates to work with Women-Owned/led businesses

• Brand your product or service with your Certification Logo

• Be visible to the consumer, shareholders, partners as Women-Owned/Led

• Provide the consumer the benefit to show they support Women-Owned with your certification

• Logo for your website, email signature, service, or packaging on your products

Universal Women-Owned Certification

https://universalwomensnetwork.com/womenowned-certified

Universal Women-Led™

• Female-founder, co-founder, or in an executive position as the visionary or driving the direction of the business with long-term control and management of the business

• Active role in strategic decision making – involved in elements related to the establishment of priorities, objectives, and goals for the business, along with overall day-to-day operations and decision making of the business

• She must have an equity stake in the company to demonstrate ownership in the company

GET CERTIFIED!

Universal Women-Led Certification

https://universalwomensnetwork.com/universalwomen-led-certification

UWN SHOP

Be a Visible SupportHER™.You will be ready to rock those morning zoom meetings and let them know you're an ally!

Set Your Intentions and Dream Big! Start the year with intention, clarity, and focus. What will your guiding One Word for the year ahead?

A Badass Key Ring! Start a conversation to move the needle to break that brick ceiling! Great for gifts for the team or our favorite... just because you ROCK!

M LIST FAVOURITE THINGS

Inspired by women!

These are a handful of my favourite things inspired by female founders. Made by women for women.

Each of these female founders have a story. They are change makers, visionaries and inventors. They inspire us to ask for what we want, go after our dreams and never give up.

Individually, we all play a crucial role to empower women to succeed. Collectively we have the power to move mountains.

Thank you Bobbi, Anna, Duan, Whitney, Rebecca and Dean (SupportHER) for brining your visions to life.

Are you a women-led business and have something you would love to share? Contact us, we would love to hear from you!

DEAN DAVIDSON –LARGE DOON HOOP EARRINGS + PLAZA RING

Dean Davidson is a Canadian Designer and Women of Inspiration SupportHER. Dean's designs are classic, elegant and versatile.

Dean draws his inspiration from his travels, art, architecture and the women he meets. We cannot wait to design a special SupportHER piece with Dean. deandavidson.ca

THE FUTURE IS SO BRIGHT - WE GOTTA WEAR SHADES!

On a recent trip to Canne, France. I stumbled upon a chic eyewear boutique with the most unique designs. Not only did I fall in love with the design, we loved her mission. “Our secret to creating original glasses that dress you, without disguising or betraying who you are.” Great excuse for a trip to France and visit Anne’s shop in Valbonne.

anneetvalentin.com

SUMMER ESSENTIALS

Summer is here! These are a few of my favorites for a sunkissed and polished look inspired by Bobbi!

– The Lip Tink in Ruby

– What the Foundation in Beige

– Face Pencil 7 & 9

– Neutralizer Pencil in Fair Peach

– Miracle Balm in Bronze

– The Mascara in Black

– The Nail Polish in Poppy jonesroadbeauty.com

BUMBLE APP

Thanks to Whitney Herd for putting the ball in our (women’s) court. After years being single, I decided to give it a try. I loved that we as women had the power to choose. If you are looking for love, set your intention and make the first move. Wink, it really does work. bumble.com

CANNE LIONS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

The worlds most recognizable brands celebrate the industry’s best work. A week of insights from iconic thought leaders, visionaries, entrepreneurs together with the worlds most innovative companies gather in the French Riviera to connect, learn and inspire change. There is no place in the world where you can do business with your feet in the sand learning and connecting with the worlds largest brands and brightest creatives in the industry. Save the date for June 2025.

cannelions.com

THE 7 VIRTUES PERFUME ATELIER

Barb Stegemann is a Canadian entrepreneur and success story. She turned her 10 year vision into a reality with the launch of The 7 Virtues Perfume Atelier where you can make your own perfume!

Ps. Barb, you are a Woman of Inspiration! the7virtues.com

RIVET UTILITY

Designer Duan, launched in the pandemic. She got her big break when Oprah fell in love with her jumpsuits and added it to her Favorite Things.

Designer jumpsuits for women are an everyday staple. It’s hard to choose just one. My favorite is the ICON. A staple that transitions from day to night with a change of a heel! rivetuity.com

MUST HAVE BAG

The bigger the better. I personally could never go out of the house with a small bag. Not unless it was a small cute bag in a larger shoulder bag. Choosing a bag is a statement. It must be versatile and you must love it.

Rebecca Minkoff designs are statement classics with a dash of boldness. You can never go wrong with black and gold. Bonus, purchasing from Rebecca, you are supporting a women-led business. rebeccaminkoff.com

WORTHY

Jamie Kern Lima - New York Times, Best Selling Author, Founder IT Cosmetics, Host - The Jamie Kern Lima Show Podcast

How to believe your are enough and transform your life. This is your time to soar. This isn’t a moment, it’s a movement. Jamie is on a mission to unlock your self-worth to break through the ceilings holding you back because, you are WORTHY.

jamiekernlima.com

2015

2015 Woman of Inspiration Legacy Award: Diane Harms

2016

2016 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Tamara Jones

2016 Game Changer Award: Teresa de Grosbois

2016 Boss Chick Award: Kim Deep

2016 Difference Maker Award: Elizabeth Lewis

2016 Millennial Leader Award: Mackenzie Murphy

2016 Lifetime Achievement Award: Donna Dahl

2016 Cultural Ambassador Award: Aretha Greatrix

2016 Health & Wellness Award: Jacqualine Cameron

2016 Mentorship Award: Lana Wright

2017

2017 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Deanna Burghart

2017 Lifetime Achievement Award: Lea Romanowski

2017 Game Changer Award: Karen Klassen

2017 Mompreneur Award: Lisa Mundell

2017 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Marija Pavkovic-Tovissi

2017 Boss Chick Award: Michelle Andrishak

2017 Cultural Ambassador Award: Sophie Armstrong

2017 Millennial Leader Award: Sophia Fairweather

2017 Difference Maker Award: Raman Kapoor

2017 Boss Chick Award: Nora Molina

2018

2018 Global Impact Award: Audrey Mascarenhas

2018 The Nest Award: Cindy Luffer

2018 Unsung Hero Award: Debora Bergeson

2018 Difference Maker Award: Dr. Jody Carrington

2018 Global Influencer Award: Dr. Laura Hambley-Lovett

2018 Boss Chick Award: Filomena Abdi

2018 Power Partner Award: Heather Erlen

2018 Millennial Leader Award: Jessica Tsang

2018 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Karen Stewart

2018 Game Changer Award: Kimberley Van Vliet

2018 Authentic Leader Award: Marsha Laine-Dungog

2018 Cultural Ambassador Award: Michelle Minke

2018 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Rena Tabata

2018 Lifetime Achievement Award: Vera Goodman

2018 Mentorship Award: Yvonne E.L. Silver

2018 SupportHER™ Award: Tara Wilson

2018 Innovative Leader Award: Maria Martinello

2018 Mompreneur Award: Shannon Collins

2019

2019 Indigenous Leader Award: Anaida Deti

2019 The Nest Award: Andrea Twizell

2019 Cultural Ambassador Award: Armineh Keshishian

2019 Youth Advocate Award: Brenda McWilson-Okorogba

2019 Game Changer Award: Cassandra Nordell

[ WOI ALUMNI ]

2019 Global Executive Leader Award: Catherine Yuile

2019 Diversity & Inclusiveness Award: Chantel Soumis

2019 Global Achievement Award: Christine Nielsen

2019 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Dana Tessier

2019 Authentic Leader Award: Debbie Burke-Benn

2019 Rural Leader Award: Denise Alison

2019 Inspire Award: Faten Alshazly

2019 Millennial Leader Award: Jamie Kramer

2019 Mompreneur Award: Jennifer Ladouceur

2019 Global Impact Award: Joan Kelley Walker

2019 Authentic Leader Award: Jocelyn Flanagan

2019 Global Influencer Award: Johanne Belanger

2019 SupportHER™ Award: Julian Smit

2019 Humanitarian Award: Kavita Dogra

2019 Health & Wellness Advocate Kim Fitzpatrick

2019 Inspire Award: Lindsey Penrose

2019 Innovator Award: Dr. Liza Egbogah

2019 Cultural Ambassador Award: Luma Qusus

2019 Mentorship Award: Maria Sofia

2019 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Marnie Grundman

2019 Mompreneur Award: Sandra Challenger

2019 Power Partner Award: Michael Hyatt

2019 SupportHER™ Award: Mike Giannoumis

2019 Rising Star Award: Mylene Tu

2019 Rising Star Award: Nadine Abdallah

2019 Rising Star Award: Prajwala Dixit

2019 SupportHER™ Award: Rebecca McKillican

2019 Indigenous Leader Award: Rochelle Laflamme

2019 Cultural Ambassador Award: Sappho Smythe

2019 Innovative Leader Award: Shelly Elsliger

2019 Diversity & Inclusiveness Award: Siobhan Calderbank

2019 SupportHER™ Award: Tim Alison

2019 Impact Award: Trish Ronan

2019 Inspire Award: Trudy Trinh

2019 Vision Builder Award: Vanessa Vakharia

2019 Mentorship Award: Theresa Rowsell

2019 Millennial Leader Award: Katie Schaffers

2019 Change Agent Award: Tracy Schmitt

2019 Authentic Leader Award: Anila Lee Yeun

2019 Difference Maker Award: Alison Springer

2019 Game Changer Award: Am&a Hamilton

2019 Heath & Wellness Award: Andrea Muir

2019 Difference Maker Award: Andrea Robertson

2019 Cultural Ambassador Award: Angel Guerra

2019 Go-Getter Award: Angie Ostojic

2019 Innovation Award: Anne Sellmer

2019 Power Partner Award: Arjun Channa

2019 Millennial Leader Award: Arlene Seymour

2019 Mentorship Award: Brenda Beckedorf

2019 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Cara Wolf

2019 Rural Leader Award: Carmen Vetian

2019 Indigenous Leader Award: Carrie Manitopyes

2019 The Nest Award: Christma Nathali

2019 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Christy Lane

2019 Unsung Hero Award: Cynthia Hamilton Urquhart

2019 SupportHER™ Award: Deb Milimaka Miles

2019 Global Difference Maker Award: Desiree Bombenon

2019 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Diane Colley-Urquhart

2019 Lifetime Achievement Award: Elfriede Holtkamp

2019 Mentorship Award: Eno Eka

2019 Global Impact Award: Gina Cherkowsk

2019 Inspire Award: Grace Yan

2019 Global Achievement Award: Jennifer Carlson

2019 Rural Leader Award: Julie Boake

2019 Youth Excellence Award: Kaiya Gamble

2019 Inspire Award: Karen Sherbut

2019 Mentorship Award: Kendra Kincade

2019 Indigenous Leader Award: Kyla Lee

2019 SupportHER™ Award: Larry Goerzen

2019 Customer Experience Award: Layna Segall

2019 Vison Builder Award: Lesley Rigg

2019 Influencer Award: Lindsay Harle-Kadatz

2019 Mompreneur Award: Marlo Brausse

2019 Unsung Hero Award: Mary Fischer

2019 Inspire Award: Rhonda Goldberg

2019 Indigenous Leader Award: Rhonda Head

2019 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Robyn Woods (Henderson)

2019 Diversity & Inclusiveness Award: Sandy Pound

2019 The Nest Award: Sarah Hawco

2019 Integrity Award: Sarah Leamon

2019 Humanitarian Award: Sharilyn Amy

2019 Impact Award: Sharon A.M. MacLean

2019 Global Influencer Award: Sheila Musgrove

2019 Innovative Leader Award: Shirley Penner

2019 Diversity & Inclusiveness Award: Sydney Cowling

2019 Cultural Ambassador Award: Teresa Spinelli

2019 Change Agent Award: Uyen Nguyen

2020

2020 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Jodeme Goldhar

2020 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Monique Auffrey

2020 Authentic Leader Award: Alma Arzate

2020 Authentic Leader Award: Jenn Lofgren

2020 Black Leader Award: Margaret Adu

2020 Black Leader Award: Nothabo Ncube

2020 Covid-19 Leader Award: Angie Kim

2020 Covid-19 Leader Award: Evelyne Nyairo

2020 Cultural Ambassador Award: Krista Malden

2020 Cultural Ambassador Award: Sabine Weber

2020 Customer Ex[erience Award: Adele Spraggon

2020 Customer Experience Award: Judith Virag

2020 Difference Maker Award: Vanisha Breault

2020 Diversity & Inclusiveness Award: Keshia Holloman-Dawson

2020 Diversity & Inclusiveness Award: Lorin MacDonald

2020 Dream Builder Award: Anuja Sharma-Virani

2020 Dream Builder Award: Monica Dauenhauer

2020 Game Changer Award: Jennifer Commins

2020 Game Changer Award: Karen MacNeill

2020 Global Impact Award: Helle Bank Jorgensen

2020 Global Impact Award: Jeanette Jackson

2020 Health & Wellness Award: Connie Jakab

2020 Health & Wellness Award: Karen Adams

2020 Indigenous Leader Award: Lori Campbell

2020 Indigenous Leader Award: Wendy Lumby

2020 Influencer Award: Blaise Hunter

2020 Influencer Award: Jana Webb

2020 Innovation Award: Laura Grant

2020 Innovation Award: Sharon Vinderine

2020 Inspire Award: Lisa Lisson

2020 Inspire Award: Neeru Schippel

2020 Integrity Award: Karen Fellowes

2020 Integrity Award: Karen Somerville

2020 Jr. Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Gurjot Kaur Singh

2020 Lifetime Achievement Award: Karen Fonseth

2020 Lifetime Achievement Award: Patricia Gagic

2020 Mentorship Award: Deborah Rodrigo

2020 Mentorship Award: Susan deRyk

2020 Millennial Leader Award: Lindsay Jones

2020 Millennial Leader Award: Lulu Liang

2020 Nest Award: Maeghen Cotterill

2020 Nest Award: Sibel Coskuner

2020 Rising Leader Award: Geetika Joshi

2020 Rising Leader Award: Jolie Gan

2020 Rural Leader Award: Ejibola Adetokunbo-Taiwo

2020 Rural Leader Award: Shelley Uvanile-Hesch

2020 Social Impact Award: Carlene Donnelly

2020 Social Impact Award: Margot Witz

2020 SupportHER™ Award: Christina Chow

2020 SupportHER™ Award: Dominic Vogel

2020 SupportHER™ Award: Marc Bombenon

2020 SupportHER™ Award: Paul Doroshenko

2020 SupportHER™ Award: Victoria Lennox

2020 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Anu Bidani

2020 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Sara Badiei

2020 Vision Builder Award: Jessica Jui

2020 Vision Builder Award: Towunmi Coker

2020 Women in Media Award: Angela Sterritt

2020 Women in Media Award: Tracy Lamourie

2020 Youth Excellence Award: Boluwatife Adefemi

2020 Youth Excellence Award: Chloe Shingoose

2021

2021 Advocate & Catalyst for Change Award: Trish Guise

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Andrea Linger

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Fatima Israel

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Heather Lochnan

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Kayla Isabelle

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Laura Didyk

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Marcela Lay

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Payal Puri

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Stephanie Leheta

2021 Authentic Leader Award: Victoria Nguyen

2021 Black Women Leader Award: Evangeline Chima

2021 Cultural Ambassador Award: Patti Jannetta

2021 Customer Experience Award: Eldeen Pozniak

2021 Difference Maker Award: Dr. Smita Pakhale

2021 Diversity & Inclusiveness Award: Presented by Randstad Canada Katherine (Katie) Dudtschak

2021 Dream Builder Award: Presented by AMJ Campbell Jennifer Green

2021 Economic Empowerment Award: Sonya Shorey

2021 Game Changer Award: Suzie Yorke

2021 Global Impact Award: Dr. Suhayya (Sue) Abu-Hakima

2021 Health & Wellness Award: Amber Zenith

2021 Heidi Stevenson Unsung Hero Award: Presented by Canada's Valour Games Captain Linda Feuerhelm

2021 Indigenous Leader Award: Presented by Hexo Corp. Jennifer Ménard-Shand

2021 Influencer Award: Vahen King

2021 Innovation Award Presented by Turbo Images: Sarah Jordan

2021 Inspire Award: Dr Sonya Richmond

2021 Integrity Award: Rose Marie Gage

2021 Lifetime Achievement Award: Hazel McCallion

2021 Mentorship Award: Erin Bigney

2021 Millennial Leader Award: Charlie Wall-Andrews

2021 Raising the Bar Award: Helen Filipe

2021 Rising Leader Award: Rebecca McLaren

2021 Rural Leader Award: Kara Alicia Kennish

2021 Social Impact Award: Meseret Haileyesus

2021 SupportHER™ Award: Presented by Raymond James Chantal & Brian Milloy

2021 Nest Award: Presented by Banff Sunshine Village Koleya Karringten

2021 Trailblazer Award: Presented by Mitacs: Jaime Leverton

2021 Transformational Leader Award: Theano Evagelou

2021 Transformational Leader Award: Christine Dagenais

2021 Vision Builder Award: Phoebe Wasfy

2021 Women in Media Award: Tracie Gray

2021 Women-Led Award: Presented by SureCall Robin Kovitz

2021 Youth Excellence Award: Presented by RBC Olivia Day

2021 Youth Excellence Award: Presented by RBC Zafina Zaman

2021 Immigrant Leader Award: Ariyike Akinbobola

2022

2022 Advocate and Catalyst for Change Award: Cathy Nesbitt

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Ramin Fazel

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Susie DeRidder

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Lavanya Hariharan

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Asawari Lele

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Samantha Sannella

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Tina Powell

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Annemarie Heikenwalder .

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Neelima Magal

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Naz Zehra

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Brianne Gardner

2022 Diversity and Inclusiveness Award: Lexi Plath

2022 Black Woman Leader Award: Patrice Barnes

2022 Cultural Ambassador Award: Sherry Shaw Froggatt

2022 Customer Experience Award: Jamie L. Smith

2022 Difference Maker Award: Danielle McCarron

2022 Dream Builder Award: Janet Wardle

2022 Game Changer Award: Shannon Bryne Susko

2022 Health and Wellness Award: Crystal

2022 Indigenous Leader Award: Leigh Joseph

2022 Immigrant Leader Award: Ayra Modalo

2022 Influencer Award: Stephanie Coughlan

2022Youth Excellence Award: Allysha Nichole Nolassco & Prerana Manoj

2022 Millennial Leader Award: Kendra Scurfield

2022 Inspire Award: Dr. Caroline Power

2022 Integrity Award: Patricia Ziegler-Ignor

2022 Innovation Award: Jennifer LeBrun

2022 Mentorship Award: Chantal Brine

2022 Nest Award: Shannon Smadella

2022 Raising the Bar Award: Lindsay Sill

2022 Rising Leader Award: Bailey Parnell

2022 Rural Leader Award: Angele Miller

2022 Social Impact Award: Jessica Dirom

2022 SupportHER (Allie) Award: Reetu Gupta Shawn Gibson

2022 SupportHER (Allie) Award: Shawn Gibson

2022 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Kristin Davis Ouwejan

2022 Transformational Leader Award: Ally Stone

2022 Vision Builder Award: Shauna Levy

2022 Women-led Award: Jennifer Hamilton

2022 Women in Media Award: Tara Slone

2022 Lifetime Achievement Award: Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine

2022 International Awards

2022 Advocate and Catalyst for Change Award: Sampurna Chatterjee

2022 Authentic Leader Award: Ukachi Anonyou

2022 Trailblazer (STEM) Award: Dr. Vanessa Farsadaki

2022 Diversity and Inclusion Award: Maryse Gordon

2022 Mentorship Award: Kisa Caruthers

2022 Influencer Award: Dr. Jill Lopez

2022 Millennial Leader Award: Melissa Church

2022 Difference Maker Award: Padmini Navalgund

2022 Social Impact Award: Velveeta Viban

2022 Women in Media Award: Empress Golding

EVERY WOMAN HAS A STORY. YOUR STORY DOES NOT DEFINE

YOU... IT EMPOWERS YOU!

– Monica Kretschmer

Dr. Sue Abu Hakima Contributor

Lisa Studnicki Hunt Contributor