2020
Women of Inspiration™ Award Recipients
Welcome, nominees, friends, alumni, cheerleaders, SupportHERs, and our proud Partners! Congratulations to our 2020 Women of Inspiration™ Award Recipients!
Firstly, I would like to acknowledge all our 2020 Women of Inspiration™ Nominators! We are celebrating the accomplishments of our 2020 Women of Inspiration ™ because you took the first step to acknowledge a woman and let her know that you value her contribution. Secondly, I would like to acknowledge all the SupportHER’s and cheerleaders. It is the people in our inner circle, family, teams who all play a critical role to advance women personally and professionally.
Thank you to our Media Partners from Post Media for shining the light on women across Canada, to our presenting Awards Partners from Mitacs, a not-for-profit organization that fosters growth and innovation in Canada, to Startup Canada, supporting entrepreneurs across Canada and Canadian Women’s Chamber.
The Universal Womens Network™ is a global platform committed to advance gender equality, diversity, and inclusion. We recognize the achievements of women through the Women of Inspiration™ Awards across Canada.
We have celebrated over 1000 women making an impact locally nationally, and globally. We are proud to be a diverse network that welcomes men to the conversation as allies and SupportHER’s.
So why is it so important to celebrate the achievements of women?
We are Raising the Bar for women to be seen, heard, valued!
Never before in the history of Canada have women been able to take the opportunity to stand out. Who are they?
Entrepreneurs, business owners, truck drivers, bush pilots, scientists, lawyers, students, brokers, advocates for women, inventors, artists, designers, influencers, doctors, survivors, mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, authors, protectors, and the women who we rub shoulders with every day!
They all have one thing in common, they are leaders. They are mentors, they are leaders from diverse industries and contribute to the economy! COVID19 has created barriers for us including hosting our in-person awards galas. It did not prevent us from recognizing the achievements of women who are making an impact locally, nationally, and globally.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Awards is a celebration unlike any other Women of Inspiration™ Awards before. This year, we dedicate an evening to nominees who thrived throughout a year of unbridled change. I saw each nominee step up and contribute, inspire others to lead, and show courage in the face of fear. It’s this ability to create impact, even in times of intense change that sees women carving the path forward. These are the incredible leaders who believe when we celebrate one woman, we celebrate all women.
Study after study has shown that Canada has up to $150 billion in GDP to gain by advancing gender equality and women’s participation in the economy. $150 billion! What I don’t have to imagine – is the impact when you recognize the achievements of women. I am beyond emotion, if I could have given awards out to every single woman who was nominated, I would have. Bravo to Canadas Top 150 Finalist across Canada!
Congratulations to our 2020 Women of Inspiration™ Award recipients! We look forward to the EPIC journey ahead to Raise the Bar for all women!
Listen to Women of Inspiration™ Podcast as we interview and share the inspiring journies on how they build their businesses, career path, pivot, overcome adversity and barriers, what drives them, their secret sauce to success, and more! Every woman has a story!
Tribute -Constable Heidi Stevenson
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Heidi Stevenson Unsung Hero Award
Heidi Stevenson was an active mom, a loving wife, a dedicated daughter, and a cherished friend. She led her life with kindness and compassion and confidently stood up for what she believed in. Whether she was chairing the School Advisory Council at her kids’ elementary school, whipping up desserts for bake sales or coaching rugby for teenage girls, her passion for people and community shone brightly. Heidi wasn’t afraid to try new things - she was a lifelong learner and always open to hearing and understanding different points of view. She was also the first on a zip line or to tuck and go speeding down a ski hill – she lived her life with a great sense of adventure. Heidi proudly served as a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 23 years and tragically lost her life in the line of duty in April 2020.
Monique Auffrey, CEO, carya
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Advocate and Catalyst for Change | Presented by CanWCC
As CEO, Monique leads with a big heart and a sharp mind. As former CEO of the Discovery House Family Violence Prevention Society, a social profit agency in Calgary and a survivor of domestic violence, she is laser-focused in eradicating domestic violence and ending the traumatic cycle by focusing on building resiliency in traumatized children. Monique is recognized nationally and internationally for her achievements. From the very beginning of Monique’s career, she has been a global pioneer in developing programs to help vulnerable people. After graduating with a Masters of Social Work from Dalhousie University, she worked with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Canadian Red Cross and Mines Action Canada and Oxfam to deliver a mandated program of landmine awareness in the Atlantic Region. Monique is an active member of the Alberta Council of Women Shelters and has most recently been nominated to the Alberta Family Violence Death Review Committee (FVDRC).
Jodeme Goldhar - Convenor, Curator, Strategic Weaver, The Change Foundation
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Advocate and Catalyst for Change | Presented by CanWCC
Jodeme Goldhar serves as Executive Lead, Strategy, and Innovation at The Change Foundation, Toronto Canada. By listening to patients, caregivers, and health providers, The Change Foundation drives health system transformation to advance a high performing integrated health care system. Jodeme's passion is convening opportunities for those in health and social systems to work together to realize the potential of the collective. Jodeme serves as a catalyst to support large scale transformative change and ensures change opportunities are co-designed. Jodeme brings over 20 years of experience in health care and health policy and collaborates locally and internationally. Jodeme serves as a Fellow of Dr. Helen Bevan and the NHS, Horizons Team, Senior Associate for The International Foundation for Integrated Care, Adjunct Faculty at the University of Toronto's Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation and as a Leadership Coach.
Gurjot Kaur Singh - Youth Activist and Community Leader , YWCA Canada
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Jr. Advocate and Catalyst for Change Award | Presented by CanWCC
Gurjot K. Singh recently graduated from Western University on Dean Honor List with an Honours Bachelor's degree and is an aspiring lawyer and social justice and human rights activist. She hopes to work towards ending gender inequality, especially in the South Asian community and creating social impact with her humanitarian work. She has worked with various organizations like YWCA, the London Housing Registry, Sahaita, the John Howard Society of London & District and Manukta Di Seva Society, advocating for and raising thousands of dollars for marginalized communities. She has also co-authored countless policy briefs presented at Parliament through YWCA, which advocated for amendments in policies and funding to improve the lives of women and girls. She is currently working on a plan under the Brampton West Youth Council & MP Khera to address the rising sexual violence in Brampton. As well, she is writing her first article addressing the significance of feminism and is working on launching a platform that highlights marginalized women leaders around the world and advocates for the UN Sustainable Development Goals. When she's not glued to her work, she likes to spend time reading, brushing up on her French, traveling and improving her skincare routine.
Jenn Lofgren - Founder, Executive Leadership Coach & Consultant , Incito Executive & Leadership Development
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader Award
Jenn Lofgren is an Executive Development Coach and Founder of Incito. She helps executives across Canada and worldwide unlocks their leadership potential and grow into inspired, authentic leaders. Jenn became a Chartered Professional in Human Resources in 2009 with CPHR Alberta and a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation in 2012. She is one of only 70 recipients of the esteemed Master Certified Coach (MCC) designation in Canada and five percent of coaches worldwide. She is a partner with the Women's Executive Network (WXN), and was named to the WXN Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 in 2019. Jenn has engaged in numerous mentorship relationships with women from diverse industries and backgrounds. She also serves on four boards, supporting struggling youth, the arts, the community, and local businesses. Jenn is a champion of local enterprise, an ally to women in business, an actively involved citizen, and a passionate member of the global business community.
Alma Arzate - Global Director, Supply Planning , Apotex Inc.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Authentic Leader Award
Alma is currently a Global Director, Supply Planning for Apotex Inc. Alma has more than two decades of broad leadership experience across global supply chain and operations in the automotive, electronics, medical devices, CPG, and pharmaceutical industries; she uses her skills and experiences to help support multiple supply chain, education, women and immigrant-related initiatives.
Alma leads by example and presses for women's advancement as part of the founding core team of Apotex Inc. WIL Initiative. She acts as a keynote speaker and panelist at the Schulich School of Business, George Brown College, Supply Chain Canada, JVS Toronto, and ACCES Employment. Recently, Alma acted as a chair as a part of Supply Chain Canada's new initiative to recognize Canadian Immigrants Impacting Supply Chain.
Originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, Alma relocated with her family to Canada in 2007. She resides in the GTA with her husband, their three children (ages 12, 15, and 21), and their rescued tabby cat.
Nothabo Ncube - Founder and CEO, Eranic
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Black Women Leader Award
Nothabo Ncube (Dr.Thabo) is an Inspirational TEDx Speaker, Coach to Women, and a Mentor to young-girls. Dr.Thabo’s story led her to meet the media mogul, Oprah Winfrey and she recently shared her life journey on the TEDx platform. She has been spotted on Global News TV and on the cover page of the Canadian Immigrant Magazine/Top 4 Immigrant Women Influencers 2019. Through her dedication to making a global impact, she was nominated by Women Of Influence and Royal Bank Of Canada for the 28th Annual RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards/Inspiring Group for the 2nd year in a row. She is now on a mission to use her voice and story to inspire and empower humanity.
Margaret Adu - President and CEO, Margaret Adu
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Black Women Leader Award
Margaret is a President and Founder of Aomega Lodges of Aomega Group Inc.In 2000 she founded Aomega Lodges a division of Aomega Group Inc. as a private company serving individuals in the city of Calgary through a contract with Alberta Health Services, Calgary Zone. Provided care for 4 clients and hired 3 staff.
2002, the health region contacted Aomega Lodges to provide an additional 4 clients through a contract with Alberta Health Services, Calgary Zone.
2003 Built a new purpose-built PCH for six clients and was successful with a contract through the Alberta Health Services, Calgary Zone. This was the first of its kind in Calgary.
2019 Presently Aomega Lodges provides Personal care home services to 46 very deser.
Angie Kim - Vice President, Operations, Loblaw Companies Ltd.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ COVID19 Leader Award
Angie Kim leads operations for the National Wholesale division at the Loblaw Companies Ltd., Canada's food and pharmacy leader, with a network of over 2,000 stores employing close to 200,000 Canadians. Angie received her B.Sc. with Honours from the University of Toronto and experienced various roles in sales, operations, and category management in her career. As a daughter of a diplomat, Angie has lived in multiple countries before immigrating to Canada in 2001. Driving culture and engagement through empowering people is her greatest passion and she currently sits on various committees for Diversity & Inclusion and mentors several next-generation leaders.
Evelyne Nyairo - Founder and CEO, Ellie Bianca
2020 Women of Inspiration™ COVID19 Leader Award
Socially conscious innovator, Evelyne Nyairo, the driving force behind the luxurious all-natural skincare line, Ellie Bianca, is no novice to the business world. Evelyne holds an undergraduate degree in environmental Sciences with Biology and Chemistry Majors and an M.Sc. in Environmental Management. Evelyne provides strategic planning on high profile projects worldwide and has held many energy sector leadership positions.
A serial entrepreneur, Ellie Bianca, inspired by her daughter, its namesake, is the most recent of five companies that Evelyne has created and nurtured to success. With her wealth in knowledge of natural products and chemistry, she has conceptualised and designed the Ellie Bianca brand. It started with a tube of lip balm and broadening into skin oils and serums and as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic the company added hand sanitizers and hand soaps to their SKUs. Through Ellie Bianca she has not only created a skin care line but also a pro women’s empowerment venture designed to “heal not just the skin, but the soul”, Ellie Bianca is a beacon of hope and global connection.
Krista Malden - Founder and Publisher, Community Now! Magazine
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Cultural Ambassador Award
Krista Malden, Mother of two beautiful girls, Drummer, Community Connector, Storyteller, teacher and Founder of Community Now! Magazine.
Krista Started her journey in the world of Jazz, which led her to teaching, performing and creating. She has a passion for community, connecting people and helping people shine.
Krista is the founder of ZX Media...Community Now! Magazine and spends her time connecting the community to community, industry to community and community to industry. She is always looking for ways to shine the light on how powerful community is. She loves teaching music & spending time with her girls & family.
Sabine Weber - Prof. Seneca College | Founder and President, Sustainable Strategies & Solutions,Seneca
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Cultural Ambassador Award
Sabine Weber, MES, B.A. (Hons.), is a Professor at Seneca College in the School of Fashion. Her research topics are sustainable fashion, textile waste and social innovation. Her main interest is how social innovation can help to make the fashion industry a circular system. Sabine has studied Apparel Engineering in Germany and worked for many years in the fashion industry as an international buyer and team leader for different brands. In 2015 she graduated at the University of Waterloo in the School of Environment and Resource Sustainability (SERS) with a focus in waste management and social marketing. In her thesis, she examined textile waste and studied the ways consumers manage their unwanted garments to develop strategies to change behaviour. In December 2015 she founded Sustainable Strategies & Solutions, for which she has been working on different consultant projects. In 2017 she co-founded the Ontario Textile Diversion Collaborative (OTDC).
Adele Spraggon - Owner, Adele Spraggon
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Customer Experience Award
Adele Spraggon is an international speaker, trainer, facilitator, and award-winning author. She has guided thousands of people, around the world to lead happier more fulfilling lives, as well as helping CEOs create multi-million dollar businesses by showing them how to act, rather than react, to important decisions. Her in-depth knowledge of the human condition comes partly from her Masters of Arts in Humanities, as well as her years of experience as a Certified Meditation Facilitator. The proprietary technology Adele teaches is now backed by the latest findings in neuroscience.
Judith Virag - CEO, Clean Club Calgary
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Customer Experience Award
Born and raised in Budapest, Hungary, I immigrated to Canada with my parents in 1989. Canada gave me a home and provided me with amazing experiences, including starting my own cleaning company, Clean Club Calgary. Experience and passion are what I believe help me transform cleaning into a higher quality of life for my clients with Clean Club Calgary. Combining my love of accountability, physical work, and solution finding, I set out to create a cleaning business built on honesty, loyalty, trust AND quality cleaning. I believe that improving quality of life doesn't just mean for clients, but for my staff as well.
Glori Meldrum - Founder and CEO ,Little Warriers
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Difference Maker Award
Glori Meldrum is an accomplished business leader, a visionary entrepreneur and the founder and chair of Little Warriors and the Be Brave Ranch. As a survivor of child sexual abuse herself, in 2014 Glori opened the Little Warriors Be Brave Ranch, a first-of-its-kind, world-class, evidence-based treatment centre to help children across Canada who have been sexually abused. Glori believes âs one thing to discover your life purpose; its another to do something about it.
Vanisha Breault - Founder and CEO,Terminator Foundation
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Difference Maker Award
"It takes gusto to live your recovery out loud, but that is how Vanisha Breault has pledged to live her life”every day. Recognizing her community as a chance to impact change on a local and national level, she is a crusader for social justice. Vanisha's personal story of addiction is the motivating force behind her dream of breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health issues a goal that couldn't be timelier.
Vanisha is the Founder of the Terminator Foundation, a nonprofit organization helping youth overcome addiction. Its motto The Truth is You Can Recover drives the mission to revolutionize lives through the sport of triathlon. Offering one-on-one coaching, training, support, mindfulness practices and a guaranteed non-judgmental atmosphere, the Foundation hosts an annual conference and several fundraisers to help support individuals and families impacted by addiction.
Amid everything that 2020 has served up, Vanisha has launched the Ordinary Courage podcast. Aimed to explore real stories surrounding issues of addiction, mental health and abuse, it's pushing the boundaries of vulnerability, introspection and everyday courage, and ultimately shifting the paradigm of judgment towards one of compassion.
Vanisha is a strong and bright motivational speaker available for events of all sizes and groups that could benefit from a change in perspective or a reminder that each individual journey is beautiful and worthy.
Her story is one of perseverance and humility, and in many ways, deeply relatable to anyone who has ever struggled with trauma, shame or self-doubt.
Vanisha is a devout Christian, loving mom of 4, grandmother(Momag) of 5, sister, daughter and friend. Her dedication to changing the lives of those who struggle with addiction is profoundly motivated by her inner circle, knowing from lived experience that the effects of mental health issues go far beyond the individual."
Keshia Holloman-Dawson - President,Black Law Students' Association: Calgary Chapter
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Diversity and Inclusiveness Award
"Born and raised in Calgary, Keshia is a fourth-generation Albertan. She began her studies at the University of Calgary as a Bachelor of Arts undergraduate Honours student researching the relationship dynamics of Indigenous women in street gangs. Her community-based research and continued volunteer work with groups including Wellspring Calgary inspired her to advocate for all through law. She was accepted into the Faculty of Law in 2019 where she later became the President of the UCalgary Black Law Students’ Association.
The deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd drew international attention and peaceful demonstrations materialized in Calgary in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. As a way of mobilizing this movement, Keshia implemented strategies for diversification within law by addressing discrimination issues such as the underrepresentation of Black and Indigenous people in law enforcement, law schools, and the legal profession. She assembled in her privileged position as a law student to diversify and improve the legal landscape for future generations.
She is now a Board Member with the Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation and Colour Factor as a result of her contribution to diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism."
Lorin MacDonald - Founder and CEO,HearVue Inc.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Diversity and Inclusiveness Award
Lorin MacDonald is a human rights lawyer and Founder & CEO of HearVue, a social enterprise to increase communication inclusion at events via captioning.
For decades, she has demonstrated her leadership, passion, and commitment to accessibility and inclusion in her volunteer and professional activities, all informed by her lived experience as a woman born with profound hearing loss. Recognized as one of Canada's top voices in accessibility and disability issues, Lorin's approach is grounded in evidence-based research and a desire to challenge communities and organizations to be more inclusive. Through education and as an in-demand speaker, Lorin continually ensures those who are misinformed or unconscious of cross-disability accessibility barriers are equipped with tools to create inclusive communities. She was featured in a Canadian Press article that was picked up nation-wide discussing the challenges of living with hearing loss during COVID-19. Lorin shares her journey via LinkedIn posts to inspire others, garnering thousands of views through her powerful storytelling.
Lorin is a dedicated volunteer within the legal profession and acts as a mentor to female law students and novice lawyers as they navigate the legal profession.
Monica Dauenhauer - Pilot, Kenn Borek Air Ltd.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Dream Builder Award
"Monica Dauenhauer is a Canadian Bush Pilot and Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. She flies for
Kenn Borek Air to both Polar regions and anywhere in between. Her uniform can shift from
Parka and boots to white shirt and shorts. She has worked in the Aviation industry for 24 years,
flown 14 seasons in Antarctica and has chased 24 hour daylight for most of her career.
Monica has found a love of the history in both polar regions and is proud to be a part of this
history with serving the local people, supporting science and helping adventurers reach their
goals."
Anuja Sharma Virani - Chintan Virani Architect Inc | Virani Designs | National Realty
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Dream Builder Award
Anuja Virani has a degree in civil engineering and works as a project manager & officer at her own company Chintan Virani Architect Inc. Anuja Sharma-Virani is a realtor since 2013; Member, OREA & WECAR; She has demonstrated commitment to community service; Awareness, and interest in regional and social issues; Active with many other community groups and has served on other boards locally and internationally. Mentor for entrepreneurs at EPICentre, Odette School of Management, University of Windsor; Member, Indo Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC); Member, Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC); Member, Windsor Construction Association (WCA); Member, Windsor Gujarati Samaj (GSW); Served as a committee member; Board of Directors, Women's Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc.
Karen MacNeill - Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer,headversity
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Game Changer Award
"Dr. Karen MacNeill has the unique experience of having both competed and consulted on the World Stage. She is a former Canadian team athlete, performance psychologist, the lead Mental Performance Consultant for the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Korea, and will perform the same role in the 2021 Olympics in Japan. Karen is also a registered psychologist and has helped leaders, athletes, and individuals navigate countless mental health issues.
Karen is co-founder and Chief Product Officer of a mental wellness tech company called headversity, which offers preventative and personalized mobile resilience training to help people get ahead of adversity. With a background in both performance and applied psychology, Karen recognized the need for accessible, evidence-based, and measurable tools to protect mental health, promote mental fitness and build resilience. Utilizing her expertise and 20 years of experience working in the field, Karen worked with the headversity team to build an evidence-based mental wellness platform designed to measure, track and train resilience, which is being deployed across progressive North American organizations.
Karen is a sought-after presenter and speaker having been invited as a keynote speaker to industry-leading conferences, organizational retreats and presented to aspiring leaders at the Young Women of Influence event. She has also been selected as a TEDx speaker and was to deliver this talk in April 2020.
During the pandemic, Karen has provided leadership and contributed to her professional community as the Chair of the COVID 19 Mental Health and Mental Performance Task force. She is also involved with a work committee that is charged with developing a mental health strategy for the Canadian Sport System. Karen career achievements and volunteer efforts have been publicly recognized as she was a recipient of the Avenue Top 40 under 40 Award. Her passion and drive for helping others be their best also translates into her life as a mother, wife, and outdoor enthusiast."
Jennifer Commins - Founder and CEO,Pluck Tea Inc.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Game Changer Award
"Jennifer Commins is the founder and CEO of Pluck Tea Inc, a premium tea company located in Toronto. Founded in 2012, Pluck Tea is not your grandmothers tea company.
Jennifer mission to â ˜fix restaurant tea coupled with her dedication to sourcing Canadian ingredients, upcycled ingredients from other food makers, and directly traded sustainably harvested teas has established her as a leader of note in the tea industry in Canada and abroad.
A recipient of the silver medal at the World Tea Expo for her innovative Verbena Blues colour changing tea, the Sustainability Award from The Tea Associations of the USA and Canada in 2018, and the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy Fund from the Canadian government in 2019, Jennifer is an inspiring entrepreneur who has successfully grown her business to service over 600 restaurants across Canada, in addition to specialty retail and offices.
Customers of note include the Parliamentary Dining Room at Parliament Hill, the Governor General House, and the Canadian Embassy in Washington.
Today, Jennifer is leading her company through a major strategy shift to sell to consumers online, and through a growing network of specialty grocery retailers, including Whole Foods."
Jeanette Jackson - CEO,Foresight Cleantech Accelerator Centre
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Global Impact Award
"Jeanette Jackson is the CEO of Foresight, a cleantech ecosystem accelerator that is empowering entrepreneurs and energizing a world-class cleantech industry across Canada. She is a multi-award winning sustainability champion, a sought-after public speaker, and a leading advisor to the cleantech industry.
A successful entrepreneur across multiple industries, Jeanette has secured millions in investment dollars, project funding, and revenue led cross-functional teams, and developed innovative programs for entrepreneurs, industry, and investors. Jeanette is driven by her fundamental belief that collaboration is a critical success factor to large-scale transformation, and is leading ground-breaking pan-Canada sector engagement projects to align Canada's long-term economic, social, and environmental goals.
Since taking on the role of Foresight CEO, Jeanette has spearheaded the organization through a remarkable growth and vitalization pathway. Foresight programs and advisory work have now helped over 500 entrepreneurial companies, generated over $250M in funding, and created over 5,000 jobs."
Helle Bank Jorgensen - Founder and CEO, Competent Boards
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Global Impact Award
Over the past 30 years, I have worked with remarkable global leaders to change the tone from the top and embed sustainability, climate, and ESG considerations into company oversight and decision making. Many of those leaders have helped launch the Competent Boards Certificate Program. The program is highly praised for its unique global dialogue and how it empowers Boards of Directors, Investors, CEOs, and executives from all over the world to learn from each other about ESG and Resiliency. I serve on His Royal Highness Prince of Wales A4S Global Expert Panel as well as WBCSD Governance & Internal Oversight High-Level Advisory Group. As a business lawyer and state-authorized public accountant by training, I also advise global companies and investors in turning sustainability into strong financial results.
I have been at the forefront of value-creating ESG and sustainability issues since I created the world’s first Green Account in 1991, as well as the world’s first Integrated Report in 2002. I have written numerous articles on emerging best practices, is a keynote speaker for sustainability and ESG issues and interviewed by global media outlets. My career started at PwC where I was a Partner for 11 years.
Connie Jakab - Owner,Brave Parent Institute
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Health and Wellness Award
Connie Jakab is the owner of The Brave Parent Institute and the Senior Manager of Wellness Innovate - two companies that are all about changing home and work environments for mental health. She is also the author of Bring Them Closer and two other books. Connie is passionate about rebelling against status quo living and encouraging others to branch out. She is also the Director of National Hope Talks and the Hope Movement combatting mental health in Canada. She is a sought out speaker for her raw honestly and humour. Connie drives her passion outward into the arms of those wanting something more radical and meaningful in life. She lives with her husband and two boys in Calgary, Alberta Canada.
Karen Adams - Chief Health Innovation Officer,CloudMD
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Health and Wellness Award
"Karen Adams is an accomplished leader who has built her career on advocating for mental health. Karen's connection with mental health started in 2000 at Warren Shepell. She had progressive positions in the Employee Assistance Industry educating workplaces on the importance of mental health. As a recognized leader in marketing and sales Karen led companies such as Warren Shepell, Shepellfgi and Morneau Shepell in the quest to bring mental health to employee group benefit plans to provide access to care. Karen played a key role in ensuring the product evolution of EAP and was recognized in Benefits Canada who in healthcare award 2008. Karen is a frequently called upon public speaker, media
Karen is a member of the Board of directors for Ontario Shores for Mental Health and is the past Chair. Karen earned her Bachelors of Arts in psychology and sociology from University of Toronto. She has been nominated for numerous awards and spends her time now consulting with organizations on mental health programs. Karen lives in Stouffville, Ontario with her husband and enjoys tennis, cooking and reading."
Lori Campbell - Director, Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre ,St. Paul's University College
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Indigenous Leader Award
Lori is an intergenerational survivor of the Indian Residential School system and a child from the Sixties Scoop generation. Over a span of 25 years she located not only her birth mom, but all 6 of her living siblings who were scattered across several provinces. Lori has made it her career advocating for social justice and working towards a more equitable society for all. She started out working with youth, later in the area of public housing, and then became a victim services worker before moving into post-secondary. Most recently, she was a federal candidate in the 2019 election. Now, with over 13 years of progressive leadership with contributions in student services, academics, research and administration, Lori is an experienced leader in education with a proven track record particularly in advancing processes of Indigenization, reconciliation, and decolonization. Lori holds two undergraduate degrees (Indigenous Studies and Psychology), a master's degree in Adult Education and is a PhD candidate in Social Justice Education. She currently holds the position of Director, Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre and is and teaches Indigenous studies at St. Paul's University College.
Wendy Lumby - CEO, Faces of Wendy
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Indigenous Leader Award
"Being passionate about my profession and enjoying breaking down the barriers for Females has always been my mantra. I am the only Aboriginal to ever compete in the Winter Olympics in alpine ski racing and after my career as an athlete, I continued to be one of the very few women to have ever coached at the World Cup level. In addition to that, my fellow Coach and I made history as the first all Female Coaching staff at a World Alpine Championships. I am also one of countries top ranked Coach Education Facilitators. Working for APTN as a Television Broadcast Host for the 2010 Olympic Games gave me the experience to host a successful podcast called Going Downhill which is based on ski racing around the world. On top of it all I have been named as an a Aboriginal Sports Hero by the Government of Canada.
My Talent Agency â Faces of Wendy was born from knowing I wanted to work for myself. My entrepreneurial spirit, along with my work ethic, honesty and integrity, I have earned the respect of my peers and Directors and am held in high regard within the industry. Encouraging my Actors and sharing my knowledge with them is part of what I do and who I am. This empowers my Actors and gives them the courage and the confidence to follow their dreams."
Blaise Hunter - CEO and Fertility Expert ,Blaise the Trail Inc
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Influencer Award
"Blaise Hunter is an author, award winning advocate, international speaker, fertility expert and the founder of the Heroine Movement. She tackles the realities of issues women face from self worth to motherhood and infertility. She pushes back on the pressures of perfectionism women face in todays world. Blaise mission is to inspire women to love themselves and breathe their passion like fire by Blaising Their Own Trail. Blaise found her way out of the darkness and transformed her pain into her purpose. Her quest is to help women unleash the power of vulnerability to become their own hero. From one woman to another, hear her battle cry: Heroine: Embrace Your Flaws & Own Your Awesome
Blaise speaks on stages around the world empowering women to pick up their miscarried dreams and birth their destiny. We all have endured setbacks, but we are not barren. It is time to rise up and be Mothers of Purpose.
She also founded the non-profit group, Footprints: Infertility & Pregnancy Loss Support Initiative, which is changing the healthcare system one hospital at a time. She also helps parents work through their grief and trauma. Blaise won a Women of Influence Award for this cause."
Jana Webb - Founder and CEO, JOGA Corp
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Influencer Award
This is Jana Webb; a lifelong athlete, industry disruptor, and overall loveable woman who has made it her mission to share her inimitable perspective of fitness and health with the world. The creation of Jana Webb's brainchild JOGA was a fortuitous occurrence born out of a seemingly unfortunate event. Before this chapter of her life, Jana was a successful Television host and Advertising Executive, but it wasn't until a serious car accident that inflicted some physical ailments that her acting coach suggested she try Yoga breathing techniques as a rehabilitative practice. Low and behold, a Yogi was born, but not the traditional kind; having always been somewhat of a jock, Jana was able to morph her Ishta Yoga training from Japan in such a fashion that complimented her competitive athletic nature. In 2010, JOGA: a unique blend of postures and breathing techniques was born and has been revolutionarily helping people strengthen their minds and bodies ever since. Wanting to bridge the gap between fitness and yoga, she developed a number of sport-specific programs including Yoga for Golfers and Yoga for Runners to help people apply better practices to help them excel at their sport. before developing the JOGA program. Jana success digs deeper; having inspired Olympic and professional athletes all over North America in the NHL, NFL, MLB, NBA, and CFL to see the benefit of practicing JOGA, but to want to implement it as part of their training regime as well lent itself to an incredible milestone that allowed her to travel internationally with teams and athletes from around the world.
This awareness and growth called for a business shift to expand the culture of JOGA. With the extension to allow other health professionals, yoga instructors, physiotherapists, athletic therapists, and strength coaches to become JOGA certified JOGA WORLD now has over 400 JOGA coaches around the globe. The most recent business venture for Jana is the release on the FitPlan App of instructional JOGA videos. Jana's relatable spirit and wonderful sense of humour are what has brought her to be one of the six Real Housewives of Toronto."
Laura Grant - Co-Founder ,Alberta Bike Swap
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Innovation Award
Laura has always been able to connect people, community, and ideas. Diagnosed with MS while in 3rd year Pharmacy 40 years ago, Laura understands the importance of science and education. She has a Math/Comp Sci degree and continuing medical education in infection control, carbon measurement, and graduate courses in environmental science. She wrote a carbon offset protocol in graduate school in 2007 on native over manufactured landscapes called Weapons of Grass Destruction. As a forward thinker who has learned to sit on her hands when someone asks for a volunteer, Laura spends her days developing her bike swap software as a white label platform, sharing wisdom on carbon sink native landscapes, and helping women succeed through her social enterprise that pays and trains people a living wage to sew textiles.
Sharon Vinderine - Founder and CEO,PTPA Media Inc.
Innovation Award
"Sharon Vinderine is the Founder of Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA), North America's most recognized product awards program. The program has proven to be the most credible and trustworthy way for consumers to make purchasing decisions for their families. As a leader in her field, Vinderine has been acknowledged by the media as an industry leader and innovator. She has appeared on over 300-morning shows on TV net2020 Women of Inspiration™ -works including ABC, NBC, MSNBC and the Fox News Network. Vinderine was a contributor to The Rachael Ray Show, The Steve Harvey Show, Headline News & MSNC.
Vinderine is the recipient of the 2015 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award in the Micro-Business category, as well as a recipient of the 2015 Silver Stevie Awards for Female Entrepreneur of the Year and was ranked by Profit Magazine as one of Canadas Rising Stars. Vinderine received her Double Honours degree from York University."
Neeru Schippel - Owner and Operator, SSC Family Restaurants Ltd o/a McDonald's
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Inspire Award
After practicing law for 11 years Neeru made the transition to proud owner of 5 McDonaldâs Restaurants in Edmonton. In a competitive male market, Neeru is proud of being 1 of 7 female owners in Western Canada and 1 of 30 country wide. After successfully selling her Edmonton market she will own 9 locations in Red Deer becoming one of the largest female operators in Canada. She is passionate about developing young individuals, helping them set goals, finding new arenas for them to excel while instilling confidence. This is done by creating a fun working environment where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, sex or cultural background.
She is committed to participating in new community events on a monthly basis. She chooses new events that her team can rally behind. These events motivate her employees to give back to the community. Neerus drive and openness lead her to receiving the Alberta Business: Diversity Leadership of Distinction Award. She was short listed for the Youth Employer and Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award. She has been featured by Franchise Canada alongside three McDonalds owners from across Canada. Given her teams constant motivation her restaurants have been the recipients of various recognitions.
Lisa Lisson - President,FedEX
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Inspire Award
"Lisa Lisson started her career at FedEx Express Canada as an associate marketing specialist, and rose through the ranks to become president in 2010. Over this time, Lisa has become one of Canada's most powerful and influential transportation executives.
As the leader of 7,600 employees across 68 locations, Lisa has helped build FedEx Express Canada into the most reliable courier network in the country, allowing consumers and businesses to connect Canada and the entire world with uncompromising speed and reliability. Lisa has become a renowned public speaker in Canada and the United States for her revealing discussion about becoming the first woman and first Canadian president in FedEx Express Canada history. With the sudden passing of her husband at a young age, Lisa was left to raise their four children as a single mother, while managing to build a successful career. This has enabled Lisa to acquire many insights and advice that she regularly shares with her audiences with openness and frankness. Every year since she was appointed president, FedEx Express has consistently ranked highest among all transportation companies in Canada on leading published reputation indexes.
Lisa starred on the award-winning TV show Undercover Boss and is a best-selling author of a memoir called Resilience."
Karen Fellowes - Senior Counsel,Stikeman Elliott LLP
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Integrity Award
Karen is senior legal counsel at a national law firm, where she helps businesses and individuals navigating financial difficulties. She has taken on leadership roles in organizations promoting women's advancement, literacy, and access to justice. She is President of Pro Bono Law Alberta, and was recently awarded the honourary designation of Queen's Counsel (Q.C.), in recognition of her outstanding legal skills and contribution to the profession and community.
Karen Somerville - President,Canadians for Properly Built Homes
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Integrity Award
"Dr. Karen Somerville is an educator, executive coach, advisor, management consultant, board member, researcher, public speaker and accountant. She is the President of Performance Plus Group, which specializes in leadership development and organizational change. Karen is an Associate faculty member with Athabasca University's Executive MBA Program.
With more than 30 years of experience as a leader and in senior management, Karen is a results-oriented professional with extensive experience in all three sectors (private, public and non-profit). As a management consultant, she has worked with very diverse clients from The World Bank to high tech start-ups. Her research has been published in a number of peer-reviewed journals including Journal of Change Management, Public Admin Quarterly, and the International Journal of Knowledge, Culture and Change Management.
Karen has served on many boards over the past three decades including the Board of Governors of the Ontario College of Trades (Governor), the Canada-Minnesota Business Council (Director and Treasurer), Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities (Director), the Central Park Community Association (President), International Social Services Canada (Director), the Children's Aid Society of Ottawa-Carleton (Vice-President and Director), and the Ottawa Chapter of the Strategic Planning Forum (President and Director). She currently serves as President of Canadians for Properly Built homes.
Karen holds a PhD in Management (Carleton University), an MBA (University of Ottawa), a Certified Executive Coach (CEC) designation (Royal Roads University), a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation, a Certified General Accountant (CGA) designation and a Chartered Director (C.Dir.) designation (McMaster University). She has also been certified by the Barrett Values Centre as a CTT Certified Consultant. (The Barrett Values Centre is recognized as a global leader in providing tools to transform organizational culture.)"
Karen Fonseth - Chief Executive Officer, DASCH Inc.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Lifetime Achievement Award
Karen is a Harvard Alumna and a highly respected CEO of one of Canada's largest NPO's (DASCH, supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities in 59 locations with proven skills in developing, growing and managing complex organizations both provincially and nationally. Recently, under her leadership, the Winnipeg franchise to Nurse Next Door was purchased and launched. These organizations have ranged from start ups to multi-million dollar corporations. Karen is an experienced and analytical Board Director with extensive experience in corporate and board governance, strategic planning, audit and risk management, finance, communications/media relations, government relations, standards and policy.
Patricia Gagic - President, Patricia Karen Gagic Art Enterprise Inc.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Lifetime Achievement Award
Patricia is an award-winning, International Contemporary Artist, Author, Humanitarian/Activist/Speaker. President of the CYO at the age of 13, breaking the barriers for women in banking and staying steadfast in the male-dominated art world. Her passion to inspire people has been seen in her multiple award nominations and acceptance to bridge minorities and the less fortunate. Travel has been mystical and deeply important from climbing desert sand dunes, trekking across Nepal and Tibet, and driving thru the lavender fields of France. An entrepreneur who built a retirement home, managed medical practices, medical building projects, and supported sustainable projects sponsoring a LEAD Canada cohort. She has prestigious recognition as the first female awarded the SNBA Gold Medal at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris in December 2018. She has been recognized with Excellence in the Arts for Courage and Commitment to Human Rights, Dignity, and Freedom by the Canadian Civil Liberties Association In 2013, Knighted as a Dame of the International Order of St. George Grand Prior of Canada, recognized by WXN (Women's Executive Network) as one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada inducted into the WXN Hall of Fame in 2018. Patricia changed lives in Cambodia and Haiti.
Deborah Rodrigo - CEO , Strategy In Motion
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Mentorship Award
Deborah Rodrigo is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Strategy In Motion Inc., the Chief Operating Officer of HighStreet Insurance Group and a TEC Canada Chair. Strategy In Motion Inc. is a business advisory firm focused on helping entrepreneurs find solutions and equip business leaders to manage challenges proactively with confidence. HighStreet Insurance Group is a privately owned boutique insurance brokerage that offers tailored insurance products and sound risk management advice. TEC Canada helps executives and owners make better decisions through peer advisory boards supported by one-to-one coaching, expert speakers, fast-paced learning and global networking. TEC Canada is the most comprehensive executive and leadership development program in Canada.
Deborah has been a Chartered Accountant for over 30 years and has previously held numerous executive positions including Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer for both public and private entities. Through-out her career she has been a Board Director for nine different Not For Profit entities and five private entities. Deborah is currently the Governance Committee Chair and Board Director for Capital Region Housing Corporation, and sits on the Advisory Board of three privately held corporations.
Susan deRyk -Interim President and CEO, Lakeridge Health
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Mentorship Award
Susan deRyk was named Interim President and CEO of Lakeridge Health, one of Ontario's largest community acute care health systems in February 2020. A dynamic leader, innovator, and life-long learner, she has more than 30 years of experience in health care leadership, strategic planning, government relations, and community building.
Susan joined Lakeridge Health in 2017 as Executive Vice President & Chief Transformation Officer. In that role, she was responsible for leading the strategic transformation of the organization. Prior to Lakeridge Health, Susan held the Joint Vice President, Service Quality & Community Relations position at William Osler Health System, Headwaters Health Care Centre & Central West CCAC an innovative partnership to bring acute and home and community care organizations under one management team.
A national and international award recipient, Susan has a wealth of experience from roles at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, the Ontario Association of Radiologists, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs where she was Chief of Staff to two Ministers.
Through her career, Susan has championed inclusion, mentorship, and removing roadblocks to support people to reach their full potential through both in her professional career and volunteer/philanthropic activities.
Lulu Liang - CEO, Luxy Hair
http://www.luxyhair.com
Lulu Liang is the CEO of Luxy Hair, an 8 figure global beauty business, and the #1 rated hair extension brand in the world. Liang grew the team from 2 to 20 and has taken Luxy Hair to be one of the Top 50 Best Places to work in Canada. The business has more than quadrupled under her leadership, and Liang recently led the successful sale of the company to Beauty Industry Group (BIG), a U.S. beauty conglomerate. Staying on as CEO, she works closely with BIG to ensure Luxy continues to serve its 300K+ customers and maintains its high-profile amongst A-list celebrity clientele from Kim Kardashian to Ariana Grande. Lulu is also the co-founder of Evergreen Journals, the creator of the Habit Journal - a daily guided journal that helps make your best habits the ones you do daily. Prior to Luxy Hair, Lulu was a Management Consultant at Accenture where she consulted on Strategy for Fortune 100 Tech Companies and Retailers. Lulu holds a degree in Commerce and Mathematics from Queen's University where she graduated in the top 10% of her class. Lulu is passionate about continuous self and business growth.
Lindsay Jones - Investment Banking, Scotiabank
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Millennial Leader Award
Lindsay Jones is an M&A Investment Banking Associate at Scotiabank, currently based in New York City. She transitioned from Energy Investment Banking in Calgary to her current role where she covers a wide variety of industries and jurisdictions in Latin America, working with corporate clients in the evaluation of merger and acquisition (M&A) opportunities. She received a bachelor's degree in Finance (with distinction) from the University of Calgary, graduating in the top ~1% of her business class. She continues to stay involved in her community where she commits to championing support for women in finance. Lindsay grew her personal efforts into a small mentorship program for women, then sought partnership with her bank to scale that program nation-wide, rolling out the Scotiabank Rising Leaders Mentorship Program across five universities. She is now working with the bank to expand the program to the United States. The program aims to support and develop women interested in finance while connecting them to a network of mentors and a cohort of like-minded women. Lindsay has also been involved, for over eight years, with LArche, an international organization that supports individuals with developmental disabilities. She has personally raised ~$28,000 for LArche and most recently joined the Board of Directors as its youngest board member.
Maeghen Cotterill -Owner and Operator, 5 Elements Martial Arts
2020 Women of Inspiration™ Nest Award
Maeghen Cotterill is an Elite Martial Artist and entrepreneur with a long track record of helping people achieve their goals and dreams in the Martial Arts. Maeghen has 30+ years of Martial Arts experience, holds multiple different Black Belts (5th Degree in Karate), and is an 11-time Gold Medal World Champion. She started martial arts at the age of 8 and now owns and operates the largest martial arts school in Canada. She has been the WKU Western Canadian Regional Director for the last 4 years, and she has been on Team Canada and coaching Team Canada athletes since 2005, and as of 2018 is President of WKU Canada for both Ringsport and Matsports. Maeghen is also the mother of a young autistic son and believes that everyone who comes into the school should leave feeling better about themselves then they did when they arrived. This is a philosophy that she instills in all her staff and students to ensure an inclusive, fun and family feeling for the studio."
Sibel Coskuner - Investment Advisor, RBC Dominion Securities
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Nest Award
Sibel Coskuner is an Investment Advisor at RBC Dominion Securities Inc.; Yorkville office. She helps affluent and high-net-worth individuals, females, families, businesses, charities, and other organizations to achieve their financial goals by using a wide range of holistic wealth management and investing solutions. Sibel helps her clients to manage their wealth in the most efficient and effective way in terms of financial, tax, and estate planning as well as risk management and insurance. Sibel Coskuner's extensive experience in business and in the financial services industry spans over 20 years.
She also set up the Private Banking office in Istanbul; Turkey as VP; Citibank N.A. Turkey, set up and ran as VP and Country Manager, the Private Banking Representative office of Deutsche Bank A.G Switzerland in Istanbul and ran as VP and Country Manager, the Private Banking Representative office in Istanbul of RBC Switzerland, successfully.
Sibel is an accomplished visual artist. She participated in several art exhibitions including her own solo ones in Istanbul and Toronto. She is the proud mother of a daughter. She believes in the harmony of art and business life and in the art of giving"
Jolie Gan - Founder and President,Youth Leaders in Law
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Rising Leader Award
"Apart from being a high school student, Jolie is the founder of Youth Leaders in Law, a student-led nonprofit organization in partnership with the Canadian Bar Association that seeks to empower and educate youth from underserved communities about future career options, particularly in the legal sector. In 2017, she was selected to serve on the Royal Canadian Mounted Police National Youth Board, where she has advised officials across the country regarding various topics such as international relations, human rights, supporting youth involved with the legal system, and mitigating community violence. She also conducts research with the University of Calgary Faculty of Law as a General Associate.
Jolie individual works have been published and recognized by various institutions, including the Yale Review of International Studies and the Alberta Champions Society. She is the recipient of various academic and community awards, including being recently nominated as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women for the 2020 season.
In her spare time, Jolie can be found reading a good book or trying new recipes with her family."
Geetika Joshi - Founder, Gigglez
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Rising Leader Award
Geetika Joshi is the 17-year old founding member of Gigglez (laughwithgigglez.com), offering high-quality genuine Nappa leather bags and backpacks for an affordable price.
In addition to entrepreneurship, Geetika is an International Baccalaureate student and has always achieved academic excellence. She is an active face in the community, leading/participating in a variety of extracurricular clubs and committees, totalling to 225+ service hours. A recent initiative, Stay fit with Gigglez is an online fitness class that embodies Geetika's community presence with Gigglez public relations.
The teen began her entrepreneurial journey with an internship at Seerat Defines Inner Beauty Inc, a local trade show organizer. Exposure to the fashion industry tug-of-war between cost and quality inspired her to launch her own brand, Gigglez, which is currently undergoing trade-marking.
Additionally, Geetika is a 2020 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards Nominee. As Gigglez remains on track to double revenue by the end of the year, Geetika remains thankful for a growing Gigglez Family extending from New Brunswick to Alberta. While she prepares to apply for undergraduate business schools, Geetika aims to one day provide the world with products that surpass current expectations of functionality and style.
Ejibola Adetokunbo-Taiwo - Founder, de Sedulous Women Leaders
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Rural Leader Award | Presented by Startup Canada
Ejibola is one of the most recognizable young female leaders in Grande Prairie, Alberta; she sits on the board of the Community Enhancement Advisory board at the City of Grande Prairie. Ejibola carries with her the message of enterprise and leadership to inspire hope and faith in women; her empowering slogan to women everywhere she goes is "See you at the T.O.P - the place where we all belong". Ejibola is a two-time speaker at the TEDx under the theme Kick the Box and All We Need Is Ejibola won the Trailblazing Woman of Influence Award 2019 Grande Prairie, she was recognized by the Mompreneur Canada Award as Ones to Watch 2019, she was named a Finalist for Best New Business 2015 by the Grande Prairie Chambers of Commerce and also in 2019, Ejibola was named top 75 Canadian Immigrants by the Canadian Immigrant Magazine; she also won the Mentorship Award 2019 during the Grande Prairie Chamber of Commerce Small Business Week. In 2020, she is listed as a Finalist for the Mentorship Award under the Alberta Business Award of Distinction organized by the Alberta Chamber of Commerce. She has broken down the cultural shock and other barriers and has definitely made significant advancement as an impact entrepreneur.
Shelley Uvanile-Hesch - CEO , Women's Trucking Federation of Canada
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Rural Leader Award | Presented by Startup Canada
CEO of a non-profit organization, Women's Trucking Federation of Canada, with the mission to bridge barriers, empower women and provide a positive platform for education, mentorship, networking, and development within the trucking and transportation industry. Demonstrated history of supporting the Transportation/Trucking industry as a reputable and respected leader, spokesperson, keynote, and professional driver. Well-versed in the undertaking of several charitable initiatives, community campaigns, and public outreach. Skilled in Management, Speaking, Leadership, Safety & Training. Strong interest in philanthropy, promoting women within the industry, and empowering teams and individuals.
Carlene Donnelly - Executive Director, CUPS
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Social Impact Award
Carlene Donnelly is a fearless leader with a big vision of supporting vulnerable populations across Canada as they manage adversity, reach their potential, and end the cycle of poverty and trauma for themselves and their families. By redefining the way non-profit organizations approach these challenges, she is setting a new standard of care and a new benchmark for measuring impact in the non-profit sector. There is no better example of how her vision is successfully being implemented than that of CUPS Calgary (CUPS), where Carlene has served as Executive Director since 2003.
Prior to becoming CUPS Executive Director, Carlene held the Director of Operations role for CUPS for seven years, where she assisted with the development, supervision, and funding of programs within the organization. Throughout her career, she has been involved with numerous advisory and steering communities working with all levels of government on developing strategies, policies, and recommendations surrounding the challenges of poverty.
Carlene was raised on Prince Edward Island, where she completed her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of PEI. In addition, Carlene received her Master's of Education Degree from the University of New Brunswick and her Master's of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.
Most recently, Carlene completed the Executive Boardroom Education Program through the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management.
Margot Witz - Vice President, Elizabeth Grant International
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Social Impact Award
Margot Grant Witz grew up as a student of beauty and style. Margot, began her career at Elizabeth Grant International in the Public Relations and Marketing department where she quickly excelled using her creative talents and natural business instincts, which injected the brand with an expanded customer base. Her public relations acumen has resulted in Elizabeth Grant Skin Care products that are often heralded a beauty favourite by top editors around the world. Margot has a strong understanding of the international marketplace and an innate understanding of the importance of brand image. During her first years at the company, Margot redesigned the company logo, created new product packaging, developed new and innovative products, and truly brought the brand forward making it a recognized brand around the world. Nevertheless, it's not all business and networking for Margot. She has a keen sense of the real world around her and a deep need to give back. The charitable division at Elizabeth Grant International EG Cares is also run by Margot.
Christina Chow - Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager, Raymond James Ltd.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - SupportHER Award
Christina is a Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager in Raymond James Ltd Private Client Group. Tina understands that serving client financial and investment needs begins with building trust and she strives to build long-term relationships with all of her clients. Her commitment to her client's well-being through sound investment advice and regular communication has helped the families she works with reach their investment and life goals. She has over 25 years of experience as a financial advisor and portfolio manager. Tina earned her Bachelors's degree at the University of Calgary and she continued her studies in wealth management, to earn her Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) and Fellow of CSI (FCSI). Tina has been a financial news anchor for City TV and updated market conditions and financial industry news on CBC.
Victoria Lennox - Principal, The Lennox Group
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - SupportHER Award
Victoria Lennox is a social entrepreneur and executive leader with a track record of designing, building, and operationalizing values-based ecosystems, clusters, networks, and organizations. Victoria has propelled Canada onto the global stage as an Innovation Nation. As one of Canada's leading proponents of entrepreneurship and innovation with deep relationships and ties across academia, industry, government, and media, Victoria is a commensurate diplomat with the ability to lead, communicate and forge consensus in any environment. Passionate about education, entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, inclusivity, and sustainability to foster peace, hope, equality, and sustainability, Victoria possesses principal diplomacy and political acuity, creates and communicates a compelling vision, and inspires higher levels of achievement and impact of individuals and organizations alike. As a digital powerhouse, Victoria leverages technology to unite, grow and reinforce communities, ecosystems, and organizations, launching robust digital programs and omnichannel campaigns.
Dominic Vogel - Founder and Chief Strategist , CyberSC
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - SupportHER Award (Ally)
As Founder & Chief Strategist at CyberSC, Dominic Vogel holds a proven track record within cybersecurity across a multitude of industries (financial services, logistics, transportation, healthcare, government, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure). Dominic actively participates in the Vancouver security community and is a well-respected cybersecurity expert for Global BC, CKNW980, News1130, and the Vancouver Sun. Dominic is highly regarded as a cybersecurity thought leader and was recently appointed to the BC Provincial Cyber Security Advisory Committee.
Marc Bombenon - Chairman and Founder , SureCall Contact Centers Ltd.
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - SupportHER Award (Ally)
Born in Montreal, Marc moved to Calgary after completing his bachelor of administration to start his first company at the age of 24. An adventurer and entrepreneur, he seeks new and exciting fields of technology. His primary passion is communications, but he is also passionate about aviation, clean source electrification, and supporting children globally to obtain a better level of education and self-confidence.
Paul Doroshenko - President and Lawyer, Acumen Law Corporation
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - SupportHER Award (Ally)
"Paul Doroshenko is a criminal defence lawyer, born, raised and educated in Edmonton. He moved to Vancouver in 1999 to begin his legal career.
Growing up in north Edmonton through stagflation in the 1970s, the oil price crash in 1985 and the 1990 oil price shock, Paul learned the value of humility, hard work and that we all need help to succeed. Paul dropped out of high school at age 17 and struggled to make a go in a tough Alberta economy. At 22 he began taking university classes while working full time. He did well and was accepted as a mature student at the University of Alberta. He excelled at History, earned a number of scholarships including to study in abroad and completed his Bachelor's degree in History with Honours. Paul was accepted to law school, completing his law degree at the U of A. He developed an interest in legal ethics, the history of morality and criminal law, all of which drew him to a career in criminal defence. By 2008 Paul established his own firm, Acumen Law Corporation which to date has trained 21 lawyers articled students who have completed their studies with Paul and his firm."
Sara Badiei - Business Development Executive, Finger Food Advanced Technology Group
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Trailblazer (STEM) Award | Presented by Mitacs
"Sara Badiei is a fearless optimist. As a proud engineer, she has dedicated her 13-year career to the path less traveled, using her skills to make the world a better place.
Working with Doctors Without Borders and the Red Cross, Sara led technical teams in rebuilding critical infrastructure damaged by war and natural disasters in Afghanistan, Gaza, and the Philippines, and managed large-scale logistical operations during disease outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa.
As an Energy Specialist at the World Bank, Sara led communications with senior government and business leaders, authored a book on sustainable energy solutions, and received the Energy and Extractives Most Innovative Project Award for her team's work in bringing solar energy to Yemen.
After almost a decade in the humanitarian aid and development sectors, Sara ran for office in the 2019 federal election with the help of her 18-month-old baby and came to within 1,160 votes of winning.
Currently, Sara works on the cutting edge of technology as a Business Development Executive at Finger Food Advanced Technology Group, bringing robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality solutions to Fortune 500 companies. Her most recent project uses big data analytics to help businesses combat COVID-19."
Anu Bidani - Founder and CEO, Stem Minds Corp
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Trailblazer (STEM) Award | Presented by Mitacs
"Anu Bidani is the Founder and CEO of STEM Minds. STEM Minds focuses on empowering youth to become fearless learners by developing agility and a love of learning through STEM (science, technology, engineering, math). STEM Minds mission is to bring the best in learning experiences to youth to create #fearlesslearners.
With a dedicated teaching staff, a state-of-the art learning environment, an online learning platform, and a network of strategic partnerships, she has built a business that is successfully expanding the reach and impact of education to all children!
Anu is a passionate innovator, leader, revenue generator, and entrepreneur. With solid experience as a corporate executive, she witnessed the evolution and impact of accelerated technology changes on business processes from a corporate lens. Her passion for innovation served as the catalyst for repeated successes in optimizing emerging business models to deliver agile profitability and value."
Towunmi Coker - Founder and Executive Director, TCLI Foundation
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Vision Builder Award
Towunmi Coker is the founder, TCLI Foundation, a non-profit organisation that provides educational and social programming with three core foundational pillars- financial stability, quality education and safe health practices. She is also a Public Health Practitioner and a Community Builder with MBBS, University of Lagos; MBA South Wales University and MPH University of Liverpool. Towunmi is wholly committed to inspiring, motivating and empowering vulnerable youth and women to be the best they can be. She is passionate about improving quality of life by promoting access to inclusive education, financial literacy and socioeconomic empowerment which can equip people with the relevant tools required to live a meaningful life while achieving their set goal. Towunmi has provided over 20 programs in Nigeria and Canada with 30,000 beneficiaries and volunteers.
Jessica Lui - Founder and CEO, Global Professionals Practicum (GPP)
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Vision Builder Award
"Jessica was recently named Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women and Canada's Top 30 Under 30.
She is best known for her work as the founder of Global Professionals Practicum (GPP), an organization that delivers programming that furthers educational equality and inclusion. She was recognized for her work as an inspiring social entrepreneur by President Barack Obama.
Jessica is currently a management consultant at Deloitte; leading teams that advise Fortune 500s on adopting socially and environmentally responsible business practices. Previously, she served as UN Youth Ambassador and helped develop the SDGs.
Additionally, Jessica is passionate about philanthropy. She is a board member for Venture for Canada, Empire Club of Canada, the UN International Youth Council, and UN Women; consulting on both local and global humanitarian issues.
She has demonstrated an interest in furthering her education and has completed several courses on social impact from Wharton and Copenhagen Business School. It is her goal to enroll in a top-tier MBA/MPA program in the next year, combining her passion for business and social impact."
Angela Sterritt - Reporter and Editor, CBC
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Women in Media Award
Angela Sterritt is an award-winning Gitxsan journalist, writer, artist, and keynote speaker from British Columbia. Sterritt has worked as a journalist for close to twenty years and has been with the CBC since 2003. Sterritt's book Unbroken, about missing and murdered Indigenous women and own story of surviving violence as an Indigenous girl, was acquired by Greystone books and is set to publish in 2021. Sterritt is a keynote speaker, emcee, and moderator including giving a Ted Talk, a Massey Lecture hosting Tanya Talaga's talk and a number of other prestigious events. In 2020 she was nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for best reporter of the year. Sterritt's 2019 documentary won an RTDNA award for best long feature. Her reports have appeared in the Globe and Mail, The National, CBC's The Current, and various other national and local news programs. She currently works with CBC Vancouver as television, radio, and online reporter. In 2018, Sterritt was chosen among three other Canadian authors to adjudicate the esteemed $25,000 Shaughnessy Cohen Political Book Prize. In that year she was also selected to be a juror for numerous journalism and arts awards across Canada.
Tracy Lamourie - Founder and CEO, Creative Director, Lamourie Media
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Women in Media Award
- Build Your Brand With Effective Public & Media Relations. She is a well known long time advocate on many important worldwide issues and an award-winning international publicist working across industries from major entertainment projects to small businesses always supporting other women in their rise. Tracy is passionate about amplifying important messages and being a voice for those who most need one. Recognized by media around the world for her 20-year campaign that ultimately helped free an innocent man from death row in Pennsylvania, for her work in PR and for her local community work. Winner of the FIRST PLACE PLATINUM award HamiltonSpectator Readers Choice for PR 2018, Diamond 2019. She also won the Marketing award at the Magnetic Entrepreneur & Author Awards 2019 in Toronto and has been frequently quoted in the international media on both human rights issues, as a Public Relations thought leader and inspirational business woman. She is a 2020 RBC Women of Influence Nominee and a 2020 Universal Women's Network Woman of Inspiration Nominee and was also recently nominated for the internationally prestigious 2020 Tällberg/Eliasson Global Leadership Prize.
Chloe Shingoose - Canadian Singer
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Youth Excellence Award
Miss Chloe Shingoose was born on February 13th, 2004. You would think this would be a bad omen, but the girl has grit and silly superstitions where just another obstacle is tackled. She was often found singing as loudly as her voice could allow, from Whitney Houston to an inspirational song about whatever was going on in view at that very moment. Music has always moved this beautiful soul, after excelling in the choir, solo vocals, piano, guitar, Chloe decided to take a break from conventional music and spend most days learning ballads that speak to her. She's humble with harmony, much to her family's dismay. At the age of 10, Chloe decided to broaden her talents and start softball and hockey. Softball came naturally to this girl, home runs were added to the list of "can dos", now playing on the "A" team in Elnora. Hockey on the other hand, had taken Chloe a bit to get the hang of. With a few years of hard work and determination, she began to catch up with the other girls and now plays "U18 AAA" hockey in Red Deer. Softball in the summers, hockey in winters, singing in between and making sure to finish the school years with honours. Chloe is always looking for the next adventure with her head up high and STARS in her eyes.
Boluwatife Adefemi - Singer Songwriter
2020 Women of Inspiration™ - Youth Excellence Award
Boluwatife (Bolu) Adefemi is a singer and songwriter from Oshawa, Ontario. Not only is she an incredible student hoping to advance her studies ...but at only 13 years old, she has made a significant national impact. She writes music that inspires others and plays guitar - but she is a poised public speaker and performer who came to the world's attention when sharing the thoughts of her heart set to music. With the plaintive words "2020 What have you become... why are people so cruel...it's time to make it right" her gentle call to action has touched the hearts of many. As a result of playing one small local event https://www.oronoweeklytimes.com/peaceful-gathering-in-orono-in-support-of-black-lives-matter/ she was asked to perform at two bigger ones, was interviewed by Global news https://globalnews.ca/news/7122068/oshawa-teen-writes-song-black-lives-matter/ and was asked to play her song on two major Toronto radio stations - all this before it was ever professionally recorded. Her voice truly has power, and it is a life lesson for her and young people watching her that will never be forgotten - if you raise your voice up, you will be heard. And you can change the world.