For Sherry Hastings, owner of Arequipe Pâtisserie, food is an extension of art. What began as a background in fine arts evolved into something more. “Arequipe Pâtisserie is where my background in fine arts and my love for baking come together,” says Sherry. “For me, desserts are not just about taste, but about creating a moment something that feels thoughtful, beautiful, and personal.”  

For Sandra Garcia, owner of Naguará Venezuelan Food, the journey began with “bringing Venezuelan flavors to Nova Scotia, one experience at a time.” After working in immigration services, her move to Canada sparked something deeper. “When I moved, I felt the need to reconnect with who I am and where I come from. Cooking became that bridge,” says Sandra. Her business is more than a culinary venture; it’s a cultural experience rooted in resilience and storytelling. 

Similarly, Fernanda Cedraz, owner of Maravilha Bakes, found her path through transformation. Originally trained in law in Brazil, she discovered a different calling after immigrating to Canada. “Being far from home and everything familiar, I found comfort in baking,” says Fernanda. “It was something that connected me to my culture and brought me joy during a time of big change.” Today, her small-batch creations blend Latin American nostalgia with Canadian classics. 

For Temidayo Ojieyan owner of Triple T Kitchen, cultural heritage plays a central role in both the brand and its mission. “Food is more than nourishment in my culture, it represents connection, family, and community.  

Triple T Kitchen is all about convenience and consistency. “I wanted to make the process easier not just for myself, but for anyone craving the authentic taste of home,” says Temidayo Ojieyan. Her ready-to-use West African sauces bring authenticity and accessibility together a first in the Maritime region. 

Nikhila Shaju, founder of Cakes for You, has built her brand around celebration and personalization. Her business transforms desserts into experiences, blending artistry with cultural fusion. From Indian-inspired flavours like rasmalai and gulab jamun cakes to interactive decorating workshops, her work is rooted in both tradition and innovation, offering customers something truly unique. 

Sharifah Kasule, founder of SM Mocktails, focuses on inclusion and experience. “What started as a passion for hosting and creating meaningful experiences has grown into a business centered around inclusion, elegance, and intentional experiences,” says Sharifah. Her non-alcoholic beverage brand elevates mocktails into something refined and celebratory. “Being part of the Savour Show allowed me to introduce people to the beauty and intentionality behind mocktails,” she adds, “and to show that alcohol-free options can be just as elevated, memorable, and exciting.” 

While their products are all different, from floral cakes to Venezuelan arepas, Brazilian bakes to West African sauces each entrepreneur credits the Centre for Women in Business (CWB) and the SPICE program as a turning point in their growth. 

“It gave me structure, guidance, and clarity at a moment where I had the passion but needed direction,” says Sandra. 

“The support has been incredibly valuable in helping me grow with more clarity and confidence,” adds Sherry. 

For Fernanda, the impact was both practical and personal: “More importantly, I gained confidence in myself as an entrepreneur.” 

Beyond funding and training, what stands out most is the sense of community. The SPICE program doesn’t just build businesses it builds networks of women supporting women, sharing knowledge, and growing together. 

Participation in the Savour Food & Wine Show marks a milestone for each of them, a moment of recognition and visibility. 

“It’s an opportunity to share my work with a wider audience and to stand alongside other talented women in the industry,” says Sherry. 

“It’s about sharing a story, creating connections, and letting people experience something new,” Sandra shares. 

“It validates the hard work behind the brand,” adds Temidayo. 

What stands out most is the power of connection. Through their passion and perseverance, these women are shaping a more inclusive and vibrant food landscape in Nova Scotia, one that celebrates diversity, creativity, and shared experiences. 

Holding both a degree in Political Science from Cape Breton University and later a Business Administration Diploma from Nova Scotia Community College, Ashley is a lover of the arts who is passionate about music, books, and theatre.  

Professionally, her journey began in the start-up world, where she spent ten years working for two local start-ups. Often wearing many hats, earning her the title of “Master of Making it Happen.” “You really have to dive in and get your hands dirty. I did almost every job function you can think of in this environment – marketing, sales, customer support, inventory management, grant writing, legal, international travel & tradeshows, liaising with local industry and government, HR, and more. These experiences provided me with a unique, “on the ground” type of experience that I think translates well into the role at CWB. I’ve also worked closely and networked with dozens of local entrepreneurs in this role – my connections as vast.”  

Ashley then spent over five years in the tech sector, specializing in data storage and IT. In this role, she continued to develop her skills in marketing, technical writing, webinar facilitation for global audiences, and cross-border event management. 

Outside of work, you can find her enjoying Cape Breton’s vibrant music scene or working at the beautiful Savoy Theatre, “I’m keen to find new opportunities to volunteer and serve my community.”  

She’s also a proud dog mom to her rough collie, Luna, and loves spending time outdoors; whether hiking, walking, or heading to the beach. Summer is her favourite season, often spent “Out on the Mira” with friends. 

Joining the CWB is a natural fit. “Women’s empowerment, women’s success, women helping women, inclusion, diversity all of this just aligns for me from a moral compass perspective. They’re all incredibly important and fundamentally what I believe at my core. I’ve always wanted to work for an organization like CWB, and the lucky stars aligned when this role opened. Between my community connections, my work for start-ups in the past and the general business skills I’ve acquired, I took the leap and applied. Now, here I am! And I couldn’t be more excited to help serve and support all women entrepreneurs in the Cape Breton Region.” 

As a lifelong resident of Cape Breton, serving the region is both meaningful and motivating. “I’m looking forward to building true, meaningful relationships. I’ve got an incredible team of women at CWB, helping me find my footing and I know the community of women entrepreneurs in Cape Breton are incredible, capable, talented, and inspiring. They are excited to grow and flourish – whatever that means for them, no matter their journey/stage.” 

“To help women succeed, to find their calling, to grow and to thrive all of this means the world to me and is an honour to help “advise”. 

While cooking has always been a part of Temidayo’s life, she didn’t always plan to work in the food industry. “Over the years, I realized how much time and effort it takes to prepare traditional flavours from scratch. As a busy mum, I knew I couldn’t be the only one facing this challenge, so I began thinking about how to make the process easier for myself and for others without losing the authentic taste we love.”  

Cultural heritage has played a central role in both the brand and its mission. “Food is more than nourishment in my culture, it represents connection, family, and community. I wanted to preserve those authentic flavours while adapting to the realities of busy modern life.” Temidayo explains.  

As an immigrant entrepreneur, Temidayo’s experiences have shaped how she approaches business. “I’ve learned resilience, patience, and adaptability. Building a business in a new country has taught me the importance of structure, systems, and doing things the right way. Those experiences shaped my commitment to quality, compliance, and continuous learning. 

Temidayo is currently taking part in the Centre for Women in Business’s (CWB) SPICE program, helping women move from their kitchen tables to a fully compliant food business. “The program has been instrumental in the growth of Triple T Kitchen. Through their mentorship, guidance, and structured business support, I was able to move from idea to implementation with clarity and confidence. The program also provided financial support, which helped me take key steps in product development and bringing my ready-to-use sauces to markets. Beyond funding, accountability, encouragement, and access to resources has made a significant difference in helping me build my business the right way.” 

Temidayo notes that one of the most helpful tools she gained from SPICE were “strategic business planning and structured guidance”. “Learning how to set clear goals, understanding the systems behind food production, and planning for growth has been invaluable.”  

“It feels rewarding and humbling. Seeing my vision transformed into a professionally produced, ready-to-use product is a major milestone. Working with Maritime Foods Co-packing allowed me to bring the product to market with quality standards and consistency. It represents growth, collaboration, and progress within the food industry in Nova Scotia.”  

Looking ahead to 2026, the focus is firmly on expansion. Plans include increasing distribution, growing brand visibility, introducing new flavours, and strengthening retail presence. “Long term, I envision Triple T Kitchen becoming a recognized brand for authentic, ready-to-use African-inspired sauces across Canada and beyond, while continuing to empower women and immigrant entrepreneurs along the way.” 

For other women considering a similar path, Temidayo’s advice would be to “seek mentorship, take advantage of available programs, learn the systems, and build structure around your idea. Growth takes time, so be patient with the process. Stay focused, remain consistent, believe that your idea is valid and worthy of success. And most importantly, don’t try to do it alone.” 

Looking back on her journey so far, Temidayo emphasizes the importance of community support. “This journey has reminded me that with faith, guidance, and perseverance, ideas can turn into reality. Triple T Kitchen is just getting started!” 

Follow Triple T Kitchen here! 

Kyla explains that “Intimately U is a trauma-informed wellness brand focused on creating spaces where people can reconnect with themselves, regulate stress, and rebuild a sense of balance in their lives. Through guided candle-making workshops, intentional wellness products, and educational resources, the work centers on helping individuals, teams, and communities slow down and engage in meaningful self-care practices.” 

The inspiration came from Kyla’s own lived experiences, “Intimately U came from the recognition that many people are navigating high levels of stress, burnout, and unresolved trauma without accessible tools to support their well-being. I began to see how simple, intentional practices, like the act of creating something with your hands or taking time to pause, could open the door to reflection, healing, and resilience.” 

At the heart of the business is a commitment to community impact. The business takes a “Buy One, Heal One” approach, where a portion of their work helps support community wellness initiatives and healing-centered experiences. “Long term, the goal is to create employment pathways for survivors by building a business model that prioritizes opportunity, dignity, and sustainable support.” Kyla explains.  

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Kyla’s advice is both practical and personal, “start before you feel fully ready, but remain grounded in purpose. Many entrepreneurs believe they need a perfect plan before they begin, but clarity often develops through action. It is important to remember that it is okay to keep refining your idea until it aligns with what you want it to be. At the same time, do not wait for perfection, because perfection often leads to procrastination, and procrastination leads nowhere.”  

“I remember my daughter once asking me, “Mom, how many times are you going to start over with this?” And I told her, “As many times as I need to until I get it right.” That moment stayed with me, because entrepreneurship is rarely about getting everything right the first time, it is about learning, adjusting, and continuing to move forward.” 

On March 6th, Kyla took the stage at CWB’s International Women’s Day celebration, where she shared her experience as an entrepreneur focusing on the topic of, Building Intentionally – The Gift of Purpose. For Kyla, this opportunity marked both a professional milestone and a personal leap. 

“International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to recognize the leadership, resilience, and innovation that women bring to communities and industries. Saying yes to that opportunity meant more than simply sharing my business journey; it was about speaking honestly about what it looks like to build something meaningful.” 

“Stepping onto that stage meant coming out of my comfort zone and doing something I had never done before. As entrepreneurs, we often encourage others to take bold steps, and this was one of those moments where I had to live that message myself.” 

Building Intentionally – The Gift of Purpose reflects the belief that businesses should be created with care, values, and community in mind. “I wanted to encourage other women to recognize that purpose is not something reserved for a select few; it is something each of us can cultivate through the choices we make in how we lead, build, and contribute to the world around us.”  

“CWB has helped create meaningful spaces where entrepreneurs can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Opportunities like the International Women’s Day event provide important platforms for founders to share their journeys while building relationships within the broader business community. Having access to organizations like CWB that actively support entrepreneurs helps strengthen the business ecosystem and reminds business owners that they are not navigating their journeys alone.”  

Looking back on her early days as an entrepreneur, Kyla would tell her past self that “progress takes time and that growth often comes through moments that initially feel uncertain. In the early stages of entrepreneurship, it can feel like every decision needs to be perfect. Over time, you realize that building a business is a process of learning, refining, and evolving. Some of the most valuable lessons come from challenges that ultimately shape the direction of your work.” 

“Much like healing, entrepreneurship is a journey. There will be highs, lows, and everything in between. Those moments are all part of the process. The important thing is to keep going, stay connected to your purpose, and trust that each step forward is contributing to something meaningful.” 

Looking ahead, Kyla has set clear and intentional goals for 2026. “My focus is on expanding the reach of Intimately U’s trauma-informed wellness programs while strengthening partnerships with organizations that recognize the importance of supporting the well-being of their teams and communities.” 

“One of my key goals is to establish at least five strong organizational partnerships that integrate our workshops into corporate, nonprofit, and community environments,” Kyla says. “I plan to expand our Buy One, Heal One initiative, allowing more community members to access healing-centered experiences through sponsored workshops and wellness resources.” 

As well, Kyla is working towards “making our first hire, specifically creating an employment opportunity for a survivor. Providing supportive pathways into meaningful work has always been part of the long-term vision for Intimately U, and 2026 is the year I want to begin turning that vision into reality.” 

“Through Intimately U, I remain committed to building a business that extends beyond products and workshops. The vision is to continue creating intentional spaces where people can slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience wellness in ways that are practical and accessible in everyday life.” 

Because, as Kyla puts it, when businesses are built with intention, they can become something greater. “They become platforms not just for economic growth, but for meaningful healing in our communities.” 

Learn more about Intimately U here. 

After more than 20 years of working in business development, educational program design, and consulting, Grace noticed a recurring pattern. Many entrepreneurs had innovative ideas but lacked a structured way to determine whether those ideas could succeed in the marketplace.  

“That is exactly why I do what I do today. I work as a business strategy consultant, helping startups and small-to-medium enterprises bridge that gap. We focus on growth strategy, market positioning, business model development, and go-to-market planning, with a particular focus on helping businesses ready to grow beyond their local market and diversify into new ones.” 

“I developed proprietary frameworks, my Strategic Triangle methodology and Growth Square model, specifically to give business owners a structured, repeatable way to assess and strengthen their position. I wanted to bring the kind of strategic thinking usually reserved for large corporations to the entrepreneurs who need it most.” 

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is straightforward: know your market before you fall in love with your idea.  

“I’ve worked with so many entrepreneurs, both in my consulting practice and through the CWB’s, Business Planning Fundamentals course. The most common misstep I see is people building in isolation. They spend months perfecting a product or service without ever testing whether there’s real demand for it.” 

Grace’s advice for entrepreneurs would be to “start with the problem you’re solving, not the solution you want to sell. Talk to the people you think are your customers. Find out what they actually need, what they’re currently paying for, and where the gaps are. That research isn’t glamorous, but it’s what separates businesses that grow from businesses that stall.”  

Grace explained that in her workshops and consulting sessions, she often asks entrepreneurs to ask a lot of questions, take a moment to pause, and think through their blind spots. “The best breakthroughs happen when someone stops and honestly examines what they might be missing.” 

The Centre for Women in Business (CWB) has played a meaningful role in her entrepreneurial journey. “I’ve had access to a network of women who understand the unique pressures of running a business, the loneliness of it, the second-guessing, the wins that no one else sees.” 

“What I’m most proud of is that the relationship has become reciprocal. CWB trusted me to facilitate their Business Planning Fundamentals course, through their Certificate Training Program (in partnership with Labour Skills and Immigration Workplace Education.) Being in that room, watching women go from a rough idea to a structured business plan, or helping them re-evaluate their initial business models to make strategic pivots, that’s the work that energizes me.  

CWB creates a space where women business owners can be both vulnerable and ambitious at the same time, and that’s rare. They’ve helped me think bigger about my own business while giving me the platform to help others do the same.”  

February marked African Heritage Month, celebrated this year under the theme “Strength in Unity – Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power and Progress.” For Grace, the theme resonates deeply. “It mirrors what I try to build into every engagement with my clients and every program I facilitate: the idea that we move further together than we ever could alone.” 

Purpose: For every business I work with, I push them to get crystal clear on why they exist beyond making money. What problem are they solving? Who are they serving? That clarity of purpose is what sustains you when things get hard. 

Prosperity: Prosperity isn’t just about individual success. When I help a Black entrepreneur develop a solid growth strategy, the impact ripples outward to their families, their communities, and their employees. Economic empowerment is community empowerment. That’s also why I’m currently pursuing WEConnect International certification. It’s about opening doors to corporate and institutional contracts through supplier diversity and demonstrating that Black women-owned consultancies in Nova Scotia are ready and qualified to compete at that level. 

Power: Knowledge is power, and that’s why I develop proprietary tools and frameworks. They give entrepreneurs strategic language and structure to advocate for themselves. 

Progress: Progress is showing up and doing the work. It’s facilitating a business fundamentals course and watching a participant’s confidence shift in real time or facilitating and mentoring university students exploring their business ideas because someone in the room needs to hear that they’re ready.  

Strength in Unity: I don’t compete with other consultants or facilitators; I collaborate with them. Not because it’s good marketing, but because this ecosystem only works if we invest in each other. 

Looking ahead, 2026 will be a year of growth for Attain Focus Consulting. One priority is expanding the company’s digital offerings, including interactive workbooks, courses, and planning tools that allow entrepreneurs to work through the firm’s strategic frameworks independently. 

“I’m focused on increasing Attain Focus Consulting’s visibility as a thought leader in business strategy for startups and SMEs. That means more speaking engagements, targeted content, and strategic partnerships with organizations already doing important work in this space.”  

Another major focus will be helping businesses diversify their markets. “Recent events have shown how vulnerable businesses can be when they rely on a single market. I want to work with Nova Scotian businesses ready to look beyond provincial and even national borders, helping them identify new markets, assess readiness, and build the strategies they need to expand with confidence. Market diversification isn’t just a growth opportunity; in today’s climate, it’s a risk-management necessity.” 

So, how will Grace reach these goals? “The same way I advise my clients: with a clear plan, measurable milestones, and the discipline to execute consistently. And, of course, by continuing to lean into the community that has supported me from the very beginning.”  

Grace’s final message is, “If you’re sitting on a business idea and waiting for the ‘right time’, the right time is when you decide to take the first step. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be fully formed. But it does have to start.” 

“If you’re not sure where to start, that’s exactly what organizations like the CWB are here for, and it’s exactly what I do. Whether it’s through a CWB program, a conversation over coffee, or a structured strategy session, clarity is closer than you think. Nova Scotia’s entrepreneurship community is something special.”  

“If you’re building something, you’re not alone. Reach out. We’re here.”  

Learn more about Attain Focus Consulting 

Learn more about CWB’s Certificate Training Programs 

You know it could be powerful.
You sense it could open doors.
And yet… it can feel intimidating, highly visible, and just a little uncomfortable.

Here’s what we know to be true:

Keynote speaking isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room.
It’s about being the clearest.

And clarity builds businesses.

Speaking Puts You in Front of Many — at Once

One of the biggest growth constraints women founders face is scale.

Sales conversations happen one at a time.
Coffee meetings take hours.
Networking can feel slow and transactional.

Keynote speaking changes that equation.

When you speak on a stage — whether at a conference, association, leadership forum, or industry event — you reach dozens or hundreds of prospective clients at once. You’re not pitching. You’re demonstrating.

Your thinking.
Your values.
Your leadership.

That’s when the right people pay attention.

Thought Leadership Builds Trust Faster Than Marketing

A significant portion of our work at PowerUp Leadership has come directly from keynote speaking.

Not because we sold from the stage — we didn’t.
But because people experienced our thinking in real time.

They saw how we:

Frame complex leadership challenges

Navigate growth and people dynamics

Speak with clarity, credibility, and purpose

By the time someone reached out, trust was already built.

Keynote speaking shortens the trust cycle.
You’re no longer just a brand — you’re a voice they remember.

Visibility Isn’t Ego — It’s Leadership

Many women hesitate to pursue speaking because of self-doubt:

“Who am I to speak?”

“Am I expert enough?”

“What if I’m not polished?”

Here’s a powerful reframe:

If your work helps people lead better, grow smarter, or build stronger businesses, your voice is a form of service — not self-promotion.

The most impactful speakers aren’t perfect.
They’re grounded.
They’re thoughtful.
They’re real.

And audiences respond to that authenticity.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Start

With International Women’s Day just around the corner, organizations, associations, and leadership forums are actively seeking female business leaders and founders to speak.

This is one of the most opportunity-rich times of the year to step forward.

Event organizers are looking for women who can:

Share real leadership experiences

Speak to growth, resilience, and impact

Offer thoughtful perspectives grounded in lived experience

You don’t need to wait until everything feels “ready.”
Momentum is built by saying yes when opportunity shows up.

Confidence Comes From Clarity, Not Perfection

You don’t need a flawless keynote to begin.

You need:

A clear point of view

A message that resonates

Confidence in the value of what you already know

Confidence grows through speaking — not before it.

Like leadership itself, it’s built with intention, support, and practice.

A Strategic Growth Lever for 2026 and Beyond

As women-led businesses scale, visibility becomes a growth accelerator.

Keynote speaking:

Positions you as a thought leader

Attracts aligned clients and partners

Builds credibility at scale

Creates opportunities marketing alone can’t

It’s not about being everywhere.
It’s about being in the right rooms.

If keynote speaking has been on your radar — and you’d like support building the confidence, clarity, and strategy to step into it — we’d love to talk.

Learn more about our keynote speaking approach here

Sometimes, one brave “yes” is all it takes to unlock your next stage of growth.

Your voice belongs on the stage.
And your business can grow because of it.

The business idea emerged from frustration with so-called “eco-friendly” products that still relied heavily on plastic, excess packaging, or vague environmental claims. Rather than settling for imperfect solutions. “Beezy Eco focuses on thoughtfully designed, plastic-free household and personal-care essentials made with a zero-waste mindset. From tablet refills to reusable alternatives, every product is created to replace single-use plastics and support a more circular way of living,” says Sandra.  

What started as a small idea has grown into a mission-driven business rooted in innovation, community, and real environmental impact, proving that everyday choices can add to meaningful change. 

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Sandra emphasizes the importance of starting before everything feels “ready.” “You don’t need a perfect product or a perfect plan; clarity comes from action. Test your idea early, listen closely to feedback, and be willing to adapt as you learn.” 

“Building a business that solves a real problem, staying aligned with personal values, and leaning into community and collaboration can make all the difference. Entrepreneurship,” Sandra says, “is a long game; persistence, curiosity, and resilience matter more than getting everything right the first time.” 

Sandra also stresses the importance of seeking support. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help, you are truly not alone in the world of entrepreneurship. There are so many opportunities that provide founders with expert advice.”  

“Without the Centre for Women in Business’s support and guidance I would truly not be where I am today, they have been an incredible source of support, confidence, and connection on my entrepreneurial journey. I’ve gained access to mentorship, practical resources, and a community of women who truly understand the challenges of building and scaling a business.”  

Sandra has participated in several CWB programs, including the Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, and the Advanced Management & Mentoring Program (AMMP). 

But beyond the tools and training, Sandra notes that “CWB has helped me think bigger about growth, impact, and leadership while reminding me that I don’t have to do it alone. The encouragement, accountability, and shared knowledge have played a meaningful role in Beezy Eco’s growth and in my confidence as a founder. I don’t have the words to express my gratitude.”  

As the sustainability and environmental industry continues to evolve, Beezy Eco is positioning itself at the forefront of a significant shift. Sustainability is no longer “niche” it is becoming mainstream, driven by consumer expectations, regulatory pressures, and growing climate urgency. Today’s customers aren’t just interested in greener products; they are demanding transparency, measurable impact, and solutions that don’t simply replace one environmental problem with another.  

Sandra notes that “at Beezy Eco, we’re preparing for that future by focusing on function and sustainability. Our products are designed to replace single-use plastics with reusable, refillable, compostable alternatives, and minimize packaging.” 

“Our company is rooted in transparency; clear ingredients, clear impacts, and clear benefits. By investing in innovation, strategic partnerships, and collaborating with local makers, suppliers and business networks we will scale responsibly, develop tablet-based formats that cut waste and shipping footprint, strengthen supply chain sustainability, and create products that meet real needs and reduce everyday waste.”  

Reflecting on her journey, Sandra says she would tell her past self to “trust the process and herself sooner. Doubt, slow progress, and setbacks are inevitable, but they are not signs of failure. Instead, they are part of building something real.”  

“As Nora Perry (Manager of Programs and Special Projects at CWB), a wise mentor once told me “Beware of the shiny objects.” You don’t need to chase every webinar, every email that has a wonderful offer. I have learned that the hard way, there is no magic potion: you must put in the time and effort to grow. “  

Looking ahead into 2026, Beezy Eco’s goals are ambitious but intentional. “Our major goals for 2026 are to expand our retail and wholesale footprint across Atlantic Canada (and beyond) by adding new stock and strengthening key wholesale relationships. We are currently in Sobeys stores across the Maritimes, and my goal is to be represented by other major retailers in 2026.”  

“We want to grow our tablet systems so more customers can replace single-use plastic in everyday routines (hand soap, cleaners, laundry, etc.), strengthen operations for sustainable growth and increase our brand awareness through thoughtful storytelling that emphasizes real impact rather than greenwashing.”   

Lasty, Sandra shares that “meaningful change happens through small, consistent choices. Beezy Eco exists because everyday actions matter, and because community, collaboration, and values-driven entrepreneurship truly make a difference.”  

“I’m incredibly grateful for the customers, partners, and organizations that support this journey, and I’m excited to keep building solutions that make sustainable living easier, more accessible, and more impactful; one small switch at a time.” 

Learn more about Beezy Eco here.  

To support female founders and executives who are scaling ambitious businesses in 2026, we are offering a limited coaching bundle designed specifically for women business owners ready to strengthen their leadership, strategy, and growth engine.

What’s Included:

• Five (5) dedicated 60-minute executive coaching sessions
•  Focus on growth strategy, leadership effectiveness, decision-making, and scaling with confidence
• Personalized, confidential, and results-driven coaching

Investment: $500 (regular value $1,500)
Availability: Limited to the first 10 women business owners who register

This special offer is part of our commitment to supporting women-led growth and building long-term partnerships with founders and CEOs who align with our mission.

If you are a woman business owner preparing for your next stage of growth in 2026, we would love to work with you.

To learn more or reserve your spot, contact:

Susan Power, Founder & CEO, PowerUp Leadership at susan@powerupleadership.ca or click the Weblink ]]> https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/were-hiring-business-advisor-cape-breton-island/ Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:05:44 +0000 https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/?p=18075 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

BUSINESS ADVISOR – CAPE BRETON ISLAND 

Centre for Women in Business, Mount Saint Vincent University 

CHAMPION WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN CAPE BRETON 

Are you passionate about empowering women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs?  Do you believe that communities and economies thrive when all women-identifying business owners are fully supported?  If so, we want you to be part of the CWB Team – a dynamic, innovative organization dedicated to helping women-owned businesses across Nova Scotia grow and succeed. 

We are an equity-focused employer committed to fostering diversity, inclusion and belonging in everything we do.  We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+ and persons with disabilities. 

We are seeking a motivated, business-savvy professional with a deep commitment to supporting women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs.  This role requires hands-on, daily engagement with business owners across Cape Breton.  You will be actively present in the community – meeting entrepreneurs where they are, identifying those who could benefit from our services and ensuring they have access to the support they need. 

In this role, you will provide expert guidance, connect entrepreneurs with the right programs for their stage of business, and build strong relationships within Cape Breton’s business ecosystem.  You will work independently from Sydney (home-based and/or assigned office) and travel across the Island to engage with and support business owners in all sectors. 

Here’s what will make you stand out and grab our attention:   

• Experience in business development, financial planning, marketing, or operations to guide entrepreneurs in growing and scaling their businesses 

• First-hand experience running or supporting a business, with an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs face 

• Ability to provide one-on-one advice to helping business owners set goals, overcome barriers and develop action plans 

• Excellent listening, speaking and writing skills to engage, inspire and offer clear, actionable advice 

• Strong networks within Cape Breton’s business ecosystem and a passion for fostering relationships with entrepreneurs, organizations and stakeholders. 

• Experience leading workshops, delivering training and facilitating business support programs. 

• Comfortable using business tools like CRM systems, financial software, digital marketing platforms and AI-driven tools to support entrepreneurs 

• Able to work remotely, manage time effectively, take initiative and collaborate with the larger CWB Team 

• Fluency in both official languages (English and French) is a strong asset but not required.  

• Must have a reliable vehicle and a valid driver’s license are required to connect with business owners across Cape Breton. 

The successful candidate will have… 

• A Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Commerce, Business Administration or a relevant field. 

• A minimum of five years of experience in business and/or entrepreneurship counselling. Preference will be given to those with experience as an entrepreneur.  

• A keen ability to facilitate the development and articulation of client goals, business and revenue development plans. 

• A deep understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities for women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs. 

• Current knowledge of best practices in entrepreneurship skills development.    

• Excellent written and oral skills. 

If you are interested and qualified, please forward a letter of interest together with a resume telling us how your background can help the Centre achieve its goals in Cape Breton.    

Letters of interest can be emailed to the attention of Nora Perry, Manager Programs, Centre for Women in Business nora.perry@msvu.ca Please quote Business Advisor in the subject line.  Deadline to submit is February 6, 2026.  We thank you for your interest. Only those selected will be contacted for an initial phone interview.  

Mount Saint Vincent University is strongly committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within our community and encourages applications from all qualified candidates including women, persons of any sexual orientations and gender identities and/or expressions, Indigenous persons, African Canadians, other racialized groups, persons with disabilities, and other groups that would contribute to the diversification of our campus.  Candidates who identify as being from any of these groups are encouraged to voluntarily self-identify in their application materials.  All qualified candidates are welcome to apply; however, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. 

What began as a home-based business has grown into a regional brand through values-led growth, long-standing Atlantic Canadian partnerships, and a commitment to keeping manufacturing local.

In celebration of Kent Building Supplies’ 50th Anniversary, Burning Flame has launched a custom candle collection into 48 Kent locations across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The exclusive collection features four province-inspired scents, each hand-poured in Halifax using 100% soy wax and phthalate-free fragrance oils. This milestone reflects the power of women-led entrepreneurship, regional collaboration, and the craftsmanship, care, and community that define Atlantic Canada.

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