For many of these entrepreneurs, those opportunities are made possible through the support of corporate partners like RBC, which has done business with several participants in the program. 

As RBC’s Global Lead, Supplier Inclusion, and a supporter, presenter, and mentor for the Supplier Diversity Program, Jessica Grey advances strategies that connect diverse-owned businesses with procurement opportunities across the organization. Through her work, she helps create pathways for underrepresented entrepreneurs to participate in RBC’s supply chain.  

“What I enjoy most about this work is seeing the direct impact that access, education and opportunity can have on the growth of small and medium-sized businesses. Whether it’s coaching suppliers, connecting them to opportunities or helping them better understand corporate procurement strategic sourcing processes, the goal is always to create meaningful economic impact while supporting RBC’s business objectives.” Says Jessica 

For Meghan Raza, founder of Ascension Living, the experience highlighted the importance of connection and tools to help her grow her business. Her company focuses on Psychological Health and Safety for organizations, while also supporting established women entrepreneurs through one-on-one leadership work. 

“Ascension Living is a dual-sided practice based in Prince Edward Island, built on a single conviction: organizations cannot outperform the internal state of the people leading them,” Meghan explains. 

Meghan’s corporate work helps leadership teams move beyond reactive management approaches by embedding psychological safety into day-to-day operations. Through her eight-week “Psychologically Safe By Design” program, organizations focus on building healthier workplace cultures from the leadership level outward. 

Meghan shares that the CWB Supplier Diversity Program helped open doors to new relationships and opportunities she may not have otherwise encountered. 

“The network of women is the part that stays with me, serious business owners who are building with intention and who show up for each other in a way that doesn’t always exist in broader business communities.” 

“The mentorship and access to procurement leaders through the program accelerated my growth and gave me direct exposure to conversations that are often difficult to access independently.” 

Looking ahead, Meghan plans to continue expanding her Psychological Health and Safety programming while growing her one-on-one practice for women business owners. 

“When you address the identity-level patterns underneath, the ones that make structural problems stick even when experienced people are genuinely trying, that’s when culture actually shifts.” 

Her advice to businesses considering supplier diversity certification is to begin the process early. 

“Get certified before you think you need it. The organizations actively looking for certified diverse suppliers are not waiting for you to be ready; they’re building pipelines now.” 

Meghan also reflected on the importance of finding community as an entrepreneur, particularly after relocating to Atlantic Canada. 

“Being connected to a community of women who are further down roads I’m still on, who are generous with what they know, and who are genuinely invested in each other’s success, that’s not something you can build on your own.” 

For Tate Engineering Inc. founder Roxanne Tate, the program provided practical tools to better position her company within supplier networks. Tate Engineering specializes in engineering, project management, and energy consulting, helping clients solve complex operational and facility development challenges. 

“Our clients describe us as a knowledgeable, results-focused, and trusted partner,” Roxanne shares. 

For Roxanne, one of the program’s biggest benefits was helping her refine how the company presents its services to potential buyers. 

“The focused sessions helped me develop a strategy to leverage certification.” 

She noted that developing a capabilities statement and practicing pitches helped clarify the company’s value proposition and identify where the business fits within supplier tiers. 

“I think being confident with where you fit in the supply chain is an important factor of success.” 

The opportunity to practice pitches in a supportive environment also stood out as a major takeaway for Roxanne. 

“When you can get people who do not know your business to understand what you’re capable of in under two minutes, you’ve got something valuable.” 

This year, Roxanne is focused on building long-term relationships with select corporate and government prospects rather than pursuing volume. 

“I’m taking the quality over quantity approach as I seek to build long-term relationships that generate repeat business and referrals.” 

She encourages businesses interested in supplier diversity opportunities to honestly assess whether they are prepared to meet corporate expectations. 

“Contracts are earned and you need to be able to deliver to their standards.” 

For One Day Affair Inc. founder Shannon Boland, she says that the program helped elevate her company’s visibility within the corporate event industry. One Day Affair specializes in wedding and corporate event planning, design, and décor, and is also known for its luxury faux floral rentals. The company’s sister business, One Day Social Affair, operates an event venue for intimate celebrations and corporate gatherings. 

“From initial concept through to flawless execution, every detail is thoughtfully curated,” Shannon shares. 

Shannon explained that the program created opportunities to connect with corporate clients and strengthen the credibility of the women-owned Indigenous business. 

“The credibility and recognition that comes with being a diverse supplier has helped us to stand up and compete with organizations that we didn’t think would be possible as an event-based company.” 

She also highlighted the value of building relationships with fellow entrepreneurs throughout the program. 

“Connecting and collaborating with other inspiring women entrepreneurs also played a key role as we all navigated through the program.” 

Shannon recommends businesses clearly define how their services align with corporate clients while remaining authentic to their brand. 

“It is important to understand not only what you offer, but how your services can fit into a corporate environment in a way that is both authentic and sustainable for your business.” 

For her team, that meant refining processes and strengthening systems to better support corporate partnerships without compromising creativity. 

She also emphasized the importance of selective growth. 

“Don’t try to fit into every opportunity. Focus on the partnerships and opportunities that genuinely align with your values, strengths, and long-term vision.” 

From RBC’s perspective, supplier inclusion is about much more than procurement. “Diverse suppliers bring innovation, agility, unique perspectives and competitive solutions that strengthen supply chains and contribute to better business outcomes,” Jessica explains. “When diverse-owned businesses grow and succeed, they create jobs, stimulate economic development and contribute to more resilient communities. Supplier inclusion is not simply about who we buy from; it’s about helping to build a stronger and more inclusive economy.” 

“The impact of programs like CWB’s Supplier Diversity Program extends beyond individual businesses. By helping entrepreneurs understand procurement processes, strengthen their readiness and build relationships with corporate buyers, the program is helping transform potential into opportunity and contributing to the long-term success of women-owned and diverse businesses.” 

Looking ahead, RBC remains committed to helping advance Supplier Inclusion by continuing to expand engagement with diverse suppliers, strengthening supplier development efforts, and helping create opportunities that support long-term business growth. 

“Our vision is to continue helping to foster an inclusive supply chain that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. By working collaboratively with suppliers, industry partners and advocacy organizations, we can help build a stronger and more resilient business ecosystem for the future.” 

Now in its fifth year, the CWB’s Supplier Diversity Program continues to create opportunities for women entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada to grow their businesses, strengthen their confidence and access corporate supply chains that may have once felt out of reach. By combining mentorship, networking and direct connections to procurement leaders, the program helps women business owners build the tools and relationships needed for long-term success. 

“Representation may open doors, but true access builds enduring legacies. Above all, leadership should elevate every space it occupies; leaving it better than it was found, with a lasting trace of inspiration.” Jessica concluded.  

You can learn more about our program here. 

“Boutique Eatery was born from a simple yet powerful idea: what would it feel like to eat from the Garden of Eden? Inspired by Genesis 1:11–12, we envisioned a table overflowing with nature’s finest florals, fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, and seeds each ingredient rich in beauty, flavour, and nourishment.” Naana explained. 

From that vision came signature products, designed to celebrate freshness, and creativity. 

“Every bite and every sip is designed to be both beautiful and memorable. Celebrating nature’s bounty that nourishes the body, uplifts the spirit, and inspires a more joyful and intentional way of living.” Naana shared. 

Naana’s journey into food entrepreneurship was not always part of the plan. Originally working in fashion, where creativity and design played a major role in her career. 

“I did not always know I would work in the food industry. My background is in fashion, where creativity and design were central to my work. However, I have always had a deep love for creating unique food flavours and textures for myself. Over time, that passion evolved into something much greater.” 

Naana’s multicultural upbringing also played a defining role in shaping Boutique Eatery’s identity. 

“My upbringing across multiple countries in Africa, Europe, the United States, and Canada has deeply influenced my creative perspective. Experiencing such a diverse range of cuisines, ingredients, and culinary traditions has shaped the way I approach food. It encouraged me to blend flavours, textures, and cultural influences in a thoughtful and innovative way.” 

Combined with a business education in both the United Kingdom and the United States, these experiences helped lay the foundation for creating a business.  

Naana also took part in our SPICE program which she created as “instrumental in Boutique Eatery’s growth.” 

“The Centre for Women in Business and the SPICE Program have played an incredibly meaningful role in my entrepreneurial journey. They have provided not only financial and educational support, but also mentorship, valuable connections, and ongoing encouragement.” 

Naana says the program offered more than practical business tools; it also created a strong sense of community. 

“The SPICE Program has given me access to resources and guidance that I would not have otherwise had, along with a supportive network of women entrepreneurs who truly understand the realities of building a business.” 

One of the most important lessons gained through the program was learning to think more strategically about long-term growth. 

“SPICE taught me to approach business growth with a more strategic and long-term mindset. It encouraged me to step back from the day-to-day operations and focus on the bigger picture.” 

Naana also recognized the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture as an important part of Boutique Eatery’s continued development. 

“Their support has helped me build a stronger foundation, improve sustainability, and continue contributing to Nova Scotia’s growing food industry. It also reinforces that there is real value in what we are creating and inspires me to continue innovating and growing within my community.” 

Looking ahead, Boutique Eatery plans to continue expanding its product offerings and strengthening its role within the local food and tourism industries. 

“We hope Boutique Eatery will become a recognized destination brand known for creativity, hospitality, and quality. We aspire to create experiences that bring people together, while continuing to grow sustainably and remain deeply rooted in our community values.” 

For women considering starting their own food businesses, Naana emphasizes the importance of courage, community, and trusting the process. “I would encourage women to start before they feel perfectly ready. Building a business takes courage, consistency, and a willingness to learn along the way.” 

“Organizations like the Centre for Women in Business are incredibly valuable, because entrepreneurship should never be done in isolation. Stay true to your vision, remain adaptable, and never underestimate the value of your story and experiences.” 

Above all, Naana remains deeply grateful for the support she has received throughout her journey. “At Boutique Eatery, our mission extends beyond food. We are passionate about creating experiences that inspire connection, creativity, wellness, and joy. We are excited for the future and truly thankful to be part of Nova Scotia’s vibrant and growing food community.” 

Learn more about Boutique Eatery! And, to learn more about SPICE you can view our learning page here.  

Today, many people are striving to find balance, yet what a “balanced lifestyle” looks like is unique to each individual.

What’s universal, however, is the impact personal wellbeing has on workplace performance. The choices we make every day influence not only our health, but our energy, focus, and creativity at work.

A healthy lifestyle doesn’t require perfection. It requires consistency. New habits may take effort, but as your body responds to better sleep, clearer thinking, and steadier energy, the return on investment becomes clear.

When you commit to your health, you show up as your best self in your work, your relationships, and your community. From there, a simple, realistic plan helps turn intention into action.

Read the article for practical, workplace-supportive strategies to help build sustainable wellbeing.

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 ]]>