Speaker Spotlight

  Former Alberta Minister of Seniors and Housing and MLA for Calgary Beddington 

Josephine Pon was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta on April 16, 2019, as the MLA for Calgary-Beddington, and was appointed as Alberta’s Minister of Seniors and Housing on April 30, 2019.

Pon has a wealth of work experience in banking. For more than 20 years, she has worked with three major chartered banks – HSBC, Royal Bank and Scotiabank. Her appointment with these banks includes experience in Personal/Commercial Banking and her last appointment was the Regional Manager, Business Development responsible for Multicultural Banking and working with over 3,000 staff in the Prairie Region for Scotiabank. During her career in the banking industry, she also worked at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), a crown corporation in mortgage insurance, as an International Trade Consultant and in the Assisted Housing department for the Prairie Region.

Pon has been active in volunteering with numerous non-profit organizations in Calgary and Edmonton throughout her life. She was a member of the working group on the Edmonton Mayor’s Task Force to Eliminate Poverty, the Board Chair of Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC), Chair of the ISC Immigrants of Distinction Awards Gala, Vice President of the Hong Kong Canada Business Association and Cultural Advisor for the Glenbow Museum.

Pon holds a Masters of Science degree in Management from the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom.

  A born and raised Calgarian, Whitney Issik has recently concluded a term as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. Elected in 2019 she served as the Minister of Environment and Parks, the Associate Minister for the Status of Women, and Chief Government Whip.

Studying political science and economics, Issik earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Calgary. Following graduation, she opened a small retail business which she still co owns with her husband in downtown Calgary. Whitney also has a background in corporate Calgary where she worked in the telecom and energy sectors.

Before running for office, Issik became a highly sought-after key political strategist and policy architect in conservative circles, having worked on various provincial and federal campaigns. Issik was named National Policy Co-Chair for the Federal Progressive Conservative Party in the early 2000s.

As a tireless volunteer she has served in many leadership roles building and rebuilding organizations and

as a sportswoman throughout her life she has learned the value of personal discipline and teamwork.

Tanya Fir was sworn in as the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Status of Women on June 9, 2023. She previously served as the Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation, Associate Minister of Red Tape Reduction, and Parliamentary Secretary for Status of Women.

Prior to her service as an elected official, Ms. Fir was employed with Canadian Natural Resources Limited (CNRL) for 16 years as a Human Resources Advisor.

Ms. Fir holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Calgary, with a concentration in Management of Organizations and Human Resources.

Tanya Fir was first elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-Peigan on April 16, 2019, and was re-elected on May 29, 2023.

Rebecca Schulz was first elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-Shaw on April 16, 2019, and was re-elected on May 29, 2023. She was sworn in as Minister of Environment and Protected Areas on June 9, 2023, previously serving as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister of Children’s Services.

A communications professional with a master's degree from Johns Hopkins University, Minister Schulz previously worked for the Government of Saskatchewan, as well as the University of Calgary. Minister Schulz is eager to advocate for the types of common-sense policies that will grow Alberta's economy, protect our beautiful landscapes, and encourage investment and innovation in Alberta.

As a wife and proud mother of 2 young children, Minister Schulz has seen first-hand the challenges that Alberta's families have faced during the last few years and uses her experiences to connect with and advocate for Albertans on the issues that matter to them.

Dr. Phil Okeke-Ihejirika is a full professor in the Women’s and Gender Studies Department of the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada. Her areas of expertise include Gender and Higher Education in Africa, and African International Migration. Her research, teaching and other professional activities contribute to a wide array of scholarly forums, embracing a broad network of academic institutions, scholars and international agencies, including the Carnegie Corporation of New York and the Council for the Development of Economic and Social Research in Africa (CODESRIA). 

Dr. Okeke-Ihejirika is also actively involved in community building as a resource person to many community organizations, service providers and public agencies in Alberta. She belongs, among others, to the Women Advocacy Voice of Edmonton (WAVE), a 15-member advisory committee on gender issues to the city’s Mayor-and-Council. She has earned many academic, professional and community awards locally and in international circles.

 Cheryl Foggo is a multiple award-winning playwright, author and filmmaker, whose work over the last 35 years has focused on the lives of Western Canadians of African descent. 

In 2021, 2022 and 2023, her plays Heaven and John Ware Reimagined received multiple productions, including at The Citadel in Edmonton, Lunchbox Theatre in Calgary, at the Blyth Theatre Festival and in Ottawa at the National Arts Centre. Other works include her National Film Board feature documentary ‘John Ware Reclaimed’, as well as the 30th anniversary edition of her book ‘Pourin’ Down Rain: A Black Woman Claims Her Place in the Canadian West’. Recent journalism can be found in the Interrupt/Reframe issue of The Fold, on CBC Black on the Prairies and in Westword Magazine. She is also the author of 3 acclaimed Young Adult and Children’s books: One Thing That’s True, I Have Been in Danger and Dear Baobab. She recently wrapped shooting of a short film about northern Saskatchewan’s Black History, scheduled to premiere in spring, 2024. 

Cheryl was the recipient of the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Outstanding Artist Award, The Doug and Lois Mitchell Outstanding Calgary Artist Award and the Arts, Media and Entertainment Award from the Calgary Black Chambers, all in 2021. In 2022 she received the Women Making History in Alberta Award from Heritage Park and was inducted into the Alberta Order of Excellence. She is also a recipient of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal. Cheryl was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws from Mount Royal University in June of 2023.

  Sonya Sharp was elected Councilor for Ward 1 in the Calgary General Election on Oct. 18, 2021.

Sonya is a lifelong resident of Ward 1 who brings twenty years of experience working for The City of Calgary, and sixteen years of experience in business and as a business owner. Sonya and her husband are proud to call Ward 1 home. They chose the ward so that their children could enjoy the same schools, playgrounds, swimming pools, and parks that Sonya grew up with. Sonya worked in a variety of roles as an employee of The City of Calgary. She spent fourteen years in Planning and Development and later worked in the role of Small Business Coordinator before finishing her career as Manager of the Business and Local Economy team. She is proud to have served as the City Manager’s delegate on Council’s Business Advisory Committee, and to have led many important business initiatives, including temporary patio extensions for local restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The child of immigrants, Sonya learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and self-sacrifice from a young age. She worked in her family’s construction business, which they built from scratch. There, Sonya learned what the needs of businesses are, and the importance of small business to building strong, healthy communities.

Sonya attended the University of Lethbridge for three years and holds a diploma in Building Development Technology from SAIT. Growing up, she played many team sports and was a competitive swimmer for the University of Calgary Swim Club Dinos.

Sonya places a high value on hard work and on building relationships—skills that make her an effective representative for the constituents of Ward 1.

Sonya is thrilled to bring her experience from The City of Calgary, from small business, and from raising a family and growing up in Ward 1 to City Hall to bolster opportunity and community for the city she loves.

  Hon. Leela Sharon Aheer was first elected as a Member of Alberta's Legislative Assembly for the Chestermere-Rocky View constituency on May 5, 2015.

She was re-elected on April 16, 2019, as the MLA for the newly formed riding of Chestermere-Strathmore. Born in Edmonton and raised in Chestermere, where she raised her family, Aheer is a proud wife and mother of two amazing young men. Hon Aheer is a professional singer, vocal coach and music teacher who instructs singing in seven languages. She owned and operated a successful music studio for twenty-four years in Chestermere and Calgary, where she was heavily involved in arts, volunteerism, and community service. 

Previously serving as the Opposition Critic for Energy, Education, and Status of Women, as well as Children's Services, Hon. Aheer brought her experience as a legislator to her new portfolio, Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women (2019 - 2021), where for the first time in Canada, Women's Entrepreneurship Day was proclaimed in February 2019. Hon. Aheer was the first Minister of Multiculturalism in the last twenty-five years and the first Deputy Leader of the United Conservative Party. A key priority of the new government was to provide more protections for women through initiatives like Clare's Law. 

Hon. Aheer has worked tirelessly to affirm her position as an ally within the Alberta Legislature for those seeking shelter from gender-based violence, racism, and female genital mutilation. In May of 2022, her work on this matter came to fruition when The Health Professions (Protecting Women and Girls) Amendment Act, 2022, a Bill she championed in the Legislature, earned Royal Assent. MLA Aheer is renowned in her community and among her peers for her human-centred approach to governance and community building. 

Hon. Aheer continues to work hard to build an Alberta that, regardless of who you are, who you love, where you come from, or to whom you pray, will be strong and free for generations to come.

Brenda Beckedorf is an accomplished ecosystem builder, visionary leader, and strategic thinker with a wealth of experience in fostering and advancing a diverse spectrum of technology enterprises.

Brenda, a co-founder of Society 5.0, is a passionate advocate for unlocking the full power of technology and innovation. With a deep commitment to driving positive impact and sustainable growth, she spearheads the mission of the organization. Society 5.0, under Brenda's leadership, envisions celebrating innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment in technology while proactively addressing the challenges faced by tech and innovation companies.

Currently serving as a Director of The Calgary Innovation Coalition (CIC), Brenda plays an instrumental role within this consortium of organizations in the Calgary region dedicated to championing innovation-driven entrepreneurs, start-ups, and enterprises. She also holds the position of Vice Chair at AWE (Alberta Women Entrepreneur), where she actively supports women in business through her involvement in business advising, business skills development, financing initiatives, and networking opportunities. And finally, Brenda is a Founding Member of the Digital Inclusion Collaborative Table, a United Way Initiative, committed to bridging the digital divide within our community. Our digital equity and inclusion efforts aim to amplify the positive impact on our community, fostering improved mental health, socio-economic progress, addressing social isolation, and nurturing healthy relationships. Previously, Brenda served as the ED of Alberta IoT, a non-profit member-based association established in 2017 to catalyze the growth of the digital realm by cultivating connections, fostering collaboration, and nurturing innovation. In this capacity, Brenda championed the unity of our community to amplify a collective voice in advancing knowledge, adoption, and growth within the technology industry, both in Alberta and on a global scale.

Recognized for her outstanding achievements, Brenda was honored with the Universal Women Network Mentorship Award in 2020. Brenda's dedication and expertise have left an indelible mark on the technology and innovation landscape, making her a true catalyst for progress in her field.

Chantelle de Jonge was appointed the Parliamentary Secretary for Affordability and Utilities on July 13, 2023.

Ms. de Jonge earned a bachelor’s degree with distinction in economic and philosophy at the University of Calgary and was awarded the Professor Z.M. Kubinski Prize in Economics for 2 research projects on Canadian economic issues.

Ms. de Jonge believes in giving back through volunteer efforts, and dedicates a lot of her time to volunteering, both at home and abroad, including for Faith Beyond Belief and for The Sunrise of Life Center, a home for street children in Tanzania.

Chantelle de Jonge was first elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Chestermere-Strathmore on May 29, 2023

  Adedoyin Omotara is a Beauty Entrepreneur, women’s empowerment advocate, published author, speaker, life coach and business coach. 

Adedoyin made Black history in Calgary as the founder of the first all women-owned Black collective. Adedoyin is the founder of Adoniaa Collective, a store that sells products made and sold by Black female entrepreneurs ranging from skin care and spices to clothing and makeup. The mission for the Adoniaa brand is to uplift women and to validate women. Adedoyin determined to resolve the concern that “Beauty” today, far from being that poetic “joy forever”, is, unfortunately, a stressful source of insecurity for countless women. Her inspirational addresses promote beauty, inside and out, to an audience of women at all stages of life. She believes in investing in the dream of girls and in the strength of women.

The positive response to her products continues to be overwhelming. This enterprising visionary is more than just the founder of a thriving company, she is the leader of a life-changing revolution.

Adedoyin has been featured on CTV, she leads Africa, Diversity Magazine, Blooming Ladies, and countless other information outlets.

  Socially conscious innovator, Evelyne Nyairo, the driving force behind the luxurious all-natural skincare line, Ellie Bianca, is no novice to the business.  

Evelyne holds an undergraduate degree in environmental Sciences with Biology and Chemistry Majors and an M.Sc. in Environmental Management and currently she is a PhD candidate pursing Strategy and Innovation.  Evelyne has provided strategic planning on high profile projects worldwide and has held many energy sector leadership positions. 

Ms. Nyairo’s contributions have been recognized by many including Winner of the Prestigious 2021 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneurship award, Featured on the 2021 Dragon’s Den, Semi-finalist of the CANIE Black Entrepreneur of The Year Award, Receiving the CHFA Industry Achievement Award for Celebrating Diversity, Receiving the Covid 19 Leader Award for working to keep Canadians safe with our soap and hand sanitizer project. 

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. 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. A brilliant role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, Evelyne shares her wisdom born of perseverance in the face of adversity. She lives by the quote, “Trust the process,” which has given her the grace to nurture companies from the ground to conglomerates.  

She thrives best when she can contribute to advancing equality and through Ellie Bianca, she is able to see this vision become a reality by working with female producers and ensuring that women are rewarded directly for their hard work. 

Ellie Bianca is committed to being "Kind to your Skin |Kind to the Earth |Kind to Women". 

 Milena is President and Chief Visionary of Nexus Exhibits, Western Canada's one-stop shop for complete turnkey visual branding services. Nexus Exhibits works with clients to strategically grow their business through bold design and delivering state-of-the-art trade show exhibits, displays, experiential environments, events, and workspace branding services. 

Aside from being an accomplished entrepreneur, Milena has over 25 years of experience as a transformational branding, marketing and business strategist who has worked with internationally recognized marque clients such as Westjet and Enmax. After graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Calgary's Haskayne School of Business and completing her MBA from Nova South-eastern University, Milena has dedicated herself to being a lifelong learner. She recently finished her ICD.D designation.

An active Calgary member of Entrepreneur Organization, Milena travels worldwide mentoring and sharing her experience with other entrepreneurs. Milena has been a keynote speaker at the 2019 SAP Biz One conference and has spoken at various industry organizations. Furthermore, Milena's endless commitment to elevating the next generation of women leaders has been recognized by: President’s Volunteer Champion Award by the Women in Leadership Foundation (2016), University of Calgary's WRC Distinction Alumna Award for outstanding leadership and community improvement work, Business Leader in Calgary Award for exceptional community leadership (2018), appointed Canada Ambassador to (WEDO) Women Entrepreneurship Day Organization, which is celebrated at the United Nations (2019), and Calgary Influential Women in Business award for professional accomplishments and community work (2020).  Milena was recently recognized as WXN's Top 100 Most Powerful Women for Community Impact (2022) and in 2023 she earned the Celebration of Achievement Award presented by the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs.

Milena's mission is to alleviate poverty by educating, empowering, supporting & celebrating women.

 Lulu Mashonganyika, a trailblazing entrepreneur from Zimbabwe, Africa, fearlessly tackles societal challenges. Balancing roles as a wife, mother, and immigrant, she identified a critical need for stress-free access to flexible childcare. Despite lacking business and tech experience, she is on a mission to revolutionize the experience of finding childcare.

Her journey embodies intersectionality, navigating as a woman of color and first-time tech founder. Overcoming rejection and imposter syndrome, she crafted an inspiring narrative of determination. Her platform transcends a digital marketplace, fostering a community of parents and trusted childcare providers such as babysitters, tutors, day homes, and other child-related services. 

Through her innovation, Lulu's goal is to empower parents, particularly women, to be able to balance work, business and raising children.

  Nicole Robertson has dedicated her life to creating awareness about Indigenous Peoples through the media. Nicole’s career has taken her across North America and the United Kingdom, writing, directing, producing, and reporting on issues that focus and highlight Indigenous communities. Nicole is a member of the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation in Treaty No.6.

Her on-air work experiences include working with the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN), A-Channel, Global and CTV in the capacity as of reporter, video journalist, producer, anchor, associate producer and writer. In 2000, Nicole created and established “Muskwa Productions”, which specializes in communication advisory services that include media and public relations, media training, marketing, social media, event and video productions, public speaking, speech writing, cross-cultural communications training and strategies.

Muskwa Productions is assisting businesses, governments, private sector, and First Nations in their communication strategies to create a true reflection of their values, and stories through legacy media, social media, podcasts and productions. Nicole is known for her strong leadership skills and has spoken at national conferences on entrepreneurship, communications and the media. She has built many bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders to create opportunities and partnerships to change the landscape in Canada for her people.

In 2009, Nicole’s company was recognized through the Alberta Chamber of Commerce as the Aboriginal Woman Entrepreneur Award of Distinction. The award recognizes the outstanding achievement by an Indigenous woman entrepreneur who exemplifies effective leadership, innovation, and commitment to enhancing the well-being of the larger Indigenous community. 

Nicole Robertson was profiled in a book entitled, “Phenomenal Female Entrepreneurs” by Second Story Press. The business leader served as a member on the First Nations Women’s Council on Economic Security through the Province of Alberta and was able to achieve several milestones with the very first team of Indigenous women to advise the Minister of Indigenous Relations. Nicole was also the first Indigenous woman as a Board Director with Travel Alberta, which is under Culture and Tourism Ministry through the Province of Alberta. In 2023, Nicole received Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medallion for her work in media and public service.

  Originating from the Métis homeland and Treaty 1 territory, Shannon is a Cree Métis woman who resides in Treaty 7 territory. 

Shannon is a bold leader who is committed to building an inclusive, sustainable economy. A tireless advocate and champion, Shannon has devoted her career and volunteer work to celebrating, promoting and bettering the lives of women entrepreneurs making her one of Canada's most trusted voices on women's entrepreneurship and economic empowerment for educators, government, industry and media.

Shannon is the CEO of Pestun Consulting and the Co-founder of the Finance Cafe. She is also the Senior Advisor to the Diversity Institute where she supports the development of research and strategies that advance gender equity and diversity in entrepreneurship and leadership. 

Prior to embarking on her own entrepreneurial journey, Shannon worked in banking where she became one of the first women in the country to lead a women's banking strategy. Her leadership was instrumental in setting the stage for financial inclusion in Canada's financial sector for both policy makers and financial services providers. In 2019, she was appointed to serve on Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy expert panel.

Shannon's passion for empowering others is heartfully felt. Her compassionate and warm expertise speaks across differences to show how together we can break down barriers, unlock opportunities and create a more inclusive, sustainable economy.

In 2020, she created the Gifting Circle Bursary for Indigenous women entrepreneurs raising over $150,000 in support of advancing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship in Canada.

  Amara Wynn serves as the Chief Executive Officer of EasyVC, a leading technology firm revolutionizing the landscape of early-stage investment by reshaping how investors discover and exchange deal flow. Committed to advancing impact and innovation within the start-up ecosystem, Amara empowers the investment community to more efficiently support the ground-breaking ventures of tomorrow. Through EasyVC, $1.7M in equity and non-dilutive capital has been facilitated towards exceptional companies seeking funding.

Before being elected as CEO, Amara was initially pursuing a career in medicine, yet her internship at Canadian Wealth Inc, the parent company of EasyVC, sparked a profound interest in entrepreneurship and venture capital. Collaborating closely with small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and tech founders, Amara recognized the transformative potential of entrepreneurship, prompting a pivot from STEM to the realm of start-ups.

Beyond her executive duties, Amara is deeply engaged in enriching the broader start-up ecosystem. She meaningfully shares her insights with aspiring entrepreneurs as a guest lecturer for business students at Mount Royal University and mentors ambitious youth striving to make their mark in the entrepreneurial landscape. Additionally, Amara remains committed to continuous learning, with a keen interest in exploring the nascent realm of the microbiome.

  Lora leads a team of award-winning product managers, curriculum designers, and advisors responsible for SAIT’s Continuing Education and Professional Studies programs focused on supporting people in enhancing and transforming their careers. A transformational leader, Lora believes that new ways of approaching education can empower and shape workforces with impactful, relevant, and connected learning experiences. She works with organizations across Alberta to understand the talent trends, opportunities, and challenges that education and industry can tackle together. With over 25 years in product marketing, product management and business development, Lora’s approach is to focus on building great teams to solve talent challenges and create exceptional learning experiences.

A mother of strong daughters, Lora has always championed forging one’s own path. An avid backcountry adventurer and cyclist, Lora is deeply connected to the Calgary community through several volunteer activities, including mentoring newcomers and supporting seniors. 

  Larissa Crawford proudly passes on Métis and Jamaican ancestry to her daughter, Zyra, and is a published Indigenous, anti-racism, and climate justice researcher, policy advisor, and restorative circle keeper with over 15 years of experience.

Larissa's lived experience as an Indigenous and Black woman; a survivor of sexual violence and poverty; a person living with chronic pain disabilities and brain damage; having lived in both rural and urban settings; and as a young mother positions her to carry out her responsibilities as a future ancestor with unique insight and consideration. The perspectives she carries and amplifies are frequently undervalued, and as of late, her role at Future Ancestors Services Inc. has become her most Significant vessel of action in response to this reality.

Larissa is also the Founder of Future Ancestors Services, an Indigenous and Black-owned, youth-led professional services social enterprise that advances climate justice and systemic barrier removal with lenses of anti-racism and ancestral accountability. Through a disabled and queer team of professionals and advisors, they provide speaking, training, research and consulting services, and influencer and interview services to +400 diverse clients. They do this while centering decolonized and Indigenized practices, and are constantly reimagining how we can learn, relate, and work together in healthy ways.

In 2022 Larissa was honored with the York University One to Watch Alumni Award, in Complex Canada’s 20 Creators Who Will Shape the Next 20 Years of The Culture, and in 2020-21 in Women of Influence’s Top 25 list; in Refinery Canada’s 29 Powerhouses; as York University’s Top 30 Under 30 Alumni; in HuffPost’s 26 Indigenous Influencers to Follow; and with the Pollution Probe Equity in Sustainability Award. She supports international brands such as Merrell, Nike, and The Body Shop, in better serving and representing her communities.

  Tomi Ajele is a storyteller, civic activator, and community collaborator. She is a senior communications officer at the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, a freelance writer, and the former editor-in-chief of Afros In Tha City. Tomi holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Mount Royal University and a master’s in public policy from the University of Calgary; in 2022 she was named one of Avenue Magazine’s Top 40Under 40.

  Nigerian-Canadian musician, Perpie blends classical and African contemporary art music with a touch of jazz, soul and storytelling. Nominee in three categories for the 2023 YYC Music awards and winner of the YYC Music Award for Jazz Recording of the Year, recipient of Queen Elizabeth II's Jubilee Medal (2023), Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Award (2022) and New Canadian Artist Award (2021).

Born and raised in Nigeria, her early exposure to Afrobeat music by Fela Kuti and country music by ‘Don Williams’ and 'Dolly Parton’, and West African folk and traditional musical practices, sowed the see for her sound today. 

Perpie has headlined artist for the Canadian Jazz Festival (2021), Ethnik Festival (2023) and her self-produced; producer and headline artist for the sold out « Ije Live » Concert with Orchestra at the studio Bell performance hall in 2022. Her music has been described as « uplifting and a bouquet of everything good, radiating beautiful human emotions » as captured in written feedback from her audience and presenters. 

Lana has worked as the Director of Strategy at YW Calgary since 2016. Prior to that Lana worked for Alberta Health Services for nearly a decade, primarily in child and adolescent mental health. An award-winning therapist, 

Lana earned her degrees in social work from the University of Calgary. A believer in the transformative power of post-secondary education Lana has proudly taught at Bow Valley College, the University of Calgary, and Mount Royal University.  Lana has spent her career creating impact at the individual and community level, a perspective that is maintained by her unwavering belief that everybody has the potential to thrive.  

A woman of varied interests, Lana, sits on different boards including the Calgary Black Chambers, Youth Central Calgary, and the College of Opticians.  In her spare time, you can find her adding to her ever-growing shoe collection, cheering on the Toronto Raptors, or skiing at her favorite hill, Sunshine Village.

With over 20 years of promoting Masterworks of Inuit art, Sophia is a respected visionary curating innovative approaches in Inuit art appreciation.

Inuit on her mother’s side and Greek on her father’s, Sophia was raised in Arviat, Nunavut, a hamlet on the coast of the Hudson’s Bay where her family promoted the works of artists who are now highly collected and impactful names in Canadian art. Sophia is a part of the next generation shaping the direction of the arts through education and entrepreneurship.

In 2018, Sophia spoke at TEDxYYC on The Art of Survival: A Modern-Day Inuit Odyssey Through the Arts. She is the first Inuk to speak in TEDx history.

Chioma Ufodike is a Fellow of Chartered Professional Accountants (FCPA) and leader in Finance, Regulatory Compliance, Risk management, Governance and Forensic Accounting, with over twenty-three years of experience spanning across various industries. 

Chioma is currently the Chief Compliance Officer for Olympia Trust Company and oversees regulatory compliance and policy management across all lines of business. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology and a Masters in Forensic Accounting. She is also a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) and is a graduate of the Directors Education Program (DEP) from the Institute of Corporate Directors at the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto. 

Chioma has served on the Board of non-profit organizations and Crown corporations.  She currently Chairs the Finance & Audit Committee of the Agricultural Financial Services Corporation, is currently serving as a Director for the Alberta Teachers Retirement Trust (ATRF) Board, the CPA Education Foundation Board and a Nominating Committee Member for the CPA Alberta Achievement Awards. She previously served as the Treasurer & Chair, Finance & Audit Committee for the Lougheed House Conservation Society - a Canadian not-for-profit organization. 

When not working, Chioma is a fitness enthusiast who enjoys travelling, spending time with her four beautiful kids and giving back to the community.

Eno is a highly accomplished business analyst and consultant based in Calgary, Alberta, who has made significant contributions in helping professionals and immigrants kick-start their careers. With more than 100,000 professionals from over 90 countries benefiting from her career coaching and keynote speaking, she is widely recognized as an award-winning career coach and mentor.

Eno's expertise in business analysis extends to her role as a content developer and course instructor at the University of Manitoba, where she develops and teaches courses on the subject. Her passion for business analysis led her to establish the Business Analysis School, where she helps professionals harness their skills in the field to secure lucrative 6-figure jobs. Additionally, Eno is the CEO of Eny Consulting Inc., where she helps businesses optimize their performance and achieve their revenue goals through the effective use of digital technology. Eno's dedication to the field of business analysis and her commitment to helping professionals and businesses succeed have established her as a respected leader and authority in the industry.

In just five years since arriving in Canada, Eno has touched the lives of thousands of immigrants, curating mentorship and coaching programs that have earned her global recognition and awards. She is a dedicated volunteer and sits on the Board of the IIBA Calgary Chapter as Director of Education, and also volunteers at several non-profit organizations such as the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC), Calgary Dream Centre, and the Calgary Drop-in Centre.

Eno is also the host of the Fireside Chat with Eno Livestream Podcast, where she shares valuable insights on job search tips and strategies for new immigrants. She is a Giving Back Sponsor for the Women in Need Society (WINS), and a Campaign Ambassador for the United Nations and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Her remarkable awards and achievements speak for themselves, including Forbes 30 under 30 nominees 2020, Education Category; Alberta Top 30 under 30 recipients 2021; Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 award Winner 2022; RBC Women of Influence 2020 Award Recipient; and Top 100 Black Women to Watch in Canada 2020 Award Recipient, among others. She was also a Finalist for the RBC Top 75 Canadian Immigrant Awards 2020, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs Nominee 2021, and a Women Empowerment Awards and Women of Impact Awards Nominee in 2022. Additionally, she was a Tällberg/Eliasson Global Leadership Prize Nominee in 2020 and a Black Entrepreneur of the year Finalist in 2022.

Eno's exceptional contributions to the industry have earned her recognition as one of the Top 8 Female Business Analysis Influencers to Watch in 2021, and she is also an IIBA Global Corporate Member and an IIBA Endorsed Education Provider for all IIBA certifications. Her dedication to her profession and to helping others is evident in her numerous achievements, and she continues to inspire and impact the lives of professionals and immigrants alike.

Dr. Nketti is an economist, public speaker, published author, academic, entrepreneur and community development leader with over a decade's experience in organizational development and management and community development. 

Prior to Nketti's current role, she served as the Director of Research and Programs at Children first Canada, a national organisation concerned with advancing children's rights in Canada. Nketti also has over a decade’s experience in teaching at Post graduate institutions. She has taught Economics and Economic Development as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Economics at Saint Mary’s University. She has also taught in the faculty of Social Work and Political Science at the University of Calgary and in the Business Faculty at Ambrose University, where she taught Economics and Strategy and Strategic Marketing. As the CEO and founder of Mason Vanguard Consulting, Nketti supports for profit and non-profit organisations with Strategic Planning, Research, Evaluation, Business Process Optimisation and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Nketti also plays a lead role Black North Initiative, an organisation concerned with addressing systemic barriers faced black people. Nketti also serves on the board of Cause Canada - a global organisation concerned with addressing poverty and inequality in developing countries.

Nketti is a wife and a mum of two, her favourite things in the world are her twin toddlers who light up her world. Nketti is a lifelong learner and enjoys using her skills, competencies, knowledge, and time towards building tomorrow’s leaders, communities and organisations and empowering some of the World’s most marginalised people.

Kathy is an award-winning architectural and interior design firm specializing in residential design across Canada.  Kathy is an accomplished business leader, renowned entrepreneur, and highly successful CEO. With a proven track record of delivering outstanding results, Kathy has carved out a reputation as one of the most dynamic and innovative executives in the business world today.

From a young age, Kathy has always had a passion for business and entrepreneurship. After graduating as an Architectural Technologist in Calgary, Alberta, Kathy quickly rose through the ranks of some of the most recognized construction companies in Western Canada as an on-site construction Project Manager, establishing a reputation as a top-performer.

Kathy's entrepreneurial spirit eventually led to the founding of Phase One Design in 2006, a highly successful business that has rapidly grown into one of the most respected and innovative companies across Western Canada with office locations in Calgary and Vancouver.  Under Kathy's leadership, Phase One Design has achieved unprecedented success.  Phase One Design has designed over 700 homes across Canada, Victoria to Nova Scotia.  The firm has been recognized across North America with over 32 nominations and awards. Their designs have been featured in publications across Canada including House and Home Magazine, Best Home Magazine, the Globe and Mail, and more

As a visionary leader, Kathy has a unique ability to identify emerging trends and opportunities, and to develop innovative strategies to capitalize on them. This has allowed Phase One Design to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving marketplace, and to maintain its position as a leader in the industry.

Kathy is a well-recognized business leader, public speaker, and educator for the design and custom home community.  She has spearheaded many community initiatives such as educational seminars, regular stage appearances with HGTV celebrities at numerous Home + Garden Shows, founded the YouTube Channel “Custom Homes with Kathy” and has been nominated twice for RBC Women Entrepreneur of the Year.  

Outside of the office, Kathy is passionate about non-profit causes and also furthering her business knowledge.  She served as a volunteer Director on the Board for Horizon Housing Society for 5+ years, and was a TEC Canada member for 7+ years.

With Kathy's exceptional leadership skills, unwavering dedication, and unparalleled business acumen, Phase One Design is well-positioned to continue its rapid growth trajectory, and to remain at the forefront of innovation in the industry.

Jennifer is a dedicated Fulfillment Strategist & Coach, who specializes in empowering ambitious, exhausted women and business teams to transform insecurities into personal & professional effectiveness, reclaim control of their calendar and life, and implement strategic stress management for embodied peace of mind and elevated efficacy.

With a strong academic foundation in psychology and unprecedented client transformations, Jennifer guides ambitious women and teams who are exhausted by traditional definitions of success and helps them break free from the chains of self-sacrifice, reclaim their happiness and well-being while simultaneously enhancing their professional effectiveness and success. 

Having personally experienced and successfully navigated through crippling imposter syndrome, self neglect, and three burnouts, with her first burn out at 21 years of age, Jennifer brings a unique understanding and empathy to her coaching practice. As an acclaimed coach, she has garnered a reputation for delivering transformational results to her clients, enabling them to improve their health, reclaim their happiness, achieve a balanced life and a calm demeanor that is resilient beyond their years. Notably, her clients have also achieved remarkable career advancements, including promotions and substantial pay increases.

In addition to her coaching expertise, Jennifer is a highly sought-after speaker, frequent podcast guest and top notch workshop facilitator. Her insights and perspectives have captivated audiences and transformed lives and corporate teams alike. 

Jennifer’s  mission is to 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 women’s personal & professional 𝐞𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 so that they can live a life of undeniable impact 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 their 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞, 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 to achieve it.

Outside of her business, Jennifer is passionate about living a life of balance and joy. Jennifer creates this life by following a rock solid routine of exercise, journaling and meditating that sets her day up for success. Further, she schedules biweekly off the path city adventures through Fish Creek with an incredible friend and schedules 1 full day hike per month with her bestie. If that’s not creating a life of balance, joy and intentionality, I don't know what is!

A native Calgarian with a passion for international and community development, Ashley obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Political Science at the University of Calgary in 2007, and a Master's Degree in 2012 in International Affairs at The Graduate Institute in Geneva, Switzerland.  Over the last fifteen years, Ashley has worked with various International Organizations in Sierra Leone, Canada, and Switzerland, including the Canadian International Development Agency, the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations and World Trade Organization, the World Meteorological Organization and the World Health Organization. In 2016 Ashley returned to Calgary and became the Executive Director of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (the Award).  In 2020, Ashley was included in Avenue Magazine's Top 40 Under 40, highlighting the Award's work empowering criminally involved youth through a project she developed called The Youth Resiliency Project. In April 2021, Ashley took on a new role with Benevity acting as their Senior Global Analysis. Ashley is a passionate volunteer and currently sits on the board of CAUSE Canada and Making Changes Association.