As a Partner and Owner of Inspire Marketing, Amanda has used her creative design, social media strategy and event management talents. Since launching in 2006, she’s grown her service offerings and developed a base of repeat clients, including the Hamilton Port Authority, the Hamilton Waterfront Trust, La Piazza Allegra Restaurant, and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats Cheerleaders. A lifelong Hamilton resident, Amanda is dedicated to community involvement, volunteering with the Canadian Blood Services Foundation, Healthy Lifestyles Festival, Heart and Stroke and the National Cycling Centre Hamilton.

Brian is Senior Manager of Candidate Development at VMWare—a leading virtualization and cloud computing company. Here, he is responsible for overseeing 32 recruiters throughout the Americas and influencing the recruitment process. Since joining VMWare in 2006, Brian has spearheaded the implementation, accuracy, and enhancements of new software tools for the business. He’s also proud to volunteer with several charitable organizations, including the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Burlington Campaign and will take over as Chair in 2013.

As a Partner at Taylor Leibow LLP Accountants & Advisors, Darren is dedicated to growing his practice, and providing value that exceeds client expectations. Recently promoted to Partner, Darren has had great success building their existing client and expanding its new growth, earning major awards. Darren is constantly upgrading his skills, taking many industry designations. He also has a deep passion for the community, helping various organizations including the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation and the Garside Bible Church.

Anthony is a Chiropractor and Owner of the Hamilton Back Clinic. Anthony has had incredible success since he opened in 2002 at age 25. Since then, he’s added multiple new treatment rooms. As a certified medical practitioner, Anthony created an assessment system called EXSTORE used by doctors across North America. He is the team chiropractor for the Hamilton Family Health Team which serves over 85,000 patients. Active in the Hamilton community, Anthony has also launched his own charitable initiatives.

Ilya is Vice-President Operations at Parkway Motors Hamilton where he’s responsible for the day-to-day operations of four retail facilities—Upper James Toyota, Red Hill Toyota Scion, Parkway Nissan and Stoney Creek Toyota. Ilya believes his clients and team members have allowed him to experience significant growth. He has also become an admired community leader. Ilya believes in bettering Hamilton, serving on the Hamilton Arts Awards. He supports Conservatory, the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Mohawk College, McMaster University, and the Juravinski Cancer Centre.

As the Artistic Director of Hammer Entertainment, Jason is responsible for the theatre company’s day-to-day operations including production, marketing and building partnerships in the community. Building his company from the ground up, Jason has seen Hammer Entertainment thrive over the last few years, growing from a 90-seat to a larger 300-seat theatre, adding accessible performances, and growing ticket sales by 250%. Jason is always active in the community, and contributes to the Theatre Board at The Hamilton Arts Council.

John is an Audit Partner at KPMG LLP, leading a team of over 65 professional accountants. Since joining KPMG in 2005, John has worked with major organizations and has been instrumental in growing the firm’s practice. In 2008, his strong leadership and technical abilities earned him the role of Partner. John also dedicates many of his hours advising the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, including the support of several local charities such as the United Way and City Kidz.

Justin has proven to be a multi-talented young professional with an extensive track record in recruiting, marketing, project management and achieving their business goals. In his current state, Justin manages the C-S Group’s recruiting and marketing efforts—helping them diversify their environmental products—as their Manager of Business Development. He’s spearheaded several environmental awards—and is a tireless contributor to the community through his work with Hamilton organizations including the Gene Specialist Working Group, the Ataxia Kids Program, and the Brain Tumour Walk.

Len is the Owner of PBI – Printing By Innovation where his duties include marketing, staff training, budget analysis, and business development. Since launching PBI, Len has expanded his business to include a wide range of printing solutions. Len’s leadership and drive have earned him many awards over the years. He also gives back to the community through his support of various charities including the Hamilton Community Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, and is an active volunteer with Lions Club International.

Mark is Director of Commercial Activities at The Art Gallery of Hamilton where he oversees five revenue generating departments. Most recently, he is responsible for the development and launch of the AGH Design Annex on James Street North. Mark also operates his own print, marketing and promotional product firm called Flyprint, supplying clients across southern Ontario. A tireless community advocate, Mark is the President of the McMaster Alumni Association, and sits on several local boards and associations including FUSE, CLC, Hamilton Hive, and Empowerment Squared.

P.J. is the CEO of The Carmen’s Group—and the Owner and Operator of many successful hospitality ventures including the Hamilton Convention Centre, the Best Western Premier C Hotel, and Baci Ristorante and most recently, the Hamilton Convention Centre expansion. P.J. was instrumental in creating the Carmen’s Cares Foundation. He also serves on many boards such as the Art Gallery of Hamilton and Synvest Real Estate. Highly involved with several community organizations, P.J. was honoured with the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award last spring.

Ryan is the President of LinxSmart—a Hamilton-based web development firm founded in 2006. He has been nominated three times for Young Entrepreneur of the Year and was the recipient of a 2011 Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction Award and a 2012 CIPA Business Award. Ryan is also Co-founder and Director of Technology for SOAPVault—an online Software-as-a-Service software that introduces secure records to massage therapy industries, serving thousands of users.

As a Partner of Core Urban Inc., Steve and his business partner, Dave, represent Hamilton’s adaptive reuse movement in the downtown core. Steve and Dave have successfully launched the conversion of three Hamilton buildings including the Mixed Media, The Ship and the This Ain’t Hollywood landmarks on the Kerrimer Apartments. In total, Steve and Dave completed five Core Urban infill and conversion projects making them leaders in helping shape “a new Hamilton.” An active member of the Hamilton community, Steve has been honoured with the Junior Chamber of Commerce’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award last spring.

Tony is Partner at Pettinelli Mastroluisi LLP Chartered Accountants where he’s responsible for assurance and tax services, staff recruitment, and technology training helping manage a team of 25 employees. He joined the firm in 2003 and was promoted to Partner in December 2009. Under Tony’s direction, the firm has experienced double-digit revenue growth, adding new corporate and estate planning services. Tony also spearheaded several causes that mean a great deal to him, including the Catholic Youth Organization.

Ann-Marie is the Owner of Momstown Inc.—an online and in-person social network for moms involving children focused on education and literacy. Since establishing Momstown in 2007, Ann-Marie has led the project to expand across Canada by 2012 to include 18 chapters. She's dedicated to the community, establishing a national partnership with Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart program to support local causes and parents needing financial assistance. Most recently in recognition of innovation, Ann-Marie received the SavvyMom Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

As Partner and Creative Director at Kitestring Creative Branding Studio, Chris oversees his agency’s creative direction and client development. Since joining Kitestring, Chris has helped Kitestring grow into one of Hamilton’s most sought-after creative agencies, landing major brands, engaging in the community, and expanding its in-house social media strategy. Besides writing for the Spectator or raising over 300 months of art programming for a local charity both for traditional and social media, Chris remains one of the strongest advocates.

Devin is the President and Co-CEO of FloatPoint Media—a custom mobile app development company. Since founding the company in 2003, Devin has worked to become a leader in the mobile industry, and has seen the firm expand globally, increasing its sales by a staggering 300% in the past three years. Winner of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Devin has a strong passion for community, sponsoring several charities including the Masonic Foundation.

As Owner and Operator of M.G. Shore Restaurants Inc., Geoff acts as Marketing Director, Bookkeeper and General Manager of Tim Hortons franchises on Cross Avenue. Since 2001, he has firmly committed to growing his location by supporting his team, implementing new corporate campaigns, and increasing profitability. Geoff has a strong passion for community, sponsoring several charities like the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation. He’s also helped launch Environment Awareness Day—and green travel initiatives as part of his team’s move for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Halton.

James moved to Hamilton in 2011 to launch FirstOntario’s Business Services department. He’s responsible for expanding the lending and advisory services offered, while also building strong relationships with the area’s businesses. James sits on several boards including Stoney Creek Soccer, where he has served in many positions in the last five years—from Executive Vice President to Coach. He is a Mentor with the Canadian Youth Business Foundation.

Joe is President of Red Brick Rentals, where he's responsible for overseeing their entire operations, growing revenues, and expanding the company. Over the past five years, Joe has seen his company’s sales double, and new company-branded “The Green Smoothie Bar” expand. He’s also launched a line of fresh smoothies. Joe has received several awards including the CIMA BA Young Italian Businessman in 2012.

Jon is Owner and Photographer at Jon Evans Photography and Mill St. Studios. Jon has been incredibly successful, enjoying steady annual growth each year. Over the past three years, Jon has moved from Hamilton to New Zealand. Last year, Jon switched his several Planned Advice Awards to his photography service in New Zealand, where he continues to thrive. Active in the local community, he donates his time and expertise to several local charities. Jon is a member and an Executive Board Member of the Professional Photographers of Ontario, Canada.

As Owner and Principal of K. Cowan Law, Kanata is responsible for everything from managing employees to taking on new practice areas. Kanata began working as an Associate at a local law firm before opening her own practice— and launching her own successful law practice in April 2012. Kanata is devoted to helping young lawyers with their skills, she has volunteered numerous hours with the Hamilton Law Association. Kanata remains very active with her community, serving as a Director with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Interval House etc.

Mark is the Owner of La Piazza Allegra—one of Hamilton’s premier Italian restaurants. Over the years, life awards him with four consecutive Wine Spectator Awards including four from the last 13 years. Mark has also expanded his operation in recent years, opening a second location at the Hamilton Airport. In addition to his professional commitment to maintaining this critical sector of the Waterfront Trust, Mark is a passionate supporter of the Hamilton community. Mark has served in volunteer roles such as Tourism Hamilton and the Regional Tourism Association IV.

As a Co-Founder of Serious Monkey, Melissa is responsible for every facet of her business—from graphic design to client relations. Melissa is known as a “cut to the quick” thinker—as professional as she is honest. In her role, Melissa manages all Serious Monkey’s environmental messaging for large organizations across southern Ontario. She has also been involved with many groups, and continues to mentor others as a founding director of YEP, and often donates her services to organizations like St. John’s Ambulance and the United Way.

Rami owns and operates several well-known businesses including Deliverizer, two Subway restaurant stores, and over 50 Big Bee Convenience Stores. He has worked in retail and commercial properties throughout his early years. A hard-working entrepreneur, Rami was on the Dean’s List at the DeGroote School of Business and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce Honours Degree. Rami is active on several boards, including the Ontario Convenience Store Association and the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.

Stephanie is the Founder and CEO of REfficient—an online resource marketplace for business. Since establishing her company in 2010, Stephanie has developed sustainable marketing, business development strategy solutions, and leadership solutions for clients. Her work has earned her several awards including being named in the Hamilton 40 Under Forty list of “People to Watch.” Stephanie’s passion for the environment has driven her to help numerous clients lower consumption and increase efficiencies. Stephanie sits on several local boards and committees.

Tammara is Accounts Manager at OnDemand Staffing where she is involved with many duties including sales, recruiting and client care. Through her hard work and determination, Tammara has helped take her firm to new heights. In the past few years, OnDemand Staffing has grown from having only a few employees to hiring several new employees. Community involvement is important to Tammara. She currently sponsors several causes including the CIBC Canadian Breast Cancer Run for the Cure and the Rankin Cancer Run.

Brent is Vice-President Account Director at OKD Marketing—a full-service advertising agency. Since joining OKD in 2009, Brent has mentored employees and leadership and strategic direction, having over 18 years of broad expertise. For the last 12 years, working with brands like Canadian Tire, Sobey’s, Suburan Canada, The UPS Store, and Mark’s Work Wearhouse. He's currently chair of the B’Nai Brith Hamilton Sports Celebrity Charity fundraising dinner in the area.

Daniel is the Owner of Banko Media—Hamilton’s largest commercial photo studio—where he acts as Creative Director and Principal Photographer. For years, Daniel has worked on awards his business staying at the forefront of the latest technologies. Last year, his sales grew by 25%. Daniel has won several awards including the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award—and is a tireless supporter of the community, supporting the United Way and the Hamilton Arts Council.

As a Manager in Advisory Services at Grant Thornton, Don works with owner-managed, privately held businesses by providing cash-flow forecasting, strategic tax and succession planning, valuations and internal control assessments. Don is with Grant Thornton and was nominated as a Manager three times and awarded Most Valued Player in 2010. On a personal level, Don has contributed to the community by serving on the Art Gallery of Hamilton Governance and Finance Committee, the Downtown Hamilton BIA Board and the Hamilton Y-FI Committee.

Hussein is a Partner at Simpson Wigle Law LLP. He joined Simpson Wigle Law LLP as an Associate in 2002, and became a Partner in 2009 for his skill and commitment—becoming the youngest Partner in the firm’s history. Hussein has provided training to lawyers on Security, advising the federal government on national security matters. On a personal level, he has contributed to the community by serving on the Art Gallery of Hamilton Governance and Finance Committee, the Downtown Hamilton BIA Board and the Hamilton Y-FI Committee.

As CEO and co-owner of Soundbox Productions, Jamie has become a true leader in the Hamilton business community. Under his direction, Soundbox has expanded dramatically its services. Since launching nine years ago, Jamie has increased revenue while developing a company-driven culture. He serves as an active Rotarian, and has been nominated for the HIVE Excellence Awards, Young Professional of the Year Award, and was recognized as the Lighting Company of the Year Merit Award finalist.

A passionate entrepreneur, Joel specializes in developing environmentally friendly technology. Joel’s flair for ecological inventions began in Mali, where he discovered a way to use organic waste to power egg incubators—and was recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization for his efforts. In the past decade, he’s developed over 80 ecological inventions, and has 25 patents in the U.S. and Canada. Joel was also chosen to be one of the first immigrant entrepreneurs to benefit from the Diversity Works mentoring program.

Justin is Software Architect at Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology. He has become a dedicated programmer and problem solver, designing eHealth solutions for health care providers across Canada and abroad. Having worked his way up from student to analyst to software architect, Justin has won several awards including President’s Awards at Mohawk in 2009 and 2011, and is now actively engaged in the global eHealth community. When he’s not developing new state-of-the-art projects, Justin is influencing tomorrow’s talent by teaching college courses and mentoring students.

As Executive Director of Medical Ministry International Canada, Leanne is responsible for all administration, fundraising, and charitable activities. As the organization’s youngest and longest-serving Executive Director, Leanne has helped increase annual revenues, started a literacy program in the Creek of Hope, and supported its sister partner in expanding operations. A McMaster graduate and DeGroote MBA Alumni Community Leadership Award winner in 2011, Leanne volunteers with the Hamilton Community Foundation, the Binbrook Agricultural Society and Ride for Refuge.

Mark is Sales Manager at Advanced Office Solutions where his responsibilities include recruiting and training new reps, demonstrating products and organizing tradeshows. Since joining Advanced Office Solutions in 2007, Mark has been promoted three times to increasingly greater responsibilities in each position. He’s recognized for his dedicated approach, sacrifice, and commitment to team. Now in his fourth year, Mark has received several achievement awards for his company service including the Xerox Top Gun Award and the Xerox Customer Focused Award.

As the Owner and Operator of two Pita Pit franchises, Mike is responsible for several areas including staffing, inventory and finances. His business has grown dramatically since he first started in 2010. Mike has won two Readers Choice Awards; recently, he expanded and increased sales almost 40% in the past year—and is planning a second location in Burlington. To help support his community, Mike is heavily involved with the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program and a number of local school lunch programs.

Ron is Senior Project Manager of Ira McDonald Construction in Hamilton. Here, he has helped the firm grow significantly by taking on the roles of leading project teams and business development. Ron has proactively taken the Hamilton Construction Association’s Young Leaders program, where he uses the training to improve leadership, mentoring, and communicating within his team. Ron is currently the second McMaster apprenticeship instructor at the Construction Engineering Resource Centre at the McMaster Innovation Park, and he remains active at Dundas Valley Golf and Curling Club.

Stephanie is Creative Manager at the Innovation Factory—a non-profit that helps start-ups and entrepreneurs—where she’s responsible for all marketing and communications initiatives. Since joining Innovation Factory in 2011, Stephanie has contributed to the development of several programs which have helped over 6,000 people in the community. She’s also played a vital role in the increased visibility of Innovation Factory’s clients and achievements via events, website, and social media channels. Stephanie is active with a range of charities and the leading Startup Weekend Hamilton, where she’s the Lead Organizer and Co-founder.

As Owner and Franchisee of Boston Pizza Ancaster, Tobin oversees his location’s entire day-to-day operations. Originally starting as a bartender and manager in the Niagara region, Tobin’s drive and talent helped him rise the ranks quickly, being promoted to Manager, General Manager and Partner in quick succession. He works hard to implement new systems to keep up with developments in the franchise industry. Always looking to improve his community, Tobin donates hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars to Hamilton-area charities each year. For his business efforts, he received the MS Society Supporter Award in 2010.