Allie Hughes is the Founder and Owner of Niagara’s first inbound marketing firm, Hughes & Co. Her work is founded in profit driven digital marketing and lead generation, which has led to her investment in a start-up FeedbackLive.tv. Her partnership with nestfinder, on a team with some of Niagara’s leading entrepreneur interests. Allie’s firm is a HubSpot-certified Silver Partner and her success with clients from across the globe has led to the rapid growth of her once small agency. Allie instructs marketing classes at both Niagara College and Brock University.

Carlos is President of On Demand Staffing—one of Niagara’s leading temporary staffing agencies. Carlos decided to launch his own venture in 2010 at the age of 27 after working as a recruiter in Mississauga. Since that time, On Demand Staffing has grown steadily and expanded into new management, overseeing a growth of 100% each year. He has also incorporated his company and launched an additional location in Hamilton. A passionate member of his community, Carlos has donated thousands of dollars to charitable causes including the Jays Care Foundation, Hospice Niagara, and the Run for the Cure.

Dan is the General Manager of Niagara / Hamilton Fitness Solutions, where he manages the day-to-day operations and oversees the company’s strategies and promotions, along with supervising the retail sales of home fitness solutions. Dan has been working in his family’s business for the past 20 years. Over this time, Dan has helped his family expand their showroom at the current location in Stoney Creek. A graduate of the sports management program at Brock University, Dan has constantly attended fitness sales training courses.

Dr. Jillian Hartman-Grelowski is a licensed chiropractor, certified medical acupuncturist and owner of Fort Erie Chiropractic. Jillian is passionate about health, wellness and disease prevention. Jillian began practicing in her hometown of Fort Erie. Her practice has evolved and grown into a thriving multi-disciplinary practice that offers a variety of products and services. Jillian is actively involved in her community through her work on various advisory boards, committees and providing public education. She is strongly rooted and committed to Fort Erie.

A Niagara resident, Jennifer embodies all of the finest qualities of a Niagara entrepreneur. She is focused on career goals and stays actively engaged in the community, and is always willing to share her expertise with others.
In addition to her financial advisory career, Jennifer has extended her reputation by catering to her clients’ needs with a fleet of customized financial tools. In her spare time, Jennifer is active in non-profit and community culture groups. She is a well-known figure in the “women in business” circle, and a well-respected leader who continuously gives back to the community.

Jim Spitali is the Director of Sales Effectiveness at Meridian Credit Union. Prior to joining Meridian, Jim held various roles at CIBC including Senior Director, Learning & Development and General Manager, Wood Gundy. During his tenure with CIBC, Jim won eleven awards and was recognized as an Annual Achiever in 2006. Jim graduated from Brock University in 2005 with a degree in Business Administration and is in the process of completing his MBA with Dalhousie University.

Jordan Hambleton is a native of Niagara and a resident of St. Catharines. He is the Creator, Partner and Business Development Lead of FeedbackLIVE—an internationally managed and growing digital live streaming platform used by universities and sports organizations. Jordan's responsibilities include day-to-day operations and customer service needs. He has represented Brock University internationally and competed on the national level in cross country running.

Kim has 15 years of progressive Human Resources experience specializing in compensation, benefits, staffing and employee relations. She is the Manager, Staffing and Rewards with Henry Schein Canada Inc.—the leading dental distributor in Canada. A Certified Compensation Professional, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and has a post-graduate diploma in HR Management. Kim recently joined the Human Resources Professionals Association of Niagara’s Board of Directors and is excited about becoming more involved in the HR community.

Mark Melloni is the President and Owner of Urge to Purge Inc. He has a Bachelor of Sport Management degree from Brock University as well as a post-graduate certificate in Public Relations from Niagara College. After working in the communications field for a number of years, he decided it was time to chase his dream of being an entrepreneur and so in January of 2012, he began Urge To Purge. Since its inception, Mark has been able to secure over 250 clients throughout the Niagara Region and parts of Southern Ontario, and has won numerous awards for his excellent entrepreneurial spirit.

Rachel Crane moved to St. Catharines in 2006 to pursue a business degree at Brock University—and is proud to call the region home. Rachel has been with Brock for the past five years. She’s helped international students transition to life in Canada and has coached student leaders through the university’s well-renowned student leadership program, considered one of the best in North America. Rachel is the organization’s first-ever Marketing and Program Coordinator.

Born in Tweed, Ontario, Ryan relocated to Niagara in 2000 to pursue his education. He graduated from Brock University’s Business Communications program in 2004, and graduated from Niagara College’s Public Relations program in 2005. Currently, he is an Account Manager at the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, and a passionate supporter of Niagara and the strength of the business community.

Scott Duff is the owner of the award-winning Aura Landscaping. He’s won several awards locally and nationally, including becoming a two-time winner of Canada Blooms, an Entrepreneur of the Year Nominee, and a winning stone façade place in Canada for stone work. Scott has used his passion for landscaping to build a reputable business that employs staff and displays strong leadership through everything he does.

Stephanie has lived, worked, studied, and volunteered in Niagara for the last 14 years. She believes in giving back. At the Goodman School of Business, Stephanie leads career management and recruitment programs, helping undergraduate and graduate students find meaningful positions in Niagara. A strong connector, Stephanie is an active mentor and advocate for young professionals in the region. She has volunteered as a financial literacy presenter for Junior Achievement, served on several boards and committees, and continues to support hundreds of students and young professionals.

As the owner of The Lunch Lady franchise in Niagara, Xhandre is promoting healthy eating by ensuring that all the foods she provides follow the provincial guidelines for children’s healthy food choices. Xhandre caters to most allergies to make every child feel included. In the two years since purchasing the business, Xhandre has supported the schools she serves, Breakfast for Learning, and other local charities and organizations, both financially and in many other ways. She now employs several members of the community and schedules all around them spending time with their children.

As the Director of Franchise Relations for Just Junk Franchising Corporation, Ben works to prepare the entity’s front line. He is responsible for maintaining the relationships between headquarters, corporate, and franchises. He also works closely with franchisees, helping new franchisees learn and grow. Ben represents JUSTJUNK® in the community as a volunteer, and is well known for his active involvement with the Niagara Health System and the TLC Team.

Cassie graduated from Brock University with an Honours Bachelor of Accounting degree in June 2010 and obtained her Chartered Accountant designation in 2011. She began working with Durward Jones Barkwell & Company as a co-op student in 2005, became a full-time employee in 2007, and was promoted to Manager in January 2014. Cassie participates in various community volunteer events. She acts as both a Board Member and Treasurer for the Niagara Food Festival. She also volunteers each year at local tax clinics, preparing personal income tax returns for low income families.

Darren holds the role of Vice-President at B. Hendriks & Son. A third-generation Hendriks family member, he has worked for the family in several areas including Labourer, Site Supervisor, Project Manager, and Construction Coordinator. Darren has a true passion for the building industry, and is well-known for his dedication, strong work ethic and willingness to learn. He also believes in staying current with all the latest technologies and trends in the industry, attending numerous annual seminars and workshops across North America.

Erin O’Hoski is part of a team at Niagara Region, making the organization more business-like and customer-driven. While at the City of St. Catharines, she developed the first-ever five-year corporate community, managing community infrastructure projects, and built the foundation for a new customer service division at City Hall. Erin has served on the Executive Board for the Canadian Municipalities that successfully advocated for $2-billion annually for the national community infrastructure fund. She also developed public-private partnerships in the City of Ottawa.

Jessica is a creative and driven owner who pours her heart and soul into pursuing her passions. Tigers Cheerleading is one of the hardest yet most fulfilling commitments she has ever embraced, giving her the opportunity to help shape youth into confident, capable role models. Jessica consistently offers strength, teamwork, self-esteem and personal growth to everyone who walks through her doors and is dedicated to fostering a culture of empowerment across Niagara.

Joanne is actively working in the non-profit field as the Events Development Coordinator for Gillian’s Place. With a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Western Ontario and a post-graduate certificate in Event Management from Niagara College, she moved seamlessly into her role. Joanne excels in organization and her ability to multi-task helped to establish the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes as a mainstay fundraising event in St. Catharines. Joanne educates the public and its funders and ensures the success of Women’s Place of South Niagara. She is a strong supporter of Habitat for Humanity and an advocate for engaging in local community events.

Over the last two and a half years, Katrina has worked with Niagara Sustainability Initiative, starting as a volunteer and intern role, before being promoted to Events Coordinator, and later Program Manager. In September of 2013, Niagara Sustainability Initiative’s board of directors selected Katrina as the organization’s Executive Director. At twenty-seven years of age, Katrina is responsible for overseeing a $300,000 operating budget and 16 reconstruction initiatives of 16 Niagara businesses, engaging more than 400 people.

As Manager of Finance and Administration for the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, Kris is responsible for the financial direction of the not-for-profit organization.
In 2009, Kris was given the task of creating a recovery plan, developing a new structure that has resulted in the festival's deficit turning into a profitable event—and erased the festival’s deficit in 2013.
At home, Kris has a passion for the Niagara community. She sits on the Board of Directors for the Child Advocacy Centre Niagara and Co-Chairs their fundraising committee.

Mark is a Niagara Web Developer and Partner at Grassroots Online. With over 10 years of practical experience specializing in the online world, Mark has built websites and communication tools to help businesses grow and accomplish their goals. Mark is also committed to helping the community and mentoring young people interested in entering the technology field. He has been an instructor at Niagara College teaching Web Design and is also a Professor in the New Media Web Design Post-Graduate Program. Mark continues to learn and push boundaries on the internet today.

Rachel is known for her energy, enthusiasm, and strong belief in living “green.” Through her work at Miss’e Clean, she has not only offered cleaning services, but helped the environment by eliminating the use of harsh chemicals and striving to educate her clients and the general public about the benefits of “green” cleaning products and living green. Rachel is committed to giving back to the community, volunteering her time and services with a variety of organizations throughout Niagara. She is also a proud graduate of the Landmark Educational Program and believes in continuous learning.

Born in St. Catharines, Sam has a degree in Spanish from Brock University and a post-graduate degree in Ecosystem Restoration from Niagara College. He has also been self-employed for the past nine years, operating a business handling hazardous waste, disposal and manufacturing. Over the past six years, Sam has owned and operated several companies involved with solar controls, insulation, and sustainability. With his industrial, commercial, and residential companies, Sam has played an instrumental part in organizing the Walker Family Cancer Centre.

Sean Keays is an important leader in the field of senior’s aging and is dedicated to meeting the future needs of Canada’s aging population. Sean is well-known volunteer within the Canadian Association on Gerontology. He is the Child Entmisi Program Officer for Foyer Richelieu Welland. In this capacity, Sean is accountable for 95 residents and 90 employees at the Francophone long-term care facility. He teaches and mentors the Francophone health care community and volunteers, so that they can serve multiple boards. Most recently he won McMaster University’s Award of Excellence.

As the Owner and Graphic Designer at Electric Jam Design, Tiffany controls every aspect of her business from account management to layout and photo editing. Since launching her own business in January 2012, Tiffany has gained two contract designers as well as two interns, and has grown over 200% every year. A recipient of the 2012 NIStoveopolis People’s Choice Award and the 2013 Rookie of the Year Award from JCI St. Catharines, Tiffany has attained a high level of skill, obtaining a Graphic Design & Advertising diploma from Humber College and a Bachelor of Visual Arts from Brock University.

Bryan is the Associate Vice-President Finance at Brock University. Since joining the university in 2013, he has introduced new financial reporting and budget processes to support financial decision making. Previously, he was the Director of Finance / Deputy Treasurer at the Regional Municipality of Niagara where he introduced enhanced financial reporting, financial compliance testing and multi-year budgeting and forecasts.

Christopher is President and Owner of High Impact PR, managing and executing public relations, social media and marketing strategies on behalf of his clients. His expertise includes a deep understanding of media and traditional media relations. Chris has worked with the region’s largest charities and events and has generated media coverage everywhere from Canada to abroad. New as a Niagara native, Chris contributes his time to a number of local non-profit organizations including Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Catharines–Thorold. He is also Co-Founder and President of Niagara Falls Comic Con and the Niagara Falls Sports Expo.

Dr. N. Shira Brown is the Chief of Emergency Medicine at the Welland General Hospital and two urgent care sites in the Niagara Health System. She graduated as Clinical Professor of Medicine with McMaster University and earned her PhD from the Karolinska School of Public Health. She has served on international medical committees, including Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). Shira has received awards from the University of Manitoba and universities across North America for her medical leadership. She also volunteers her expertise to various charities and has practiced medicine in remote communities, contributing to Canada’s northern health needs.

A self-taught filmmaker, Jason’s first film was sold to TMN in 2006. In 2012, he launched Open Concept Films (OCF), a boutique agency specializing in talent management. OCF applied and obtained the Generator on, and moved into the facility in 2013. They have since grown substantially and currently has three full-time employees. Jason’s second feature film, “A Kind of Wonderful Thing”, won Best Feature Film and Best Directing at the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival, and in June of this year, will be screening at the Niagara Integrated Film Festival as a world premiere in June.

Jim Hooper graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University and after four years in the banking industry, opened a State Farm Insurance office in St. Catharines. For the past 10 years, he has grown his business by helping his clients manage the risks of everyday life through life, home, auto and business insurance solutions. Jim has been a Rotarian with the Rotary Club of St. Catharines for seven years and is the incoming President for the 2014/2015 year. Jim wants to thank his wife, two sons, his friends, his team at the office and the Rotarians in his club for their support.

Jon is the Development Manager for Mountainview Homes, past President of the Niagara Home Builders’ Association, Chair of the Government Liaison Committee, and sits on the Ontario Land Development Committee.
He fights for the rights of landowners and advocates for government responsiveness and innovation. Born and raised in St. Catharines, Jon now lives in Niagara-on-the-Lake with his wife and two boys. He has worked hard to raise their family in Niagara, and his efforts show as he works to promote the region’s economy and prosperity.

Kelly is the Small Business Consultant at the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre and provides entrepreneurs with the guidance, resources and support needed to start and grow their businesses. A graduate of Brock University and Niagara College, Kelly uses her background to assist local entrepreneurs and volunteers her time with organizations such as the Niagara Public Relations Advisory Committee, the Niagara Food Festival, the Niagara Leadership Summit for Women and the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce.

Kylie Boyd is a passionate advocate and intelligent voice for the Niagara Region. She obtained a degree in geography from the University of Windsor and a post-graduate degree from the Environmental Management Program at Niagara College. In her field, Kylie is focused on environmental issues and business development. She has led numerous projects and shared her expertise with many local organizations including JDRF, Gillian’s Place, and Community Care. Kylie is active on several committees with the GNCC, NCA, and DSBN. She has provided research for various charities and organizations.

Phil Gourlay is the Special Events and Fundraising Coordinator for the Wellspring Niagara Cancer Support Foundation. Some of Phil’s events for Wellspring include the Starlight Charity Gala and Toupee for a Day—an event he created for Pride Niagara. A non-profit group created for Niagara’s LGBTQ community, Pride Niagara promotes acceptance and unity. He has also created or implemented some of the largest LGBT events for Niagara including the OUTNiagara OUTformation Fair and the Niagara Unity Awards. One of Phil’s biggest strengths is building strong sponsor relationships.

Robert is Branch Manager at PenFinancial’s Huggins Street Branch in Niagara Falls, having enjoyed the past 14 years honing his managerial and financial planning skills in the financial services industry.
Since joining PenFinancial three years ago as a Financial Advisor, he has made significant contributions to the growth of the credit union, which led to Robert being promoted twice to his current role.
Robert has a strong passion for his community.

Sam was born and raised in Niagara. He graduated from Brock University in 2003 and graduated from law school at the University of Western Ontario in 2006. Sam specializes in personal injury law. He handles various injury cases and has considerable experience in automation and catastrophic brain injury cases. He focuses on helping clients obtain fair compensation while relieving the stress of litigation for clients and their families.

After a highly successful career in the hospitality industry with the Niagara Parks Commission, Stephanie joined the HR consulting and staffing firm, The Burke Group, and is currently the manager of the St. Catharines office. A graduate of Guelph University and a post-graduate program in Human Resources Management at Niagara College, Stephanie plays a major role in The Burke Group’s consulting division, providing HR services to businesses and communities in southern Ontario.

Tom brings more than 15 years of experience in the technology development and software industries to his role as the Chief Software Architect at IIX. An esteemed software designer and leader of positions in innovation at IIX, has helped grow innovations within Niagara—building tech entrepreneurs and companies that have positioned to thrive and succeed, and MaRS, Canada’s largest business incubator. He recently spearheaded the development and formation of IIX in the Greater Toronto Area. He also co-founded “Parity,” Niagara’s first hot-desk infrastructure and business incubator for start-ups, freelancers and students.