Adam currently leads three groups of talented and dynamic professionals at FirstOntario Credit Union. For more than 15 years, he has immersed himself in experience design, business analytics, and employee development, taking on corporate leadership roles at companies such as Circles Business Solutions, PowerBev Inc., and Tim Hortons. His creativity, paired with his ability to plan, motivate, inspire, and execute, has been central to his success. Adam is also a devoted husband and father of three, teaching his children the importance of putting your heart and soul into everything you do.

A.S. Security & Surveillance provides professional CCTV video surveillance systems in the commercial, industrial and government sectors. Anthony’s initial vision of creating a leading security company has been brought to fruition with tremendous effort, creativity and innovation. Over the past decade, A.S. Security has expanded to include three offices and 12 employees—and generates $4 million in sales. For the past three years, A.S. Security & Surveillance has been voted Best Security Company with over 26 industry and business awards. The firm has also won Business Excellence Awards by the Burlington Chamber of Commerce and the Stoney Creek Chamber of Commerce.

Chad Fullerton is an award-winning design and marketing expert with over 15 years of experience supporting clients worldwide—from small businesses to Fortune 500 brands. In 2011, he founded Fullerton Media, a creative digital agency and publishing company that helps clients attract customers and grow revenue through proven marketing strategies. His company also produces digital products and training programs for entrepreneurs, teaching them how to build and scale their businesses online. A strong advocate for Hamilton’s entrepreneurial community, Chad is also the co-founder of CoMotion Group Inc. and the Hamilton Freelancers Association.

As Chief Financial Officer for Vrancor Group Inc., Chris is an engaging and experienced financial leader. Here, he’s responsible for driving Vrancor’s high-ROI growth while leading the delivery of financial support for all properties and holdings. Chris also gained public accounting experience at PwC, where he successfully obtained his Chartered Accountant designation. Working closely with teams across the entire company, Chris plays a lead role in ensuring that Vrancor’s smart growth initiatives provide maximum return to its shareholders as well as service delivery excellence and targeted development growth.

Dr. Puneet Seth is a Hamilton-based physician, technologist and entrepreneur who is passionate about redesigning health care. An alumni of McMaster University’s medical school, he is currently the chief medical officer at InputHealth Systems—a Canadian digital health company on a mission to connect patients and their health care providers through the award-winning Collaborative Health Record (CHR). He also practices clinically as a hospitalist, supervises residents in the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster, and writes, speaks and advocates for improving patient access to their health information and the accountability of the health care system.

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Did you know it’s really possible to launch a career from YouTube? That’s exactly what Jeffrey did in 2016, when he launched a channel dedicated to animated summaries of self-development and business books. From here, he was able to bring on clients, and then hire animators and a full team to offer increasingly complex animations. Jeffrey was constantly looking to improve. Learning copywriting and marketing principles came next. The videos his company creates have helped boost conversions for companies and been used to raise millions of dollars in capital throughout various industries.

Josh grew up in Hamilton where he established the majority of his professional network. After graduating from Brock University in 2009, he started working for a big bank as a financial advisor, providing clients with advice on mortgages, investments and retirement planning. In 2010, he purchased his first rental property in Hamilton where he developed a real passion for real estate and the mortgage side of financial planning. Josh decided to leave the bank at the end of 2014 to work on his own as a mortgage broker. Since 2015, the Synergy Mortgage Group has helped out and sponsored various events for its partners' causes.

Starting out as an intern with CreateOF. Inc., Kieran set himself apart with his ambition and willingness to learn. He was offered a position as a studio assistant where he showed true leadership. By 2016, Kieran was the lead on studio production and managing CreateOF.’s event photography division. Kieran’s leadership has enabled him to travel across North America, leading event photography for various record labels and large companies. Most recently, he ran the imaging for the Tim Hortons Foundation and a U.S. tour for The Glorious Sons. In his free time, Kieran can often be found doing art-based social work with the YMCA and the DreamCatcher Foundation.

Luc founded Humble Bee in 2013 with just two hives. Since then, his company has expanded to include nearly 200 hives in Hamilton and the GTA. Humble Bee’s goal is to become a one-stop shop for beekeepers and those looking for high quality local bee products. Luc uses organic and ethical colony management practices to raise bees without the use of pesticides. He believes in sustainable, local food production and is passionate about bringing communities together. He is active in many organizations including the Golden Horseshoe and Ontario Beekeeper’s Associations, and Environment Hamilton. Luc currently serves as chair of the City of Hamilton Food Advisory Committee.

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Shaun joined the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2011 and currently serves as vice-president, sales and revenue. He leads the club’s revenue generation teams, overseeing corporate partnerships and ticket sales, along with a team of more than 30 sales and service professionals. Shaun played a key role in the development of Tim Hortons Field’s social viewing spaces and has helped create fan-focused assets that maximize revenue and enhance game-day experiences. A graduate of Brock University’s sport management program, he also holds a master’s degree in sport and leisure commerce from the University of Memphis.

Since the 1990s, Teresa has provided professional vocal instruction to developing artists and performers across Canada. She studied voice technique and musicianship at Berklee College of Music in Boston and has trained under several prominent Canadian vocal coaches. An accomplished musician, Teresa has performed professionally throughout North America and Europe. She has been part of a band since age 13 and now tours Ontario as the lead vocalist for the funk/soul band The Chasers. As the owner of Studio E Music and Arts, Teresa is dedicated to cultivating a new generation of musicians, artists, and instructors in her hometown of Hamilton.

A native of Nova Scotia, Kyle joined the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2007 after graduating from Saint Mary’s University. Kyle’s career with the Tiger-Cats started out as an account executive in the ticket sales department where he developed a passion for new business development. With the leadership and support of the Tiger-Cats’ executive team, Kyle was able to continuously advance his responsibilities with the club, and has now taken on the role of director of corporate partnerships. Among his achievements are the strong relationships he has developed with Tiger-Cats partners, many of which have led to programs that support the Hamilton community.

Alex founded Caliber Communications in 2014. After investing nearly a year into developing its platform, Caliber was recognized by Canada Business Magazine as one of Canada’s 50 Fastest Growing Businesses in 2017–2018. Now employing over 50 full-time staff, Alex enjoys cultivating a rich, innovative environment with the freedom to contribute to all aspects of the security industry. Dedicated to improving community safety, Alex also makes a significant social impact through contributions to Essential Aid, a local Hamilton children’s food bank.

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Charles Wah is the co-founder of Gateway Group, a real estate investment and development company based in Hamilton. He was selected as the Rising Star of the Year by Canadian Real Estate Wealth Magazine, and as the Innovative Investor of the Year by the Real Estate Investment Network in 2017. Born and raised in Hamilton, Charles is grateful to be able to live and work in his hometown and give back to the community. Outside of his career, he enjoys volunteering and participating in local charities such as the Hamilton Basket Brigade.

Daniel is a true Hamiltonian, born and raised. In 2008, he graduated from McMaster University with a bachelor’s degree in commerce and went on to found A Better Co. – an asset inspection and management firm supporting municipalities across Canada. After establishing his firm, Daniel turned his hands to professional boxing and is now the managing director for Three Lions Promotions and Steeltown Boxing. Three Lions Promotions represents seven professional boxers and hosts two championship title fights each year in Hamilton. Daniel’s efforts in our city have directly impacted several local charities including Hamilton FoodShare, Special Olympics Ontario and Camp Trillium.

Erica joined the Reserves in 2007 through the Cadet Instructor Cadre. Since then, she has achieved the rank of Lieutenant (N) and has worked with youth aged 12 to 18 across both the north and east ends of Hamilton. This year marks her sixth year as commanding officer of the Hamilton Sea Cadet Corps. Erica is also an Ontario Disability Support Program manager, overseeing administrative teams and caseworkers who provide essential support and dignity to program recipients. She strives to ensure that services remain accessible, reliable, and responsive for those who rely on them.

As a tax manager at DJB LLP Chartered Professional Accountants, James provides corporate, personal, and estate tax planning, along with compliance services for owner-managed businesses of all sizes. His experience includes reorganizations, estate freezes, succession planning, cross-border tax consulting, and business acquisition and sale planning. James earned his bachelor of commerce with honours from McMaster University and completed the CICA In-Depth Tax Course. A Stoney Creek native, he values building strong relationships with clients and colleagues and is excited to contribute to Hamilton’s continued growth.

Jennifer is a go-getter and community builder dedicated to revitalizing Hamilton through arts and design. With over 15 years of management and business development experience, she co-founded Steel City Studio, a co-working hub for creative entrepreneurs. She later launched her interior design firm, Holistic Design Solutions. Jennifer is also active in the arts community and is a member of Hamilton’s internationally recognized roller derby team, Hammer City Roller Derby.

Kate joined McMaster University in 2008 to coordinate sustainable transportation initiatives. She later developed and managed the university’s office of sustainability. Through this role, Kate launched McMaster’s academic sustainability programs, now supporting more than 600 students each year through courses, internships, and a sustainability minor. Kate has complemented her professional work with part-time graduate studies and was selected as one of 25 rising leaders for CivicAction’s DiverseCity Fellowship. As co-chair of Cycle Hamilton, she advocates for safer streets and improved cycling infrastructure across Hamilton.

Lindsey joined Walmart Canada in 1998 and is the store manager of the Hamilton Mountain Walmart. With 20 years of diverse cross-functional experience, she is committed to excellence in retail leadership. Lindsey began her career as an hourly grocery associate and quickly progressed through a variety of roles. After graduating from a leadership development program, she became a store manager in 2010. Dedicated to the growth of her team, Lindsey invests her time in mentoring and encouraging associates as they work toward their own career advancement with Walmart Canada.

Lyndsay is a proud Hamiltonian with a passion for connecting with others and giving back to her community. As the manager of premium services and events for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, she plays a key role in planning experiences for fans, partners, and stakeholders. Lyndsay is also an entrepreneur, having launched ChaCha’s Pierogi, her own gourmet pierogi company. She is an active board member of the International Village BIA and volunteers with the FAB Foundation, a mentorship and running program that empowers adolescent girls.

Nicholas joined FirstOntario Credit Union in 2014 and is employed as the continuous improvement specialist on the digital solutions team. Nicholas uncovers ways that technology can create efficiencies and transform the organization into the future. Additionally, Nicholas decided to turn his passion into a profession and is currently on his journey to become a certified sommelier. In 2018, Nicholas combined his experience in both the boardroom and the bottling room and founded The Pour Wino – an exciting new venture into the world of wine, one glass at a time.

Sheean started his career as a financial advisor in 2014 when we witnessed a massive collapse in energy prices in Canada, the largest outbreak of Ebola in history, and the legalization of marijuana in several U.S. states. He is a graduate of McMaster University (B.Comm Honours) and has also completed some of the most rigorous training in the investment industry including Chartered Investment Manager Analyst. In pursuing his dreams of being top financial advisor in Canada, he is an avid networker, a Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, the treasurer of YEP Hamilton, and a lover of Hamilton.

Thurka is a nematologist at Tetra Biologicals. She received her bachelor of science degree (honours) in agriculture from the University of Jaffna in Sri Lanka. Thurka then obtained a scholarship to pursue her master of science degree in nematology from the University of Ghent in Belgium. After her graduation, Thurka worked in the field of biocontrol of insects and moved to Hamilton where she became the co-founder of Tetra Biologicals. Thurka’s firm provides biological pest control solutions using natural enemies such as nematodes, fungus and mites. Thurka is passionate about developing new ideas and inventions to find an environmentally safe way to manage insects and pests through organic agriculture.

Andrew founded Nova Digital Marketing in 2015 after seeing the challenges several Hamilton businesses were experiencing with their digital presence. Nova Digital Marketing quickly got off the ground and built a solid client base. Andrew began to grow the business, establishing a head office in Hamilton as well as hiring new team members. After several successful years, Nova Digital Marketing has now become Thinkr Digital – the new digital division of Thinkr Marketing – and Hamilton’s largest full-service marketing agency. With almost a decade of experience, Andrew and his team continue to deliver exceptional campaigns while continuing to build Thinkr Digital into Hamilton’s top digital agency.

Brian Hogben is a proud Hamiltonian whose desire to make a difference in his hometown inspired him to launch Mission 35 Mortgages in 2016. With nearly 20 years of experience in financial services, Brian has helped countless clients achieve their financial goals through real estate investment. His passion for mentorship led him to create Mortgage U, an in-house training program for new agents. Deeply committed to giving back, Mission 35 supports Mohawk College through fundraising for the Mission 35 Passport initiative, helping send students to college.

Charlie has held many leadership positions within the Hamilton community. He earned an undergraduate degree in religious studies from McMaster University, a bachelor of education from Brock University, and a master’s in Catholic leadership from the University of Toronto. Charlie entered the educational field with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, where he now serves as vice-principal at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong ability to build and maintain positive relationships with students, families, and community members. Charlie is also active in his parish community at St. Catherine of Siena and is a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Company /// Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board

Dr. Erica Hoda graduated with distinction from New York Chiropractic College in 2006 after completing a health sciences degree at the University of Western Ontario. She returned to Hamilton to practice chiropractic care alongside her sister at Meadowlands Chiropractic. After becoming a mother of two, Dr. Hoda developed a passion for pediatric chiropractic, recognizing that spinal and nervous system health begins at birth. With dedication, warmth and a strong commitment to her patients, she continues to provide exceptional chiropractic care to families throughout the community.

Eshe is the owner of Mahasti – The Bellydance Emporium. Born and raised in Hamilton, she has been bellydancing since 2002 and has performed across the U.S., Japan, Turkey, South Korea, Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia, earning titles in Korea, Indonesia, Japan and Canada. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and on international TV and radio. Eshe is deeply committed to her community, hosting workshops, markets and events, including Glitter and the Hamilton International Bellydance Competition. She also runs accessible art initiatives such as pay-what-you-can events, scholarships and waived admission fees for children, and she regularly fundraises for Hamilton charities.

Jay is the Hamilton program manager with Evergreen, a national non-profit dedicated to creating flourishing, resilient cities. Originally from rural Nova Scotia, Jay moved to Hamilton to complete a degree in geography and environmental studies at McMaster University. Since 2014, he has combined his passion for community engagement, sustainable development, and creative urban design through a variety of Evergreen initiatives. Jay has led major programs such as 100in1Day and the Hamilton Civic Incubator, and continues to support neighbourhood improvements, social enterprises, and creative city-building across Hamilton.

Johanna is part of the member experience team at FirstOntario Credit Union, serving as the experience recovery coordinator. She brings a strong academic foundation with a sociology degree from the University of Guelph and continued business development studies at McMaster University. Johanna is committed to elevating the member journey through empathetic, experience-driven service. Passionate about community, she volunteers with several local organizations and leads the Crown Point Road Runners, a neighbourhood running group.

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Liz became CEO of LURA Consulting when she was 29. But LURA was ready for its next stage. It was 30-years-old and well-established and Liz decided to embark on the challenge. Since then, LURA has rebranded, reached a milestone of over 1,300 projects, and continues to lead the way. Liz also teaches public consultation at Seneca College, was on the board of Sustainable Hamilton Burlington, and helped start Hamilton’s Sustainability Professionals Network with some amazing community partners. Liz’s passion is to push the world of community engagement beyond what’s already been done and connect people with their communities.

Maria is passionate about healthy and sustainable communities. Working at CRH Canada since 2010, she is the environment manager, helping Dufferin Aggregates, Concrete, Construction & Cement with environmental stewardship and sustainable development. Her efforts ensure best practices for water management, emission reductions, quarry rehabilitation, and species-at-risk protection are implemented. Maria contributes to sustainability education, community engagement, and healthy city building throughout Hamilton. She founded the Sustainability Professionals Network, is a Hamilton Conservation Authority board member, and a 100-in-1 Day volunteer with Evergreen. Maria is also a coach for the FAB Foundation, supporting fitness and leadership development in young girls.

Robin Da Luz joined Walmart in 1997 and is currently the senior manager of store effectiveness. She oversees organizational design and training for all in-store roles across Canada. Robin began her career working in store positions while attending high school and university. After graduating from Wilfrid Laurier University with a B.A. in business and sociology, she advanced into operations, managing multiple stores before joining Walmart’s operational effectiveness team. Passionate about giving back, Robin has led numerous charity initiatives in support of Walmart’s national corporate programs.

After graduating from McMaster University and teacher’s college, Steve travelled and worked in several places around the world but always felt the pull back to Hamilton. Now a top producing Realtor with Judy Marsales Real Estate for nine years, he recently became the youngest Broker in the history of the brokerage. Dedicated to serving in the community, Steve volunteers with several local charities and organizations. He’s a member of the Dundas Community Council, a fundraiser for St. Joseph’s Healthcare, a past director of youth services with the Dundas Valley Sunrise Rotary Club, and a board member at Routes Youth Centre.

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