Bryan has been interested in technology since early childhood. As he got older, working with computers was always a dream for him. Toronto-bound after college with his diploma in hand – Bryan cut his teeth in the corporate world of I.T., working with a major shipping firm. He was excited to learn and grow but always missed home, and dreamed of one day owning his own business. That dream came true when he started B4 Networks in 2004. The journey has taken many paths. But Bryan is proud to have transitioned the focus of the company in the last four years to offering outsourced managed I.T. services to Niagara’s businesses.

Employed with the Niagara Parks Commission since 2002, Chris is pleased to play an active role in support of the Commission’s important stewardship and preservation responsibilities. Always striving for excellence, he continues his education at McMaster University in pursuit of a Certified Risk Management designation. He is also a proud alumnus of Leadership Niagara through the Goodman School of Business at Brock University. Chris believes in mentoring and inspiring others.

Dr. Joe returned to his hometown of Niagara Falls after graduating in 2008, and began building important relationships with patients and the community. A dissolution at the practice where he partnered led to Joe’s greatest achievement to date. He was instrumental in launching MyCare Dental with exceptional success in its first years through a focus on patient-first care. This not only includes hours of operation tailored to the working family but a renewed focus on community outreach— one of Dr. Joe’s passions.

Jay is a lifelong resident of the Niagara Region, graduating from Brock University with an Honours degree in sports management and entering the financial services industry as a third-generation advisor with C.R. Smith Financial in 2015. Jay prides himself on the quality of service and relationships he builds with his clients, and is always active in relaying his personal values of trust, integrity and hard work with everyone he meets. Outside the office, Jay can be found coaching basketball at his former high school, as well as volunteering at many community events. Most dear to his heart are the events put on by the Wise Guys Charity Fund.

Jennifer Douglas has worked for the City of St. Catharines in a variety of leadership roles since 2007, and currently holds the position of community partnership officer. She’s a graduate of Niagara College and is graduating from Brock University in June. As a community and Niagara believer, Jennifer continuously strives to provide an environment where everyone succeeds. Jennifer believes in the power of community, culture and sport – and is a dreamer chasing her passion about the possible. Jennifer has a desire to bring the community together through sport and realize the power of sport and culture collaboration.

Prior to 2015, John was Chief Operating Officer at Just Junk Franchising Corporation – a national Niagara-based franchisor in the junk removal service business – of which he was part-owner. In his current capacity as a business development lead, John handles several responsibilities for his clients including business strategy formulation and direction setting, workflow management, risk and compliance, software development performance, and corporate marketing. John’s clients come from a wide range of industries including financial services, software development and higher education. John regularly draws on his experience in the trenches, and his objectives vary greatly depending on the assignment.

As branch manager at FirstOntario Credit Union’s McLeod Road location, Lindsay has demonstrated continuous commitment to growth and creating an unforgettable member experience while providing sound financial advice. A true leader, Lindsay is driven to exceed her targets and expectations both on a corporate and a community level. Lindsay also focuses on developing the next generation of leaders at FirstOntario. Lindsay’s passion for the community shows in her hands-on involvement and countless volunteer hours through FirstOntario’s Blue Wave program, Student Nutrition program, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Rankin Run – a cause very close to her heart.

While attending Wilfrid Laurier University, Mark spent his summers working for the City of Port Colborne at Sugarloaf Marina. He pursued different career paths after graduating, but nothing quite measured up to his fulfilling “waterfront job.” In 2005, he was hired full-time at Sugarloaf Marina and is now the marina supervisor where he oversees daily operations. Mark has been an integral part of the growth of the marina, and attributes its growth to implementing excellent customer service and providing boaters with a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Mark is passionate about introducing boaters to all the amenities offered throughout the community.

Melanna rejoined Meridian in 2012 and is now branch manager of its downtown St. Catharines location. Here, she provides quality coaching, advice and guidance to members and staff alike. Melanna also owns a Pita Pit in partnership with her husband, leveraging lessons learned there, acting as a mentor to the Meridian Young Leaders program, and providing accelerated learning opportunities for up-and-coming community. She’s enthusiastic about growing the City, and demonstrates this through her involvement in Meridian’s multipurpose “Kamp” at Jaycee Gardens, organizing Meridian’s tent for the ground. She sits on the board of the BeauSoleil First Early Learning Centre and the New Entrepreneurship/Business Committee of the Downtown Association.

Nicole has been the better part of her career in pursuit of creating opportunities for women in Niagara. This includes Nelson her work at Gillian’s Place, and as chair of the GNCC’s Women in Niagara Council and the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce. Through her leadership at Gillian’s Place, fundraising outcomes have supported 33,000 crisis calls, over 2,600 shelter nights, and 5,000 women and children in need. A lifelong Niagara resident, Nicole has served nearly all Niagara classrooms, schools, community organizations and committees in making Niagara a safer place for the next generation.

Rick is a senior manager with Grant Thornton LLP in St. Catharines where he has been employed for over 13 years. As a business advisor, Rick asks business owners the tough questions, listens to their answers and works to a solution. Rick helps businesses grow. He’s twice been named People Manager of the Year for excelling in mentoring, leading and inspiring his colleagues to help reach their potential. Rick truly enjoys his time supporting his community and currently serves as treasurer for the St. Catharines Wing Fest in support of Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold.

A graduate of Niagara College’s business program, Sabrina always dreamed of owning her own business. With her dedication to physical wellness and keeping active, she decided to combine her two passions with the FUSiON Studio of Performing Arts. For 25 years, Sabrina has taught children of all ages in recreational and competitive levels while receiving many choreography awards. She also holds certifications in a variety of fitness and dance programs. Sabrina makes a constant effort to support and promote local businesses as well as donate time and monetary value to various charities to give back and encourage growth within her community.

After having worked for the RCMP while attending Dalhousie University and subsequently at a national law firm for nine years, Steve opened his own firm in 2016. Steve primarily practices residential and commercial real estate law. He has also been interviewed in various media including CHCH News, WBEN Buffalo, NewsTalk 610, The Globe and Mail and the Ottawa Sun. As part of his commitment to the community, Steve donates funds from each purchase or sale of his work to the Niagara Health Foundation, sits on the board of directors at Big Brothers Big Sisters and participates in sports teams with his wife and three children.

Zach’s passion for community engagement has led to many opportunities since he graduated from the University of Guelph in 2012. As Chris Bittle’s outreach and community relations assistant, he’s the point of contact for residents, businesses and organizations looking to engage their Member of Parliament and / or the federal government. Zach can also be found courtside at Niagara River Lions games providing colour commentary on broadcasts and post-game interviews with coaches and players. Zach’s other community involvement includes serving as vice-chair on Strive Niagara’s Board of Directors and being an active member of Fitzgerald Neighbours – his local neighbourhood association.

Caroline commenced her insurance career by obtaining her RIBO license at the age of 18. She completed her BA at Brock University and her Chartered Insurance Professional designation in Toronto. Caroline has also gained international and domestic insurance experience in the UK, Australia and Toronto. Caroline is business development manager at her family business, concentrating on commercial insurance. She sits on the board of the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (St. Catharines), and on committees at the United Way and the St. Catharines Club.

Cristoforo is the executive chef and manager of Nata Cosa Ristorante Pizzeria and Sociale Ristorante Bar. He acquired his diverse culinary training in some of the world’s most renowned kitchens including stints in Toronto, New York City and Italy. He’s also been educated at Ottawa’s renowned Le Cordon Bleu, and challenged as a pastry apprentice under famed patisserie owner Chef Pino. Cristoforo’s love for Italian cooking and baking continues to flourish. The root of his passion and the place where he found his true calling in life remains the same – it’s his parents’ kitchen at Casa Leone Bakery.

Hugo Chesshire joined the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce as policy and government relations manager in 2015 and has the honour of serving Niagara’s business community as a policy expert. He advises the board, staff and membership on policy and its impact on their operations. But his chief role is as an advocate for Chamber members and the business community at large. He holds a BA and a MA in political science from Brock University, and is a volunteer for and board member of the Niagara Workforce Planning Board and Underdogs Boxing Club.

Jean is a lawyer practicing family law at the firm of Lancaster Brooks & Welch. Jean offers litigation and alternative dispute resolution services to her clients. She is dedicated to social issues such as improving access to justice and eliminating domestic violence. Jean strives to make her services accessible and legal information readily available to the community. Jean is involved in various volunteer roles including board member at Design for a New Tomorrow, an agency that supports victims of domestic abuse, and is a longstanding volunteer at Meals on Wheels.

Jennifer joined CAA Niagara in 2015 and is currently manager, digital initiatives. She credits her success in spearheading the organization’s digital channel growth to over a decade of experience in marketing and brand development. Her passion for aiding organizations in unifying their brand and user experience, in combination with her experience as an entrepreneur and strategic marketer, are how she ensures audiences engage with digital content that sings. Jennifer is a member of the YWCA Board of Directors, a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor with the Strive Niagara pilot project, and chairs the Promotions Committee for YWCA’s No Fixed Address fundraiser.

Kristi Collins is a civil litigation associate at Lancaster, Brooks & Welch. Effective communication and common sense are at the heart of Kristi’s practice as she guides her clients through challenging legal disputes. Kristi fosters continuing legal education by publishing articles on various legal topics and is an executive member of The Advocates’ Society’s Estates Litigation Group. She sits on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Catharines-Thorold & District and actively participates in various community events.

A second chance after a series of life changing events is the easiest way to summarize this business and its owner. Lisa suffered a catastrophic MVA resulting in a closed brain injury in 2008, and the diagnosis of a brain tumour in 2010. Talent 2 Design was started in 2016 with the goal to provide edible pieces of art at affordable prices. This business has gone from hobby to storefront within 18 months. In addition, Lisa employs other individuals with disabilities, helping them with their second chance. As if that weren’t enough, Lisa is a mother of three, and a huge supporter of the Canadian Brain Tumour Association.

A graduate of Niagara College’s construction engineering technology and architecture program, Max has been working in real estate since 2004. Max is the director of property management at Colliers International’s Niagara office where he’s also a partner. Here, he’s primarily involved in commercial leasing, commercial sales, industrial leasing and property management / maintenance. A devoted family man and a lover of car racing and the great outdoors, Max is also an active volunteer in the community. He has been involved with countless local organizations and charitable events including the Wise Guys Charity Fund and the annual Walk a Mile in HER Shoes fundraiser.

After graduating from Brock University, Michelle began her public relations career in 2009 at Enterprise Canada. In 2011, she took a leap of faith joining the City of Port Colborne as an administrative assistant with one goal: create the municipality’s first communications position. That vision became reality when she was appointed the City’s first corporate communications officer in January 2018. Since then Michelle isn’t encouraging everyone to #PORTicipate, she’s reporting stories around the region for YourTV’s The Source. She’s also raised almost $30,000 in the past five years in support of the Walker Family Cancer Centre through her charity hockey tournament: the Cuthbert Cup.

Pat is the owner and head coach at Relentless MMA & Fitness which opened in 2016. With a strong coaching staff, their mission is to create a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all ages and fitness levels to achieve their goals and live a healthier lifestyle. With the incredible community that has been built at Relentless MMA & Fitness, they have been able to give back to the community with multiple food and toy drives for Community Care, being a top fundraising team at the Grapes of Wrath and coaching at the Pearl Gloves Charity Boxing event.

It was a love of sport that first drew Rob into the world of the private club industry. Born and raised in St. Catharines, he gained an appreciation for a well-run club after playing at golf courses across Niagara. With 18 years of experience in the industry, Rob has managed golf clubs, city clubs, and multi-sports clubs across the country. In 2015, he returned to Niagara with his wife Cortney to accept the role of general manager at the Buffalo Canoe Club. Rob also serves on the board of directors for Ontario Sailing and the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce.

A graduate of Niagara College’s construction engineering technology and architecture program, Max has been working in real estate since 2004. Max is the director of property management at Colliers International’s Niagara office where he’s also a partner. Here, he’s primarily involved in commercial leasing, commercial sales, industrial leasing and property management / maintenance. A devoted family man and a lover of car racing and the great outdoors, Max is also an active volunteer in the community. He has been involved with countless local organizations and charitable events including the Wise Guys Charity Fund and the annual Walk a Mile in HER Shoes fundraiser.

A pioneering entrepreneur in the gourmet street food movement and co-owner of El Gastronomo Vagabundo, Tamara embraced marketing a mobile startup in a new industry. In her role as digital strategist at Form & Affect, Tamara leverages the latest technologies and in-depth understanding of human behaviour to help brands of all sizes realize their imagined potential. Driven by the knowledge that “a higher tide floats all boats,” Tamara gives as much as she gives in a variety of volunteer positions. These include sitting on the board of directors at the Niagara Artists Centre and being a lifelong #CompassionateSTC ambassador.

Carolyn is an assurance partner at Durward Jones Barkwell & Company where she provides a range of business, tax and consulting services to privately-held, owner-managed businesses and not-for-profit organizations. Carolyn is a long-time mentor and an entrepreneur. Carolyn’s experience at a young age in the school ranks where she became the top CPA could allow her to run a practice while at the same time helping other entrepreneurs grow their businesses. nt Committee.

Domenic co-founded Locomotive Marketing Inc. in 2006. His leadership and vision have helped the company grow into a multi-million dollar company in 2018, and be named Profit Magazine’s 37th fastest growing company in Canada. Domenic is also a real estate investor, specializing in re-developing under-performing properties. Domenic is the current leadership co-chair of the Niagara District United Way, as well as a board member of Royal Oak Community School.

Born and raised in St. Catharines, Janet studied at Wilfrid Laurier University where she earned her BA in sociology. After a few years of adventure, her heartspring pulled her back to Niagara where she found herself working in professional offices and non-profit organizations. In 2005, while locked and Janet started working for the Niagara Region Police Association. As the daughter of a firefighter and a nurse, Janet feels right at home assisting officers, civilian members and their families, ensuring they get the support they need. Janet volunteers for many of the Niagara Region Police Association.

As CAA Niagara’s learning and development specialist, Jenn believes that learning doesn’t end once you leave the classroom. Jenn discovered her passion is to motivate others. Jenn became a corporate trainer and coach to inspire others to achieve success in their professional careers. As part of her commitment to being a leader in the community, Jenn will be among Leadership Niagara’s newest graduating class in May 2018. Jenn also dedicates her time and energy to many various notable organizations and community events within Niagara.

As an insurance / financial advisor and owner of The Co-operators in Grimsby, John spends his days getting to know his clients and community better. He feels fortunate to be working with The Co-operators, a Canadian-owned multiline company, which provides him with the ability to look after all his clients’ insurance and financial service needs in one place. John and his agency team are committed to providing comprehensive advice, coverage, and personalized service when clients need him most. John has also been a director for Pathstone Mental Health in St. Catharines for the past three years, and sits on the Audit & Risk Committee for the board.

Kristina Gottl is project manager at Form & Affect and believes in the opportunities that grow in Niagara. A graduate of Brock University, Kristina has spent her career working with and developing homegrown companies and volunteer initiatives, valuing the unique small town community our region has to offer. Kristina manages Form & Affect’s clients, and brings her compassion to a variety of volunteer endeavours including participating on the United Way’s Community Investment Panel and the #CompassionateSTC project. Kristina maintains meaningful relationships with Form & Affect’s clients, bringing a wealth of knowledge and positivity to each new opportunity.

Lisa opened LV Physiotherapy in July 2016. Her success stems from a passion for helping others achieve their rehabilitation goals, and from recognizing a need for specialized physiotherapy services in the Niagara Region. In the first six months, Lisa grew her business into an independent facility with a team of qualified health care professionals, providing optimal physiotherapy care. Lisa demonstrates business and professional excellence through steady growth of her clientele without compromising her core values. She regularly attends courses and promotes ongoing innovative learning for her employees. Lisa stays involved in the Niagara community through offering student placements and volunteering at various community events.

Born and raised in Niagara, Megan graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with an Honours BA degree in business administration. In 2014, Megan began her career at Brand Blvd. and excelled in multiple roles. With her strong analytical skills and innovative mind, she was chosen to assist with the development of a new division within the company. With her proven leadership, she has grown this division to more than 19 team members since it began in 2016. Megan is a graduate of Leadership Niagara and remains active in the local community with programs such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and Community Care.

This year marks the first one for Naomi as a licensed real estate salesperson. But it comes almost eight years after she got her start in the industry – moving up from administrator to operations manager at MoveRight Real Estate. Before real estate, Naomi worked in research jobs, ran a freelance business, and got her PhD in linguistics. But she shifted gears when she moved back to Niagara, working with her broker to open and build a distinctly different local brokerage from the ground up. Naomi is a proud member of the Wise Girls Committee and a GNCC Ambassador, organizations that support causes and businesses right here at home.

As the co-founder of Locomotive Marketing Inc, Patrizia approaches her work and life with energy, passion, and positivity. Locomotive was incorporated in 2006 and has grown into a multi-million dollar organization. Patrizia’s “whatever it takes” philosophy has led her to many accomplishments including being ranked as one of the W100 Top Canadian Female Entrepreneurs and winning the overall Female Fitness Masters in the Canadian Physique Association. Patrizia is the leadership co-chair for the St. Catharines and District United Way and supports the community she lives in. As a family, the Trapassos are starting a family project that encourages families to live a purposeful, fun and engaged life.

Ryan was born and raised in Welland and obtained a Bachelor of Accounting Co-op (Honours) degree from Brock University. He obtained his Chartered Accountant designation in 2006. Ryan is a co-founder of RBW LLP. He provides accounting audit and tax services to a wide range of clients including law firms, manufacturing companies, insurance brokers, dentists and physicians. Ryan has been active in his community, acting as president of the Niagara District Basketball Referees Association and a director with Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Niagara. Whenever possible, Ryan finds the time for golf, fishing, and referees basketball at the local, provincial and national levels.

After graduating from Brock University, Shadab moved to northwest Canada to work on the diamond and oil industries where he rose up the ladder to become Chief Financial Officer of one of Canada’s fastest growing companies. Here, he learned the importance of customer service and community investment in order to succeed. After 10 years away from Niagara, Shadab moved to United Enterprises (Niagara Falls), an accounting office specializing in change and growth management and many other small businesses. Shadab is active in the community through sponsorships, volunteering in masajid organizations and being a kids’ rugby coach.

Tina has been an employee of the Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls since 2005. As the festival’s executive director, Tina is the visionary behind the illuminations and programming, setting forth the strategic plan for family-friendly entertainment. Tina works diligently to be a successful leader in the tourism industry, and has been a board member for Festival and Events Ontario for the past four years. She’s currently completing her Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation. As part of her commitment to the community, Tina also dedicates her time to volunteering with many noncharitable charities, community events and non-profit organizations in Niagara.