Australian-born Adam Hynam-Smith is the Co-owner and chef of Dispatch – a fine dining restaurant in downtown St. Catharines. Dispatch is the first restaurant in Ontario to be certified as a living wage employer, and Adam and his team are working to redefine the hospitality industry through a variety of practices. Adam is the author of Curbside: Modern Street Food from a Vagabond Chef (Whitecap, 2015), and has appeared in a variety of Food Network Canada series. He was also the recipient of the 2012 Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Award (NEYA), and the 2012 Outstanding New Business Award (GNCC).

Annie Wilson joined the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in August of 2015. As part of the PAC team, Annie and her programming colleague curate and develop various performances, films, festivals and community events. She’s helped bring critical success to the PAC during its formative years. Annie has also been a driving force in the local community for the past 12 years, securing $2.5+ million in public and private revenues to support local artists and arts workers. Annie is co-founder of the In the Soil Arts Festival – a grassroots festival that’s showcased more than 5,000 artists in its 10-year history.

Born and raised in Niagara, Chris Lorence had no intention of leaving the area, and attended Brock University to achieve a bachelor’s degree in business administration. After working at Meridian Credit Union, Chris decided to join brand Blvd. and fell in love with the culture. In his first year with the company, Chris was the recipient of the Passion Award and since then, has grown sales, becoming a Facilis Achiever and joining Brand Blvd’s Million Dollar Club. Along with a few friends, Chris is responsible for the revival of Wise Guys Pub Night, which raised $7500 in its first year. He’s also volunteered at many other community events, and has Walked a Mile In Her Shoes for four straight years.

Dr. Stephanie Yur kewich is a family physician transitioning from Toronto to Niagara who strives to provide holistic, patient-centred care. She aspires to help grow the medical community in Niagara through teaching medical students and engaging in physician recruitment. Dr. Yur kewich is a strong advocate for mental health. She’s helped create a video with the support of Niagara Public Health that promoted conversations about mental health in local high schools. In addition, she’s co-founder of Charity Gals – a not-for-profit organization that hosts fundraising events for local charities.

Gillian is a divorce and separation therapist in private practice. She’s always been passionate about helping others resolve emerging conflict. A number of years ago, Gillian recognized there was a need for a service in Niagara where families experiencing divorce and separation could access therapeutic and assessment services all in one location. Connect Family Solutions was born. Gillian’s main goal has always been to set parent partnerships in their new co-parenting relationships and has always wanted to provide this educational information to as many families as possible. Gillian does this by running co-parenting workshops through Pathstone Mental Health.

Jennifer is the acting executive director of Women’s Place of South Niagara, which operates domestic violence shelters in Niagara’s southern tier. After graduating from Brock University in psychology, she worked towards becoming a leader in the field of violence against women. Jennifer sits on a variety of committees that monitor community needs for housing, shelter and harm reduction strategies. She’s continued further education in the areas of trauma-informed and inclusive practice, graduating from Brock and McMaster universities. Jennifer is active in the community with outreach efforts and fundraising events, and is a regular voice on 610 CKTB.

With a background in mechanical engineering, John Garry specialized in medical device innovation and joined Ophardt Hygiene Technologies Irish branch in 2013. John relocated to Niagara in 2016 as a senior product development engineer for the same company. With a passion for design and innovation, John has designed many innovative products for Ophardt, pushing the company forward with new ideas to support one of the foremost producers in the soap market. John has contributed to local Niagara non-profits, and has been an active leader in a number of charitable programs, including becoming a Big Brother in 2019.

Brock University’s Associate Vice-President Financial Services Josh Tonnos notes that it’s not what you accomplish as an individual, rather your career reflects what you’ve done for the development of others and your organization. Achieving more through teamwork and helping those around you succeed is the best way to have a successful and rewarding career. A Chartered Professional Accountant, Josh provides leadership and oversight for Brock University’s budgetary, audit, tax and regulatory compliance, investment, procurement and student account functions. A proud father of Trent and Theoren, Joshua also volunteers his time in the community coaching hockey and soccer.

Pharmacist and business owner Kyle Boggio has harnessed the use of technology and automation in the dispensary, a customer-focused staff culture, the introduction of a patient mobile app, and innovative business strategies to help grow and evolve his family business – Boggio Family of Pharmacies. His entrepreneurial spirit is matched in his love for the Niagara community, where he is proud to say he lives, works and volunteers. In the years ahead, Kyle looks forward to further building the Boggio Family legacy.

Marietta Vrolijk has been a growing leader in the management and daily operations of Peninsula Flowers Inc. for the past 11 years. Active as the secretary on the board of directors for Ontario Flower Growers and a part-time student at the University of Guelph, Marietta endeavours to persistently learn more about the industry in both strategic business practice and sciences. Marietta dedicates her time to the lives of the younger generation by providing job opportunities on the farm, and teaching skill sets for their future. She also financially sponsors and encourages children and their families in foreign countries through Compassion Ministries.

As a personal insurance executive at Verge Insurance, the largest independently owned insurance brokerage in Niagara, Melissa is responsible for new business and is very specialized in what she does. Melissa has both her RIBO and LLQP insurance licenses. She also has over 10 years of insurance experience and acts as a trusted advisor, listening to her clients to ensure she’s customizing complete home and auto insurance solutions to meet their unique insurance requirements. Melissa is a committee member for Wics Girls – a charitable organization where proceeds benefit various agencies throughout Niagara.

Nick Visser joined Durward Jones Barkwell & Company LLP in 2017 and is currently employed as manager of assurance. Nick continuously strives to make a positive impact in the community by acting as treasurer for the Canadian Henley Rowing Corporation as well as volunteering his time to the local church. As a graduate and alumnus of Brock University’s Bachelor of Accounting program, Nick obtained his CPA designation in 2014. As part of his commitment to the community, Nick dedicates his time to various notable charities and community events within Niagara.

Tanner Wilson has been employed at Brand Blvd. as a brand specialist since 2015. After graduating from Brock University with a bachelor’s degree in physical education, Tanner decided to try his hand at the hospitality industry. Since then, he’s been named the #3 Top Ultimate Sales Rep by The Facilis Group. Outside of work, Tanner donates his time to several local charities. He’s been a Big Brother for the past three years and participated in a few bike rides, raising money for cancer. Locally, Tanner has participated in the Niagara Golf Marathon, and commits his time to other local events.

William Reilly joined the entrepreneur arena 13 years ago. He now owns and operates William Joseph Photography, The Silly Little PhotoBooth, and is a co-founder of Smalltown Pictures. William is also a TV, film and video production producer. He’s committed to excellent customer service and lives by the policy of honest promising and overdelivering. Recently elected councillor-alderman for the Township of West Lincoln, William is also vice-chair of the Planning and Development Committee as well as a volunteer coach and director of media and public relations for the West Niagara Minor Baseball Association.

Alex Pedersen joined the Niagara Casinos team in September 2018 and is currently the acting communications and media relations manager. In this role, she provides strategic support for corporate communications initiatives and strives to build positive relationships with tourism partners and stakeholders. Passionate about giving back to the community, Alex is actively involved with charitable and not-for-profit organizations including the Canadian Mental Health Association – Niagara Branch, YWCA Niagara Region, local community theatre groups and most recently, she became a Big Sister through Big Brothers Big Sisters South Niagara.

Born and raised in Niagara, Brad got his first taste for cooking at Niagara College where he attended the apprenticeship program under some of Niagara’s top chefs. He started his career at Twenty Valley Golf & Country Club where he became the executive chef. Wanting to add some flavour to his career, Brad left the golf course to start his own catering business which proudly operates all across Ontario. His charismatic personality adds extra zest to his events, whether big or small. Brad generously donates his time and cooking to Wise Guys Charity Fund, the West Lincoln Hospital Foundation and New Hope Church Niagara.

Although Chrissy Sadowski has worked at Community Care as the fund development officer for one year and the volunteer coordinator the year prior, she’s been involved in charitable work with the agency for over 10 years. Along with her dedication to Community Care, Chrissy actively participates in many community-wide initiatives through work and in her spare time. While she loves to give back on many different levels, Chrissy’s passion is leading children and youth to see the difference they can make in their community and beyond.

After graduating from Brock University, Emily Allan Dakin was hired by her alma mater, first to run a research study examining children’s health, and then as the inaugural experiential education coordinator in Brock’s internationally-recognized sport management program. Here, she helped students obtain meaningful work terms for some of Canada’s top sport franchises and governing bodies. Last summer, Emily landed her dream role as manager of Brock Sports. Emily is also a dedicated fundraiser who has raised nearly $60,000 for cystic fibrosis research and treatment. Most recently, she ran the entire 895 km Bruce Trail, running a marathon each day for three weeks, raising $30,000 along the way.

With more than 15 years in communications, non-profit management and growth marketing in Ireland, the U.K. and Canada, Helen works as the marketing manager of Caddle Inc. – a consumer insights technology platform. Helen is passionate about building brands that inspire trust and build real connections with audiences. She holds an MA in community and international development, having worked in project management and overseas roles in non-profits in Ireland for seven years prior to retraining in communications and digital marketing. In 2016, Helen left Ireland to make Niagara her new home. Helen actively volunteers with the YWCA, supporting events like No Fixed Address and the Niagara Leadership Summit for Women.

Jennifer Vida grew up in Niagara and has always had a passion for building and development. Jennifer graduated with a degree in urban and regional planning from Ryerson University in 2003. Since graduation, Jennifer has passionately pursued a career working for land developers and home builders throughout Ontario. She joined Upper Canada Consultants in St. Catharines as a land use planner nine years ago, and quickly moved to a management role which led to the expansion and creation of a land development planning department within her firm. Jennifer also sits on the Government Liaison Committee for the Niagara Homes Builders Association.

As president of North America Traffic, Jordan believes in seizing opportunities and using his leadership skills to support others. In his 12-year career with North America Traffic – a Port Colborne–based heavy equipment manufacturer – Jordan has done just that. During his tenure, Jordan has been a driving force in growing the company’s operations and product line, as well as successfully expanding their distribution supply chain across the U.S. and Canada. A graduate of Ryerson University and lifelong Niagara resident, Jordan has also served as a board member of the Niagara Industrial Association over the past two years.

After graduating from the University of Waterloo, Karley moved into her Beamsville abode. She spent six years in the wonderful Niagara wine industry before Brand Blvd. was able to “harvest” her away. She’s been a brand specialist at Brand Blvd. for the past three years, and has been awarded the Champagne Award, become a Facilis Achiever and helped Brand Blvd.’s Million Dollar Club. Karley teamed up with Niagara Workers Welcome to start Brand Blvd.’s 1st Annual Coat Drive. Some of her favourite volunteering experiences include Food4Kids, Community Care events and Henry Schein’s Back to School Program.

After seven years of working full-time as a Registered dental hygienist, Lisa knew her passion for dental hygiene was just beginning when she opened Dental Hygiene of Niagara in 2014. As her fifth year in business approaches, she now has three full-time and three part-time staff. Lisa’s goal is to make preventative dental cleaning more accessible through lower fees and better access. Lisa is committed to encouraging the dental profession to excel in their scope of practice by stressing the significance of “spending extra time with people.” Lisa believes this is an important piece to health care and giving time to clients based on their needs is crucial.

Entering his fifth year as budget chair for the City of St. Catharines, Mat Siscoe has made fiscal sustainability and community-building his focus on city council. During his three terms on city council, Mat has been behind a major revitalization of his downtown ward. The founding of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, the Meridian Centre, and increasing private sector development in the downtown area are a testament to the hard work put in over those nine years. Mat has also been involved with numerous charity organizations and has encouraged the growth of new grassroots community organizations.

With a decade in business, Michael De Prophetis is consistently growing and making his mark in business in Niagara. He has developed a brand, a thriving premier hair salon, and has proven to be a strong mentor and leader in his field and the community. Starting his career while building in 1999, he opened his craft with a unique story and the development of a brand built on talented individuals — now known as the Storm Team of Faith. Recently, his business was recognized as one of the Top 200 Salons in North America by Salon Today Magazine.

Scott Plugers joined KPMG in 2011 and is currently employed as a senior manager in the audit and assurance practice. Scott is a well-rounded professional with a focus on community engagement. He graduated from Brock University with a Bachelor of Accounting and is now enrolled in a graduate program through Simon Fraser University, focusing on accounting analytics. Scott is dedicated to serving the community and focuses his time as director for Welland Minor Hockey – IP and Tyke programs. He just completed the 2018-2019 Leadership Niagara program. Scott is a board member for The RAFT and a mentor to young professionals both inside and outside KPMG.

Tim is the owner of Timco Group – a construction and renovation company that operates throughout the Niagara Region. Since 2012, Tim has served homeowners by providing topnotch craftsmanship paired with excellent customer care. Tim is active in the community, participating in numerous fundraisers and community events. Most recently, Tim fought in the Pearl Gloves Charity Boxing Event – an event that raised over $144,000 to help fund the local fight against MS. Internationally, Tim is partnered with Hope Story – a nonprofit that rescues orphaned and vulnerable children. Currently, Tim is involved in helping to build a much-needed high school in a rural region of Tanzania.

At 26-years-old, Amanda MacDonald is executive director of the Welland Downtown BIA, making her one of Ontario’s youngest executive directors of a Business Improvement Area. She is a teaching assistant for Brock University’s recreation and leisure studies program, placing community development as the reason for her success. An alumnus of Brock University, Amanda is currently completing her MA of Applied Health Science. She’s also the 2018-2019 vice-president of internal for Brock’s Graduate Students’ Association and represents over two million students worldwide on the board of directors for the Golden Key International Honour Society. Amanda also dedicates her skills to numerous Niagara organizations and community events.

Bronwyn has worked as a therapist in Niagara for the past 15 years. When her kids were born a few years ago, however, she decided to take up sewing as a new skill. In 2016, Bronwyn took that idea a step further, opening a locally owned Pippa & Peach Boutique. It’s quickly become one of the most recognizable children’s clothing companies in the region. She focuses on creating ethical and modern, inclusive wear for women and children from sustainable materials. Bronwyn’s involvement in the boutique has received several accolades. Last year, it was named “Best Children’s Clothing Company” by CHCH-TV and the St. Catharines Standard’s “Best Children’s Clothing” winner in 2018.

Darryl joined the St. Catharines Fire & Emergency Services in 2008. He’s currently an acting captain and an on-shift training instructor in several technical rescue specialties. Darryl has been a leader within the St. Catharines Fire & Emergency Services for many years and has always been a go-to person for weather question a member may have. His leadership begins on the ground through his dedication to proving the service he works for and the community as a whole. When he’s not committed to shift work, he’s usually found spending time with family, educating himself in some form or improving the workforce or dedicating countless hours to community events.

Emily Barry entered real estate in 2004, working independently for 10 years. Becoming a Top Producer in Niagara, Emily took the next step and created The Barry Team in 2015. With additional support staff and a team of her top producing Realtors, Emily now proudly leads one of the top real estate teams in Canada according to REP magazine. Emily is known for video marketing and continues to be a leader in real estate through marketing and business innovations. As the Director of Realtor Development for Revel Realty, Emily prides herself on teaching and sharing her knowledge with new Realtors.

Jeff Scull founded Edge Triathlon in 2015 – a coaching business in Niagara focused on developing youth and adult triathletes ranging from beginners to elites. Jeff gained much of his experience as an athlete himself, competing in track and cross country for Syracuse University and representing Canada at the World Championships. Jeff has now completed his master’s degree in applied health science at Brock University, where he interviewed professional triathlon coaches on their motivational strategies. This research provided the framework on which Edge Triathlon was built. Jeff now coaches alongside Olympian Kyle Jones as they work together to develop Canada’s next generation of top triathletes.

Joey is entering his fourth season as general manager of the Niagara IceDogs. Here, he’s the head of hockey operations for the organization, and is responsible for the scouting, recruiting, drafting, signing and trading of all players. An alumnus of Wilfrid Laurier University and Ridley College, Joey started with the Niagara IceDogs prior to the team’s inaugural 2007 season as an intern and goalie scout. He has since advanced through the organization, holding such roles as assistant general manager for six seasons prior to taking over his general manager duties. Joey has overhauled the organization’s scouting and recruiting process to much success during his tenure as general manager.

Josh Knoester is vice-president of league operations for the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). In his current role, he has the honour of working with some of the most accomplished, dedicated and determined sports people. Josh’s experience with such accomplished and brilliant colleagues has helped mold him into the executive he wants to be. Josh’s other experiences include serving as a key member of the leadership team that launched the Niagara River Lions. His passion for sport and community enable him to excel in his personal and professional life in Niagara where he currently resides with his fiancée, Jessica.

A longtime funeral director in Niagara, Krystal took a courageous step into the world of entrepreneurship in 2017 and opened Essentials Cremation & Burial Services – her family-owned funeral establishment in Niagara Falls. Extremely passionate about helping families in their time of need, Krystal is committed to providing her clients with the highest level of professionalism and care. In addition to her professional role, Krystal’s humanitarian efforts grow each year as a Rotarian, an industry leader and a philanthropist. Krystal is devoted to supporting and serving her community and is humbled to be a recipient of this year’s 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards.

As project manager of Niagara College’s Enactus@NCoffE, Madi has consulted with up-and-coming entrepreneurs on their ventures through workshops, mentorship and pitch competitions. She’s also planned the college’s successful Flavours of Niagara Education panels. Madi is passionate about providing opportunities and empowerment for girls and women in the region, and she has been a dedicated volunteer in the Niagara community. As part of the YWCA Niagara board and along with the planning committee for the Niagara Leadership Summit for Women, Madi is a lifelong learner and is currently working towards her CHRP Designation.

Matthew Aiello is co-owner of Qube Escape Rooms Niagara – and a Niagara Falls native who is committed to community, business development and the advancement of social justice. Matthew’s career includes entertainment, acting, master of ceremonies work, community theatre, social media and small business development. His career path led him to develop an innovative tourism business – Qube Escape Rooms located on Queen Street in Niagara Falls. Qube reaches schools, organizations and companies for a unique team-building experience in the largest escape room facility in Niagara.

Neil Lane is an entrepreneur and the CEO of Stathetes – a sports analytics and insights business that provides industry leading data precision within the sport of hockey. Neil has built a team of over 50 experts across Niagara and Toronto, working on creating the new era of sports technology. Neil was recently named Top Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Future Leaders of the Year by the City of St. Catharines.

Stephanie joined the Niagara Regional Police Service in 2017, and is currently employed as the media relations specialist in the Corporate Communications Unit. Reporting to the office of the chief of police, Stephanie assists in ensuring that the missions and strategic communications goals of the police service are being communicated to the media and the community at large while maintaining a portfolio of internal and external communications strategies. A passionate community supporter, Stephanie has volunteered her time on numerous local boards, and currently serves as secretary on the board of directors of Victim Services Niagara.

Vincenzo De Simone graduated from the winery and viticulture program at Niagara College in 2011. After working at several wineries in the Niagara Region, Vincenzo produced his first vintage in 2015. He opened the doors of De Simone Vineyards Winery in 2017. Vincenzo strives to produce some of the best VQA wines that Niagara has to offer. Everything is hand-picked from their own estate vineyard. From being the owner and winemaker, Vincenzo also manages the tasting room and retail store. Born and raised in Niagara, Vincenzo is a strong supporter in the community and donates to charities and community events.