Amanda is an events and communications professional with 13 years of experience developing cultural programming, festivals, and community events across Niagara. Now the Town of Pelham’s Special Events & Festivals Programmer, she is helping bring back meaningful in-person experiences in the post-pandemic landscape. A dedicated volunteer, she received the 2019 Corporate Campaign of the Year award for her work with United Way. A lifelong Niagara resident, Amanda is passionate about learning and creating memorable community experiences through her work.

Anna Schmoll has a lifelong commitment to the Niagara Region and is a strong advocate for vulnerable and overlooked individuals. After years as a Personal Support Worker, she founded Rose Hill Lane (RHL) to provide premium, compassionate care for the elderly. Today, RHL’s team of over 60 employees proudly supports clients’ needs and preferred lifestyles. Anna ensures personal support workers are respected, fairly paid, and empowered to build trusting, meaningful relationships with those they serve.

Charlotte Steinschifter is the Director of People & Culture at Billyard Insurance Group (BIG). She holds an MBA specialising in Human Resource Management, and a Bachelor of Music with a Minor in Psychology. In 2018, Charlotte started as BIG’s Marketing Manager. Charlotte introduced the iconic elephant to the BIG brand, made significant marketing improvements, developed a thriving team, and was a key driver of company culture. In 2021, she transitioned to Director of People & Culture to focus on her passion of creating a people-first company culture and growing BIG as a top insurance workplace in Canada.

Crystal is a Carbon Specialist with Walker Industries, committed to its mission to build a sustainable future, together. Driven by her passion to take action on the climate crisis, Crystal has been tasked to determine and implement a pathway to carbon neutrality for Walker’s Environmental Division. In 2021, she was recognized in the Globe and Mail as a Canada Clean50 Emerging Leader based on her work at Walker to help support the low-carbon economy. Crystal also serves as the Sustainability Chair of the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games to minimize the environmental footprint of the Games.

David founded the Garden City Comedy Festival in 2017 with the intent to grow the Niagara Comedy Community into a worldwide attraction. Featuring diverse and hilarious lineups, their events have raised thousands of dollars for charity and have helped pave the way for new talent across the region. Using innovative approaches, GCCF has been at the forefront of the digital and virtual comedy evolution and continues to go the extra mile to provide the best possible entertainment experience. David was the recipient of the CHCH Business Excellence Award as well as the Culture Capital of Canada Literary Arts Award.

Dr. Danielle is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor, born and raised in St. Catharines. Her focus in practice is women’s health, stress, digestive concerns and autoimmune conditions. She prides herself in educating her patients so they can leave each appointment feeling empowered and confident in reaching their health goals! Dr. Danielle’s personal experience of healing a sense of helplessness during her own healthcare journey offers a unique perspective and allows her to connect with each of her patients on a deeper level. Dr. Danielle is also certified in facial rejuvenation acupuncture, a natural alternative to Botox, and an extremely popular treatment in her practice. She received a Platinum award for Best Naturopath 2022 from Community Votes Niagara Region and was nominated for a 2021 RevolutionHer award in business achievement.

Elizabeth Brugman, PT MScPT, is co-owner and lead Physiotherapist at Active Life Rehab and Niagara Concussion Management, a growing multidisciplinary clinic in Niagara Falls. She is passionate about helping clients stay active and raising awareness about concussion and vestibular (dizziness) health. Elizabeth also serves as a first responder at municipal, provincial, and international sporting events, including the upcoming Canada Games. Committed to environmental sustainability, she promotes eco-conscious practices within healthcare and supports regional green initiatives.

Gregor is the owner of Wandering Spirits, which he started in October 2020. Starting out as an old trailer that was converted into a mobile bar, the business quickly grew to also operate as a mobile coffee shop. Gregor recently opened up a coffee shop on James Street operating inside of Living Apothecary, and has just taken over the whole space to expand into cocktails as well. Gregor loves to partner up with different local businesses and help highlight what they have to offer.

Joan is an HR Supervisor at Hospice Niagara. She has a Bachelor of Commerce, specializing in HR, and a passion for working in healthcare. She supports equity initiatives through Co-Chairing the Equity Council and participating on the Niagara Ontario Health Team - Health Equity group. Joan is proud to work for an organization that helps people live well, no matter where life presents her. Her current areas of focus are recruitment, training, total rewards, wellness and project managing the HPCO accreditation process. She enjoys volunteering for Girls Rock, a program helping to build physical and mental health through empowering activities.

Kalie Beltran owns a community-based business in the heart of Fonthill. Early on, Kalie had an eye for beauty and sought out a career as an Aesthetician. Eleven years ago, she took a chance at the age of 24 and opened a business where she leased a treatment room. With growing demand, 4 years ago her dreams were fulfilled and Allure Spa and Wellness Boutique, a cozy, eye-catching neighbourhood retreat was successfully launched. Kalie has built the foundation of her business on the relationships between her clients and herself, supporting and caring for one another in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Born and raised in Stoney Creek, Matt Hill began playing flag football at age 7 and later coached alongside his father. At 18, he led the first U13 Team Canada to Provincial, National, and World Championship titles. After moving to Niagara, he saw a need for youth programming and founded Niagara Youth Flag Football in 2019 with 60 players. By 2022, the league grew to over 600 participants, becoming Ontario’s fastest-growing flag football league. NYFF is built on quality coaching, inclusivity, fun, and community support, driven by Matt’s passion and leadership.

Rachel is a lifelong Niagara resident and a proud Brock University and Mohawk College alumna, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Social Service Worker Diploma. Rachel is a Regional Manager at Anchor Rehabilitation Support Services and Board-Staff Consultant at Brain Injury Association of Niagara. Previously, she was the Executive Director of the Hamilton Brain Injury Association. Rachel loves to be involved in her community and a big part of that is through her dedication to volunteering and supporting local businesses. Rachel currently serves as Secretary on the YWCA Niagara Region Board of Directors and Vice-President on the National Chronic Pain Society Board of Directors.

Born and raised in Niagara Falls, Stephen grew up in construction and always knew he would continue his family’s legacy at Provincial Construction. After earning his civil engineering degree, he worked on major infrastructure projects across Ontario before returning to lead Provincial. Under his leadership, the company has expanded into brownfield redevelopment, heavy civil projects, The Landscape Depot, and Provincial Design/Build, developing industrial and residential sites across Niagara. Committed to service, Stephen actively supports community events and numerous local and international charities.

In 2016, Wendy was a part-time freelancer and mother of two encouraged to leave work and go on OW—but she chose a different path. She focused on education and growth, building Thumbtack Marketing into a company providing design and marketing solutions for small businesses across North America. With support from her husband while homeschooling four kids through COVID, she expanded her work across multiple ventures. Today, Wendy continues to grow Thumbtack Marketing, support digital publishing projects, build local networking groups through Leaders Care, and mentor entrepreneurs in strengthening their branding and digital presence.

Amanda Fidler is a Registered Psychotherapist and owner of Checking In Counselling and Consulting in Crystal Beach. She believes that every individual is unique and possesses special talents and attributes that set them apart from the rest. Amanda is a positivity enthusiast and extremely passionate about empowering others. Amanda has a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, is a mentor and supervisor of master’s level students and sits on the process of publishing her first self-help book. She has helped countless individuals, families and communities through her attentive listening, compassionate care and empathic approach.

Ashley was raised in Niagara Falls, where she lives with her husband and two children. She has worked for the City of Niagara Falls since 2014, holding roles in the Mayor’s Office, serving as the City’s first Communications Coordinator, and now as Manager of Strategic Communications. A dedicated community leader, she has volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters, serves on the Niagara Falls History Museum Board, and is active with the Niagara Parks Foundation, Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, Junior League of Hamilton-Burlington, and 100 Women Who Care Niagara. Ashley is committed to building a strong, welcoming community and hopes to inspire others to help create positive change across the region. A proud Brock University graduate, she has also served as a provincial Liberal candidate for Niagara Falls.

Christine has spent the past decade at Brock University, dedicating most of her career to supporting students and alumni as an Alumni Officer. Her expertise in events and programming has helped thousands engage with their degree, grow personally and professionally, and stay connected to the Brock community. She now serves as the Co-Curricular Engagement Coordinator in Career and Experiential Education, promoting inclusive leadership and student empowerment. Passionate about mentorship, Christine also coordinates the Christina Richard Award for Mentorship, supporting students entering the arts and trades.

Dan graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology and a Master of Science from Brock University. While working as a registered kinesiologist in long-term care, he saw a need for better mobility support and invented the ARMN Device—the world’s first award-winning tool that attaches a wheelchair to a walker. His entrepreneurial journey led him to mentor young innovators and work with Spark FECI as a management consultant. Dan was later selected as Interim CEO of Spark Niagara, where he continues to support entrepreneurs through technology, mentorship, curriculum, and funding opportunities.

Deanna Shalala co-founded the non-profit Socks and Snacks Outreach Initiative with Stacey Hunt, J.P. Shalala and Adam Gagliardi in 2019 to honour their late mother, Rosanna Hunt. With unfailing support from their family, the kindness of Ryerson Innovation Hub, and incredibly dedicated volunteers and community members, they deliver hot meals weekly and over 500 monthly to the homeless and in-need of Niagara Falls. Deanna is also a local musician and works with Community Living, nursing and retirement homes, performs at special events and offers piano and singing lessons. Socks and Snacks can be found on Instagram and Facebook: @socksandsnacks, and can be reached at: [email protected]

Dr. Melanie Senechal is an Emergency Medicine Physician at Niagara Health and Medical Director of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Services. She also serves as Corporate Chief at Douglas Memorial Hospital in Fort Erie, Medical Director at Connie Wellness and Medical Spa, and Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at McMaster University. A highly recognized educator, she has received multiple honours, including the Niagara Health President’s Award and several McMaster University teaching awards for excellence in emergency medicine.

Emily Andrews is a multi-media artist, actress, and musician from Niagara Falls who works in oil painting, collage, installation, and sculpture. A surrealist at heart, she draws inspiration from science, nature, history, and her vivid dreams. A vibrant member of Niagara’s arts community, she has shown work in numerous group and solo exhibitions and participated in events such as Niagara Night of Art and In the Soil Arts Festival. Emily holds a BA in Visual Arts from Brock University and has taught drawing and 3D design at Niagara College.

Chef Harminder Singh is trained in French & Indian cuisine. He opened his first restaurant CORIANDER GREEN in Oakville in 2005 at the age of 23. He ventured into several food related businesses and had his own cooking show. He also had the honour of being one of the four judges of TORONTO CURRY AWARDS 2018-19. After returning locally to decorate as a fifth gen, he explored the Niagara region and with his expertise and experience launched LIGHTHOUSE on the parkway into a destination restaurant.

Joel is the co-founder and CEO of Intuitive Shipping. This award-winning Niagara-based software company gives online stores the tools to control shipping costs and delivery options at checkout to boost their conversions, maintain their margins, and gain a competitive advantage in their market. A pioneer of software development in Niagara, Joel began his career as a web designer that ignited in 2011 when he developed his first app, Total Based Shipping. A decade later, Joel leads the technical team for the Intuitive platform, which is trusted by thousands of businesses worldwide, including Twinnings Tea, Purina, and Magnolia Home, to control the most critical step of their buyer’s journey.

Kristen is an Experiential Education Coordinator at Brock University where she collaborates with community partners and faculty to develop meaningful Experiential Learning opportunities for students where they can enhance and apply their understanding of course content, supporting over 100 courses annually. These projects give community partners consulting expertise they would not otherwise been able to access, with partners reporting a direct impact to their organization through the partnerships. She is passionate about supporting the growth and development of students, and positively impacting organizations in Niagara. Kristen is the Vice Chair of NEXTNiagara, working to provide young professionals in Niagara meaningful opportunities for personal, professional, and community development.

Born and raised in Thorold, Michelle is “passionate about developing and empowering the emerging leaders in our community.” Michelle is a dedicated member of the Niagara Health team and currently holds the position of Organizational Development Consultant. She is responsible for leadership and performance development programs, staff recognition tactics, and supports various strategic initiatives that drive individual and organizational success. Additionally, Michelle teaches part-time at Niagara College where she enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generation of HR leaders. Michelle is an active volunteer in our community, and is currently serving as a Program Advisory Committee Member with Leadership Niagara.

Sarah is the Deputy Clerk at the Town of Pelham. In her role, she assists with performing statutory duties of the Municipal Act, conducts Civil Marriage Ceremonies and works closely with charitable initiatives from community groups as the Lottery Licensing Officer. Sarah has also received the appointments of Commissioner for Taking Affidavits, Deputy Division Registrar and Assistant Returning Officer. Sarah is a proud Brock University alumna who continually seeks opportunities for professional development, including, the Records and Information Management certification from Mohawk College. She takes pride in assisting community groups and is looking forward to continuing to serve the residents of Niagara.

Steve began his career working part time at the young age of 14 and continued working full time after graduation. He rose quickly within the organization he worked for developing operations and team management, estimating and customer service skills. His passion for construction and personal development allowed him to open Board Boss Drywall in 2011 with only 11 employees and grow it to over 40 workers. Now Board Boss can be found working on some of the largest projects in the Niagara Region. Steve’s strong ambition to contribute to this industry has led him to be recently appointed to the Board of Directors for the Niagara Construction Association.

Andrea was born and raised in Victoria, B.C., and is now a busy mother of four living in Niagara. She holds degrees in Kinesiology and Naturopathy and has over 20 years of experience as a group fitness and sports instructor. After her first child, she founded Mama Bear Wellness (2018), offering pre/postnatal and family-focused fitness classes. Following the birth of her twins, she launched Moms Niagara (2019), hosting workshops and events for mothers across the region. Andrea has earned multiple Readers’ Choice Awards and was recognized as a 2022 CBRB Best Business in Canada.

In 2017, Cameron Bigford founded CNB Consulting, fulfilling his dream of owning his own business. His career began 14 years ago when a staffing agency recognized his potential, sparking his passion for recruitment and leadership development. After eight years refining his skills and building his reputation, the retirement of a former employer pushed him to take the leap into entrepreneurship. Since then, Cameron has placed over 90 professionals across North America. He believes great companies are built by great people—and he helps organizations find them.

Clare established Township Niagara in 2017 as a small-scale business to design and sell Made in Canada garments inspired by the local history and unique place names within Niagara-on-the-Lake. Township is now a regular vendor at the local farmer’s market and remains driven by hyper-local identity and pride. Clare’s dedication to local communities is also represented through her work in the municipal public sector. She leads analytics and customer experience programs, and since 2018 she has been a Municipal Councillor and the Deputy Lord Mayor in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

David DiPietro was born and raised in St.Catharines, remaining in the area for post-secondary education. David’s goal was to find a career and start a family in the city that he felt so passionate about. He is currently the Senior Experiential Education Coordinator at Brock University, where, through his role, he coordinates partnerships between students and community partners within the Goodman School of Business. Prior to joining Brock University six years ago, David worked in the Research & Innovation department at Niagara College, a role he entered soon after graduating from the Business Administration program.

Dillon started his real estate career as a stand-alone agent in 2016, and eventually started his own team with his business partner Ashley. They quickly became one of the top producing teams in the region. In 2020 he became a coach (manager) by opening his first branch in Fonthill, and this year has opened a 2nd location in Grimsby. He is the youngest Realtor in the organization to do so. A devoted husband and a father to two young children, he doesn’t take his success for granted and contributes to & runs charitable events for Wise Guys, Gillians Place & Bethlehem Place.

Elise has spent over a decade building her career in fashion and lifestyle, including years in New York City working for Oscar de la Renta and Burberry. She acquired STYLE Canada in 2016 and has since expanded it to seven domains, a global podcast, and a North America–wide brand. Passionate about supporting women, she invests in female-founded startups and founded Pink Pearl Canada, a charity for young women affected by cancer. Elise is a recipient of the Burger Icon Award, Cancer Care Ontario’s Human Touch Award, and Wilfrid Laurier University’s Community Leadership Award.

Erin Graybiel is the Executive Director with Big Brothers Big Sisters of North and West Niagara. Her passion for supporting children and youth in Niagara has been at the core of her professional career. Prior to joining BBBBSNWN, Erin dedicated nearly 20 years to YMCA of Niagara in various roles. She strongly believes in the power and potential of young people. Erin is a committed leader, focused on development, innovation and collaboration. She is a graduate of Brock University and lives in St. Catharines with her family. In her spare time, Erin supports various charitable organizations, both locally and internationally.

Jessie is a luxury real estate broker and head coach with Revel Realty, operating offices in St. Catharines and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Specializing in residential, industrial, and commercial sales, she also leads Level Development and is a certified Titanium Home Builder. A Brock University graduate, Jessie is one of Canada’s most decorated women’s wrestling champions, earning 16 national medals and three world medals. A strong advocate for women’s empowerment and community care, she mentors young athletes, supports local initiatives, and brings transparency, dedication, and client-first leadership to her business.

In 2006, Justin was hit by a car and received a traumatic brain injury, among other things. He went back to high school to obtain his high school diploma. In 2010, he met his beautiful life partner/ wife/business partner. After she finished her Baking and Pastry Arts program at Niagara College, Justin knew what he wanted to do. Two years after she finished, he started his journey. After receiving his diploma it was hard for Justin to find a job, and the pandemic hit. His wife had a hair appointment and there was a unit for rent. Within weeks they had the space and Bake.Frost.Repeat. was started.

Laurie opened Salon@Church in 2020 after designing and creating her dream space in a growing Niagara neighbourhood. She has built a diverse, guest-focused team of 17 stylists and is a certified Kevin Murphy colourist who believes education creates the best client experiences. Leading a brand that supports both stylist growth and personal branding has been deeply rewarding for her. Grateful for her community, Laurie continues to evolve her salon with a focus on balance and well-being, while she and her family actively support local youth and vulnerable populations.

Myles is a proud husband and father who founded Tenpine in 2010. Since then the business has grown to include a team of programmers and designers serving the digital marketing needs of clients all across southern Ontario and beyond. With the goal of being a socially conscious business, Myles routinely invests his time and resources into supporting local organizations like the Niagara Dog Rescue, Dreams 2 Memories and the Welland Food Drive, among others. Using a proven formula of traffic and lead generation that he developed through years of experience, his business is to help grow your business.

Born and raised in Niagara Falls, Stephen always knew he would continue his family’s legacy at Provincial Construction. After earning his civil engineering degree, he worked on major infrastructure “mega-projects” across Ontario before returning home to lead the company. Under his leadership, Provincial has expanded into brownfield redevelopment, heavy civil work, The Landscape Depot, and Provincial Design/Build, developing industrial and residential projects across Niagara. Dedicated to service, Stephen actively supports community events and numerous charities locally and abroad.

Tim started his career in St. Catharines as a co-op student in the Brock University accounting program with the firm Partridge Iggulden. In this small firm, Tim learned from his incredible mentors what it took to be successful in public accounting and eventually became a partner of that firm at the age of 34. Now a partner at Grant Thornton, a leading Canadian accounting and advisory firm, Tim serves clients in diverse industries, highlighting a focus on small business, retail, manufacturing, and not-for-profit entities. Tim is now a mentor to his fellow colleagues in the firm and engages with accounting students as Grant Thornton’s ambassador with Brock University. Tim is happy to be supported by his wife Monika and two children, Isla and Miles.