Most Influential Business Leaders to Follow in Canada Vol. 5 December2023

From Peacekeepers to Mediators Canada's Enduring Legacy in Conflict Resolu on Tech Titans North of the Border How Canadian Innova on is Shaping the Future

Frankl E p a p ein A Visionary Leader Bridging Communi es and Transforming Healthcare

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anada is home to a diverse array of influential business leaders who have made significant contributions to various industries, both domestically and globally. From visionary entrepreneurs who have built iconic companies to corporate executives who have navigated organizations through challenging times, these leaders embody resilience, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

Across sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, and energy, Canadian business leaders have shown their ability to adapt to changing market dynamics, embrace emerging technologies, and drive sustainable growth. Their strategic foresight, coupled with a deep understanding of market trends and consumer behavior, has propelled Canada’s business landscape forward and established the country as a symbol of entrepreneurial spirit and economic prosperity.

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As we honor the accomplishments of these influential figures, it is important to acknowledge their contributions not only to the business world but also to society at large. Many of these leaders have been champions of causes such as diversity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility, using their influence and resources to effect positive change and leave a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

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Through the latest edition of Most Influential Business Leaders to Follow in Canada, we bring forth Canada’s influential business leaders, whose dedication, creativity, and leadership continue to shape the nation’s economic landscape and inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and innovators.

Contents

Frankl E p a p ein

A Visionary Leader Bridging Communi es and

Cover Story

Transforming Healthcare

Profiles

Arti Chawla Naviga ng Financial Landscapes with Confidence

Fola Adegoke Crea ng a Ripple Effect of Empowerment

Francine Long Shaping the Discourse around Mining Communica on

Articles

From Peacekeepers to Mediators Canada’s Enduring Legacy in Conflict Resolu on

Tech Titans North of the Border

How Canadian Innova on is Shaping the Future

Editor in chief

Merry D'Souza

Managing Editor

Preston Bannister

Executive Editor

Eva Miller

Visualizer

Michael Warner

Art & Design Head

Donna Claus

Co-designer

Yasmin Nasser

Business Development Manager

Sherin Rodricks

Marketing Manager Business Development Executive Digital Marketing Manager

Jenny Jordan Reem Almasoud, Sheldon Miller Isabel Barnes

Technical Head

Phil Simon

Research Analyst

Helena Smith

Circulation Manager

Finn Wilson

sales@insightssuccess.com

December, 2023 Corporate Ofce Insights Success Media Tech LLC 555 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017, United States Phone - (614)-859-2600 Email: info@insightssuccess.com For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.com

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Featuring

Afolabi Olabanji President

Ar Chawla

Company

The LightHouse thelighthouseglobal.org

World Financial Group worldfinancialgroup.com

Brief

Afolabi is the leading execu ve and president of LightHouse making remarkable renova ons in canadian business landscape.

Ar is the CEO with a demonstrated history of working and cra ing strategies empowering individuals a ain financial goals.

Featuring

Chris Yalowica Owner

Fola Adegoke Founder and Lead Career Coach Winfinite Consul ng winfiniteconsul ng.com

Francine Long Professional Geologist

Company

Yaleyefish Lures Inc. yaleyefish.ca

CEO

Solopreneur

Franklin Epape Founder and General Director Benss

Brief

Chris is the owner of Yaleyefiesh, contribu ng to the success of the Yaleye Team in great lakes fishing tournaments is his Walleye Worm Harnesses and S ck Baits.

Fola is a highly experienced Technology Assurance Leader with extensive knowledge of Cybersecurity, Governance Risk & Compliance GRC, IT Audit, Cloud and Network Security.

Francine is a Mining Professional with 16+ years and a Qualified (QP) / Competent Person on Au-Ag-Cu-ZnNi-PGEs-Iron Ore and Rare Earth/Cri cal Elements since 2014

Franklin has been providing quality and affordable home care services and support to seniors and people with disabili es in O awa for over 11 years.

Featuring

Makeda Lynn Mar n Execu ve Chef/outreach worker Mama Bear's Kitchen

Naila Saeed CEO

Paul Langlois Owner and Founder

Umair Khan President

EYES Child Care eyeschildcare.com

Langlois Journeymen Electricians

Pamir Canadian Mul culturalism Council pamircanadians.ca

Proudly owned and operated by Paul Langlois, Red Seal Electrician since 2014.

Langlois Journeymen Electricians has many years of experience in the residen al electrical market.

Umair Khan is the President of The Pamir Canadian Mul culturalism Council, a non-profit society founded in 2015 to promote public awareness of the opportuni es and benefits of an evolving mul cultural society in Canada.

Company Brief

mamabearskitchenquincy.com

Makeda is the execu ve chef of Mama Bear's Kitchen, a family run restaurant that is trying to find success by serving Quincy residents and families the best and freshest food.

Naila Saeed is the CEO of EYES Child Care with primary objec ve to provide children with a strong academic founda on while fostering their confidence and overall development.

langloisjourneymen electricians.ca

Franklin Epape Founder and General Director Benss

C O V E R

S T O R Y

Frankl i n Epape

A Visionary Leader Bridging Communi es and Transforming Healthcare

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Franklin is spearheading the implementation of a smart mobile clinic, a pioneering container-based solution designed to provide comprehensive patient care in collaboration with strategic partners.

Most Influen al Business Leaders to Follow in Canada

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eaders are characterized by their unwavering belief in themselves and others and their willingness to freely share their knowledge with all. They embody qualities of vision, innovation, and adept problem-solving, propelling organizations toward triumph through unwavering dedication, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to their objectives. Among these exceptional leaders stands Franklin Epape, a notable figure in the realms of entrepreneurship, community leadership, and construction. His narrative serves as a profound wellspring of inspiration.

Franklin Epape is the Founder and General Director of Benss, a home health care international cooperation that transcends borders. With a background as a teacher and experience in the medical domain, Franklin ventured into the challenging realm of healthcare, ultimately becoming a key player in the industry. He has not only run successful healthcare organizations in Canada and Cameroon but also expanded his operations to Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast, positively impacting countless lives along the way.

Bridging Communities and Transforming Healthcare Franklin Epape is a visionary entrepreneur and dedicated community leader who has founded the international healthcare cooperation Benss, expanding its reach across borders and employing nearly 50 individuals. His extensive community involvement includes co-founding SAAC, leading the Sawa Community of Ottawa-Gatineau, and contributing to organizations like CICAN and ACAO. As a politician, he initiated the MAKING HISTORY NETWORK and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Africa Development Network, organizing a groundbreaking summit to strengthen Canada-Africa ties.

Franklin’s inclusive leadership, commitment to mentorship, and unwavering dedication exemplify his profound impact on both the business world and the community.

Pioneering Healthcare Innovation across Continents Over the years, Franklin Epape has honed his expertise in the home healthcare industry, overseeing the operations of two organizations in Canada and Cameroon. His ambitious vision extends to expanding these ventures into Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast. With nearly 50 individuals directly

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Unlocking the Inspirational Success Journey!

Franklin Epape is driven by a transformative vision, and he rmly believes that his most impactful endeavor lies on the horizon.

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and indirectly employed, Franklin’s initiatives have led to the establishment of a crucial emergency service in Africa, the development of a robust clinic, and the acquisition of Canadian ambulances.

Moreover, his innovative platform facilitates the payment of health services by the diaspora, ensuring access to quality care for their families back home. As the next step in his groundbreaking journey, Franklin is spearheading the implementation of a smart mobile clinic, a pioneering container-based solution designed to provide comprehensive patient care in collaboration with strategic partners.

Fostering Unity, Empowerment, and Investment Franklin Epape is driven by a transformative vision, and he firmly believes that his most impactful endeavor lies on the horizon. In collaboration with the Africa Development team, Franklin is orchestrating a groundbreaking summit slated for November, poised to unite African delegations, esteemed high commissioners, Canadian ministers, and members of Parliament. This event will also feature accomplished African entrepreneurs who will illuminate their success stories, inspiring and connecting with the Afro-descent community in Canada.

At its core, this summit aims to construct vital bridges between Canada and Africa, bolstering the Afro-descent community’s empowerment.

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As a member of the Diaspora, Franklin is dedicated to reshaping the narrative, fostering a platform where the Diaspora actively supports and motivates investors to engage with Africa. Within the framework of ADN, he has cultivated entrepreneurship programs spanning incubation, pre-incubation, and acceleration, underlining his conviction that true community strength and financial independence are forged through entrepreneurship.

Championing Inclusivity and Growth through Leadership Inclusivity, empowerment, and continuous growth are the cornerstones of Franklin Epape’s leadership philosophy. He passionately advocates the principle that as one ascends, one must extend a helping hand to elevate others, fostering a collective journey of growth and prosperity. Franklin’s leadership is distinguished by his unwavering commitment

Franklin Epape has honed his expertise in the home healthcare industry, overseeing the operations of two organizations in Canada and Cameroon.

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to sharing knowledge and giving back to the community, firmly convinced that such altruism fuels personal and collective expansion. Guided by the virtues of patience and resilience, he embraces challenges as catalysts for growth, never wavering in the face of adversity.

Empowering Communities, Fostering Entrepreneurship, and Transforming Lives Franklin Epape’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship within the Afro-descent community stands as a cornerstone of his work.

Through innovative programs and initiatives, he empowers individuals to attain financial independence, bolstering both the Canadian economy and employment opportunities. As the General Director of the Africa Development Network (ADN), he orchestrates a networking platform that not only strengthens the Canadian economy but also forges robust connections with Africa and the Caribbean.

In his capacity as Director of Benss in Canada, Franklin’s journey commenced with a smallscale home healthcare agency encompassing a diverse array of healthcare professionals. Over time, this enterprise expanded into a substantial entity boasting a comprehensive emergency service, state-of-the-art laboratory, and pharmacy. Collaborating with specialists, including US dentists and cardiologists, exemplifies the breadth of Benss’ healthcare services.

Moreover, the groundbreaking ADN Summit he is spearheading represents an unparalleled endeavor, transcending boundaries by uniting the Afro-descendant community with the world over three transformative days of connection and empowerment. Franklin Epape’s tireless efforts continue to redefine possibilities and drive meaningful change within his community and beyond.

The Entrepreneurial Journey of Franklin Epape Franklin Epape’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by resilience in the face of formidable challenges.

He encountered the stark reality of launching Benss, facing a year-long wait for their first client in Canada, a testament to the initial difficulties. Yet, his unwavering determination prevailed, and the business not only survived but thrived.

Even in Africa, where he confronted the threat of losing ambulances, he persevered, ultimately achieving success.

Throughout his journey, Franklin has drawn strength from his supportive network of partners, friends, and family. His experiences underscore the importance of self-belief and tenacity. He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to maintain faith in their dreams, emphasizing that success is rarely easy and that resilience in the face of adversity is key.

Franklin’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of determination and a strong support system in overcoming challenges and achieving one’s goals.

Navigating Mentorship Mentorship holds a special place in Franklin Epape’s heart, as he recognizes its immense value on the journey to success. While he acknowledges that finding mentors can be challenging, he emphasizes the importance of continuous self-education and learning through reading. Franklin has been fortunate to have a trusted friend, the Director of Kroon Electric, who not only serves as a mentor but also offers valuable guidance and insights over dinner discussions.

Franklin emphasizes that “Having a mentor can offer you an objective perspective on challenges and opportunities.

They can help you to stay motivated and focused on your goals, help you to learn new skills and improve your performance, as well as provide valuable feedback and constructive criticism. If you are considering pursuing a new opportunity, your mentor can be a great sounding board. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision. They can also give you practical advice on how to overcome challenges and reach your full potential.”

Perspective

Leader’s

With over 15 years of dedicated community leadership, Franklin has relessly worked towards unifying the Afro-descendant community, striving for its growth and prosperity.

As an entrepreneur, Franklin ventured into various business endeavors, displaying remarkable resilience despite encountering setbacks along the way. While some ventures didn’t yield the desired outcomes, his persistence remained unwavering.

One notable venture was Assooh, an e-commerce business aimed at crea ng an African equivalent of Amazon. The pla orm sought to facilitate diaspora communi es in purchasing goods for their families in Africa. Although promising, the venture faced challenges and didn’t reach its full poten al.

Undeterred, Franklin shi ed his focus to SAAC, an African equivalent of Ne lix. This pla orm aimed to promote Afro-descendant movies worldwide, spanning across Europe, Canada, and the United States. Unfortunately, this venture also faced its own set of challenges.

Addi onally, Franklin established a prominent restaurant in O awa, Canada, offering a diverse menu of authen c African cuisine. The establishment was envisioned as a hub for both local and visi ng ar sts from Africa and the Caribbean, providing a space for live music and culinary experiences. However, due to unfortunate circumstances involving a partner, the venture met an un mely end.

Through unwavering resilience, Franklin con nued to invest in various businesses across Africa, ul mately leading to the successful establishment of Benss Healthcare.

The Key to Success:

Resilience

Benss Healthcare was founded in 2017 in O awa, Canada, with a mission to deliver high-quality healthcare accessible to all segments of society. This vision of community-oriented healthcare later extended to Africa, culmina ng in the establishment of Ben’ss Cameroon in 2021, situated in Yaoundé. The onset of the COVID19 pandemic prompted a shi towards providing healthcare services directly in the homes of pa ents, giving rise to “Benss Home Health Care.” This innova on allowed for personalized care within the comfort of one’s residence, a cri cal solu on during a me of restricted mobility.

Furthermore, Benss introduced an applica on that enabled the diaspora to financially support the healthcare of their families residing in Cameroon, providing a means for seamless transac ons and remote monitoring through electronic medical records.

The medical center, an integral component of Benss, offers an array of services, including medical and specialist consulta ons, physiotherapy, minor surgeries, prenatal care, hospitaliza ons, laboratory analyses, family planning, vaccina ons, childbirth, a comprehensive pharmacy, and a 24/7 medical ambulance service. The applica on facilitates access to medical reports and appointment scheduling, further streamlining the healthcare experience.

In Africa, Benss remains commi ed to delivering quality care at affordable rates, addressing a crucial gap in the accessibility of healthcare services. The unique feature of the applica on enables the diaspora to directly contribute to the healthcare expenses of their loved ones in Africa.

Core

Philanthropy

at the

At Benss, a significant emphasis is placed on community well-being. The organiza on regularly conducts complimentary health campaigns, priori zing the provision of top-notch care. In one such ini a ve in 2021, in collabora on with the Yaoundé Town Hall, over 500 individuals received free consulta ons from specialists, including ophthalmologists, den sts, and cardiologists. Addi onally, vital medical equipment such as walkers, crutches, prosthe cs, and wheelchairs were donated to benefit the local popula on.

Moreover, Ben’ss envisions the establishment of a school to train nurses, personal support workers, and paramedics, nurturing a skilled workforce to serve both Benss facili es in Africa and Canada.

Through these ini a ves, Franklin and the Benss team remain steadfast in their commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and community well-being, driven by a shared vision of empowerment and inclusivity.

From Peacekeepers to Mediators

CANADA’S Enduring Legacy in CONFLICT RESOLUTION

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anada has a longstanding reputation as a peacekeeping nation and a champion of conflict resolution on the global stage. From its pivotal role in peacekeeping missions to its efforts in mediating international disputes, Canada has played a significant role in fostering peace and stability worldwide. Further, we delve into Canada’s enduring legacy in conflict resolution, tracing its evolution from peacekeeping to mediation and highlighting its contributions to promoting peace and security in the international arena.

The Origins of Canada’s Peacekeeping Tradition Canada’s commitment to peacekeeping dates back to the mid20th century, when it played a pivotal role in the establishment of United Nations peacekeeping missions. In 1956, Canada made history by contributing troops to the United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF) in response to the Suez Crisis, marking its first major peacekeeping operation. Since then, Canada has been actively involved in numerous peacekeeping missions around the world, earning a reputation as a reliable peacekeeping nation.

Canada’s Role in United Nations Peacekeeping Throughout the decades, Canada has consistently demonstrated its commitment to United Nations peacekeeping efforts by providing troops, military observers, and civilian personnel to various missions. Canadian peacekeepers have been deployed to conflict zones across the globe, including Cyprus, Bosnia, Rwanda, Haiti, and, more recently, Mali.

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Canada’s contributions to peacekeeping have been instrumental in de-escalating tensions, protecting civilians, and facilitating peace processes in some of the world’s most volatile regions.

Transition to Mediation and Conflict Resolution In recent years, Canada has expanded its focus beyond traditional peacekeeping to include mediation and conflict resolution initiatives. Recognizing the changing nature of conflicts and the need for proactive diplomacy, Canada has increasingly engaged in mediating international disputes and promoting dialogue between conflicting parties. This shift reflects Canada’s evolving role as a mediator and facilitator of peace processes on the global stage.

Canada’s Mediation Efforts Canada’s mediation efforts have spanned a wide range of conflicts, from regional disputes to international crises. One notable example is Canada’s involvement in the Colombian peace process, where Canadian diplomats played a key role in facilitating negotiations between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Canada’s support for the peace process in Colombia helped pave the way for the historic peace agreement signed in 2016, ending decades of armed conflict.

Canada has also been actively engaged in mediating conflicts in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, leveraging its diplomatic expertise and impartiality to bring conflicting parties to the negotiating table. In addition to its direct mediation efforts, Canada has supported multilateral peace initiatives and provided funding for conflict resolution programs and capacity-building efforts in conflict-affected regions.

Challenges and Opportunities While Canada’s mediation efforts have yielded significant successes, they also face challenges and limitations.

Mediating complex conflicts requires patience, persistence, and a deep understanding of the local context, which can be difficult to achieve in rapidly evolving situations. Moreover, geopolitical tensions and power dynamics among conflicting parties often complicate mediation efforts, requiring innovative approaches and creative solutions.

Despite these challenges, Canada’s role as a mediator and peacebuilder remains crucial in today’s interconnected world. As conflicts become increasingly transnational and interconnected, the need for effective mediation and conflict resolution mechanisms is more pressing than ever. Canada’s diplomatic leadership, commitment to dialogue, and respect for international law continue to contribute to global efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts, uphold human rights, and promote sustainable peace.

Conclusion Canada’s enduring legacy in conflict resolution reflects its longstanding commitment to peace, security, and human dignity on the global stage. From its pioneering role in peacekeeping to its active engagement in mediating international disputes, Canada has demonstrated its capacity to make a positive difference in the world. As the challenges of conflict and instability persist, Canada’s leadership in conflict resolution remains indispensable in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.

Key Principles of Canadian Mediation Canada’s approach to mediation is guided by key principles such as impartiality, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Canadian mediators prioritize the inclusion of diverse stakeholders, including women, youth, and marginalized communities, in peace processes to ensure that the outcomes are comprehensive and durable. Furthermore, Canada emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, promoting human rights, and building sustainable peace through dialogue, reconciliation, and post-conflict reconstruction.

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Most Influen al Business Leaders to Follow in Canada

Navigating Financial Landscapes with Condence

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ttaining financial security and peace of mind is a fundamental objective for individuals, families, and businesses. It denotes a condition in which individuals can adeptly navigate the intricacies of financial landscapes, having the assurance that resources are readily available to address both immediate requirements and unexpected challenges.

World Financial Group has been a trusted partner in assisting numerous individuals and families in attaining financial security through comprehensive life insurance, retirement, and wealth-building strategies. The company is enthusiastic about extending its guidance to groups and individuals seeking financial empowerment.

Arti Chawla, the CEO of World Financial Group, takes pride in not only educating clients but also crafting customized strategies tailored to their specific needs. By imparting valuable insights into products and opportunities, she believes in empowering individuals to shape their financial goals, allowing them to concentrate on what matters most – creating a better life for themselves and their loved ones.

We follow a unique business model, leveraging a network of independent associates who offer comprehensive inancial solutions, including insurance, investments, and retirement planning.

the pursuit of a fulfilling professional journey, she encountered the limitations of the conventional 9-5 work structure, prompting a search for a more personally rewarding path.

Navigating through challenges in various occupations, Arti eventually discovered her niche in the real estate industry.

Within a remarkably short span of two years, she emerged as a top producer, achieving notable success and securing a respectable livelihood, with earnings exceeding $250,000 in real estate transactions.

Navigating through Challenges Having immigrated to Canada two decades ago with aspirations of building a prosperous career, Arti Chawla found herself quickly adapting to the Canadian system. In

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Arti stands out as an individual adept at navigating diverse industries with finesse and strategic insight. As a real estate broker, she established a significant presence in the thriving domain of property transactions with RE/MAX.

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Ar Chawla CEO World Financial Group

Not content with resting on her laurels, she embarked on a transformative venture into the financial industry with World Financial Group.

A Journey of Resilience and Adaptability Today, as the CEO of World Financial Group, Arti Chawla continues to bring her wealth of experience and expertise to the forefront. Her journey exemplifies a resilience and adaptability that has not only propelled her personal success but has also contributed to the growth and innovation within the industries she has ventured into.

Motivated by a deep-seated desire to protect individuals, families, and businesses from unforeseen risks and uncertainties, Arti Chawla, the CEO of World Financial Group (WFG), draws inspiration from the mission to provide financial security and peace of mind to clients. She is dedicated to assisting clients in navigating the complex landscape of insurance products, ensuring that they can make informed decisions about their financial well-being.

Creating a Unique Approach to Financial Services Under Arti Chawla’s leadership, World Financial Group offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services through its extensive network of independent associates. These offerings include Life Insurance, Retirement Planning, Investment Products, and Education Savings Plans for children.

Setting itself apart from other financial services companies, World Financial Group (WFG), under Arti Chawla’s guidance, boasts a distinctive business model. The company places a strong emphasis on financial education, recognizing its fundamental role in empowering clients to make informed financial decisions. Additionally, WFG is committed to fostering entrepreneurship, creating a unique approach to financial services that goes beyond conventional models.

Customer-centric Approach In the insurance industry landscape, technological advancements play an instrumental role in shaping a more dynamic, efficient, and customer-centric approach. As technology continues to progress, World Financial Group (WFG) is poised to witness further innovations that enhance its capacity to manage risks and effectively address the evolving needs of its clients.

Arti Chawla, having recently achieved the CEO level with an income exceeding $500,000, provides valuable advice to all in the financial sector. Her counsel emphasizes the importance of staying curious and humble in the dynamic world of finance. She underscores the significance of continuous learning as a fundamental asset and encourages professionals to embrace challenges, learn from experiences, and always prioritize the best interests of clients.

Testament to the Power of Perseverance Arti’s advice extends to the core values of integrity, emphasizing that trust is built on maintaining the highest ethical standards in all dealings. Building strong relationships, both within the industry and with clients, is highlighted as essential. She reminds professionals that success is a gradual process requiring patience and a longterm perspective. Arti emphasizes adaptability and innovation, urging individuals to embrace change, stay agile, and leverage technology to their advantage.

In her leadership role as a woman, Arti Chawla recognizes that her success contributes to breaking gender barriers and serves as an inspiration to others. Her achievements reflect not only individual accomplishment but also the potential for diverse leadership within the industry. As she continues to drive success at the CEO level, Arti’s journey becomes a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.

In her role as CEO, Arti Chawla demonstrates a commitment to these principles, driving World Financial Group’s mission to provide comprehensive financial solutions while prioritizing financial education and fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship within the organization.

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Adegoke

Most Influen al Business Leaders to Follow in Canada

Fola

Crea ng a Ripple Effect of Empowerment

Women, just like all the other sectors, have made significant inroads into the corporate world, disrupting traditional business models and creating more diverse and inclusive workplaces. Fola Adegoke, one of those women, has over twelve years of expertise in the finance, consulting, and telecommunications sectors across two continents. She is a pioneer in the cybersecurity field. Fola Adegoke is the visionary Founder of Winfinite Consulting.

Let’s delve in to learn more about her leadership: Reshaping the Industry Fola is an accomplished industry leader with over twelve years of cybersecurity experience that spans across the Finance, Consulting, and Telecommunications sectors across two continents. As the founder of Winfinite Consulting, she is on a mission to reshape the industry as a Cybersecurity Career Coach, leaving an indelible mark on the field.

Fola Adegoke has not only overcome challenges as a woman of color in a male-dominated field but has also dedicated herself to empowering immigrants to forge new paths in Cybersecurity.

Over the past two years, she has successfully guided 100+ individuals with no prior tech backgrounds toward

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emale leaders are driving transformative changes across a diverse range of industries. These inspiring women exemplify the importance of diversity of thought in fostering a more equitable society, illustrating that effective leadership transcends gender barriers. The experiences and resilience demonstrated by these women serve as powerful reminders that a path to development is defined by vision, passion, and unwavering determination.

My dedica on to mentoring others, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, has fostered a more inclusive tech industry and created a ripple effect of empowerment.

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rewarding Cybersecurity careers, making her a sought-after trainer and speaker. Her dedication to mentoring others, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, has fostered a more inclusive tech industry and created a ripple effect of empowerment. Fola has transformed immigrants’ lives by helping them change careers and find stability in Canada. A lover of dancing and quality family time, Fola’s achievements continue to shape the industry and inspire many.

She was recently nominated for “Canada’s Top Women in Cybersecurity” and named “2023 Top 100 Black Women to Watch Out For.” Her inspiring journey has been featured in The Guardian, The Vanguard Newspaper, and more, leaving an indelible mark in the industry.

Transitioning Individuals into Sustainable Careers Winfinite Consulting is a renowned institution dedicated to helping individuals across North America and Europe transition into sustainable, high-paying careers in cybersecurity. Its mission is to equip students with essential, practical, and hands-on knowledge and skills to succeed and lead in the world of cybersecurity.

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Fola Adegoke Founder and Lead Career Coach Winfinite Consul ng

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proactively participates in the cybersecurity community, fostering partnerships and knowledge exchange to support the growth and outreach of the organization. These efforts have not only expanded institutions’ reach but also delivered invaluable educational resources.

Fola’s inspiration to enter the cybersecurity industry stemmed from two key factors. First, she experienced the significant personal and professional benefits of working in this field, including high-income opportunities, remote work, work-life balance, and the constant intellectual challenge it presents. She wanted to share these advantages with others.

Second, Fola witnessed the industry’s skills gap and talent shortage, underrepresentation of women and BIPOC individuals in the cybersecurity industry. She also realized how difficult it was for people to transition into Cybersecurity. This inspired her to bridge this gap and become a strong advocate for diversity and equality within the field. Fola believes that by providing opportunities and support to underrepresented groups, the institution can create a more inclusive and innovative cybersecurity community.

Tailoring Individual Needs Winfinite Consulting offers a range of training programs and solutions tailored to help individuals with no prior IT experience start and advance their careers in cybersecurity through:

Winfinite has a vision to become the foremost institution for individuals seeking highly rewarding careers, transforming them into the most sought-after cybersecurity experts.

Fola’s role in the development and outreach of Winfinite Consulting has been pivotal. She founded the company with a clear vision of providing practical, hands-on training to individuals looking to enter the cybersecurity industry. Over the past two years, Winfinite has successfully assisted over 100 students, including immigrants and those with no prior tech backgrounds, in achieving fulfilling and lucrative careers in cybersecurity. It has become a trusted institution for career transition, and its success stories illustrate Fola’s commitment to helping individuals secure employment and thrive in this field.

Delivering Invaluable Educational Resources Fola has effectively conducted numerous free online masterclasses and developed adaptable and allencompassing training programs. Additionally, she

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Cybersecurity GRC Program: Its flagship program covers governance, risk, and compliance in cybersecurity, providing a strong foundation in these critical areas.

Career Support Services: Winfinite offers services like Career Mapping, Resume/LinkedIn Revamp, and Interview Prep to ensure students are well-prepared for job applications and interviews.

Prioritizing Hands-on Training What sets Winfinite apart in the industry is its commitment to student success through practical and hands-on training, lifetime access to training materials, post-training support, and a private digital community. The institution focuses on real-world experiences, ensuring that students are not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying their skills in the field. Its programs cater to a wide range of interests and aspirations within the cybersecurity industry, providing a comprehensive approach to career transition.

Several factors set Winfinite Consulting apart from other companies in the cybersecurity education industry:

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This includes integrating the latest cybersecurity tools, techniques, and best practices into its training programs. It also anticipates the growing importance of artificial intelligence and machine learning in threat detection and response and is preparing students accordingly.

Furthermore, Winfinite recognizes the significance of remote work and digital collaboration tools, and it is adapting programs to ensure students are proficient in these areas. As technology continues to evolve, the institution remains agile in its approach to providing students with the best preparation for the future of cybersecurity by adopting training programs that allow the institution to incorporate new content and tools as the industry evolves.

Striving Through Adversities Throughout Fola’s career, she has faced various challenges, and they have played a crucial role in developing her leadership skills. She faced numerous challenges.

Some of these challenges include: Hands-On Training: Winfinite prioritizes practical, handson training and industry tool utilization to prepare students for real-world experiences, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.

Inclusivity: It is dedicated to promoting diversity and equality within the cybersecurity industry, making its programs accessible to immigrants and individuals with no prior tech backgrounds.

Success Stories: Its track record of successfully guiding over 200 students into fulfilling and high-paying careers showcases its commitment to students’ success.

Instructors’ Expertise and Network: Winfinite instructors are subject matter experts with years of industry experience and a vast professional network with relevant Cybersecurity certifications, which ensures that students learn from a trusted and knowledgeable source.

Flexible Learning Options: Winfinite virtual live and selfpaced classes accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Its dedication to practical education, expertise, and up-to-date content are what make it a leading consulting firm in the industry.

Advanced technology is continuously shaping the cybersecurity landscape. As new threats emerge, the industry must adapt to defend against them. Winfinite Consulting is committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements to equip its students with the most relevant skills and knowledge.

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Navigating Regulatory Complexities: The ever-evolving regulatory landscape in cybersecurity demands a profound understanding of compliance frameworks and their implications. This knowledge is vital for maintaining compliance and minimizing risks. Fola’s proficiency in navigating these complexities has reinforced her leadership skills.

Keeping Up with the ever-evolving threat landscape and Technological Advancement: As cybercriminals constantly refine their tactics, staying up-to-date on the latest vulnerabilities and attack vectors can be challenging.

Continuous learning and staying up to date with industry trends are crucial in combating cyber threats. This has honed her adaptability and commitment to ongoing education, qualities she instilled in her students.

Balancing security and usability: Striking the right balance when implementing robust security measures while ensuring usability can be challenging. This has helped Fola demonstrate innovation and deep knowledge of both security principles and practical usability.

Complex Problem Solving: Navigating evolving cybersecurity threats is a top challenge in the field. It demands technical prowess, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving. This experience has shaped Fola as a leader, emphasizing risk management, composure under pressure, and informed decision-making, which are crucial leadership skills.

Navigating a Male-Dominated Field: The cybersecurity industry is predominantly male, and breaking into this field

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requires assertiveness, confidence, and the ability to command respect. These experiences have shaped Her leadership style, emphasizing the importance of selfassuredness and the ability to inspire and lead by example.

Through determination and resilience, she tackles these challenges head-on, empowering individuals and organizations to navigate the intricate landscape of cybersecurity successfully. These challenges have made Fola a more empathetic and understanding leader, helping her guide others through their own hurdles in the industry.

Building Stronger Foundation To aspiring entrepreneurs and enthusiasts looking to enter the cybersecurity industry, she offers the following advice: Cybersecurity is a field that demands continuous learning.

Invest in education and certifications to build a strong foundation of knowledge. Fola suggests building a Tech Portfolio showcasing projects, research, and accomplishments. Demonstrate industry experience by signing up to Capture the Flag (CTF) platforms such as TryHackMe, Hack The Box, etc. Explore industryrecognized certifications for entry-level or intermediate security professionals such as Certificate in Cybersecurity, CISM, Security +, or even ITIL. She emphasizes the importance of building a network of like-minded individuals and experts in the field.

Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are essential in the world of cybersecurity.

Practical, hands-on experience is invaluable. She suggests seeking opportunities to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios.

In the future, Fola sees herself as a leading advocate for diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry. She also envisions Winfinite Consulting becoming the go-to institution for individuals seeking to launch successful cybersecurity careers.

To scale the company’s operations and outreach in the coming years, She plans to focus on the following: • • • •

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Expanding its program offerings to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals.

Partnering with leading universities and colleges to offer cybersecurity programs to their students.

Investing in technology to enhance its learning platform and delivery.

Expanding the team of experienced and passionate cybersecurity professionals.

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Winfinite Consul ng has also been recognized by several organiza ons for its work in promo ng diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry. In 2023, Fola was: Awarded the “Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch of 2023 Nominated for Canada’s Top Women in Cybersecurity Award Featured as Guardian Woman in The Guardian Featured in Vanguard Winfinite Consul ng is proud of the work that it has been doing to help individuals transi on into sustainable, high-paying careers in cybersecurity. The organiza on is commi ed to making the cybersecurity industry more diverse and inclusive and is excited to see what the future holds for Winfinite Consul ng.

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How Canadian Innovation is Shaping the Future

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Tech Titans North of the Border

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anada has emerged as a powerhouse of innovation, with its tech sector rapidly evolving and making significant contributions to shaping the future of various industries. From pioneering advancements in artificial intelligence and clean technology to fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem, Canadian innovators are driving change and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

This article explores how Canadian innovation is shaping the future, highlighting the key players and groundbreaking technologies that are putting Canada on the map as a global tech hub!

The Rise of Canadian Tech Titans Canada’s tech sector has experienced exponential growth in recent years, fueled by a combination of government support, world-class talent, and a thriving startup culture.

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Canadian tech companies, often referred to as “Tech Titans,” have become household names on the international stage, with companies like Shopify, OpenText, and BlackBerry leading the charge.

Shopify, founded in 2006 by Tobias Lütke, Daniel Weinand, and Scott Lake, has revolutionized e-commerce with its user-friendly platform that enables businesses of all sizes to set up online stores quickly and efficiently. Today, Shopify powers over a million businesses worldwide and has cemented its position as one of Canada’s most valuable tech companies.

OpenText, founded in 1991 by Tom Jenkins, has become a global leader in enterprise information management, offering solutions for digital transformation, content management, and cybersecurity. With customers in over 180 countries, OpenText plays a critical role in helping organizations harness the power of data to drive innovation and stay competitive in the digital age.

BlackBerry, once known for its iconic smartphones, has successfully reinvented itself as a leader in cybersecurity and enterprise software under the leadership of CEO John Chen. With a focus on secure communication and collaboration solutions, BlackBerry is helping businesses and governments protect sensitive information and navigate the complexities of the digital world.

applications ranging from natural language processing and computer vision to robotics and personalized medicine.

In addition to AI, Canada is also making strides in clean technology, renewable energy, and sustainable innovation.

Companies like Ballard Power Systems, Hydro-Québec, and Carbon Engineering are developing innovative solutions to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions, positioning Canada as a leader in the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

Fostering a Vibrant Startup Ecosystem Canada’s startup ecosystem is thriving thanks to a supportive regulatory environment, access to funding, and a culture that celebrates entrepreneurship and innovation.

Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have emerged as hotbeds of startup activity, attracting talent and investment from around the world.

The Canadian government has played a crucial role in supporting startups through initiatives like the Startup Visa Program, which allows foreign entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada and build their businesses. Additionally, organizations like MaRS Discovery District, Communitech, and Invest Ottawa provide resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help startups succeed and scale.

Conclusion

Pioneering Technologies Canadian innovators are at the forefront of pioneering technologies that have the potential to transform industries and improve lives. One area where Canada excels is artificial intelligence (AI), with research institutions like the Vector Institute and the Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms (MILA) leading the way in AI research and development.

Canadian innovation is driving positive change and shaping the future in profound ways. From pioneering technologies like AI and clean technology to the rise of tech titans and a vibrant startup ecosystem, Canada’s tech sector is thriving and making its mark on the global stage. As Canada continues to invest in research and development, support entrepreneurship, and foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government, the future looks bright for Canadian innovation and its impact on the world.

The Vector Institute, founded in 2017 with funding from the Canadian government and industry partners, is dedicated to advancing AI research and fostering collaboration between academia and industry. Its groundbreaking work in machine learning and deep learning has led to significant advancements in areas such as healthcare, finance, and autonomous vehicles.

MILA, led by renowned AI researcher Yoshua Bengio, is another powerhouse of AI innovation known for its groundbreaking research in neural networks and deep learning. MILA’s research has paved the way for

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Most Influen al Business Leaders to Follow in Canada

Francine Long

Shaping the Discourse around Mining Communica on

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ocial media has transformed the mining industry by impacting various aspects, from communication and community engagement to marketing and recruitment.

Effective mining content often incorporates storytelling elements to humanize the industry. By sharing personal experiences, challenges faced in the field, and success stories, creators can connect with their audience on a more emotional level, making the content more relatable.

Francine Long, a Professional Geologist, became a pioneer in leveraging social media platforms for mining content creation, aiming to bring transparency, education, entertainment, and positivity to the exploration and mining sector. As the founder of her own company, she envisions becoming Canada’s top mining content creator, showcasing the industry’s fascinating stories and fostering a sense of community. While discovering the most influential business leaders in Canada, we came across her content on various platforms and decided to learn more about her leadership approach.

Below are the excerpts from the interview!

Kindly brief our readers about yourself and your professional journey so far.

I am both a Canadian and American citizen and grew up in Southern Ontario on a farm surrounded by lots of space and animals. As a family, we spent a lot of time traveling through Canada and the United States, camping, skiing, and hiking. It was great; we all saw a lot of the world at a young age. I remember, as a child, being fascinated by the natural world, dinosaurs, and glaciation; for example, I spent hours reading books. So did the marine world; it was natural to fall into a stream of science.

I started as a biologist, and my dream was to be a marine biologist. After the first year, I took a class on the history of

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life and decided to switch my degree to the Geology department at Queens University. The smaller class sizes and the professors we had hooked me. After graduation, I stepped into the world of the mining industry. My first job was with Vale, and it brought me to Northern Manitoba, where I started learning about the nickel and copper base metal industry. I moved back to Ontario, worked as a GIS Analyst in Toronto, and then moved to northern Ontario, where I now have spent the majority of my adult life living/working in these mining camps.

I was able to continue my passion for travel through my work and my personal drive, and I have been able to visit for either work projects or travel to many countries and cultures, 40 or so and counting. I can embrace cultures, and I make lasting relationships wherever I go. With social media now connecting the world, these connections are lifelong. I have a deep love of all animals; I love exercising but prefer solo exercising such as swimming, running, and hot yoga, which take a little less hand/eye coordination.

I love people and empowering them - making people laugh and building up the team skills I work on. I fell in love with the mining industry early on, the idea of building up mineral resources and creating wealth, as well as helping to establish good, meaningful careers in the communities I work in. I fell in love with living, working, and learning the history of these mining camps.

I have had some fantastic mentors championing me along this journey and met the most incredible colleagues. I specialized in resource geology and spent the majority of the last 16 years focused on building up resources for clients from around the world in various commodities (Gold, Silver, Copper, Zinc, Nickel, Rare Earth Elements (Scandium, Niobium, Titanium).

I spend a lot of time thinking about how to present and show the mining industry to all streams of the industry and beyond, be it to my everyday colleagues, to all

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shareholders/stakeholders in the company, or to other industries. The idea is to always bring everyone to the same page and continue working together on our exploration or mining goals.

Highlights of my career included two years spent in Eritrea, Eastern Africa, where, as an expat, I did everything from GIS graphics, planning exploration programs, building up resources, resource modeling, and training. Another highlight was working with the Cordoba team down in Colombia on a copper-gold resource.

Another highlight is that I am currently based in Bosnia Herzegovina and building up the exploration procedure set.

This has combined my love of creating content and putting it together into a detailed, proper documentation. I have always been relatively nomadic, and this became more so last summer. When I am not working or creating/viewing content, I am planning my next adventures.

Please tell us about your company, its mission, and its vision. What role did you play in furthering its development and outreach?

If a picture is a thousand words, what would a video be worth to my clients/potential investors?

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I started leveraging multiple platforms by creating heaps of what my vision was: Entertaining but also educational and motivational content with a bit of authentic edge. The vision behind this is that my posts would spark educational conversation and thoughts and motivate others to have a voice if they wish.

I had started watching #Linkedin in content as early as 2008 when, in the early days, it really was for trying to just ‘find a job.’ I would not end up creating my first post until ten years later (2018). It was about Oman because I had traveled through there and seen a picture of an arch. I knew we had also driven under.

I was at first extremely intimate about the type of content I wanted to post or what others would think about it,

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Francine Long Professional Geologist

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My company is still in the early stages. The idea came about when I was thinking about how to add validation to the Junior Mining Market. I felt the way of waiting for press releases to be distributed had become slightly out of date, especially when we now had access to SMART phones and the ability to leverage social media platforms at no cost but time.

I fell in love with the mining industry early on, the idea of building up mineral resources and crea ng wealth, as well as helping to establish good meaningful careers in the communi es I work in.

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I still laugh at myself about my week when the pandemic started in mid-March 2020 in Canada. There I was posting a published article I wrote about a few years ago and encouraging people that with a bit of freedom from day-today operation, this would be the perfect time to start tackling how to put your structural data together.

I just started posting, and the more and more I posted, the easier the posting got. I would have to schedule my posts, as I knew that posting too often or too frequently would flood my audience.

and it was not until later that year that I even learned what a hashtag was. What has developed now, especially in the last four years, has turned into a company with a mission and vision.

The mission is to provide transparency, education, entertainment, positivity, and humor into the Exploration and Mining Industry, and now I think beyond to Geotourism, Tourism, and Motivational Lifestyle Content.

What was your inspiration to step into the industry that you are now serving?

I have over 16 years of experience in resource development, technical knowledge, and a growing network of some of the best mining professionals/mentors in the industry. I was moving to Australia to work with a large mining company when the pandemic hit. By the summer of 2020, I accepted that the move was not going to happen. Everything was at a standstill in the industry, so I was left with no job prospects, and my intuition told me the industry needed something to keep us united. I also had to do something with my time and with limited resources.

I asked myself the question, “With the resources I have, what could I do best to help my industry through this new challenging time.” Turns out the answer was creating content. All I needed was my computer, phone, internet, vehicle, and my creativity.

By this time, I had a small #LinkedIn following, so I just started posting lots and lots of content.

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The secret about creating content is that the more you create, the more ideas you have. Nowadays, I have too many ideas for posts. At the same time, I was not sitting behind my desk anymore, building up resources. I started to use that extra time in the summer of 2020 to get out to the field as much as I could.

Going to the field when you live in a mining camp such as Timmins, Kirkland Lake, or Cobalt could mean 5 minutes away, or in Cobalt, a simple walk out the door. So, I coined the hashtag #boots-on-ground to explain what I was doing. I physically went out to various mining properties in Ontario camps and put my own #boots on the ground. Sometimes, that just meant going to Kirkland and driving along the Cadillac fault, taking photos of all the headframes and resources you pass.

In the past, they often didn’t have SMART phones, so my phone became my biggest tool. I started visiting mining claims and taking content (photos/videos) of what prospecting met and what is met to go to the field. What an adit was, what it meant to take bedrock samples. This grew and grew to what resulted to 1000’s of posts across multiple social media platforms and an audience that kept liking and encouraging my content to support continued growth.

“Without the supporting audience, I would not be where I am today.” #miningindustry has always worked well on #Linkedin, so that was a bonus. Many mining connections I either met in person, worked with, or heard of were on there, supporting me on my journey.

I watched #Linkedin change over the years from being just a place to post about jobs to becoming a leader in professional social media content.

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