Recent Graduate Award

Amid the challenges of the pandemic, Helen Smith, BA '12, emerged as a beacon of creativity and resilience.

As a dedicated mother and an inspiring entrepreneur, Smith founded Roo & You, a company that has brought joy to countless families and ascended to the forefront of her industry in Canada. Inspired by her sons’ imaginative play with couch cushions, Smith designed “The Joey,” a modular play couch that seamlessly blends style with functionality.

Under Smith’s leadership as CEO, Roo & You has thrived, propelled by self-funding, enthusiastic word-of-mouth, strategic social media engagement, and one of the longest pitches in the history of the television program Dragons’ Den. The company now stands as Canada’s largest manufacturer of modular play couches for children.

Over the past two years, Roo & You has partnered with iconic brands such as Batman, Barbie, Harry Potter, and Elf on the Shelf, driving impressive growth. Notably, the company’s new Play Mat, released in May 2024, sold out in just ninety minutes.

In 2023, Roo & You earned the prestigious Canadian Small Business of the Year Award from CanadianSME Small Business Magazine and RBC. Smith is also a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Award and the Small Business Owner of the Year at the Wonder Woman Awards.

Smith’s journey as an entrepreneur and her lived experience as an immigrant fuels her passion for inclusivity. She is dedicated to empowering women, especially women of colour, to assert their rights and amplify their voices.

“Helen often credits her education, particularly at King’s, for shaping her into the person and leader she is today. At King’s, she discovered her learning difficulties, and the support she received from the faculty and staff profoundly altered the course of her life,” says her husband, Matthew Smith, BA '10, who nominated her for this award.

While at King’s, Helen Smith worked with the Women’s Interval Home and continues to support organizations such as Mamas for Mamas and the Canadian Down Syndrome Society. Roo & You has generously contributed to the King’s Alumni Golf Tournament in support of student scholarships. Smith remains actively involved with King’s, volunteering as a mentor during Homecoming, participating in the Entrepreneur’s Club panel, and speaking at various student events.

“Helen is the creative force behind Roo & You, leading innovation, design, and product development. Her maternal instincts drive her to fiercely protect her family, team, and the Roo & You community. Witnessing her vision unfold has been an immensely rewarding experience,” says Matthew Smith, COO of Roo & You.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Helen’s remarkable success with Roo & You. Her dedication and creativity have built a thriving business, all while she continues to give back to the community and volunteer at King’s,” says Holden.