WBE Canada Magazine - Issue 13

CELEBRATING SUCCESS:

4 Inspiring WBE Journeys

• Bramble Hill Farm

• Colibri Vanille

• Real Talk Creative

• Power WearHouse and Allied Therapy

MANULIFE’S COMMITMENT

RICH TALK

With Jamie Crump

Issue 13 | June 2024

WBE Canada's Summer Reads

Why Attend

WHY

MASSIVE VALUE

We get it - your time is valuable. If you are looking for maximum impact, insight and success, then WBE Canada’s National Conference is where you need to be.

ONE-OF-A-KIND EXPERIENCE

This year’s Conference takes place at the Delta Hotels Toronto Airport & Conference Centre to make your time with us as convenient and streamlined as possible. Book your accommodation early and enjoy all the amenities and services the hotel has to offer including restaurants, bars and gathering spaces. Without stepping outside, you can participate in the entire Conference Program, receptions, meals, social networking and this year’s extensive Expo.

UNPARALLELED INSPIRATION

Get a glimpse into the latest trends and critical game changers to remain relevant and get inspired for further growth. Hear the stories of leaders who walked the path before you and tap into the decades of their experience.

YOUR NEW POWER NETWORK

Spend two days amongst hundreds of successful women entrepreneurs, Fortune 1000 companies, champions of women-owned businesses, thought leaders and immerse yourself in unsurpassed growth potential. Our event is exceptional because of people like you! The rooms are filled with entrepreneurs and professionals who are focused on doing business together.

The 5 WHYs of Investing into In-Person Events

by Maryse Benhoff, President, BG Communications International Inc.

There are many reasons to invest into in-person events but for me, people do people far better than any software, email, or digital platform can or ever will. Electronic communication might be expedient, but it will never give you the sense of authenticity that an in-person meeting will.

It is clear to me that there are so many bonuses to meeting in person vs digital meetings. Here are my top 5:

1. TRUST: People trust what they see and touch and more importantly, buy from people they trust. Meeting someone in person often provides a more authentic and genuine experience compared to digital interactions. The ability to see and interact with the person in real life can create a sense of authenticity that contributes to trust-building.

2. CONNECTION: Another crucial reason is connection, people buy from those they can connect with. Meeting in person allows for genuine, human interaction, fostering deeper connections and understanding between individuals.

3. SHARED EXPERIENCES: People buy from people they have built a relationship with, and this is done by spending time with and having shared experiences together. In-person meetings often involve shared experiences, such as meals, activities, or events, which can create memorable moments and strengthen bonds between individuals.

4. PERSONAL TOUCH: In-person meetings demonstrate effort and investment in the relationship, conveying a sense of importance and respect that can leave a lasting impression on both parties involved. They also foster a sense of caring for the person or persons you meet.

5. DISCOVERY: In-person meetings still provide a sense of discovery that can only be found in person. Face-to-face meetings provide opportunities for individuals to discover common interests, values, or goals that may form the basis of a strong connection or partnership. Shared experiences during in-person meetings can deepen this sense of commonality and mutual understanding.

Finally, the quality of being human is what makes us great and contributes to our rich and diverse existence. Just as in any relationship, there needs to be some facetime and some face-to-face time to keep communication interesting.

IN THIS ISSUE

June

2024

Magazine Editorial Team

Judy Carswell - Chief Editor

Alexandra Roy - Marketing Manager

Contributing Editors

Judy Carswell, Jamie Crump, Maryse Benhoff, Cathy Munro, Rachael-Lea Rickards, Chantale Caron, Shelagh Stoneham, Stephanie Hovey, Pragya Pandit

Designers

Grassick Graphic Communications www.GrassickGraphic.com

WBE Canada Contact Details Editorial queries and submissionsmarketing@wbecanada.ca General queries - concierge@wbecanada.ca

WBE Certification - certification@wbecanada.ca Corporate Membershipcommunity@wbecanada.ca Partnerships - partner@wbecanada.ca

©WBE Canada, June 2024 ISSN 2564-4491 https://wbecanada.ca

TheWBE Canada Magazine is a quarterly magazine designed to connect ourcommunities, empowerCanadianwomen entrepreneurs and inspireCanada’scorporateandgovernment organizations in theirsupplierdiversity initiatives.

To subscribe to the WBE Canada Magazine, click here

5 MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EDITOR By Judy Carswell

6 NOURISHING NOVA SCOTIA AND BEYOND: Bramble Hill Farm

10 MORE THAN JUST A SWEET SUCCESS STORY: Colibri Vanille

15 MANULIFE’S COMMITMENT TO SUPPLIER DIVERSITY

18 TURNING PERSONAL PAIN TO PURPOSE: The “Real Talk” Journey

20 OPENING DOORS FOR WBE2WBE OPPORTUNITY: Power Wearhouse Inc. & Allied Therapy Collaborate to Create Solutions Together

23 RICH TALK with Jamie Crump

25 WBE CANADA'S SUMMER READS Featuring WBE Authors

28 WBE CANADA’S SUPPLIER DIVERSITY DAYS CROSS CANADA TOUR

32 UPCOMING EVENTS

34 NEWS AND UPDATES

Message from the Chief Editor

Whether virtual or in person, WBE Canada’s events provide invaluable opportunities to connect, engage in meaningful conversations and discover new partnerships never before realized, let alone dreamt of becoming reality. Coming together and sharing ideas steers us toward success.

WBE Canada Magazine is another platform to connect, be heard and learn about our community. From Corporate Members helping us understand the world of supplier diversity and inclusive supply chains to WBEs sharing their stories, their challenges and wins, to updates on upcoming events and important dates to mark on your calendar, the Magazine keeps you informed and involved.

In our Summer Issue we are excited to introduce four inspiring WBEs who share their journeys to success. Thank you to Cathy Munro, Bramble Hill Farm; Chantale Caron of Colibri Vanille; Rachael LeaRickards, Real Talk Creative and Shelagh Stoneham of Power WearHouse along with Stephanie Hovey of Allied Therapy for their compelling WBE2WBE story. From our Corporate Membership, Manulife updates us on their supplier diversity journey and Jamie Crump presents another insightful edition of RichTalk. With summer upon us, (with hopefully the promise of some “down time”) we have a great list of books we wanted to share with you as we celebrate WBE authors in “WBE Canada's Summer Reads”.

We are eagerly looking forward to our 2024 National Conference & Expo on November 13-14th in Toronto. As we celebrate our 15th Anniversary,

we would like to invite you to join us for two days that promise to deliver critical business updates, key conversations, discussions on topics relevant to all members of our community, and unparalleled networking opportunities, including this year’s Expo that will get you in front of decision makers, buyers and champions of women-owned businesses. And of course this year’s Excellence Awards as we recognize the accomplishments of our WBEs, celebrate the impact of corporate supplier diversity initiatives and applaud champions, change makers and leaders in supplier diversity in Canada. For information about speaker applications and award nominations, visit wbeconference.ca

I hope you enjoy this latest edition of WBE Canada Magazine. Our Fall Issue coming out September 18th includes our 3rd annual Holiday Shopping Guide. There’s still plenty of time to include your business as we get set for the upcoming holiday season. For more details click here.

Have a wonderful, sunny and safe Summer!

Judy Carswell

Judy Carswell Chief Editor WBE Canada

NOVA SCOTIA AND BEYOND

Bramble Hill Farm is a year-round greenhouse operation that produces a unique microgreens salad mix, bringing a fresh twist to a grocery staple. Owner Cathy Munro is new to a career in farming having left a path in fisheries science to pursue her dream of working in agriculture and entrepreneurship. Seeing consumers being challenged with issues like shelf life and boredom with simple lettuce choices, Cathy started a line of greens that are anything but boring. So before we go any further you may ask - what are microgreens? They are those first little shoots that pop up when you plant a vegetable seed - basically a baby vegetable harvested just before it grows into a full plant. And they are packed full of nutrients and bursting with taste!

Located in Pictou Co., NS, Bramble Hill Farm focuses on year-round production of microgreens which they wholesale to a wealth of independent grocery stores and fresh food markets in Nova Scotia. The greens are harvested Tuesdays and Wednesdays, packaged and delivered to stores on Thursdays. Harvesting and packaging is undertaken by a small staff of only three. Being a consistent supplier is key to building their wholesale business.

Expanding on their product line, Bramble Hill Farm recently introduced their Micro Garden, a unique DIY kit featuring functional packaging (reducing the need for additional plastic use) and includes everything to grow your own microgreens on a window sill or table top. Its ease of use, inclusive materials and intuitive design, reduce the barriers often felt by first-time growers. Still relatively new to the market, BHF is currently partnering with Sobeys throughout Nova Scotia expanding its availability for consumers.

Committed to community, Bramble Hill Farm stepped forward earlier this year to partner with Nourish Nova Scotia (NNS) a registered charity dedicated to promoting healthy nourishment for children and youth to launch the “Nourish Your Roots 2.0 Micro Garden Fundraiser". Funds raised go towards supporting school breakfast, snack, lunch and community garden programs. As a direct and immediate positive impact of the BHF/NNS partnership came the need for Bramble Hill Farm to expand its production capacity. The result is a copacking partnership with Summer Street Industries in New Glasgow, NS which creates and facilitates opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities - allowing BHF to scale its Micro Garden products

and create local employment opportunities with Summer Street Industries. A win-win across the board.

Bramble Hill Farm is a relatively new business having only established itself in 2019 but in five years they have created a thriving operation, created unique nutritious products supplying to independent grocery stores as well as a national chain in Nova Scotia, expanded to include online shopping for its Micro Garden, collaborated with Nourish Nova Scotia to promote healthy nourishment of children and youth and partnered with Summer Street Industries to provide local opportunities to those with traditional barriers to employment. Cathy Munro recently joined the Centre for Women and Business (CWB) in Halifax and took their advanced management program. In her own words” I realized that there is no ceiling, there is only what you set for yourself. I just needed a shift in mindset, to look at different products and different ways to serve my customers”.

WBE Certification is also helping Bramble Hill Farm open up doors….doors that Cathy didn’t realize were available to her business. The goal is to scale BHF nationally and Cathy knows there are lots of opportunities to work with larger corporations but those connections can be difficult to navigate on your own. Bramble Hill Farm has experienced great growth and armed with their winning formula of growing a nutritious, sustainable product, providing reliable, consistent customer service, forging collaborative and unique partnerships as well as looking ahead to new opportunities that WBE Canada Certification can provide, there is no telling on what shelves or on whose tables BHF’s “never boring greens” will arrive.

For further information: www.bramblehill.ca

Cathy Munro is the founder & farmer of Bramble Hill Farm in Pictou Co. The farm started in 2014 as a mixed vegetable farmers' market operation. Following market opportunity, customer needs and the desire to grow year-round, Bramble Hill build a greenhouse in 2017 and has since found a niche as one of the largest microgreen growers in eastern Canada. In 2023 Bramble Hill launched their newest product Micro Garden, a unique to market DIY grow kit.

MORE THAN JUST A SWEET

SUCCESS STORY:

SUCCESS STORY: MORE THAN JUST A SWEET

To understand the success of Colibri Vanille, you have to know Chantale Caron, its founder. Chantale started out roughly twenty years ago, raising ducklings on her farm in the heart of Quebec. Over the years her farm evolved as did her mission of ecoresponsibility and commitment to social and ecological concerns. A feminist, alter-globalizationist, Chantale has always been engaged in anti-racist struggles and class struggles, supporting organic farming and developing an eco-responsible business. Her passions combined with years as a farmer, resulted in the creation of Colibri Vanille, a business led by an all-female team crafting the finest vanilla extracts and vanilla paste straight from the pod, setting them apart as the pioneers of bean-to bottle vanilla in Canada.

Much like the bean-to-bar movement revolutionized chocolate, Colibri Vanille takes the same artisanal approach to vanilla, refusing to dilute their products with imported concentrates. Instead, Chantale forges direct relationships with vanilla producers across the globe,from the jungles of Brazil to Mexico, focusing on the quality and flavor of their products, using current methods to extract vanilla in the most efficient and natural way possible and bypassing middlemen to honour the diverse terroirs and the hard work of vanilla farmers. They pay producers the same price as they would pay to a local trader. The profit margin is not to give to two or three intermediaries, but to the procedure directly. Freed from the monopolistic yoke of local collectors and with the help of Colibri Vanille, producers quietly develop their products to bring them closer to the highest

international quality standards. Colibri Vanille is also concerned about the environmental impact of its activity and is constantly looking for ways to minimize its carbon footprint. The company uses ecological packaging and ensures that its production methods are as sustainable as possible.

“What sets us apart isn't just our commitment to quality, but our dedication to sustainability, responsibility, and equity throughout the vanilla supply chain. We're not just in it for profit; we're in it to make a difference, which is why Colibri Vanille is actively engaged in various global organizations advocating for the sustainable development of the vanilla industry” Chantale Caron, President, Colibri Vanille.

Colibri Vanille products can be found on the shelves of any IGA or Metro in Quebec. But their ambitions stretch far beyond provincial borders and they are on a mission to share the essence of true vanilla goodness with the rest of Canada and in the United States. Every jar of their vanilla paste or bottle of extract, consumers are not just getting a flavor enhancer, they are supporting a movement. A movement driven by passion, led by women, and fueled by a commitment to preserving the purity and integrity of one of the world's most beloved spices.

Earlier this year, Colibri Vanille certified with WBE Canada as a way to help move the business forward and develop new directions including exporting. Like most small businesses, gaining trust to secure funding and backing is always a challenge. Certification helps in establishing that trust, identifying and creating partnerships previously unexplored, and forging new relationships with other WBEs and opening doors to corporate and government procurement opportunities.

What’s on the horizon for Colibri Vanille? Chantale and her small team continue to search the world for the absolute best vanilla. Recently they undertook a global launch of Colibri Vanille's Maya ancestral vanilla, a rare and sought-after variety, incredibly fragrant and captivating. Taking Colibri Vanille globally is definitely a priority and expanding their product line beyond the traditional uses of vanilla to cosmetics and perfumes.

For further information: www.colibrivanille.com

Chantale Caron stands as the sole purveyor of genuine vanilla extract in Canada. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavor, she champions producers worldwide, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their treasure trove of terroirs. Before founding Colibri Vanille, Chantale Caron owned an organic farm, producing duck eggs, and ran a five-room bed and breakfast in her ancestral home in Saint-Roch-de-Richelieu, QC. A feminist and alterglobalist, Chantale is deeply involved in anti-racism and class struggles. She supports organic farming and the development of an eco-responsible business and helps vanilla producers to quietly develop their products to bring them closer to the highest international quality standards.

MANULIFE’S COMMITMENT TO SUPPLIER DIVERSITY

Why Canada’s largest insurance company believes diversity, equity and inclusion in all areas of their business – including suppliers - is fundamental to their success.

Over the last four years, Manulife has been on a journey to transform its supplier division to help address some of the systemic challenges faced by racially and ethnically diverse communities and individuals in Canada. The program, which Manulife refers to as its Supplier Diversity Program, has been so successful that it is now being replicated to become a fundamental aspect of their entire Global Procurement function.

Over the last few years, as a society, we have witnessed a moment of collective reckoning. To foster a culture of belonging and acceptance, we must view diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) not as a 'check-the-box exercise', but as a key differentiator and driver for our business success,”

says Pragya Pandit, Vice President, North America Sourcing. “As part of this, at Manulife, we are actively working to create strong partnerships with diverse suppliers in the communities where we live and work.”

Now in its fourth year, the Supplier Diversity Program has shown exciting progress. In 2023, Manulife’s diverse spend increased by 2.6% YoY in North America – up 4.4% from what was spent in 2020.

“It’s not enough for organizations to simply say they are committed to DEI; if you talk the talk, you must walk the walk,” continues Pandit. “By having tangible, actionable, and measurable goals, we can know if we are meeting our DEI supplier goals or if there are areas that need re-evaluation.”

As part of the transformation, several initiatives have been implemented to increase diversity in Manulife’s Global Procurement arm, including establishing a Supplier Diversity Office – a dedicated team of colleagues with a clear vision and priorities who work in close partnership with the Manulife DEI Council, HR, Marketing, and Community Investments.

Manulife has also embarked on a journey to improve DEI reporting. The organization has invested in data and analytics capabilities that enable it to accurately represent the number of diverse suppliers in Canada and across the globe.

They’ve also set up a dedicated Supplier Diversity Page on their website, which encourages suppliers to pursue opportunities with them, launched internal monthly roadshows, and embedded supplier diversity into KPIs for relevant colleagues.

“We are really proud of our journey and what we have accomplished so far,” says Pandit. “But we also know that we must – and can – do more. This is why we’re accelerating our efforts to help grow our current supplier base. In September, we hosted our annual Supplier Diversity Fair at Manulife's headquarters in Toronto, where over 300 suppliers were invited to connect directly with business stakeholders to help them better prepare to meet our business requirements.”

Manulife is a proud corporate member and sponsor of WBE Canada. They were a Finalist for Most Improved Supplier Diversity Program at the 2023 Excellence Awards and this year are proud to be a Lead Sponsor for the 2024 National Conference & Expo being held November 13-14, 2024 in Toronto.

Manulife’s unwavering commitment to a more diverse supplier group is not just a business strategy, but a powerful testament to its dedication to making a positive impact on the planet and the people who inhabit it. Manulife’s efforts are not only building a better business but also contributing to a better world, inspiring hope for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

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What if you could have the assurance that your translations are being performed by a human translator with specialized knowledge using state-of-the-art technology?

“Words travel worlds. Translators do the driving.”

Anna Rusconi

Let BG take the wheel.

TURNING PERSONAL PAIN TO PURPOSE: The “Real Talk” Journey

In April 2019, Rachael-Lea Rickards’ life took an unexpected turn through a random assault in the street, leading to a journey of severe panic, anxiety, and fear of leaving her house. Exactly one year later, Real Talk Candles was born, not out of a grand plan, but as a personal attempt to find solace. Rachael-Lea started making candles in her house, experimenting with scents and messages to alleviate the panic and anxiety that had taken over her life.

What began as a personal endeavor turned into a viral success, appearing on Indigo shelves within two months. Women lined up an hour before Indigo opened to get their Real Talk Candles, making them more popular than a Nike shoe drop!

What set Real Talk Candles apart was its ability to provide laughter during the pandemic, a time that was otherwise very scary. The journey evolved beyond candles into a community during the pandemic, offering more than just candles, expanding

to hoodies, journals, tumblers, pet wear and more. Rachael-Lea’s followers wanted more, and we began to receive request after request for corporate custom work, and hence, Real Talk Creative was born.

As Real Talk Creative is gaining popularity, corporate professionals crave that same authenticity in their company's gifting options. The demand for Real Talk Creative has soared as individuals seek to infuse genuine connection into their corporate gifts. And you'll sense the Real Talk Creative connection the moment you meet with Rachael-Lea, founder of this transformative journey.

Rachael-Lea understands the needs of corporate gifting; as a Director of Events and Corporate gifting for over 10 years, she knows what companies need and invites them to connect differently from the choices in the past. Whether it's candle classes for Team Building or creating a one-of-a-kind gift with our Real Talk Products, Rachael-Lea encourages

clients to try something different. Real Talk Creative, born out of a personal quest to alleviate panic and anxiety through candle-making, evolved into a beacon of authenticity. Rachael-Lea's genuine approach and innovative offerings redefine corporate connection. In a world where online collaboration has become the norm, it's now time to foster genuine connections with teams. Real Talk Creative stands ready to revolutionize how we do that, proving that it's not just about what you gift but how you gift it. “Real Talk Candles start conversations and always build connections.”

Conversations and connections are what led to Rachael-Lea looking into WBE Canada certification. Her biggest challenge is how to keep growing her

business. She still sees the impact from the pandemic and how people are reluctant or even not willing to spend the time to have real conversations. In Rachael-Lea’s words, WBE Canada offers her the opportunity to be amongst like-minded entrepreneurs and gives her access to a network of women and thought leaders who want to their experiences and are interested in her story. And of key importance - the chance to learn and have access to the support she craves as she takes Real Talk Creative to the next level.

For more information: www.realtalkcreative.com / www.realtalkcandles.com

Rachael-Lea Rickards is a BIPOC Torontonian, playwright, published author, social media pot stirrer and the Founder of Real Talk Creative Agency. The sister company of Real Talk Candles, which launched at the outset of the 2020 pandemic. From Rachael-Lea’s living room floor emerged Real Talk Candles, initially as comfort from the aftermath of a random street attack. As she grappled with PTSD, candle-making became her unexpected refuge. Soon, her candles ignited a viral frenzy, earning features in publications like Elle Magazine, The National, Today’s Parent, Toronto Life and Buzzfeed. Loved by Cityline, the Social and Breakfast Television, within just three months, they were lighting up Indigo shelves, catapulting Rachael-Lea into a whirlwind journey with no turning back!

Renowned for their witty and sometimes sassy messages, it was evident that people craved laughter. With a loyal following and clientele, requests poured in from clients such as RBC, CIBC, Henry Schein, MLE, MAC Cosmetics, and Mirvish Productions, among others. And so, Real Talk Creative Agency came into being.

The agency brings its trademark quick wit and originality to the corporate and event worlds. Alongside candles, Real Talk Creative Agency offers private and custom labels, wholesale, copy, video and audio creation, promotional merch, and the newest addition: “The QR Connection”. This innovative gifting program blends technology with custom gifts, enabling clients to craft audio and video messages. “I didn’t make it this far because I sell candles, I sell connection, and we need more of that!” says Rachael-Lea.

For a free consultation, visit www.realtalkcreative.com.

OPENING DOORS FOR WBE2WBE OPPORTUNITY:

Power Wearhouse Inc. & Allied Therapy Collaborate to Create Solutions Together

Power WearHouse Inc. is a health and wellness company that offers comfortable and stylish weighted wearables providing products designed for fitness and benefiting those with health challenges such as osteoporosis including their flagship product the Power Weight Fitness Vest and Power Weighted Belt. Power WearHouse Inc. plays a pivotal role in the field of fitness wearables, leading the way in a dynamic market by offering fashionable and functional items that support wellness and fitness.

It is often said that the best secret of success is to always be ready. Be ready to not only find the door of opportunity but also be ready to open the door, to step outside your comfort zone. With Power Wearhouse Inc. well established, successful in both its proven business strategy and product lines, it is no surprise that Shelagh Stoneham, its Founder and CEO, was suddenly presented with just such a door and behind it an incredible, collaborative opportunity…all thanks to an event hosted by WBE Canada.

Shelagh became a WBE Canada certified womenowned business to meet other like-minded, womenowned businesses, all interested in commerce with the guiding principles of empathy, cooperation and collaboration. While participating in a WBE Canada virtual B2B Matchmaker event in May 2023, Shelagh met Stephanie Hovey, Founder of Allied Therapy, another WBE Canada certified women-owned business and they immediately connected. Based in Nova Scotia, Allied Therapy offers accessible Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Behavioural Therapy and Physiotherapy services across Atlantic Canada.

Stephanie was familiar with Power WearHouse, inspired by the success of Shelagh’s Power Weighted Fitness Vest. Stephanie shared with Shelagh that she believed that a superior compression vest would provide much needed aid for 3 to 12 year olds living with sensory processing challenges. Soon Shelagh and Stephanie, after multiple conversations, realized that their shared solution-based passion and resolve of working with vulnerable populations was quickly

opening a new door of opportunity for them both.

Shelagh Stoneham has always been deeply vested in scientific research and had a solid belief that her company would someday move toward therapeutic applications. Allied Therapy’s knowledgeable team of dedicated therapists led by Stephanie Hovey had a unique vision - a weighted compression vest to assist with increasing attention, focus and self-regulation for children.

The result: Power Wearhouse Inc.’s ProPower Advantage™ Compression Vest that allows both caregivers and healthcare professionals to confidently tailor compression levels using an intuitive color-coded snap guide. Designed with children in mind and built on principles of Choices, Consequences, Consistency, and Compassion, the vest was launched at the American Occupational Therapy Association Conference in March of this year

to overwhelming positive response.

“My guiding principle for introducing a new product is that I would not do it unless there is a clear and meaningful higher level of excellence.” Shelagh Stoneham, Founder & CEO, Power Wearhouse Inc.

“We are so pleased with how the vest turned out. It’s fun, comfortable, and affordable. This vest is meeting a gap currently in the market and will make an impact on many Canadians with sensory differences. We loved being part of the research and development team for this exciting product.” Stephanie Hovey, Founder Allied Therapy

WBE Canada offers an unparalleled Toolbox of programs and resources for women-owned businesses in addition to

webinars, forums and educational series, but as Shelagh Stoneham and Stephanie Hovey will attest - never underestimate the power of engagement opportunities, whether virtual networking roundtables and matchmaking or in-person events such as this year’s highly successful Supplier Diversity Days cross Canada tour and WBE Canada’s 2024 National Conference in November. The key is to participate and show up.

“We often look so long at a closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.

WBE Canada is always prepared to open the door, possibly even before you are ready to knock.”

Shelagh Stoneham.

For more information: www.powerwearhouse.com www.alliedtherapy.ca

Shelagh Stoneham is Founder & CEO of Power WearHouse. These weighted wearables are known for their uniquely comfortable and chic designs. Power WearHouse products are available at major retailers across North America, the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation and through corporate gifting & incentive programs. Shelagh is an international keynote speaker and retail strategic growth advisor. Shelagh’s senior executive experience spans a broad range of sectors including telecommunications, packaged goods, retail, fashion, airlines and pharmaceuticals. She has served as the Chief Marketing Officer for several Fortune 500 companies in North America. Shelagh is a Director of the International Women’s Forum.

Stephanie Hovey founded Allied Therapy in 2019 to ensure that anyone in Nova Scotia has access to allied health services privately. Allied Therapy offers accessible Speech-Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Behaviour Therapy, and Physiotherapy across Nova Scotia.

Stephanie has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Masters in Speech-Language Pathology. In addition to countless volunteer projects, she currently serves as a clinical educator for Dalhousie University’s Speech-Language Pathology students, and sits as a Discipline Committee Member for the Nova Scotia College of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathologists.

withJamieCrump

Data in a Decentralized Environment

There is no getting around it, data is needed to drive a supplier diversity strategy. But the fact is that many companies have some area of the supply chain that has been cobbled together with baling wire and a Q-tip with data coming from multiple sources, none of which give you everything you need. So what’s a supplier diversity pro to do?

Decentralized procurement is usually in one of three forms:

1. Some part of procurement is done by the procurement group but anything part of the ‘x’ area (like IT or HR), or below ‘x’ dollars is handled by the business unit.

2. Direct products and services are handled by procurement but those indirect products and services of most any type or value are handled by the business unit.

3. Procurement is there in the background but only if you seek them out

First, you need to determine how many ways people can spend the company’s money. Engage a discussion with someone in procurement, IT, finance, accounts payable/ shared services and find out how suppliers get paid. It may be a purchase order, invoice request, p-card, requisition, expense reimbursement, all the above. Once you know how many possibilities there are (most companies have more than one), you know where you have to go for the information you need.

Next, request 90 days of data from each method. Make sure it is the same 90-day period from each method. It can be difficult to find the right person in technology to help you, and even more difficult to get your request in the long queue that most IT groups suffer with. If so, it’s time to ask for assistance from those people who ask you how they can help (see last issue The Power of Ask).

Now you focus on the data. This can be more difficult than it sounds. There will be all sorts of rabbit holes you can go down as you look at the data – people buying where they shouldn’t, people paying too much for something, etc. Stay focused and patterns and groupings will start to appear. Do not try to boil the ocean. Pick a couple of areas (people, departments, suppliers, spend categories) and concentrate on them. Start with areas where there are diverseowned businesses and work from there.

Til next time –

Jamie Crump, President of The Richwell Group

*Discount is available to new subscribers ONLY. *Discount is available to new subscribers ONLY.

WBE CANADA'S SUMMER READS

There’s nothing better than finally finding time to catch up on that elusive stack of books you’ve been wanting and waiting to read. The lazy, hazy days of summer offer the perfect excuse to take some much needed time to rejuvenate, relax and maybe crack open the spines on a couple of books you’ve been promising yourself you’ll get to…eventually. And if you’re looking for something new… we can help!

WBE Canada is excited to present the following list of books authored by members of our certified women-owned business community. From leadership, to time management, health care, self awareness and even culinary discovery we have a wide range of topics to grab your attention.

This is the perfect opportunity to get to know your WBE community while giving our celebrated authors your support and encouragement. Happy reading!

WBE Canada’s 2024 Summer Reads

THE 5-MINUTE RECHARGE: 31 Proven Strategies to Refresh, Reset and Become the Boss of Your Day

About: The 5-Minute Recharge will teach you 31 proven techniques for thriving at work and in life. Each of the 31 strategies is backed by research and includes additional resources to enrich your understanding of wellness and inspire you to care for yourself in quick, fun, life-affirming ways.

Find it: here

WORKDAY WARRIOR: A Proven Path to Reclaiming Your Time

About: Productivity expert Ann Gomez presents a fresh approach to smash today’s time challenges. We don’t need more willpower, discipline, or hours in our day. We need a practical approach to help us reclaim our time and upgrade our work habits and feel more in control of your time. Your work will never be the same.

Find it: here

Author: Addie Greco Sanchez, AGS Rehab Solutions Inc.

Author: Ann Gomez, Clear Concept Inc.

Women, Leadership, and Saving the World

About: For women in leadership fitting into the workplace can be personally costly, leaving you feeling exhausted, thwarted, and frustrated. Belinda’s book is a call to action for gender equality and equity in leadership and decision making. Fascinating research and interviews provide context for systemic gender inequality. But this guide also points to inclusion as the way to impact complex local and global problems and make better decisions.

Find it: here

The Preservatory

About: Featuring 150 full-colour photographs,The Preservatory Cookbook is a celebration of the pleasures of making your own preserves, living seasonally, and the myriad ways preserves can enhance your cooking every day.

Author: Belinda Clemmensen, Leader Coach Intensive

Find it: here

More Than Two: Cultivating Nonmonogamous Relationships with Kindness and Integrity

About: A modern topology of nonmonogamy’s many possibilities—and consequences—fully revised and updated for the tenth anniversary of the first edition. Co-authored with Andrea Zanin and with a foreword by Dr. Kim TallBear.

Find it: here

Just Go With It

About: Mandy Gilbert shares her journey to guide and inspire both new and established entrepreneurs alike, sharing hard-earned lessons on how to strike that perfect balance between managing your personal life, developing your people, and maintaining a healthy bottom line (all while making time to care for yourself).

Find it: here

Author: Lee Murphy, Plenty and Grace Co Ltd.

Author: Eve Rickert, Talk Science to Me Communications Inc.

Author: Mandy Gilbert, Creative Niche

Diabetic and Geriatric Foot Care Nursing

About: Maya Nathani has over a decade experience in healthcare and has trained over 100 nurses in the last 2 years in Foot Care Nursing. This book was written to help nurses learn about the different foot conditions in geriatric and diabetic populations and shows how to treat these conditions following the best practices and IPAC guidelines of Diabetes Canada.

Find it: here

Why Can’t I Just Be Me? – Remove the Masks That Hide You From the World and From Yourself

About: It is the rare exception for someone to feel truly at ease as themselves - no masks, no personas, no selfprotective habits. But for the rest of us, here is always an element of holding back, which drives feelings of isolation and disconnection. This book will help you identify what is getting in your way, guide you to break the patterns that hold you back, and get you to where you feel at ease dropping the isolating masks you've cultivated over the years.

Find it: here

Author: Maya (Bharti) Nathani, RPN, CEO and Founder of Universal Health Hub

Author: Melissa Dawn, Founder, CEO of Your Life

If you’re a Certified WBE and published author we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with us at marketing@wbecanada.ca

WBE CANADA’S SUPPLIER DIVERSITY DAYS CROSS CANADA TOUR

It’s been a whirlwind Spring as the WBE Canada Team began its 2024 Cross Canada Tour hosting Supplier Diversity Day events from coast to coast. After kicking off this year’s in-person series in Montreal, Quebec on April 16, we headed to Halifax, Nova Scotia on May 14, followed by Moncton, New Brunswick on May 16. After a short break, we were back on planes and on to Vancouver, British Columbia for June 11. Each of these events saw an impressive turnout, with approximately 80 participants joining us at every stop.

While each Supplier Diversity Day has its own dynamic and unique locale, there is one common denominator - the incredible communities in each province. Women entrepreneurs, corporate representatives, sponsors, and partner organizations come together to make each Supplier Diversity Day a resounding success, not to mention a lot of fun.

We’ll take a break over the summer and then we have two more stops on our 2024 tour: Winnipeg, Manitoba on September 16 and Calgary, Alberta on September 18. We look forward to connecting, bringing you the latest updates in supplier diversity, engaging in discussions around the challenges and opportunities for women-owned businesses in corporate and government supply chains, and of course, engaging in networking round tables as we bring WBEs and corporate procurement professionals together to do business.

Engaging with our community face-to-face allows us to foster stronger relationships and create more impactful business connections. The energy at these events is unparalleled.

Charli Law Jury, Interim CEO, WBE Canada

The importance of these events is underscored by statistics from various studies on women-owned businesses. WBE Canada’s own data shows that 64% of corporate buyers have a supplier diversity program in place, which includes a focus on womenowned businesses. (The State of WBE Certification in Canada: The Suppliers’ Perspective, published in June 2021, page 6.) These numbers highlight the significant impact and potential of women entrepreneurs in Canada.

“The feedback from our attendees has been overwhelmingly positive. They appreciate the chance to network in person, share experiences, and build lasting business relationships. And we are here to lead them every step of the way to grow their innovative businesses.” Jennifer Popowycz, Director of Certification & Community, WBE Canada

Thank you to those who joined us in Montreal, Halifax, Moncton, and Vancouver and to our sponsors and partners who helped make these events possible. It was amazing to meet all of you in

WBE Canada Community, Supplier Diversity Day Montreal, QC, April 2024

WBE Canada Community, Supplier Diversity Day Halifax, NS, May 2024

Danielle Barkman, Kelsey Balkwill, Charli Law Jury and Jennifer Popowycz, Supplier Diversity Day Vancouver: BC, June 2024

Charli Law Jury, Interim CEO, WBE Canada

person. For those of you in Manitoba and Calgary - we can’t wait to see you in September! And we hope you join us for our biggest event of the year in Toronto, November 13-14 for our 2024 National Conference & Expo as we celebrate 15 years of Inspiring Diversity and Inclusion in Supply Chains.

The participation and enthusiasm at our events underscore the importance of fostering supplier diversity across Canada. By supporting womenowned businesses, we contribute not only to individual success stories but also to a more inclusive and robust economy.

We are thrilled to welcome Danielle Barkman to the WBE Canada team as our new Business Development Lead!

Danielle brings a wealth of experience and expertise, having successfully collaborated with a diverse array of organizations across a widerange of industries in Canada. Her adeptness in strategic implementation has consistently propelled growth trajectories while nurturing connections in the private and public sector. Her track record of successfully navigating complex corporate landscapes underscores her ability to lead strategic initiatives effectively.

At WBE Canada, Danielle will lead business development policies and objectives to cultivate impactful relationships with our corporate partners and drive our mission and values forward.

WBE Canada Community during Supplier Diversity Days Atlantic Canada, May 2024

Kelsey Balkwill, Charli Law Jury and Ezgi Gizem Cagatay, Moncton, NB, May 2024

UPCOMING EVENTS

June

June 18 - Lunch & Learn: Learning Disabilities: Perspective Taking (Session 1)

June 19 - WBE Meetup with a Twist

June 20 - Lunch & Learn: Bringing it together (Session 2)

July 16 - Lunch and Learn: Summer Series - Navigating Workplace Conflict & Preparing for Hard Conversations

July 25 - Lunch & Learn: Summer SeriesThe Power of Storytelling

July 30 - Lunch & Learn: Summer SeriesESG for SMEs

August

August 8 - Lunch & Learn: Summer Series - Mastering Your Value Proposition & Essential Guide to Customer Journey Mapping

August 13 - Lunch & Learn: Summer Series - Procurement Training Program

August 22 - Lunch & Learn: Summer Series - High Pressure Communication & Collaboration for Business Success

Sept 11-12 - Supplier Diversity Toolkit Workshop

September 16 - Supplier Diversity Day: Winnipeg, MB

September 18 - Supplier Diversity Day: Calgary, AB

September 18 - WBE Meetup

September 25 - Open Office Call – WBE

September 25 - Open Office Call – Corporate Member

WBE CANADA ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION NEWS & UPDATES

WBE Canada Announces Leadership Transition

May 7, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Toronto, ON, May 7, 2024 – The Board of Directors of WBE Canada is sharing today that effective immediately, President and CEO Silvia Pencak will be moving on to other opportunities. Under Silvia’s leadership, WBE Canada has grown exponentially and developed into the organization it is today, connecting hundreds of women-owned businesses to procurement opportunities and helping corporations and governments deliver on their supplier diversity commitments.

The Board of Directors would like to thank Silvia for her leadership and wish her all the best in her future endeavours. While a search for a new President & CEO is conducted, Charli Law Jury, Director of Finance and Operations will take on the role of interim CEO – any inquiries should be directed to Charli. A permanent successor for Silvia will be announced in due course.

Our operations will continue as normal, any obligations for any delivery of services will still be met. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Thank you for your continued support/partnerships and business relationships with WBE Canada!

WBE Canada Board of Directors

JUNE 11, 2024 SUPPIER DIVERSITY DAY: VANCOUVER, BC

Check it out

MAY 15, 2024 MENTORSHIP BREAKFAST

Read the full announcement here

2024 SUPPLIER DIVERSITY DAYS CROSS-CANADA TOUR

IN PERSON

MONTREAL, QC - April 16

HALIFAX, NS - May 14

MONCTON, NB - May 16

VANCOUVER, BC - June 11

WINNIPEG, MB - Sept 16

CALGARY, AB - Sept 18

VANCOUVER, BC

AB

MONTREAL, QC

HALIFAX, NS

MONCTON, NB

WINNIPEG, MB

wbecanada.ca/membership