Canadian Small Business Women

Connection, Synergy, Community

10 things to ask before hiring a marketing agency

The decision to hire a marketing agency vs doing things on your own is a decision that causes a lot of grief for many business owners and experts. There are a lot of factors that go into making this decision. In the end, you need to do what is best for your business. This will often boil down to what will help you reach your goals more efficiently.

Once you have decided to work with a marketing agency, the next challenge is finding the right one for you. There are a lot of marketing agencies out there. While they may offer the same or similar services, it’s important to know how to figure out what makes them different and what factors are important for your business.

Here are 10 things you should ask before you make your decision about working with a marketing agency.

What are their core capabilities and skill sets?

While some larger agencies may be able to offer a truly full-service marketing agency, most agencies choose to specialize in a core offering of services. In order to provide more of a one-stop-shop, many of these agencies will either partner with third parties to fill out their services or they will hire contract workers on an as-needed basis. None of these three options is a bad option, however, it’s best if an agency is transparent with you so you know how they operate.

Working with a larger agency comes with a higher price tag, so working with a small or mid-sized marketing agency can be a more attractive option in terms of budget. You just need to make sure you know how they operate.

Who will be working on your account?

How many times have you heard that someone hired a marketing agency because they initially spoke with someone senior only to have a junior person put in charge of their account once you signed a contract. You should know who you will be working with before you even sign a contract. Find out who your main point of contact will be, who will be running point, and who will be executing the day-to-day management of your account.

How well does the marketing agency know your industry and target audience?

Everyone has to start somewhere, but sometimes you want to hire someone who is an expert in what you need. Find out whether the marketing agency you are speaking with has ever worked with clients in your industry or even complementary industries.

Perhaps even more important, how familiar are they with your audience? Do they have experience connecting with them using different strategies and techniques?

What client successes do they have?

You will be hard-pressed to find any legitimate marketing agency that won’t provide you with case studies so you can see some of the work that they have done. Most are also not shy about talking about awards and nominations if given the opportunity. That is how you know they will take pride in the work they do for you!

Have there been any client setbacks in terms of not meeting outcomes? Why?

This is a tricky one because no one likes to talk about failure. However, a great agency will tell you when they have worked on a similar campaign and found things that didn’t work. For example, we have done a few media campaigns where after pitching, we found that the spokesperson wasn’t as readily available for comment as we thought. This made it challenging to secure as much media coverage as we had intended. To ensure that this doesn’t happen moving forward, we are always very clear on

Do you like the people you would be working with?

This one is pretty subjective because it is based more on your gut feelings about a person. The reality is, if you feel uncomfortable with someone, you likely won’t have great communication with them. An agency – client relationship should be based on trust and transparency, so it’s important for you to feel comfortable with the team you will be working with. A great marketing agency should be able to push you outside of your comfort zone to get you the best results possible. In order for you to take those steps, trust is a key factor.

How well do they listen to do you?

Taking things a step further from the previous question, your relationship with a marketing agency should be a give and take. You want to make sure that the agency you choose listens to you and makes suggestions based on your conversations and overall business goals rather than taking you in a completely different direction with no explanation. We have also spoken to countless clients who worked with agencies in the past that have just asked what services they want rather than making suggestions based on what they need. A great marketing agency will listen to your overall goals and point you in the right direction so you can get their more efficiently.

How often will the agency do status updates?

Certain projects will require a more hands on approach while others won’t need as much ongoing communication. Talk to your agency to clarify how often you will be connecting with them for updates. For some, weekly updates are great, while others a monthly report and clarifying call works fine. It is a balance between what you are comfortable with and what the agency feels is necessary for your project.

What extra costs will there be?

Always beware of hidden costs. From printing to shipping, fees for paying expenses internally vs paying yourself, and everything in between, always ask if there will be extra fees that could come up. Some projects are more obvious than others.

How will results be measured?

Each project is so different, so it is good to make sure you are on the same page as your marketing agency when it comes to defining success and how you will figure out when you get there. KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) should be seen as a guide, realizing that some projects are harder to measure than others.

BONUS: RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR

When it comes to working with a marketing agency, you should always steer clear of people that will say anything to make the sale. A few things that make me cringe are:

  • “We can do everything” or “we are good at everything” – chances are, they likely excel in certain areas and don’t do other things well. You don’t want to be caught hiring them for the things they don’t do well.
  • “We can guarantee results!” This one is one we hear often. Nobody can really tell you what the future looks like. Most professionals make educated guesses based on known audience behaviour. You also want to make sure that they aren’t just going for the “low hanging fruit” to get you “results” rather than putting together a robust strategy for you.
  • “We charge based on results.” This is a tricky one. As someone who is extremely results driven, I absolutely understand the sentiment behind this. However, there is a lot of work that goes into getting those results. You are paying for the strategy, the expertise, and the hours of work that will be put into achieving success. Do you want to work with someone who doesn’t even value their time?

Hiring a marketing agency can be a tough decision, but there are factors that can make it easier for you to move forward.

​Candace Huntly is Founding Partner at SongBird Marketing Communications, an award-winning agency working to take organizational and individual brands to the next level. With a passion for all things related to creativity and strategy, she specializes in business intelligence, marketing & branding, content strategy & development, media & influencer relations, and social media. Basically, if you need to put your brand, product, or cause in the public eye, she will find a way to do it, while making the approach unique to you.

Connect with Candace

Sign up for our free 20-minute consultation and we’ll help you figure things out.

A version of this article was originally posted to the SongBird Marketing Communications blog.

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5 ways to reach Millennials on social media

At the start of 2020, over there were over 3.8 billion active social media users in the world. While 90% of Millennials consider themselves active social media users, 79% of Millennials use social media multiple times per day, choosing to spend their time on multiple platforms. Instagram and Facebook are the most popular social media platforms, but how can you use this information when you are marketing to Millennials on social media?

Here are 5 ways to use social media to connect with Millennials.

Focus on what they care about

Causes and brand values have become even more important in today’s socioeconomic climate. The fact that over 60% of Millennials want their actions to make a difference because they are worried about the state of the world says it all. Every day there are renewed calls for brands to step up and support causes that are important – and do it in a way that isn’t performative. Performative means that you are doing it because it’s something your brand believes in, not just because you think it will sell more products. If you are trying to connect with Millennials, note that 8 in 10 Millennials want their beliefs and values to align with brands they buy from. Social media is a great way for you to connect with them on a deeper level.

Focus on creating a great brand experience

It’s well documented that Millennials are generally more interested in investing in experiences rather than owning things. You need to take this into account when you are building your social media strategy. Think about creating great brand experiences whether it’s through unique and interactive content, interactive contests, or even great takeovers with their favourite social media creators.

Be present. Be social

If you are going to be on social media and you want to connect with Millennials, you need to make sure that you are consistently present and interacting with your community. It’s never a good approach to ignore comments and messages as a brand, but Millennials will lose interest even more than other age groups if you don’t respond in a timely fashion. And the idea is that you should keep it social. While the majority of Millennials are on social media, one third feel that it has a negative impact on their lives. You need to find ways to add value rather than add to the negative feelings.

User Generated Content

If nearly half of Millennials are more likely to trust a complete stranger over your ads on social media, you should consider implementing both an influencer strategy as well as a strategy to share User Generated Content (UGC). If you are concerned that your followers won’t be interested in posting content that features your brand, consider that 44% of Millennials are interested in promoting brands on social media – especially in exchange for some sort of reward. Your challenge is how to introduce UGC into your strategy in a meaningful way.

Social Commerce

Retail is constantly changing and it was only a matter of time before social media created more robust ways for brands to sell through each platform. Judging by the way Millennials interact with brands and discover and perpetuate trends on social media, I’m only surprised it didn’t come sooner. Millennials have huge buying power and are expected to spend $1.4 trillion in 2020. Paired with the fact that almost 60% explore trends on various social media platforms, social commerce has huge potential.

Candace Huntly is Founding Partner at SongBird Marketing Communications, an award-winning agency working to take organizational and individual brands to the next level. With a passion for all things related to creativity and strategy, she specializes in business intelligence, marketing & branding, content strategy & development, media & influencer relations, and social media. Basically, if you need to put your brand, product, or cause in the public eye, she will find a way to do it, while making the approach unique to you.

Connect with Candace

Sign up for our free 20-minute consultation and we’ll help you figure things out.

A version of this article was originally posted to the SongBird Marketing Communications blog.

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How To Grow Your Side Hustle: Four Top Tips

According to new research, the Canadian side hustle is on the rise.

The study by Vistaprint revealed that almost one-quarter (22%) of Canadians have already turned a creative hobby into a side hustle, while a further 60 percent aspire to do so in the future.

Despite many of these side hustles starting out small as a creative interest or hobby, they don’t have to stay small. In fact, of the respondents surveyed, over one-third (38%) hope to grow their business in the coming year.

But where do you begin if you are trying to grow your side hustle? Vistaprint asked successful side business owners for their top tips:

 

Identify growth opportunities

The side hustlers surveyed suggest focusing on the tasks that generate the most cash, as well as setting long-term goals. Looking ahead will help you take your business to the next level, as well as providing perspective on what products or strategies really bring in the most revenue.

You can start by focusing on the tasks that require the least effort but provide the most impact. This might mean scheduling social media posts which drive new sales, rather than responding to low-priority emails, or attending a networking event instead of redesigning a webpage which doesn’t get many visits. Working this way means that you’re less likely to get bogged down by tasks that don’t translate into revenue.

If your ultimate goal is to take your side hustle full-time, identify how much money you will need to be making each month to make that a reality, and brainstorm ideas for reaching that goal. Whether it’s expanding your product line or setting time aside to create a marketing plan, getting a clear idea of ways to grow your revenue will help create a realistic growth timeline.

If taking on more work isn’t a reality right now, creating long-term goals will still push your business into the next stage of growth. Whether you’re hoping to hire your first employee or redesign your website, having these objectives in mind will keep you focused on growth opportunities. Setting challenging, yet achievable goals will also help you feel motivated as you track your progress.

 

Get social media savvy

Social channels like Facebook and Instagram create great opportunities for growing your client base, so building a social media presence for your business is key.

It’s not just about promoting your products online, though. Make sure you create authentic two-way conversations with your customers and share content that they find engaging. A great way to test this is by monitoring your likes and comments on different posts to identify those that get the best response and engagement from your audience, then adapting your social media strategy accordingly.

If you’re not sure about what to share on social media, consider launching a blog where you can answer your customer’s questions. Quality is key here – focus on creating helpful, relevant posts rather than just writing several blog posts a week. If you’re not a natural writer, consider vlogging. You can create short videos about day-to-day life at your business, helping customers connect with your brand.

Facebook is also a great place to build a bank of positive reviews. Most customers are happy to leave a social media review if they are happy with your service – the key is asking for them!

 

Network with like-minded business owners

Networking with other successful business owners is a great way to motivate yourself and build a community to reach out to when you need advice.

Check out networking events in your local area you can attend, and have your business pitch ready, just in case! Brush up on your business card etiquette and be ready to hand out as many business cards as possible. After the event, go through all the business cards you collected and connect with people you met on LinkedIn, or email them to arrange another meet-up.

Keep in mind that networking is a two-way street – ensure you’re willing to help others as well as getting advice and support yourself.

 

Make sure it’s something you enjoy

A side hustle is the perfect opportunity to turn your passion into an income stream, and with more than one-third (38%) of Canadians reporting being unable to find a job related to their interests, it’s no surprise that more and more Canadians are turning a creative hobby into a business.

That said, there’s no denying that having a side hustle means putting in extra hours. In fact, the average Canadian side hustler spends 14 hours per week working on their business. This means that it’s especially important that you enjoy what you’re doing. Late night emailing, after hours brainstorming and cutting into your free time for work events won’t feel like such a chore if you’re truly passionate about what you’re building.

Your customers will respond to this passion for what you do – whether it’s spending more time curating your product line, or providing outstanding customer care, it won’t go unnoticed. Your enthusiasm will encourage customers not only to come back to your business in the future, but also to recommend your products or services to friends and family.

 

By scaling up your side hustle and taking steps to build your online and offline presence, you’ll find it easier to reach long term goals and transition from side hustler to full-time entrepreneur.

By Erin Shea, North American Market Lead at Vistaprint.

Vistaprint is the leading provider of customizable printed and digital marketing materials, empowering millions of Canadian small businesses of any kind to market themselves professionally and affordably.

Co-Author A Book With Us!

Co-Author With Us

Share Your Inspirational Story in A Collaborative Book

ABOUT THE BOOKS
Book 1:
This book is all about inspiration and about changing the narrative of immigrant women world-wide. Learn about these women and how they overcame obstacles, paved pathways and found the courage to do what some thought was the impossible. The goal of this publication is to inspire women all over the world who thrive to become entrepreneurs.
Book 2:
This book is all about inspiration and about changing the narrative of all female entrepreneurs world-wide. Learn about these women and how they overcame obstacles, paved pathways and found the courage to do what some thought was the impossible. The goal of this publication is to inspire women all over the world who thrive to become entrepreneurs.
ABOUT YOUR LEAD AUTHOR
Dwania Peele is the Owner and Executive Director of Canadian Small Business Women. A lover of entrepreneurship, volunteering and networking, Dwania strives to inspire aspiring and current entrepreneurs in Canada. While having a Chemistry and Political Science training and education, Dwania is an entrepreneur at heart and has started 2 successful businesses since 2008. In 2013, Canadian Small Business Women began serving as a platform for aspiring and current small business women of Canada. Through e-courses, blogs, online chats, Seminars and Expos, CSBW provides avenues for entrepreneurs to showcase their expertise. Dwania continues to make an impact by appearing as guest speakers at various entrepreneur events and by guest appearances on Panels across the GTA to provide valuable insight to those in need.
WHY YOU?
If you are a woman who runs a successful business and have a story that is sure to inspire, then we would love to hear your story. So, you don’t think you are an author, not to worry. Just write your story. We have an editor on deck who will make it all seamless.
HOW WILL THIS WORK?
Requirements:
  • Submission Length: 15 – 20 pages, single spaced, Arial, 12pt
  • Material: 3 photographs – one being a headshot
  • Submission Deadline:
    • Book 1 Immigrant Women: September 30th, 2019
    • Book 2 Female Entrepreneurs: January 15, 2020
  • Submission Medium: Word Document
  • Investment: (to cover marketing materials and initial print costs): $100
  • Submit all requirements to info@canadiansmallbusinesswomen.ca
MARKETING:
  • Launch Date:
    • Book 1: Christmas Season 2019
    • Book 2: March 2020
  • Launch will include exclusive book signing and presentation
  • Author expectations
    • Promotions to your network leading up to book launch date for both Amazon online sales and in person book launch. Our goal is to build interest for an *Amazon 1 day selling rally to make it to the Amazon Best Selling List
    • Social media promotions, email promotions to your network encouraging them to come and see you and your co-authors at the Immigrant Women’s *Small Business Expo to take part in the exclusive book signing
  • We will provide all promotion and marketing material for the book which includes author specific marketing material
  • You will be able to purchase copies of the book at cost to sell to your network
Join us for this unique opportunity to tell your story.
Email us at info@canadiansmallbusinesswomen.ca for more details!

Important Announcement

Dwania McLarty- Peele, founder and Executive Director of Canadian Small Business Woman took to social media to apologize after cancelling her scheduled annual Immigrant Women Small Business Expo in Toronto .

 A couple of  months prior to the scheduled event, Dwania was diagnosed with breast cancer after discovering lumps in her right breast. The tumors have since been removed and she is now undergoing various tests to assess what measures will be taken next.  “This decision was made with a heavy heart,” said Dwania Peele. “I wouldn’t host an event if I couldn’t do it at my absolute best. Right now I have to focus on my health and well being.” Ms.Peele is in good spirits stating

“This is out of my control. I am alive, able bodied and I’m spending a great deal of time with my family and friends. I’m not going to say that cancer has changed my life for the better. However; this disease made me far more patient, and gave me yet another cause to fight for.”

Dwania has been in communication to those who have been a part of Canadian Small Business Women throughout the years. She sends her deepest apologies to all the supporters of Canadian Small Business Women for any inconvenience this might cause. She is heart-broken to have to cancel this Expo. She sends her gratitude to participating vendors, sponsors, speakers, special guests, staff, attendees, and those who’ve helped behind the scenes with putting this event together.

 Candian Small Business Women will continue to operate as a hub for women to support, network, and grow together. Dwania Peele looks forward to a speedy recovery and being back on the conference floor for 2020.

In support of changing the future of Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Research,  Canadian Small Business Women invites you to support CIBC Run For The Cure. We invite you to run or walk with us on October 6th, 2019 in Toronto. With 1 in 8 Canadian women expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, your support matters more than ever.

Join Our Team:

Link: https://secure2.convio.net/cco/site/SPageServer?pagename=RFTC_NW_home

  1. Race Location: Toronto
  2. Team Name: October’s Finest Boobs
  3. Fee: $40
  4. Race Date: October 6th, 2019

 

Donate to Our Team:

Click Here To Donate

 

Featured Member: Sandra Dawes

Sandra Dawes is a recovering control freak and excuse maker who works with clients struggling with similar issues. She holds an Honors BA, an MBA and a certificate in Dispute Resolution. After the passing of her father and circumstances that followed, she suffered from bouts of depression and sought the help of psychotherapists. Unwilling to seek pharmaceutical assistance to deal with her chronic unhappiness, she was lead on a journey of self-awareness and forgiveness that changed her life in deep and meaningful ways. She published her first book Embrace Your Destiny: 12 Steps to Living the Life You Deserve in 2013. Sandra was added to the Wall of Role Models by the Diversity Advancement Network in July 2016.You can find her blog and learn more about Sandra and the programs and products she offers at www.embraceyourdestiny.ca.

September 2017 Small Business Woman of the Month: Laura Bilotta

For over 15 years, Laura Bilotta has been helping singles find love through the thousands of events she has hosted and with the thousands of matchmaking consultations she has offered through her company, Single In The City. With this, Laura has garnered the title as one of Canada’s top Dating and Relationship Experts.

Her company Single In The City is a frontrunner in the matchmaking and speed dating industry. Her services are made for today’s daters and in fact, Laura and her team pride themselves on taking a hands-on approach to find their clients the best possible match. Single In The City has hosted speed-dating events for over 14 years across the GTA including Toronto, Mississauga, Burlington and Oakville, giving her clients an opportunity to meet other great singles. Single In The City currently boasts an 80% match rate, over 80,000 participants, and over 1700 events.
When Laura is not matching up singles through her events or matchmaking services, she is giving them advice through her weekly radio show on Talk AM 640. She also hosted the Single in the City talk show on Rogers TV for two seasons. The media frequently consults Laura on all matters related to dating and relationships. Her expertise can be found at Elite Daily, Bustle and Global News, as well as many other trusted news outlets and publications.
Due to her passion for helping singles in their quest for love, Laura has recently released her first book, Single in the City: From Hookups & Heartbreaks, to Love & Lifemates: Tales & Tips to Attract Your Perfect Match. Her book is available in-store at Chapters Indigo and at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It has received rave reviews, including that from Sex and Relationship Expert, Jessica O’Reilly, who writes, “If you’re truly ready to push your comfort zone, be honest with yourself and invite love into your life, turn to Laura Bilotta and Single in the City.”
 
In addition to her book, she offers a free guide, Single in the City’s Guide to Surviving a Breakup and Laura also runs a blog on her website offering a range of dating tips.

 

To get in touch with Laura or to keep up-to-date:

www.singleinthecity.ca 

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Jackie Matej

Born December of 1960 in St. Thomas, Ontario, Jackie Matej is one of nine children. At just 7 years old Jackie was diagnosed with Turner syndrome, a rare chromosome disorder that affects only women leaving them with medical conditions such as infertility, heart problems, vision problems, thyroid problems and kidney malformations. Jackie has never let this deter her from achieving her goals and having a rich full life. Jackie graduated from George Brown College with her Food Service Supervision Diploma in 1991. After working at several hospitals in Hamilton, Jackie decided to change career direction.

Jackie has always loved children and opened Wee World Home Daycare in 1994 and has enriched the lives of many children in her care since then just as they have enriched hers. Jackie graduated from Mohawk College in June 2011 with her Early Childhood Education Diploma and has enjoyed doing daycare ever since. In October 2016, Jackie proudly received the Bronze Medal CHCH Business Excellence Award for her work in daycare.

Jackie recently wrote the story of her life with Turner syndrome entitled, Ladders to Climb: My Journey with Turner Syndrome, which was published in December 2016. She hopes to make people more aware of the condition and continues to be involved with the Turner Syndrome Society, raising money and helping any way she can. She also would like to write children’s books some day soon!

 
Photo credit: Jane Webster Photography

Ritu Neb

Ritu is an expressive dance Instructor. Having danced for many years and performed at numerous events across Peel Region, Ritu is well-known for her Expressive style Bollywood Dance.  She teaches both traditional Bollywood expressive style as well as Bollyfit classes. She is able to successfully get people on their feet and have fun.  She is always thrilled to accept any opportunity to perform and reach out to all those who feel shy and less confident about themselves. She is known for inspiring people to get up and dance. Dance is a free expression which she feel very passionate about.

She is known for inspiring people to get up and dance and has performed at many events around GTA

  • Carassauga – festival of cultures
  • Sunshine radio event
  • ABC (Akhand Bharatiya Corporation) Diwali event
  • Diva’s Day Out, ICACI (Indo-Canadian Arts and Culture Initiative)
  • International Yoga Day – Art of Living
  • Diwalirazzmatazz @ celebration square
  • Fundraiser events
  • India Air Force Veterans Community Association
  • Hindu Heritage Centre
  • MS Society Fundraising event
  • Retirement homes and many more events around Mississauga and Brampton.

Ritu has taken classes at various locations:

  • Senior’s Home
  • Evergreen Retirement Home
  • Hindu Heritage Centre for adults
  • Grooves Fitness and Dance studio
  • Peel Multicultural Council,
  • Dance to the Rhythm

Cultural Centre for adults and children who have performed at various events choreographed by her as well. She takes classes at home as well for various age groups and genders (her current students age from 3 to 75).

Objectives of her classes is to let everyone enjoy themselves, express and dance to the fun beats of Bollywood music (South Asian Heritage), where everyone can participate in the open space.

Ritu is working on few projects with various groups. Recent projects involve workshop presentation for Peel Multicultural Council – new Immigrant Seniors Sharing cultural Dance & Music for their physical & Mental Well-being. This project is to support social participation and inclusion of immigrant seniors for their physical and mental wellbeing and to engage seniors in the community through mentoring of other seniors.

ABOUT COMPANY:

At Pure Soul Energy we believe in the expression of feelings through Bollywood dancing. Bollywood dance classes are inspired by authentic cultural moves and presented in a simple and age appropriate way. There is just enough challenge to get students engaged and excited.

We offer private and group lessons in addition to providing choreography for events. Classes are fun for all ages and for dancers of all levels. No experience necessary. Classes are available for adults and children.

We are passionate about helping our students discover their talents and live a fun and healthy lifestyle.

 

OBJECTIVES

Graceful coordination
Balance & posture
Rhythm & Flexibility
Body awareness
Confidence
Interaction with others
Feeling good about themselves

To create a customized fun and innovative educational experience for our students. Students develop their listening skills and enjoy following directions while developing self-discipline, motivation and concentration.

 

“Dance to clear your mind. Dance to feed your body. Dance to touch your soul. Just dance.” Ritu

“A mind, body and soul connection can simply be achieved through dance.” Ritu

“Express yourself through the expression of dance” Ritu

Natalie ‘SUGAR’ Brown

Natalie “Sugar” Brown:

PUGiLiST ( Pu·Gi·List ) ˈpyo͞ojələst/ noun a Boxer, especially a Professional one.

Synonyms: Boxer, Fighter, Prizefighter… Natalie “Sugar” Brown A highly accomplished female pugilist with over 20 years of elite level boxing experience. Natalie’s passion for Boxing has lead to her success as an elite level amateur and a world rated professional boxer.

Natalie started boxing as a teenager in Atlanta, Georgia USA, she is considered a trail blazer due to her many impressive accomplishments, here are a few of her favorites:

  • 2 Time World Silver Medalist
  • 3 Time National Golden Glove Champion
  • Police Athletic League National Champion
  • USA Boxing National Champion
  • First National Champion Jamaican Female Boxer; First and only Female to medal for the country of Jamaica Internationally in Boxing.
  • Member of the USA Boxing Female Olympic Team.

Ranked #2 in the world, Natalie has trained internationally and gained many accomplishments which has made her a noted athlete on a national and international platform. Natalie was inducted into the Georgia Boxing Hall of Fame as well as have been awarded female athlete of the year by the United States Olympic Committee, USA Boxing and also The Jamaican Boxing Board of Control.

As a professional, she has fought world title opposition and has been rated top ten internationally. SUGAR is an active contender and continues to challenge highly rated opposition. Natalie SUGAR Browns’ knowledge and experience as a pugilist provides a solid foundation in the development of her unique athletic programs. She applies her Olympic and Professional education in Boxing to serve her clients in the practical development of Skills Heath and Fitness.

Let SUGAR teach you the “Sweet Science” , her expertise is sure to help in your journey to increase your confidence, fitness conditioning, and overall health.

 

Want to find Natalie?

www.NatalieSUGARBrown.com
Facebook: NatalieSUGARBrown

Instagram: SUGARMs.Toobad

And sign up to train with her here-

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07eds013w7e499ed65&llr=whcaqarab

Lisa Maxam-Smith

Lisa began her career in 1996, delivering frontline support to organizations in all areas of human resources, including policy and program development, talent management, performance management, recruitment & selection, and employee relations. Lisa has developed direct experience in a range of industries including software development, information technology, power, utilities, manufacturing and construction.

As a baccalaureate in Human Resources Management with a minor in Human Resources Law from York University, Lisa is also a graduate and went on to complete a post-graduate program from Centennial College, where she has successfully taken another Human Resources Management program. Lisa has also successfully completed a few other courses from Centennial, George Brown and Seneca Colleges. Lisa is currently registered for a certificate in HR Law for HR Professionals at Osgoode.

With this experience and expertise, Lisa Smith offers clients trustworthy, value-added, professional expertise to support them in accomplishing their Human Resources objectives. Her broad base of knowledge and the ability to build strong relationships is invaluable in helping clients to find innovative solutions to HR issues.

Lisa has a dynamic roster of HR consultants who are available on a flexible basis to help you attract, retain and develop the right people and to put effective processes and strategies in place that will grow your business.

Our team is comprised of professionals who possess the necessary combination of education, practical experience and sensitivity to your specific requirements. We are committed to listening to the issues, addressing the concerns, researching current trends and best practices and providing a customized solution that will meet your organization’s ongoing needs.

Contact Lisa: 

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Phone: 289-842-7181

Jane Cotnam – Featured Member

I am a strong woman.

I am a feminist.

I am a mother.

I am a business owner.

I am a perpetual optimist.

I am a dreamer.

I am a volunteer.

I choose to believe the best in everyone.

I have strong beliefs that I am passionate about.

I love a good debate.

I was born in Montreal, but spent equal time in Mont Tremblant.   French is my first language, but my mom, Liz, knew that my English needed to be better, so she sent me to English high school for my last year.  While in Mont Tremblant I worked every kind of hotel and resort job there was starting at 14, finally becoming a ski instructor, and skiing for my high school.

In the early ‘80’s I moved to Toronto to pursue a career in insurance (following my father), and immediately gravitated to the group benefits side of the business, where I have stayed ever since.  In ’84 I assisted in developing the Canadian Organization of Small Businesses, an association plan that allowed small businesses to have group benefits that had previously been unattainable.  I helped put together the first online billing system for group benefits.   I am proud of being a dedicated independent group benefit plan broker and advisor, and I specialize in groups that are hard to acquire benefits for.

I am a hearing-impaired member of CHS (Canadian Hearing Society) and had the privilege of teaching ASL (American Sign Language) to kindergarten children in a play environment. I am still a member of the CHS Board.  As someone who believes in volunteering, I was also involved in the Weekend to End Breast Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer Canada (following Liz’s passing) and that lead me to being a Palliative Care Liaison Volunteer, being part of the program and workshops at Credit Valley Hospital. I have also volunteered with my children’s schools as a fundraising chair.

I was introduced to Arbonne in November 2009 and became a consultant after trying the products for only a week.  Arbonne was easy to integrate into my life. It allowed me the time to work in insurance and to continue volunteering. I chose Arbonne for several reasons; it is a safe, botanical product and all their products are vegan and gluten free. Another reason for me is that Arbonne is certified cruelty free. Being someone with 4 rescue dogs, this was extremely important to me. Animal testing is completely unnecessary, and Arbonne understands that. When I started using the products, I immediately loved the results. Whether it is from our anti-ageing skin care line or the nutrition products, Arbonne consistently comes out on top in the market place.

Arbonne’s business design is created to help you succeed. The support offered by your upline and sidelines is inspiring. There is no competition between consultants. It offers an environment of support and recognizes success. Arbonne gives consultants the ability to control their lives the way they want to live. You may be in business for yourself, but you are never by yourself. They offer amazing training for all products and every facet of the business. I love sharing the business with others. It may start off as a secondary income for someone, and quickly become their primary source. It offers people the opportunity to be their own boss, manage their time differently and enables them to live the life they want, not the life they have to. The fact that the products are consumables means that your clients reorder from your own website that Arbonne sets up for each of its consultants. We, as consultants, can cross-border sponsor other business builders. It is a global business, run from the comfort of your own home. We are expanding all the time, and currently we are in Canada, the U.S., United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Poland and Taiwan. This is a company that is growing globally and the ability to manage my time and have a residual income appeals to me.

The wonderful thing about Arbonne is that it’s not just about great products, it’s also about great people. The Arbonne family is made up of thousands of individuals working to make their dreams come true. Through sales incentives and rewards, travel opportunities, a generous Success Plan and great products, Arbonne offers a unique opportunity that can help make anyone’s vision for the future a reality.

I am always looking for quality individuals who are ready  to earn more income, create a business that is for themselves, or to simply begin a new chapter in life. I am always there to help anyone who starts an Arbonne business. I will help you get to where you want to be with training, support and lots of encouragement. We are always better together!

Body, mind, spirit, friendship, community, earth. Wherever you decide to start, one change leads to another … and then another. Over time, many little changes can equal one total transformation. Arbonne has shown me that.

 

www.janecotnam.arbonne.com

Assiatou Diallo of TAAB Cleaning

assiatou-diallo

Assiatou Diallo was born in Guinea, a small country in West Africa, into a polygamous family of 11 children.  Assi was the last and only girl born with 6 brothers from her father’s side and second born with 4 children (2 girls and 2 Boys) on her mother’s side. She never new her dad, because he passed away when Assiatou was 9 months old.

Assiatou endured many hardships growing up, including being raped at the age of 11 and twice more at the age of 16.  It was clear that the fighting spirit inside her would be required to survive.  Assi did more than just survive…In 1998, she worked in a gas station to support herself while going to school.  When she finished College, she always dreamed of getting out of Guinea and going to Europe, but destiny chose a different path for this young dreamer.

In 2000 she got hired by a German company called Hydroplan, who had a project to build 250 water pumps in rural communities, to access clean water.  This opportunity changed her life. For the next 2 years she started travelling out of the city and country through her work. Her first time to take an airplane was in February 2001, at the age of 25. She got so stressed before getting on the plane, but once again her fighting spirit took control and she went to Gambia for work.

She performed so well that Hydroplan decided to pay for her to take a vacation to Paris (visa, pocket money and so on).  She went to Paris in August 2001 for 3 weeks. She was so culture shocked, when she arrived, that she decided to go back to Guinea after 2 weeks and decided not to be so adventurous, because her experiences did not match the expectations she had for this dream trip.

After her contract with Hydroplan ended, Assi got married in November 2002.  She was excited to start a family with her new husband, but destiny stepped in, once again. After 5 miscarriages and extremely poor health, she decided to go to Germany to study the language and seek medical advice about the difficulties she was experiencing trying to conceive a child.

After living for 1 year in Germany, she went back to Guinea and started all over again. She opened Nayleen Drugstore, where she sold cosmetics and fragrances (Lancome, Chanel, etc). Before moving to Germany, in 2000, she had also registered a cleaning, childcare and security company and was actively networking to develop the business.

In 2003 she went back to Germany, as an au pair, where she lived with a German family for 1 year, taking care of their 2 children, while at the same time acquiring her German Language Certificate.  In 2004, she went back to Paris, where she lived for 1 year.

In 2006, Assi was blessed with a pregnancy that would finally lead to her first child; a beautiful baby boy.  She arrived in Montreal, Canada, in October 2006,

6 months pregnant and looking to start a new life. She knew this was the place for her, because she fell in love with Canada the moment she stepped off the plane.  You can only imagine how difficult it was to be alone and pregnant in a new Country, trying to navigate the bureaucracy of immigration, but she kept fighting and received her Permanent Residency in just 5 months.

Assiatou Diallo was still fighting to make her life better and help others.  A single mother, with a 1 year old son, she got involved in volunteering and went back to school at H.E.C. (an affiliate with the University of Montreal) to study Human Resources. Although she went through depression and stress, she never gave up and decided to move to Toronto.

She came to Toronto and lived in a shelter (transitional housing, Beatrice House) for 2 years. When she arrived in Ontario, she could not speak a single word of English. She decided to go to school for ESL classes at College Boreal and, in just 5 months, got her ESL level 6.  Next, Assi went to do her upgrading with Woodgreen through the Boundless Possibilities for Women Program.

Assi had aspirations of working in the banking industry in Canada and it seemed that her hope was going to become reality when she was promised a position with BMO.  She planned to move out of the shelter, got an apartment and began making plans for her new career, when the job was pulled out from under her due to personnel changes and poor internal communication at the bank.  Another obstacle that would test Assi the fighter.

She was undeterred by this latest disappointment and bounced right back by securing a position at the Centre Francophone de Toronto.  She worked at the non-profit for 4 years as an HR Assistant, Receptionist, Executive Assistant to the Executive Director and Settlement Worker in the schools. Although the work was fulfilling, Assi decided to go on her own, be her own boss, focus on her business and go back to school part time to study Business Management.

Assiatou Diallo is an entrepreneur, mother and avowed feminist. From a young age she has actively participated in initiatives supporting women’s issues. Her current interest is to promote the emancipation and financial independence of women in general and especially women who are victims of domestic and family violence.  She is dedicated to helping others and is very involved in her community. In 2013, she was recognized by the YWCA for her success and delivered a keynote speech at the YWCA Women of Distinctions Awards, in recognition of her positivity and incredible perseverance.

Assiatou is currently the president and CEO of TAAB Cleaning Inc., a commercial and residential cleaning business, which also offers nanny and home babysitting services. She plans to dedicate a part of this community enterprise to support the elderly.

Assiatou Diallo will make it to the top, because she is a fighter, positive, and strongly believes in herself and her own future success.

‘’My vision of entrepreneurship is to inspire others.”

taab-cleaning

TAAB Cleaning Inc. offers various services for many different needs. Whether you are a company or an individual, we can assure you that we will offer the utmost care and professionalism to bring that sparkle and beauty to your space. All of our equipment is highly specialized, making us the perfect solution for any project or circumstance!

Our services:

  • Office cleaning
  • Condominium cleaning
  • Industrial Plant
  • Day porter custodial services
  • Warehouse cleaning
  • Construction clean-up
  • Carpet steaming cleaning
  • Strip and wax
  • Green cleaning

TAAB Cleaning Inc. is confident in its ability to offer the best service anywhere. With that claim we can offer a Service Guarantee to our customers!

“If your request has not been handled adequately, during the next service day you will be entitled to receive the next service for free”

TAAB Cleaning Inc. is the only cleaning company to offer what the competition will not and cannot! Your satisfaction is our motivation!

Contact Assiatou

PHONE: 647 458-7789
E-MAIL: INFO@TAABCLEANING.CA

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