Toronto Archives - Canadian Small Business Women

Sep 12 2018

Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo – Toronto 2018

In light of current undertones towards immigrants and refugees in Canada, the expo promotes peace, hope and success for all business women

Toronto…Now in its sixth year, the one-day, experiential Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo (IWSM Expo) celebrates the aspirations and achievements of immigrant women, taking place in Toronto on Sunday, September 16th, at the Ontario Science Centre. Under the theme “The Minimum Wage & The Impact on Immigrant Businesses,” IWSBE offers women an opportunity to get informed, empowered and enlightened, while providing access to business building services, networking opportunities and entrepreneur workshops.

Expos are a crucial factor in helping new businesses acquire the leads, networks, information and polish they need to succeed in the business world.

This is according to Dwania Peele, founder of Canadian Small Business Women (CSBW) and the IWSB expo who notes that women owned small and mid-sized businesses generate around $117 billion to the Canadian economy annually.

“We’ve always championed the fact that women matter, and we’ve sought to celebrate all the roles they fill in their family, career and community,” said Peele. “Immigrants, specifically, struggle in Canada’s labour market despite their many skills, and we are more than excited to be in Toronto with this rallying cry of support for immigrant women entrepreneurs across Ontario.”

Another advantage of a business-focused event is that it presents practically unlimited opportunities for information-sharing, says Peele. “We have found there is significant demand for practical advice and insights that help would-be immigrant entrepreneurs and small businesses to run their businesses effectively. Expos bring together stakeholders from across a niche spectrum and present an ideal platform for workshops, demonstrations and seminars that help participants grow their businesses.”

ISWB expo offers a rich experience with informative seminars and panel discussions presented by notable speakers. The STEM Panel includes influential women from all backgrounds and is sponsored by hERVOLUTION. Our Minimum Wage Panel includes industry professionals such as Radha Tailor, Candidate for School Board Trustee Wards 3/4, Shalini Dharna CPA and moderated by Emily Mills of How She Hustles. Throughout the day attendees can view educational exhibits and corporate displays from Canada Business Ontario and the Government of Canada. The seminars and workshops will be far ranging and engaging, featuring topics that impact women’s daily lives addressing such issues as health & wellness, marketing and social media tips, career advancement, business/entrepreneurship, the welfare of our children and much more. While IWSB expo targets immigrant women, there are elements for all women business owners.

IWSB expo offers a one-stop business platform to gather information, exchange ideas and network for anyone considering starting their own business, and for those already in business and looking to expand.

Admission runs for $5 / person including access to seminars, panel discussions and the handmade market.

What: Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo

Where: Ontario Science Centre, 770 Don Mils Road, North York, ON M3C 1T3

When: Sunday, September 16, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cost: Admission: $5 (Under 16 years of age free)

Website: http://toronto.immigrantsmallbizexpo.ca

Aug 30 2017

Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo returns to Toronto, September 17, 2017

In light of current undertones towards immigrants in Canada, the expo promotes peace, hope and success for all business women

Toronto…Now in its fifth year, the one-day, experiential Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo (IWSM Expo) celebrates the aspirations and achievements of immigrant women, taking place in Toronto on Sunday, September 17th, at Daniels Spectrum. Under the theme “The Changing Face of the Immigrant Community,” IWSBE offers women an opportunity to get informed, empowered and enlightened, while providing access to business building services, networking opportunities and entrepreneur workshops.

Expos are a crucial factor in helping new businesses acquire the leads, networks, information and polish they need to succeed in the business world.

ISWB expo offers a rich experience with informative seminars and panel discussions presented by notable speakers including the Honorable Gagan Sikand, MP for Mississauga-Streetsville, and entrepreneur Julie Suen, President and CEO of Chinese Canadian Voice. Throughout the day attendees can view educational exhibits and corporate displays from Canada Business Ontario and the Government of Canada. The seminars and workshops will be far ranging and engaging, featuring topics that impact women’s daily lives addressing such issues as health & wellness, marketing and social media tips, career advancement, business/entrepreneurship, the welfare of our children and much more. While IWSB expo targets immigrant women, there are elements for all women business owners.

In addition, ISWB expo offers ample opportunity for shopping and sampling from local artists and artisans showcasing their handmade wares at the Craftadian pavilion, formerly the Made by Hand Show.

Admission runs for $5 / person including access to seminars, panel discussions and the handmade market.

What: Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo

Where: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2B7

When: Sunday, September 17, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cost: Admission: $5 (Under 16 years of age free)

Website: http://toronto.immigrantsmallbizexpo.ca

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/immigrant-womens-small-business-expo-toronto-2017-tickets-31623796627

Jun 19 2016

A Tale of Two Cities – An Investor's Story

Amina

This story takes place in modern day times! The story is about a real estate investor who has to decide between two properties. One property is in the bustling and over-priced city of Toronto and the other property is in a smaller community to the west known as Kitchener.

The Toronto property is in Guildwood – a sought after area of Scarborough but backs on to a Go Train track. The home is beautiful and offers a main floor with the potential for a basement apartment but it would need renovations to make it happen. The price is $749,000.

The property has been sitting on the market for 31 days in a sought after area because of it’s close proximity to the train tracks. What happens in a few years when my client wants to sell this property – will he have the same issues as the current owner? Even in a seller’s market? Probably!

The Kitchener property is in a sought after area with schools and shopping nearby and also has the potential to add a basement suite but the separate entrance would have to be built-in. The asking price is $325,000.

Seems like a no-brainer right? But let’s look at the numbers to see what makes more sense!

I’ll base both scenario’s on the same interest rate of 5 year fixed of 2.59% with 30 year amortization. However with the Toronto property he would require a hefty 25% down in order to make the debt ratios work and with Kitchener only 20% down.

Toronto Property:

Purchase Price $749,000
Down payment 25% $187,250
Rate 2.59%
Amortization 30 years
Term 3 years

Monthly Mortgage $2,241.89
Property Taxes $350
Rental Income $1,850 + Utilities

Net Rental Income -$741.89
In order to give him the positive cash flow he needed he would need to finish the basement for another $30,000 – $50,000 and be able to rent it out for $950-$1,000 which would give him approx. $258 in cash flow.

Pros and Cons of this property:
• PRO -Close to highways
• PRO -Good area
• PRO- Higher appreciation
• CON -Backs onto Go Train
• CON-Needs to complete basement in order to cash flow
• CON -Needs 25% down to purchase this property – a hefty $187,250

Kitchener Property:

Purchase Price $325,000
Down payment 20% $65,000
Rate 2.59%
Amortization 30 years
Term 3 years

Monthly Mortgage $1,037.64
Property Taxes $275
Rental Income $1,450 + Utilities

Net Rental Income $138

The basement is finished – he just needs to build a separate access, which will cost approx.. $20,000 and he can then rent out the basement for an additional $900 in that area, which means he cash flows $1,037.64 – exactly what his mortgage is – he doubles his mortgage payment!

Pros and Cons of this property:
• PRO -He can easily build the access for 2nd basement suite
• PRO -He can cash flow even without adding the 2nd suite
• CON -Lower Appreciation
• PRO -Lower Downpayment needed
• PRO -Ability to Purchase another property with savings from down payment

With the Toronto property in ordinary circumstances he would have no issues renting it out but there is the train track to consider and not every tenant would be willing to live near a train trace, even if he was.

The Kitchener property although in a nice area, would not appreciate as much as the Toronto property. However with this property he would only be required to put 20% down, he would have twice the rental income (once he put the entrance to the finished basement in) and he would have enough money left over (in his budget) to purchase a second property within a few months.

When you are out there looking at properties I know you are doing a full analysis but also consider the pros and cons of the property itself. Look at it with the eyes of your potential tenant!

Happy shopping and I hope if you come across a Tale of Two Cities of your own, you will share it with us! I would be interested to know how you made the decision to purchase your rental property – was it as difficult for you as it was for my client? Please write and share your story!

I can be reached at amina@aminas-ms.ca or 416 697-5443.
To Your Wealth! Amina

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Nov 01 2015

Toronto Panel of Experts: Canadian Small Business Women of the Month of October 2015

Kelly Farrell, Arti Sharma, Dwainia Grey, Cheryl Rankin and Catherine McGillivray are five dynamic women who will round up our Panel of Experts this year at our Toronto

Expo. These women are experts in their own right and have made themselves available to support aspiring entrepreneurs. The topic of this year’s panel is Women in Business and Technology. The Panel of Experts discussion will take place at The Atantis Pavilion on November 8th, 2015 from 12:30pm to 2pm. Admission is absolutely free. Find out about our ladies below and for how you can meet them and ask your questions, go to www.immigrantsmallbizexpo.ca

Jul 01 2015

Cassandra Scully: Canadian Small Business Woman of the Month of June 2015

Cassandra Scully, is the Owner and Event Stylist of Creative Elegance. Creative Elegance is a Toronto based event planning company with a niche for creating custom designs for special events.

In 2003, Cassandra became a Certified Wedding and Event Planner through The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada, but not before becoming a professional Merchandiser at Seneca College in Toronto. It was during her Merchandising course that Cassandra tapped into and became in sync with her creative flare and realized that she has a passion and desire to create beautiful and innovative pieces.

Creative Elegance is renowned for their custom bridal bouquets which meets, and at times, exceeds expectations, visions and within budgets. As an extension to her bridal bouquets Cassandra has added the in-famous toss “Panty Bouquet” which adds a much needed uniqueness to the traditional rose and floral bouquets. Instead of using typical flowers Cassandra takes the time and her creativity to transform undergarments into beautifully shaped roses and arrange them into a Bouquet… the catcher always gets a surprise!

With the growth of her company Cassandra plans, styles, and coordinates all types of special events and weddings, gearing towards all budgets, size and dynamics.

Cassandra didn’t stop there, she became a certified Stager in 2014 – you can now benefit from the luxury of having the Creative Elegance touch inside of your home whether you are buying or selling – moving or staying! Cassandra sets the stage for your sale and designs for your stay.

Cassandra prides herself on staying on top of current trends in all facets of the wedding, events and staging industry.
Cassandra will always give you an exclusive and custom Creative Elegance experience

Our Q & A with Cassandra:

*What inspires you?
My kids. I always try my hardest to lead by example. I want to show my girls how to be a strong women and show my son that its never too late to chase your dreams and that if you work hard enough you can achieve anything.

*As a small business owner, what achievements make you most proud?
My proudest moment is definitely seeing my client’s reactions after I set up their vision. Seeing how happy they are that their special day is complete is the most rewarding feeling. I think that anyone with a business, big or small, can most certainly relate.

*What advice would you give to other aspiring small business owners?

The advice I would give to an upcoming individual with that creative flair is to be true to themselves, and to live their truth. Let your individuality shine through and do not comprise yourself to “fit in” for being a creative individual because you were born to stand out.

*What new things can we look forward to from your business in the upcoming year?
My brand is expanding, and we are now offering new products and services, some of which are; custom/bridal TuTu Skirts, printed Bridal Tanks & Tees and gum ball necklaces/bracelets for kids events. As well, my brand is now venturing into the staging industry both residential and commercial. One other thing you can look out for this is my collaboration with two other amazing event planners in Toronto (Heavenz Décor & Ki-Events), together we have formed an organization called CAKEvents. CAKEvents is an organization that focuses on the youths and brides on a budget as well giving back to our community

Connect with Cassandra

info@creativeelegance.ca
www.creativeelegance.ca
www.facebook.com/creativeelegance
Follow us on Twitter @creativelegance

May 19 2015

MY CLIENTS NEEDS MUST COME BEFORE MY OWN

Yesterday I was contacted by an investor, who found me on Linkedin and had been reading some of my blog posts. He and his brother were investing in a smaller market about two hours east of Toronto. This would be their first purchase in this area and it was a multiple bidding situation.

As first time investors they made some errors, which are common, such as putting in the offer before being pre-approved for financing. Especially in a multiple offer situation you want to make sure that your bid for the property has no conditions of financing. The only condition you want is the inspection. This way if the seller is presented with all of the offers, they will most likely accept the one with no condition of financing as that is a sure thing vs. somebody who still needs to be assessed for financing and does not really know whether they can afford the property.

This investor had put in the offer, ordered the inspection and was now contacting me for financing – however the clock was ticking. I immediately asked for an extenstion as I was not certain that I could fulfill financing in such a short time (3 days left).

He went back to the realtor and asked for the extension but it was denied simply because it was a multiple offer situation. The realtor suggested her broker, who lived and worked in that market and could get the appraisal the next day – which would ultimately save the client time and possibly losing the deal.

It was great that they were both organized and could get me the paperwork but I still had to find the lender, who would do the deal. To further complicate things, the investors were incorporated, which would mean further validation of income.

He kindly called me and said he would stick with me if I could do the deal. Now, if I was looking out for my own interests, I would have said, “Yes of course I can do the deal”. Instead, I was looking out for what is best for my client and suggested he use the other broker with the connections in the marketplace. If I could not get the deal done, I would not only lose the trust of this client but more importantly I would not be putting my clients needs before my own!

It is hard to give away business but I believe strongly in Karma – what goes around comes around. The client thanked me for looking out for his interests and said that he would be using me for the next deal.

I believe that if we all focus on putting our clients needs before our own in every situation, it will come to serve us all well.

To your Wealth!

Amina

Please “like” my facebook page here Please follow me on twitter here

May 01 2015

Keisha Pinto: Canadian Small Business Woman of the Month of April

Keisha Pinto, Owner/Event Planner-Stylist-Coordinator of Ki-Events, a full-service event planning boutique specializing in lifestyle events. Since the launch of her business in September 2014, Keisha has been building her network and business by connecting with the most influential, established and game changing individuals in Toronto. Keisha keeps on top of the trends to plan, style and coordinate breath-taking signature looks that wow her client’s expectations every time! Keisha Plans and styles each one of her events from conception to execution without missing any of the fine details. Growing up Keisha has always been a very coordinated person, with a keen eye for details…”everything had to match”. Her passion for event planning ignited once she entered into the corporate field in 2001. She became more involved in the planning and execution of the social and networking events for her organization, which really sparked her interest even more. To educate herself in becoming a certified Event Planner, Keisha enrolled part-time at George Brown College in Toronto where she completed the Event Meeting and Management Program. During the course of the program, Keisha received extensive training, teachings and gained experience from some of Toronto’s best special events, meeting and conference planners. Keisha’s passion for event planning is evident in every event she creates.

You can find and view her work at www.kievents.ca You can also find Ki-Events on the following social media handles:

Instagram: kievents

Twitter: @_ki_events

Facebook: KeishaPinto kievents.

Pinterest: kievents

Our ! & A with Keisha

*What inspires you?
I love what I do! My passion for Event Planning inspires me..it is that simple! Every event is different and brings a different type of inspiration, my passion for loving what I do is evident in every event I create.

*As a small business owner, what achievements make you most proud?
As a small business owner, the achievements that makes me the most proud is that I am able to balance life, being a mother , supportive partner and small business owner while holding down a 9-5, this makes me the most proud, knowing that with all that life throws at you I am still standing and standing strong. As we all know life can get crazy and they are days when you want to throw in the towel…and then you are reminded of your whys and the passion that you have for loving what you do.

*What advice would you give to other aspiring small business owners?
My advice to aspiring small business owners is to know yourself and know your worth. Do not ever sell yourself short for anyone. One of the worst things an aspiring business owner can do is compromise themselves and don’t stand up for what they believe in.

*What new things can we look forward to from your business in the upcoming year?
2015 Ki-Events will be expanding the business and brand…not only by supporting other businesses and events, but we are offering new services and products, aside from planning-coordinating & styling of events. We are now offering products such paper flowers, which is trending this year, customize Sweet Tables/Candy Buffet packages. Ki-Events is also going be adding a new extension to the brand “Ki-Notes” offering writing of sponsorship request letters, vendor request, events/wedding itineraries, programs/agendas, bios, resumes and social media postings. Most importantly Ki-Events has collaborated with two other amazingly talented wedding/event planners in Toronto Cassandra Scully, owner of Creative Elegance and Antoinette Dumuje, Owner of Heavenz Decor Inc. together we are CAKEvents, an organization formed to give back to the community, youths and brides on a budget, one event at a time. Look out for us!

Mar 16 2015

Why small businesses NEED to tweet at events

I recently attended a networking event for small business owners in Toronto. The theme of the evening was digital marketing. Overall the event was well organized with informative speakers, good raffle prizes and a nice mix of marketers and small business owners.

But what surprised me was how few people were tweeting at the event. Perhaps it’s just that I’m used to going to events packed with social media managers and non-profit communicators, but I was a little disappointed by the lack of networking being done online.

For me, events are always played out on two fields: the action happening live in front of me and the commentary on that action online. Often I find this commentary as interesting, if not more so, then the speakers I’m there to see.

Live-tweeting events is a great way to give your business a boost online. Hashtags organize the conversations taking place, making it easy to follow the action. Plugging into hashtags makes new followers, mentions and retweets much more likely than your average day-to-day Twitter activity, especially if the event becomes popular and trends.

But there are a few things you need to do before you even arrive at the event to make sure that you get the most out of your live-tweeting experience.

Know the hashtag. This seems obvious to those more seasoned tweeters, but it’s important to mention anyways. The day of the event the organizers are probably promoting the event online. Visit their Twitter account to find out both the proper hashtag and their Twitter handle. Once you have that information do a search on Twitter and save the search so that you can access it easily later.

Follow the speakers. Find out who the speakers are going to be (event emails and websites usually have this information) and then find out if they are online. Make a note of their Twitter handles and be sure to follow them. Then at event time you won’t have to scramble to find them or worry about misspelling their names.

Prepare some tweets ahead of time. This is a great way to let people know that you will be at the event and gives them the opportunity to follow you. It also increases your visibility once the event starts. Tweet about your attendance on the day and days leading up to the event. Shout out to the speakers how much you are looking forward to their talks. On the day of you can prepare some tweets to be sent out during the event so that you have more time to actually enjoy it.

Know when to put the phone down. You need to balance the benefits of tweeting with real world networking. Send enough tweets and retweets to gain visibility and make a meaningful contribution to the conversation, but make sure that you also talk to people face-to-face. That’s the reason why you’re there!

Evelyn Senyi is the owner and chief marketer for Recurve Marketing, a Toronto-based digital marketing agency that offers creative, effective and affordable marketing strategies for Canadian small businesses and non-profit organizations. Follow Recurve on Twitter @recurve_ca and on Facebook www.facebook.com/recurvemarketing.ca.

Feb 01 2015

Johanna Quinn: Canadian Small Business Woman of the Month of January 2015

Johanna Quinn is the founder of JQ Fitness and the creator of iluvthis Bootcamp. She has helped shape and inspire the lives of thousands over 18 years in the fitness and health industry through group fitness, personal training and corporate wellness seminars. As a fitness expert, Johanna has a unique connection with her audience and clients that stems from her own personal journey for wellness. Coming from an overweight family and having gained over 80 pounds in her pregnancies, Johanna has the ability to understand and help those who need to get on the right track and lose weight. Along with her passion to help people, she inspires and motivates those through her workshops and speaking opportunities. Johanna is an Honours graduate from the University of Toronto. She currently resides in Oakville, ON with her husband and three children aged 7, 4 and 4 months.

Johanna also shows interest in social responsibility by hosting an annual event, BE[CAUSE]-Workout for Freedom, that raises awareness and funds to abolish human trafficking in Canada. In the past 3 years. Through this event, JQ Fitness has been able to raise over $32,000 to help rescue and support survivors through FREE-THEM.

Come together on the morning of Family Day, February 16 in Oakville and sweat as one big happy family! Bring your friends, bring your family and yes, even your kids.

This morning is a blast… you choose what you want to do:

Form a team of 4 and compete for bragging rights and great prizes in the team challenge event
Come for our large bootcamp class where we get 150 people covered in sweat and fun with all our trainers!
Got kids? That’s sweet, they get their own bootcamp and we look after them while you workout!

This is open to all whether you’re in shape or out of shape! We have lots of fun things planned this morning and it’s all for a great cause! All the funds we raise go to the survivors of human trafficking right here in the Greater Toronto Area and Hamilton region.

Bonus time! If you’re one of the first 50 adults to register for the event, you get a fancy iluvthis Bootcamp performance t-shirt! On top of that, everyone that comes to the event gets free swag bags.

**For additional event info and to register, please click here**

Our Q & A with Johanna:

What inspires you?
Strong, mature women who have sown into the next generation through both raising their own children and making a difference in the world often sacrificially. They did so when it wasn’t the thing to do. This motivates me and inspires me to think big and act on it.2. As a small business owner what achievements make you most proud?
Seeing a need in the fitness industry seven years ago and developing my own unique iluvthis Bootcamp program from the ground up. In addition, our annual charity event – iluvthis Bootcamp BE[CAUSE] – Workout for Freedom allows us to give back as a JQ Fitness community and help stop human trafficking in our own backyard which is a cause I am most passionate about.

3. What advice would you give to others aspiring small business owners?
Get your business on the ground before you have kids! Seriously though, your time becomes much less when kids appear on the scene. Don’t just create a job for yourself, trading time for money and without vacation pay, health benefits and savings programs. You need to create a business that doesn’t revolve around you and builds systems that you can replicate. Great book to read is “E-Myth Mastery” by Michael Gerber.

4. What new things can we look forward to from your business in the upcoming year?
This year I plan on simplifying things and really focus on the core business as it has grown so quickly. It’s time for me to regroup, seek business mentorship and get a great social media strategy in place.

Connect with Johanna

JQ Fitness: www.jqfitness.com

Twitter: @jqfitness

Facebook: iluvthis

Jan 18 2015

Networking Events and Vendor Opportunities

Feb 3rd, 2015 7:30AM – 6:30PM

Ontario Science Centre

FOR INFO AND TICKETS, CLICK HERE

February 7th, 2015 @9:30AM

NETWORKING AND VENDORS 1PM – 6PM

Canadian Small Business Women presents our Small Business Seminar

Various Workshops, Networking Opportunities and Vendors

FOR TICKETS AND INFO: CLICK HERE

February 16th, 2015

ILUVTHIS Bootcamp BE[CAUSE]

In support of rescuing victims of Human Trafficking in Canada

9am – 12:15pm

FOR ADMISSION AND INFO: CLICK HERE

February 20th, 2015

You Inspire Me Women

Quarterly Networking Event

FOR TICKETS AND INFO: CLICK HERE

March 6th & 7th, 2015

International Women Achiever’s Awards

Toronto Congress Centre

Summit, Awards Gala, Bazaar and much more

FOR INFORMATION AND TICKETS: CLICK HERE

April 26th, 2015 @11:00AM

VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!!

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper presents their Toronto Caribbean Expo

Various Workshops, Networking Opportunities and Vendors

FOR VENDOR SPACES, Email: info@canadiansmallbusinesswomen.ca or canadiansmallbusinesswomen@gmail.com

Nov 23 2014

Events Blog

It seems like the year is coming to an end rather quickly. As you are busy planning for next year, take a look at some of the networking events coming up by Canadian Small Business Women and some of our friends. There are vendor opportunities available as well. Happy networking!

January 15th, 2015 @ 7pm (Mississauga)

Canadian Small Business Women

Mississauga Power Basketball and Networking

FOR TICKETS AND INFO: CLICK HERE

January 29th, 2015 @9am

Toronto Women’s Expo

VENDORS WANTED

FOR TICKETS AND INFO: CLICK HERE

February 4th, 2015 @5:30pm

Canadian Small Business Women

Raptors vs Nets Networking Event

FOR TICKETS AND INFO: CLICK HERE

February 7th, 2015 @9:30AM

VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!!

Canadian Small Business Women presents our Small Business Seminar

Various Workshops, Networking Opportunities and Vendors

FOR TICKETS AND INFO: CLICK HERE

February 20th, 2014

You Inspire Me Women

Quarterly Networking Event

FOR TICKETS AND INFO: CLICK HERE

April 26th, 2015 @11:00AM

VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!!

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper presents their Toronto Caribbean Expo

Various Workshops, Networking Opportunities and Vendors

FOR VENDOR SPACES, Email: info@canadiansmallbusinesswomen.ca or canadiansmallbusinesswomen@gmail.com

Oct 01 2014

ELIZAVETA DORINSKAYA: Canadian Small Business Woman of the Month of September 2014

Elizaveta immigrated to Canada 4 years ago from Russia, right after high school when she was 17 years old. Her family is still in her home country, but her mom visits. When she came to Toronto she got accepted into George Brown College, where she chose Business Administration program. Courtesy to her wonderful professors, with whom she still keep in touch, she fell in love with marketing. She graduated from the program, specializing in marketing and decided to continue her education. Currently, she is a 45h year BBA/marketing student at Ryerson University. She really loves marketing and thinks that no business can exist and develop without it. Fortunately, everybody in CeelDeel understands the importance of marketing and every single member of the team is involved in it. They value corporate culture and our CEO frequently assigns “readings” for the team which is usually an inspiring business book written by successful entrepreneurs.

Eizaveta is a shareholder of the company called CeelDeel and is very passionate about it. CeelDeel is a Toronto-based start up company. It is a consumer network, which helps people to find service professionals in their area. Users simply need to submit a “shout” (request for service) and all businesses at once will be contacted and be able to respond to this need. Users don’t need to search the web, just from one website to another, look through the numerous ads and all the clutter. Shouting on CeelDeel lets you make your request without wasting your valuable time by contacting them one by one. Let the businesses that are ready to help you know that you need them. Let these businesses offer you the best price and the best service. And, by the way, It is completely free for consumers!

At the same time CeelDeel helps business owners to save their time and money on advertising. We know that advertising is expensive and we want business owners to say: “Good Bye!” to old, traditional marketing, such as flyers that go to trash or emails that consumers associate with spam! We offer a new, effective way to market your business, make your advertising targeted directly to those consumers, who need you! Creating a business account is absolutely FREE!When you create a business profile on CeelDeel, you will be automatically indexed by search engines and added to our platform where you can start reading the shouts that consumers are submitting and you will be able to increase your online exposure through our platform.

Our Q & A with Elizaveta

*What inspires you?

There are different things that inspire me every day. Inspiration can be found everywhere- from your favourite music or a smile from a stranger that you met on your way to work. However above all of that, my inspiration comes from my team! I work with wonderful people, very enthusiastic professionals, who believe in our company and its success! We share our thoughts and ideas, encourage each other and celebrate happy moments of our lives! All of us think that team building is very important to develop efficiency and effectiveness in achieving a common goal.Therefore, we frequently get together to relax, forget about work-related issues and have some fun.

*As a small business owner, what achievements make you most proud?

I’m proud that I became a member of this company at the age of 20. I believe that joining this company was one of the best opportunities that I got in this life so far, and I’m very happy that I was brave enough to take it. I know that I will do everything possible (and I believe that “If you can dream it, you can do it!”) to make this company successful, because I see how hard everybody in my team is working and I want all of us to get rewarded.

*What advice would you give to other aspiring small business owners?

The best advice I can give to other small business women is to be brave, be focused on what you are doing (don’t just jump at every opportunity that comes across), do what you love (it’s your business, better fall in love with it!), know what you do (every aspect of your business!) AND NEVER EVER be afraid to ask for advice if you don’t know something!

*What new things can we look forward to from your business in the upcoming year?

We are anticipating to launch our website in the next month (currently we are only subscribing customers and businesses to our temporarily website in order to make sure that there are enough people interested in our business idea). We are now in the last stage of development, trying to make sure that there are no bugs, issues or mistakes that can frustrated our users. It takes a lot of time and effort, since our website has a smart program that automatically understands consumer’s wants and needs in any way they decide to phrase them. Therefore, our biggest upcoming milestone is the launch of an actual website.

After that, we hope to expand our business further into Canada and let people from outside of Toronto to enjoy the benefits of CeelDeel.

Aug 08 2014

Networking in the GTA

There are a slew of networking events in and around the GTA this week. If you are a serious networker and interested in making valuable connections, then you need to be at these events. Personally, I will be making an appearance at all of them because they are worth it!

AUGUST 9TH: BROUGHT TO YOU BY CANADIAN SMALL BUSINESS WOMEN

This event features vendors and 6 Business Building Workshops. You will have endless opportunities to network.

AUGUST 10TH: BROUGHT TO YOU BY MONARCH GIRLS

This event will feature loads of health and wellness opportunities as well as some pampering. You will get a chance to network as well.

AUGUST 13TH: BROUGHT TO YOU BY UNLEASHPR

This event gives you a chance to network with up to 1300 entrepreneurs as well as workshops from the biggest names in business.

Jul 01 2014

Khalilah Brooks: Canadian Small Business Woman of the month of June 2014

Khalilah was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on September 10, 1977. Like most singers, Khalilah grew up in the church singing with her family. Khalilah learned through song, there was joy, tears and praise. At the tender age of 16 Khalilah really began to flourish when recognized by David Woods, the Artistic Director of the Black Artists Network of Nova Scotia.

David Woods gave Khalilah her first break to dance for his production group” Voices”. It was here where she discovered the need to perform. In 2002 Khalilah took the lead vocalist in the band “Faith in the Making” where she performed steady throughout Ontario until 2004. After the band parted Khalilah continued to preserver and joined a Hip hop group called “DaMovemeant” where she joined forces with two male artists to create a new Canadian sound.

Khalilah was recognized by American Modeling Talent Convention (AMTC) in 2005 where she traveled to Kansas City Kansas and ranked top 10 out of thousands of competitors for her unique style and vocal skill. Khalilah also did a short film where she made an appearance playing the character of “Sadie” the rebel biker in the film called “Sitting Kills”.

Her journey to Toronto since September 2009 has already been successful. She’s performed at local Toronto hotspots such as Sydney’s and Jo Mamas, Placed 2nd in the Istars Zack Warner competition for singer / song writer in April 2011, and 2nd place for her vocals in the “La Musique Circle” competition in May 2011. You might have seen her perform at Famous PEOPLE Players Theatre in Toronto as their lead female performer or News Talk 1010 jingle. Khalilah also plays an important role in the Toronto community working with Mentoring Junior Kids Organization (MJKO) through the sport of non-contact boxing.

Khalilah is now the founder of B-AM Children’s Entertainment a Musical Theater Story telling Company performing live shows where she plays the character Aunty B, teaching children how to love themselves and others and in June 2014 Khalilah published her first children’s book called “Feels Good to Be Kind.”

Our Q & A with Khalilah Brooks:

*What inspires you?

I get inspired by the innocence and laughter of children; it triggers joy and an overwhelming feeling within my heart, it allows me to connect to a greater purpose.

*As a small business owner, what achievements make you most proud?

The very thought of having an idea that turns into a dream and then to see it manifested is my great achievement as a business owner and of course becoming an author and writing my first children’s book.

*What advice would you give to other aspiring small business owners?

If you are a small business owner and know that as long as you have a vision and you can reach each challenge one at a time and of course Stay Groovy (singing) while doing it.

*What new things can we look forward to from your business in the upcoming year?

In the upcoming year our business will have more stories to share and merchandise for purchase.

You can connect with Khalilah Brooks via the following:

kbrooks@b-am.ca

www.khalilahbrooks.com

www.auntyb.ca

Phone: 647.884.7546

Twitter

Facebook

Jun 30 2014

Vendor Events

Can you believe that half the year is over? I personally can’t. Time goes by really quickly when you are busy planning for all your events. In your planning, please keep the events below in mind. We have featured events from us at Canadian Small Business Women, as well as events from some of our supporters. We look forward to seeing you soon.

SMALL BUSINESS SEMINAR – AUGUST 2014

Join us for our 3^rd Small Business Seminar on August 9th , 2014 from 9am – 4pm at Sheraton Parkway North Toronto(Hwy 404 and 407). We are very excited to be hosting our Seminar on the Northeast end of the GTA. This gives us a chance to expand our network and showcase what our business has to offer. We are currently seeking 30 vendors/exhibitors for this show as well as a few workshop hosts. You can fill out our Vendor Agreement Form by clicking HERE. Advance tickets are now available for only $20 (a 33% discount) by clicking HERE.

PERKS: As an exhibitor, you will receive a 6ft table with table cloth, access to our workshops (please do not leave your table unattended), lunch, and 5 complimentary tickets! There will be great opportunities to not only sell your product, but to also network with fellow entrepreneurs. There is no limit to the great connections that will be made at this event.

Our Workshops

Secrets to Starting and Building Your Network Marketing Business with Susan Kirschling

Online Marketing Tips and Tricks for Small Business with Dwainia Grey

Your Fastest Path to Cash: What every business needs to know to make money now! With Susanne Hemmet

Social Media: Beyond The Basics with Kelly Farrell

5 Keys To Making Your Goals A Reality with Sandra Dawes

Free Online Tools to Get More Leads and Make More Money with Hanna Guerra

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FOOTBALL AND NETWORKING WITH THE TORONTO ARGOS

Last year, we were honored to host our first networking event with the Toronto Argos. It was a huge success!! We had a chance to not only listen to two fantastic speakers, but also enjoy the festivities that came with watching the Argos play and support such a needy cause. We also had the chance to network with The Argos front office and view their Grey Cup rings. Join us this year, as we host another spectacular event, brought to you in part by us at Canadian Small Business Women.

Networking and Football – in support of CFL’s Pink Day to raise Cancer Awareness

This will be an afternoon of networking, speakers, prizes and football.

We welcome you to take advantage of our special rate for this event.

This event will include:
*A guest speaker
*Networking Opportunities
*On Field Tour before the game
*Meet and greet with the Argos Cheerleaders
*Prizes
*Networking with the Argos players after the game at Shoeless Joe’s (King Street location)

**Pre-game networking will be held o the 200 level patio (or the Bacardi Lounge weather depending).

Ticket prices: $35 + HST for Bronze Level Tickets
Get your tickets HERE
YOUR ADMISSION TICKET WILL BE EMAILED TO YOU ONE MONTH BEFORE THE EVENT ONCE PURCHASE IS MADE VIA THE EVENTBRITE SITE

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IMMIGRANT WOMEN’S SMALL BUSINESS EXPO

This year, we are hosting two large feature events that are FREE of cost to our guests. We will be hosting our Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo in Ottawa and in Toronto. Our Ottawa event will be held at the elegant Canadian Museum of Nature on October 4^th, 2014 from 9am -5pm. This event will feature businesses from around the Ottawa area that offer services or business opportunities for our guests. We are expecting over 1000 guests to attend this one of a kind event. We will be inviting members of the Canadian Government, speakers from across Ontario and prominent members of the Ottawa Immigrant Community. We are currently seeking Exhibitors from business sectors such as education, legal, consulting, Immigrant Services, Real Estate, and more. Please view our event WEBSITE for further details. To redeem your FREE ticket to our event, click on the following LINK.

Our Toronto Edition of the Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo will be held at the iconicToronto Metro Hall on November 9^th, 2014. This event will be the premiere Immigrant Small Business event of the GTA. Our guest list will be similar to that of our Ottawa event. To redeem yourFREE tickets for this event, click the following LINK.

We are also seeking volunteers for both events. Our volunteer hours are split in two shifts: 6am – 12pm and 12pm to 6pm. We require volunteers in the areas of check-in, set-up, greeting, workshop organization and tear down. If interested, please email us at info@canadiansmallbusinesswomen.caor canadiansmallbusinesswomen@gmail.com and provide us with your name, age, event of interest, volunteer experience, contact information (including phone number) and hours of availability.

We are also seeking VOLUNTEERS for both our events. We are seeking 50 volunteers for each of our Expos. We welcome students, community groups and corporate groups as well. Volunteer areas available are: Exhibitor Check-In, Guest Entrance, Guest Check-In, Media Check-In/Escort, Direction Assistant, Workshop Assistant, Dignitary Check-In/Escort, and Event Check-Out. Please view our Website for our Volunteer application.

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MONARCH GIRLS EVENT

All proceeds from the event will go to funding our after-school high school empowerment program starting in the fall. “Authentic Me” is a 32-week program for girls grades 9-12. It will cover empowerment workshops, career counseling, leadership training, financial education and more.

Mission: To empower young women through self-discovery, self-healing, self-respect and self-development.

Event: The Monarch Girls Day objective is to develop community awareness, raise funds to support our Empowerment Program while providing a networking opportunity.

For more information: Contact Dwainia Grey at 647-799-1090 or at dgrey@awesomebizonline.com or visit their Facebook page HERE

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