In April, WBE Canada’s President, Dr. Georgette Zinaty travelled to Hong Kong as part of the Canadian contingent taking part in the 2026 Women Power Forum. In her keynote speech “Why Not You”, Dr. Zinaty shared the importance of collaboration vs competition as women come together to drive the future, moving from local success to global economic power. In preparing for her trip, Dr. Zinaty put out a call to the WBE Community asking for gifts, representative of our uniquely Canadian entrepreneurs, to present to her hosts. Within hours, she was loading her suitcase with an amazing array of curated products ….all of which were enthusiastically and warmly received. Thank you to the following WBEs for your eagerness and your generosity in showcasing the incredible innovations and successes of Canada’s women-owned businesses.
Rebekkah Streeter, Voda Retreats; Voda Retreats creates thoughtfully curated wellness and self-care experiences designed to help individuals and organizations build sustainable habits that support balance, resilience, and well-being. Inspired by her own journey through burnout and wellness recovery, Rebekkah has built a woman-owned business focused on accessible self-care solutions, wellness kits, and corporate experiences rooted in mindfulness and connection.
Nikki Starrett, Pomp and Sass; A Canadian luxury textile brand specializing in ethically made Turkish cotton towels designed for retail, hospitality, and branded merchandise programs. Built on values of sustainability, artistic design, and community impact, the business combines original hand-drawn designs with ethical manufacturing practices to create products that are both functional and socially conscious.
Mme. Palmyre Gilles, Cuivres d’Art Albert Gilles; Based in Québec, Cuivres d’Art Albert Gilles, preserves the rare art of copper repoussé through handcrafted décor, jewelry, museum experiences, and custom artistic commissions. Led today by five women of the Gilles family, including Mme.Palmyre Gilles, the company continues a nearly 100-year legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural preservation rooted in the work of master artisan Albert Gilles.
Alicia Phillips, Educated Beards; A Canadian premium grooming brand creating organic, consciously formulated beard and personal care products focused on wellness, sustainability, and clean ingredients. Built from Alicia’s background in holistic nutrition and wellness, the Fredericton-based business has grown into an internationally recognized brand known for combining high-quality grooming products with education around healthier, environmentally conscious self-care.
Natalie Morin Rousseau, Rousseau Chocolatier; This Halifax-based artisan chocolate company is known for its award-winning confections that blend European chocolate-making traditions with locally inspired Canadian flavours. Drawing on Nathalie’s background in luxury hospitality and community-building, Rousseau Chocolatier has grown into a recognized premium brand creating handcrafted chocolates, corporate gifting experiences, and bespoke collections for partners across North America.
April Glavine, Sum Good Foods: A Canadian women-led wellness food brand that creates fruit-first, electrolyte-infused freezies and hydration products made with clean, locally sourced ingredients. Built from a mission to offer healthier, better-for-you hydration options without artificial additives or added sugars, the company has grown into a nationally recognized CPG brand focused on family wellness and accessible functional nutrition.
Patrizia Casubolo, COCHIC: Based in Montréal, this women-owned fashion accessories brand is known for its patented collar extenders and thoughtfully designed garment accessories that blend comfort, elegance, and innovation. Built on a commitment to ethical production, slow fashion principles, and craftsmanship, the company creates functional, customizable accessories that enhance everyday wear while extending the life of clothing.
Read Dr. Zinaty’s LinkedIn post here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dr-georgette-zinaty-mba-msc-dba-igp-a305741b_womenentrepreneurs-globalleadership-wbecanada-share-7448006507155058688-H-AR/
Learn more about WBE Canada Certification:www.wbecanada.ca/certification
