For Immediate Release
February 5, 2026, TORONTO, ON — The Board of Directors of the Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE Canada) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Georgette Zinaty as its new President. A globally recognized expert in leadership, innovation, and diversity, Dr. Zinaty brings an unparalleled depth of experience to the organization at a pivotal time for the Canadian economy.
Dr. Zinaty takes the helm of WBE Canada as it embarks on a bold new strategic phase, focused on bridging the gap between women-owned businesses and the high-value supply chains of major corporations and government entities. With more than two decades of executive leadership in academia, technology, and consultancy, Dr. Zinaty is uniquely positioned to accelerate WBE Canada’s mission of building a strong, inclusive Canadian ecosystem.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Georgette Zinaty as our new President,” said Celso Afonseca, Chair of the WBE Canada Board of Directors. “Dr. Zinaty is a purpose-driven, strategic leader whose visionary leadership and deep commitment to advancing women-owned businesses, driving innovation, and strengthening inclusion will guide the organization into its next chapter. Together with our team and partners, she will champion our WBE community while strengthening partnerships and delivering meaningful value to our corporate members, fostering collaboration, connection, and sustainable growth across Canada.”
A Scholar-Leader for a Digital Age
Dr. Zinaty holds a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) a joint program with the Rotman School of Business and the Henley School of Business where her research focused on the future of leadership and the importance of diversity in organizational performance. Her academic pedigree is complemented by a Master of Business Administration from the University of Liverpool, a Master of Science from the Henley School of Business, and a certificate in Leading Strategic Change within Organizations from Harvard University.
Before joining WBE Canada, Dr. Zinaty served as the Chief of Staff at Myant Corporation, a leader in textile computing and advanced material science. Her career also includes serving as Executive Vice-President at Corporate Class Inc. and more than 20 years in senior leadership at the University of Toronto. A frequent contributor to Forbes and a two-time TEDx speaker, Dr. Zinaty is a powerful voice for the inclusion of marginalized groups in the global innovation economy.
Driving Impact and Resiliency
“I am honoured to join WBE Canada and am deeply inspired by the mission to connect women-owned businesses with the public and private sectors,” said Dr. Zinaty. “Supplier diversity is more than a strategic imperative; it is a vital asset for any organization looking to mitigate risk and drive innovation in today’s volatile global market. I am eager to work with our purpose-driven team and Board of Directors to take WBE Canada to the next level, ensuring that women-owned and led firms are not only part of the conversation but are central to Canada’s economic stability and growth.”
Dr. Zinaty’s appointment follows a record of significant national and community achievements. She is the recipient of the CILAR Aspiring Innovator of the Year Award, Community Leader Award by Immigrant at Large Canada, the Remarkable Citizen Award, and was named an Immigrant Woman of Inspiration by the publication Canadian Immigrant. As the founder of WHEW! (Women Helping Empower Women), she has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to capacity building and grassroots action.
Focusing Forward: Under Dr. Zinaty’s leadership, WBE Canada will double down on its commitment to three core strategic areas:
Dr. Zinaty will officially begin her tenure on February 18, 2026 as WBE Canada prepares for a number of strategic milestones and events to build momentum, capacity and community culminating with the National Conference scheduled for November in Toronto.
About WBE Canada: Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE Canada) is a Canadian non-profit organization that is opening doors for Canadian women-owned businesses to supply chains across Canada, North America, and globally. WBE Canada certifies, develops, and promotes Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) who provide products or services to corporations and government organizations.
For more information, visit www.wbecanada.ca
Email. concierge@wbecanada.ca
Ph. 647-360-9855
