Presidents’ Message

OWIT-Toronto:  Your Voice in Today’s Rocky Trade Landscape 

As co-presidents of OWIT-Toronto, we are honoured to represent our members and work towards providing you with the information and connections you need to not only succeed but to help you deal with the impact of the current global trade conflicts.  Our fantastic Board is working very hard to deliver resources and quality contacts that will help you achieve your trade goals. This is more important than ever as the world navigates through these tumultuous trade times.  That is one of the reasons why we invited Canada’s Chief Trade Commissioner, Sara Wilshaw, to our recent International Women’s Day event…and you can read more about it in this issue.  

Our first quarter was indeed chockfull and we hope you were able to attend our – and our partners’ - events, read our newsletter and take advantage of some of our resources. A number of our Board members also represented OWIT-Toronto at various events to continue to raise the profile of women in trade. Despite these challenging times, we are excited about what lies ahead for our members and friends!  See below for an update on our events and other initiatives in store.  

We want to hear from you!  If you have thoughts for future events, feedback from past events, or input you want us to pass on to  government about how it can best support women as,  please reach out to info@OWIT-toronto.ca.   Remember that we are part of a global network with chapters around the world that can help you diversify your trade relationships and that is committed to being the go-to organization for women in trade.

Susan Baka & Cathy Williamson

OWIT-Toronto Co-Presidents

Looking for an Exciting Opportunity to Expand your Horizons?

Join the OWIT Toronto board, where a dynamic group of women are dedicated to providing education, resources, and networking for women doing business internationally, whether business owners, executives, government representatives, or service providers. We are currently seeking to fill the role of VP Membership – someone who is passionate about expanding our membership base and enhancing membership relations. This volunteer position is flexible, requiring minimal time commitment, and offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with a supportive and inspiring network of women entrepreneurs in the Greater Toronto Area. If you are interested, please reach out to info@owit-toronto.ca .

Coming Event

Save the Date: April 15, 2025 for Culture and Trade Event

Ever made a faux pas in your dealings with other countries?  Wondering how to be culturally astute?  Join us at the International Business University in Toronto on the evening of April 15 for an insightful session on The Impact of Culture on International Trade with Marvin Hough, an international business expert and author with decades of global experience. Gain practical insights into how culture impacts international trade—from marketing and negotiations to e-commerce and digital trade.

Date: April 15, 2025
Time: 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Location: International Business University, 80 Bloor St. W, Toronto, Ontario  

About Marvin Hough

Marvin Hough brings over 30 years of international trade experience, including senior roles at Export Development Canada (EDC) in Asia and Latin America. He has worked in global markets such as China, India, Mexico, and Brazil, providing strategic insights on trade, marketing, and business culture. Following his tenure at EDC, he taught international business at the University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management and served on various trade and academic boards. He has authored two books on global business, endorsed by the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT), and continues to mentor professionals in the field. Through his consultancy business, MIRA, he provides international research and analysis services to Canadian businesses, educational institutions, and government organizations focused on key strategic markets.

Space is limited. Register here.

Sponsored by International Business University

Past Events

Celebrating International Women’s Day

Our inspiring International Women’s Day event in March featured Sara Wilshaw, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, International Trade, and Canada’s Chief Trade Commissioner, in a fireside chat with OWIT Co-President Susan Baka.  Discussion centred around the power of women in international trade and why NOW is the time to diversify!  (Thanks to OWIT member Susana Vaz for contributing this.)

Why This Matters:
Women-owned businesses that export earn more, create more jobs, and drive economic growth.

• Yet, women-led firms represent only 15% of exporters worldwide—it’s time to change that!
• Diversification = Resilience. Expanding into new markets and industries ensures long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Trade is a growth engine—Women entrepreneurs who export outperform those who don’t. We have 15 free trade agreements covering 51 countries - why aren’t we using these to their complete potential?
• Diversity strengthens economies—Inclusive trade policies create sustainable, global opportunities.
• Canada is leading the charge! With initiatives like Business Women in International Trade (BWIT), we’re unlocking new pathways for women entrepreneurs.
• The future of trade is inclusive, diverse, and unstoppable—let’s make it happen!

Sara’s key piece of advice for women in international trade is to get out there, network and explore opportunities - the world is welcoming and there are plenty of resources available to support businesses.  Rowena Ko, Trade Commissioner in the Toronto Regional Office,spoke to one of these, presenting an overview of what the Trade Commissioner Service | Service des délégués commerciaux offers. . 

A big thank you to event sponsors – the City of Toronto and the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) www.wekh.ca – and to supporter Global Affairs Canada.

Virtual Event Presented by OWIT-Toronto and CanCham in Mexico

The 5th International Forum Women Leaders: Present and Future hosted a Women Empowering Trade: Success Stories & Future Visions webinar on March 13.  The event, organized by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce – Monterrey in collaboration with OWIT-Toronto, welcomed over 50 attendees, predominantly businesswomen, including the Canadian Consul General in Monterrey, Mexico, Annabelle Larouche St—Sauveur. 

The session featured two distinguished keynote speakers representing OWIT-Toronto: Clare Barnett, Director of Business Growth at the City of Toronto, and Susan Langdon, CEO & Executive Director of the Toronto Fashion Incubator. Both speakers shared their international trade experiences and insights, inspiring attendees with their knowledge, passion, and dedication to empowering women in business and trade. The webinar was masterfully moderated by Jaime Herrera, President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Monterrey.   

Clare Barnett’s Vision for Collaboration
Clare Barnett kicked off the panel by emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the City of Toronto and major cities in Mexico. She highlighted opportunities in key automotive, auto parts, and high-tech sectors. Clare passionately shared how the Canadian community came together in support of each other during challenging times for international trade, creating resilience and opportunity. A particularly memorable moment was when Clare recounted her positive experience meeting American congress representatives in Washington, where she witnessed firsthand the power of building international relationships to foster growth and mutual support.

Susan Langdon’s Insights into Fashion Export
Susan Langdon brought a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing women in the fashion industry, particularly in terms of exporting products. She emphasized the importance of offering tailored workshops and webinars specifically designed for entrepreneurs in the creative sector. Susan pointed out that the fashion industry is not just about selling commodity products—it’s about offering value, creativity, and culture. She also acknowledged the challenges that the fashion sector faces, such as varying climates and time zones that can impact the suitability of products for different markets. Despite these obstacles, Susan sees immense potential in the trade relationship between Canada and Mexico, particularly in sectors such as fashion accessories, swimwear, and yoga apparel.

One of the panel's most emotional moments came when Susan proudly stated that Canada is recognized as one of the most ethical countries in the world, promoting sustainability and transparency in the global supply chain. This emphasis on ethical practices resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the growing importance of corporate responsibility and sustainability in international trade.

Looking to the Future
Clare and Susan’s insights and experiences offered valuable lessons and inspired the audience to continue pushing boundaries and forging new paths in business.

Watch the full webinar

Trade Resources

Navigating the Current Trade and Tariff Environment

The current landscape for business owners in Canada is difficult to keep up with and can be very confusing.  We hope the links below will help to provide some clarity, information and support to help you determine the best way forward for your business.

• The City of Toronto, recognizing the potential impact of U.S. trade economic policies on local businesses, has provided resources to help navigate these challenges. Toronto’s official website offers information on the current tariffs and guidance for businesses affected by the U.S. measures. These developments highlight the complexities of international trade relations and underscore the importance of strategic responses to safeguard national and local economic interests. www.toronto.ca/tariffs. The City has released the Mayor’s Economic Action Plan in response to the change in US economic policy with ten immediate actions items to support Toronto businesses.
• These BDC resources provide expert advice and financing tools to help you make smart decisions for your business.
• This EDC tariff risk mitigation checklist will help guide your decisions and reduce the impact of various challenges business owners are facing. 
• Understand the import and export tariffs with Canada’s Free Trade Agreement partners.  Ensure you are making informed trade decisions with this helpful business tool.
• Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) helps businesses with funding and support programs to conduct international trade in 160+ cities around the world.  
• Check out the EDC Trade Impact Program which offers financial support for Canadian exporters in various ways over the next 2 years. 

Where We’ve Been

From Canada to Mexico and beyond, here is where OWIT-Toronto has been represented this past quarter.

Alma Farias, a board member of OWIT-Toronto, represented our organization at the Mexico Women's Forum and Networking Reception hosted by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Monterrey, Mexico, on March 13, in celebration of International Women's Day.

OWIT-Toronto has maintained a strong, active partnership with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Monterrey since 2022, benefiting members of both organizations through the sharing of valuable knowledge in multiple webinars. During the event, Alma had the opportunity to meet with the newly-appointed Canadian Consul General in Monterrey, Annabelle Larouche St-Sauveur, to encourage collaboration with OWIT-Toronto as well as with other board members and invitees.

Pictured above  from left to right: Angeles Vela, General Director of the Software Cluster of Nuevo Leon—CSOFTMTY; Canadian Consul General in Monterrey, Annabelle Larouche St-Sauveur; Alma Farias, OWIT-Toronto board member; and David Valle, Director of Business Development MX.

OWIT board members Mégane Visette, Cathy Williamson and Susan Baka participated in an  upbeat International Women’s Day celebration organized by our partner, the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub. We were also represented at the Asia Pacific Foundation’s 2025 CanWIN Global Summit (CGS): The Women’s Business Mission Series to Asia Capstone which explored paths forward for Canada to diversify its export markets into the dynamic Indo-Pacific region.

A March episode of Steve Paikin’s The Agenda featured OWIT-Toronto advisory board member Julie Nguyen, Chair of Canada-ASEAN Initiatives, York University,  who highlighted opportunities for Canadian businesses with ASEAN countries. Catch it here.       

Our Co-VP Events, Lilian Marins, and  VP Partnerships, Mégane Visette, represented OWIT-Toronto  at Women Inspire 2025, hosted by the Casa Foundation, and  joined inspiring conversations centred on this year’s theme: “Accelerating Impact for Women.” The event brought together exceptional women leading change across sectors, including:

·        Dr. Olutoyin Oyelade, President, Casa Foundation for International Development

·        Dr. Julia Christensen Hughes, President & Vice-Chancellor, Yorkville University

·        Kayla Isabelle, CEO, Startup Canada

·        Sonya Shorey, CEO, Invest Ottawa

·        Julie Ellis, Entrepreneur & Former Chair, Angel One Investment Network Canada

·        MPP Andrea Hazell, Member of Parliament, Standing Committee on Finance & Economic Affairs

It was a privilege to engage in powerful dialogues and connect with trailblazing women accelerating business, policy, and community impact in Canada and beyond.

Above:  A timely opportunity for Co-President Susan Baka to meet Canada’s current Prime Minister  Mark Carney at a leadership event.

On February 20, OWIT members participated in the Pitch & Dine event organized by our partner  Canadian Women in Food (CWIF). It was an amazing soirée in support of women-led Canadian food brands. Participants were part of a live audience for six pitches and dined on locally crafted cuisine. Congratulations to all the powerful pitchers!

Member News

A Perfect Match for the Mexican Market

An exciting strategic partnership has been announced between Sable & Rosenfeld, a renowned Canadian gourmet food brand, and Nookss, a leading Mexican commercial distributor dedicated to helping international brands thrive in Mexico. This collaboration marks the beginning of a successful journey to bring Sable & Rosenfeld’s premium products to the Mexican market.

This partnership began during the Grocery Innovations Canada Trade Show held in October 2024, a premier event organized by OMAFRA (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs) to connect Canadian food brands with potential partners and distributors from around the globe. At the event, Myra Rosenfeld from Sable & Rosenfeld and Bernardo from Nookss had the opportunity to meet, thanks to the efforts of Fabiola Sicard, Economic and Business Advisor for the US & Mexico at OMAFRA’s Trade and Investment Unit and Alma Farias, on the board of OWIT.

The event provided the perfect platform for innovative collaborations, and this new partnership is a testament to the effectiveness of OMAFRA’s initiatives in fostering cross-border trade and investment in the agri-food sector.

Partner Updates

Our partners offer these valuable events and resources to OWIT members.  

Belgian Canadian Business Chamber -  Business Excellence Awards Gala 2025 - April 24

The BCBC Business Excellence Awards Gala is the largest networking event organized by and for the Belgian Canadian business community. Every year, it recognizes and honors businesses and business leaders who have made significant contributions to the economic health of our community. A unique moment to come together and to shine a light on those who have thrived and innovated over the course of the last 12 months. Get dressed up and camera-ready and join us for a night filled with powerful stories, a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, and networking with business leaders from Belgium and Canada! Tickets available via the following link. OWIT members are eligible for member price tickets.

B2Bee Match –Mighty Canada: Growth & Opportunity Summit | B2beematch.com – April 29

This half-day event on April 29 is designed to connect Canadian business owners, entrepreneurs and industry experts for strategic networking while facilitating meaningful conversation surrounding the challenges facing us today.

LumeSmart Earth Day Conference & Trade Show – April 15

OWIT-Toronto is proud to support the 10-Year Anniversary of the LumeSmart Earth Day Conference & Trade Show on April 15, held at MaRS Discovery District. Bridging Past, Present, and Future for Cleantech leaders, join us as we celebrate 10 years of innovation, empowering cleantech leaders, startups, and youth for a sustainable future.

As an OWIT-Toronto member, you can benefit from:

• a 25% discount. Register here: https://lumesmartearthday.com/earth-day-event-registration-discount/
• a chance to pitch during the Pitch Showcase — a great way to spotlight women-led innovation in cleantech and trade. Sign-up here: https://lumesmartearthday.com/earth-day-event-pitch/

Learn more about OWIT-Toronto's involvement over the years: https://lumesmartearthday.com/earth-day-community-organization-of-women-in-international-trade-toronto-owit-toronto/

Canadian Women in Food – Canadian Made Market – July 20

Mark your calendars for CWIF’s next event – Canadian Made Market -   on July 20. Come discover local Canadian made products while supporting women entrepreneurs who are shaping the food scene. Register here: https://www.canadianwomeninfood.ca/event-details/canadian-made-market

Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub – 2025 State of Women’s Entrepreneurship Report

The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) annual State of Women’s Entrepreneurship (SOWE) research shows that women entrepreneurs are driving economic development, innovation, export and job creation.

Connecting Canada to the World: Year End Trade Update and AGM

Connecting Canada to the World, December 3.  This December OWIT-Toronto event, combined with our Annual General Meeting and hosted by Bennett Jones, attracted an enthusiastic group and provided an inspiring and thought-provoking way to wrap up the year.  Thanks to Susana Vaz, Senior Manager – Strategic Planning and Initiatives with the City of Toronto’ economic development team who provided this summary:

 Wendy Cukier, Karima-Catherine Goundiam and Jessica B. Horwitz delivered insightful strategies for Canada’s role on the global stage and how women are contributing in this space, and the keynote by Fouzia Younis, British Consul General to Toronto was both real and inspiring. Her authentic leadership shines as a reminder of what women can achieve in international trade.

• Top 3 Takeaways:
  1️⃣    Own Your Expertise: Women have a vital role in shaping global markets—step into it with confidence!
  2️⃣    Build Cross-Border Connections: Collaboration and networking are key to unlocking opportunities in international trade.
  3️⃣    Lead Authentically: Fouzia Younis emphasized the power of staying true to your values while navigating the complexities of global leadership.
  
  Women in international trade are transforming the global economy by bringing diverse perspectives, innovative solutions, and collaborative leadership to the forefront. If you’re a woman in international trade, don’t miss out OWIT is an incredible community that supports growth, learning, and connection. Now is the time to step into the spotlight, lead authentically, and drive change on the global stage! 

                                   

Photo Credits Susana Vaz and Maria Marchyshyn. 

A round up of events attended by OWIT Toronto Board and Members. 

Unlocking Canada webinar in October. OWIT-Toronto’s VP International Susan Baka shared tips on entering the Canadian market for OWIT members worldwide in this webinar presented by OWIT International.

Toronto Global Forum in October, an annual, high-level forum that attracts delegates from around the world to discuss trade and economic issues. OWIT-Toronto’s VP Communications Clare Barnett and VP International Susan Baka attended

Picture, Clare Barnett and Susan Baka, OWIT-Toronto Board Members with Connie Fusillo, City of Toronto, Economic Development.

Pictured: Toronto Global Forum, panel moderated by Laurel Broten, CEO Invest Canada

Ontario Economic Summit in Toronto in November.  As part of our partnership with the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, President Audrey Ross, VP International Susan Baka and Co-VP Events Lilian Oliveira represented OWIT-Toronto at this annual Summit that provides insights into the economic priorities of top political and business leaders.   Both this and the Global Forum serve as good events to raise OWIT’s public profile and recruit new members

Follow our Events Page for upcoming events. 

OWIT Toronto and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Monterrey Unite to Explore North America’s Evolving Landscape

Written by Aditi Chaturvedi

Guest Speakers:

Moderated by - Jessica B. Horwitz Partner at Bennett Jones

Diane Francis - Journalist, Author and Editor-at-Large for the National Post

• Laura Macdonald - Chancellor's Professor in the Department of Political Science and the Institute of Political Economy at Carleton University.

In collaboration, OWIT Toronto and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Monterrey, Mexico, highlighted important developments reshaping the North American region. The discussions focussed on the interplay of global trends, including the implications of the U.S. presidential elections and Mexico’s historic election of its first female president. Her groundbreaking reforms are poised to redefine Mexico's socio-economic trajectory, offering profound benefits across North America. This collaborative dialogue emphasized the region’s evolving trade dynamics and the emerging opportunities for businesses and investors.

Panelists explored the challenges and benefits of economic and political integration, addressing contentious issues such as tariffs in the auto sector, GMO imports, and Mexico’s nationalist energy policies. Security and gender inclusivity were also central to the discussions, with advancements in Mexico acknowledged, but a need for broader enforcement and mechanisms to support underrepresented groups, including SMEs and women-owned businesses, highlighted.

The speakers examined the increasing influence of Chinese manufacturing investments and the growing pressure on Canada and Mexico to align with U.S. strategies aimed at reducing dependence on China. Changes in U.S. and Canadian immigration policies, with their unpredictable impact, were noted as a potential concern for maintaining global relationships.

Contentious topics such as supply management and the role of dairy farmers in Quebec were also addressed, with the upcoming Canadian elections expected to bring noticeable changes that could directly affect neighboring countries business relationships.

The discussion further delved into the evolving trade dynamics within North America under the CanCham, focusing on the challenges and opportunities leading up to the 2025 and 2026 review of the USMCA. CUSMA is seen as a pivotal opportunity for renegotiation, critical areas for consideration include environmental standards, digital taxation, and gender-based trade measures.

Panelists emphasized the vital role of trade associations in promoting inclusive trade, supporting member interests, and connecting businesses globally. The collaboration between OWIT Toronto and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Monterrey underscores the importance of dialogue in addressing challenges and unlocking opportunities, driving a more inclusive and prosperous future for North America.

Special Thanks to Alma Farias for organizing this event.  

Presented by the Richmond Hill Small Business Enterprise Centre

Import-Export Webinar

“From Local to Global: Expanding Your Small Business through Import and Export”

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

10 am until 12 pm

Register: Eventbrite Link

==================================

10 am – 11 am

Getting Started with Exporting: Tools and resources to begin to think Global

Description:

This comprehensive session will equip small businesses with the knowledge needed to embark on exporting. It will cover key considerations for assessing export readiness, guide participants through conducting effective market research to identify lucrative international opportunities and demystify the export controls and compliance requirements. Attendees will learn how to develop a robust export strategy, utilize tools and resources for market analysis, and ensure adherence to necessary documentation and international trade regulations, paving the way for successful entry into global markets.

30 minutes presentation

30 minutes Q&A

==========================

11 am – 12 pm

Topic for Importing Session:

“Navigating Import Regulations, Procedures, and Documentation”

Synopsis:

This session will provide an in-depth overview of the key regulations and compliance requirements set by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for importing goods. Entrepreneurs will learn about the essential documentation needed for customs clearance and will be guided through the step-by-step process of importing goods into Canada. The session will also highlight common compliance pitfalls and offer practical advice on how to avoid them, ensuring a smooth and efficient import process.

45 minutes presentation

15 minutes Q&A

Speakers:

• Sue Rauth – Director, Ontario Regional Office (ROONT) – Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)
• Debbie Bermudez – Senior Program Officer, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

Sue Rauth serves as Director within the Ontario Regional Office of the Trade Commissioner Service. In this role she leads a team of Trade Commissioners who support Ontario-based companies as they internationalize their business. For over 25 years she has been involved in counselling and collaborating with Ontario businesses across a variety of sectors in the international trade eco-system.

OWIT Toronto and Brazil-Canada Chamber of Commerce hosted the 17th Edition of Doing Business in Brazil.  The event gathered Brazilian and Canadian experts to talk about the Brazilian Infrastructure Market, focusing on regulations, investment, opportunities and challenges.
The Doing Business in Brazil was designed to assist Canadian companies in gaining insights into the Brazilian market and establishing connections with key players in the Brazil-Canada international trade industry.

Speakers Included: 

Marcia Nejaim., Regional Representative ApexBrasil in Sao Paolo and interim General Manager of ApexBrasil offices in North America. 

Luis Felipe Q., Specialist Advisor, Construction and Infrastructure Exports Latin American and Caribbean Markets, Department Exports at Investissement Québec.        Daniel De Falco Director, Infrastructure Latin America at Caisse de dépot et placement du Québec (CDPQ)

Andrea Gardella., Director and Principle Economist Alcance Solutions. 

From Lilian Marins (Co-VP Events and attendee): The trade and investment relationship between our two countries is thriving, with Canada ranking 11th in foreign investment in Brazil. Canadian companies are significantly invested in Brazil's mining, infrastructure, clean energy, and agriculture sectors. Meanwhile, Brazilian companies such as Vale, Votorantim, BRF, and Gerdau have established a strong presence in Canada, creating thousands of jobs and generating revenue.

While Brazil is a land of immense potential, it is also a complex market that requires more than just financial investment. Understanding the language, culture, and business dynamics is crucial for success. Throughout my career, I have been privileged to work directly within Brazil, gaining the local knowledge and building connections necessary to navigate its markets. Now, living in Toronto, I am delighted to be able to contribute to building this essential and strategic bilateral relationship.

Our signature event OWIT TO Export Awards Gala celebrates 3 Canadian women in the categories of Excellence Award for Leadership in International Trade, Exporter of the Year and Student of International Trade.
Start considering who in your network you can recognize. Past winners include Dr. Wendy Cukier, Christine Nakamura, Yvonne Robertson and Oluwayomi Dime.
Hosted at the Ontario Investment and Trade Centre, join us for a luncheon with networking, a Special Guest Speaker and the Awards celebration.

Registration & Nomination details to follow shortly.

Please welcome Karen Garcha, Susan Langdon and Mégane Visette as Directors of OWIT-Toronto, on the Board of Directors for 2024.

With new Officers of OWIT-Toronto:

•       Karen Garcha as Vice President, Membership
•       Susan Langdon as Co-Vice President, Events
•        Lilian Marins as Co-Vice President, Events
•        Mégane Visette as Vice President, Partnerships

Interim Board Appointments:

Karen Garcha, Board Member & Vice President, Membership

Karen is an international trade professional with 20 years of experience in business development within the financial services industry. Karen is currently a Senior Commercial Account Manager at Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) where she enables entrepreneurs across a broad range of industries to grow their businesses through financing and advisory support.

 Previously, Karen was a Commercial Account Manager in the Mid-Market Segment team at Export Development Canada (EDC), where she managed a diverse portfolio of clients to become more internationally competitive by providing market intel, risk mitigation and trade finance solutions.

 She holds Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com) degrees and is a certified Commercial Banking Credit Analyst through the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI).

Susan Keiko Langdon, Board Member & Co-Vice President Events

 Susan Keiko Langdon, a Toronto-born, third-generation Canadian, was recently honored as a Member of the Order of Canada for her significant contributions to Canada's culture and economy. In 1994, Langdon shattered barriers by becoming the first racialized woman to assume a leadership role in the Canadian fashion industry when she joined the award-winning non-profit organization, Toronto Fashion Incubator (TFI).

Langdon's journey is one of inspiration, marked by her unwavering dedication and mentorship. Her outstanding achievements have earned her numerous accolades, and she is renowned globally as a foremost authority on fashion incubation and entrepreneurship. Her career has been incredibly fulfilling, spanning roles as both a fashion designer with her own label and a part-time professor at local universities. Her impact as a leader, mentor, and volunteer has left an indelible mark on Canada's cultural landscape, making her a true role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and change-makers alike.

Mégane Visette, Board Member & VP Partnerships

Mégane is a bilingual public affairs professional specializing in government relations, fundraising, and international advocacy for inclusive socio-economic development. She’s currently Government Relations Manager at Futurpreneur, a national non-profit supporting diverse young entrepreneurs launch successful businesses, and the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance Sherpa for Canada. As Sherpa, she’s responsible for Futurpreneur’s G20-related mandate, including the recruitment, representation, and consultations of the annual G20 YEA Canadian delegations. Her focus has been on creating inclusive opportunities and dialogue on the global stage for/by diverse young entrepreneurs. She’s passionate about establishing partnerships for social and sustainable impact and advocating for intersectional equality and the defense of human rights throughout the global value chains. She has also worked for the Council of Ministers of Education, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea, HanVoice Support Association, and the NATO Association of Canada.

As VP of Partnership, Mégane hopes to leverage her non-profit experience and entrepreneurial network to create meaningful partnerships aligned with OWIT-Toronto’s mission & member needs. Export readiness, ESG monitoring, and trade literacy for early-stage/small businesses are also themes she’s eager to prioritize as a new board member.

New Officers

Lilian Marins, Co-Vice President Event

Lilian brings over 15 years of experience in the private and public sectors in Brazil and Canada, with four years of leading projects as an Executive Leader with the American Chamber of Commerce in Brazil. She is passionate about fostering collaboration within diverse teams and is an active mentor to entrepreneurs and SMEs.

She has a Masters in Business Management from FGV – Fundacao Getulio Vargas in Brazil and a Degree in Project Management and International Relations. Lilian speaks many languages, including Portuguese and is an Executive Master Coach.

It’s been a busy year for OWIT-Toronto board members who participated as speakers and guests at a number of trade events organized by our partners and raised our profile.  These included:

CAN-CHAM Monterrey (Mexico) Annual Women’s Forum in March:  Women in Today’s World:  Powerful Journeys featured a stellar panel of accomplished businesswomen from Canada and Mexico who shared their secrets to success and how they navigated the bumps along the way. As a result of a Collaboration Agreement signed with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce—Monterrey, Mexico—in March 2023, OWIT-Toronto was directly involved in selecting topics and recruiting two Canadian speakers for the forum. The messages delivered by Canadian entrepreneur Sahiza Hossenbaccus and  by Clare Barnett,  Director of Economic Development for the City of Brampton and OWIT-Toronto Board Member,  motivated and kept the Mexican and Canadian audiences engaged.  We will continue this successful collaboration in the coming Women Forums.

               

Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub’s March International Women’s Day event: Attended by some OWIT members, who participated in a roundtable on exporting and heard inspiring remarks from guest speaker Minister of  Small Business Rechie Valdez.

Casa Foundation for International Development Annual Women Inspire Forum in March:  In honour of this year’s International Women’s Day, Casa hosted this 5th edition of the forum as a celebration of women in business and leadership. OWIT Board Member Clare Barnett was invited to speak on a panel discussion - Presenting Case Studies of Women Entrepreneurs in Canada - Stories of Rising Entrepreneurs.

Supporting Women in International Trade event in April:  Presented by the Delegation of the European Union in Canada and hosted by Dentons,  this roundtable discussed trade promotion policies and instruments and shared best practices that support women’s participation in international trade under the CETA free trade agreement between Canada and the EU.  OWIT VP International Susan Baka participated in a moderated panel Q & A on inclusive trade in action.

                

Belgian-Canadian Business Chamber’s Awards Gala in April.  Several OWIT-Toronto members, including Justine Namara, Sue Rauth and KC Goundiam, attended this high-energy annual gala as part of our partnership with BCBC.

GroYourBiz EXCELerate2024 conference in Vancouver also in April.  OWIT-Toronto President Audrey Ross  joined fellow OWIT-International members for  a panel on Going Global: The Road to Globalization.  

City of Toronto May Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum 2024: Women Shaping Global Business. Anita Agrawal, a Past President of OWIT-Toronto and owner of Best Bargains Jewellery, participated in a panel on Growing Your Business Globally.  She shared why she joined OWIT, not only because she is an exporter, but membership has also allowed her to gain trade knowledge, be introduced to experts to help transfer knowledge, and to find a ‘hype women’ who lifts her up and connects her with valuable contacts.

What a view! 

Thank you to our attendees for joining us on Wednesday, June 12 to network, connect and converse.  We enjoyed the summer weather and Toronto skyline view at stylish Lavelle. 

OWIT Toronto President Audrey Ross and Board Members Myra Sable, Jessica Horwitz, Susan Baka and Cathy Williamson were on hand to welcome guests and share our passion for being part of OWIT. 

As new guests arrived they were greeted by an O

WIT Board member and quickly folded into introductions and conversations.   With the invitation for Members to bring a friend we welcomed many new faces. 

With attendees representing private business traders, federal and municipal governments, chambers of commerce and some well known names in accounting and law it was a dynamic group.  As per usual in Toronto, conversations were multi-lingual with a good portion of the group joining in discussion in Spanish. 

Guests enjoyed the poolside views, nibbles including signature wagyu sliders, sushi, karaage chicken and Hawaiian inspired veggie nachos. The theme was hydration in the humid Toronto heat so water first, followed by guests favourites or Lavelle signatures.  The Pomegranate & Apricot sangria and Passion Fruit Mimosa's seemed most popular.  Your OWIT President enjoyed a server recommended non-alcoholic mix of pineapple, cranberry & soda water to stay cool.  

Special Thanks to:

Glen, Kaye, Roman & Cody of Lavelle for being wonderful and attentive hosts. 

Our Board, volunteers and members for their continued support. 

Photo Credits: Audrey Ross, Maria Marchyshyn