Skip to content

2024 Women in Business Awards

Women In Business Gala Celebration, March 7, 2024

Click the image below to view full size

On International Women’s Day, the Barrie Chamber of Commerce is proud to publicly announce the recipients of the Women In Business Awards 2024; presented by Meridian.

In a moving event held yesterday with an audience of over 300 people, the event recognized the accomplishments of female leaders who have shown exceptional skills in their respective fields. This year’s awards highlighted the contributions and innovative spirit of women in the Barrie Business Community, acknowledging their efforts in shaping a more inclusive future for everyone .... READ ON

The Intrapreneur Award

Sponsored by Grant Thornton
Awarded to Steph MacMillan of Busch Systems
In recognition of her innovative contributions within her organization, leading to significant growth and success.

The Young Entrepreneur Award

Sponsored by Invest Barrie
Awarded to Sarah & Emily Dahlgren of A Bradford Christmas
Their dynamic vision and dedication to their business have made a significant impact on the local market and community.

The Entrepreneur Award

Sponsored by Bill Gosling Outsourcing
Awarded to Cait Patrick & Lise Ravalli of Homestead Artisan Bakery
Their passion, innovation, and commitment have ingrained their bakery into the Barrie community.

The Community Impact Award

Sponsored by Downtown Barrie BIA
Awarded to Sarah Fleming of Glowing Hearts Charity
Her remarkable work and dedication have left an indelible mark on the youth in Barrie.

The Healthcare Hero Award

Sponsored by SUPERIOR Home Health Care
Awarded to Holly Martin of Touch A Heart Home Care
Recognizing her exceptional contributions to healthcare and her passion for supporting and listening to those in her care with dignity and respect.

The Woman In Trade Award

Sponsored by Georgian College
Awarded to Taylorr Martin of Bertram Construction
Her excellence and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field demonstrate her dedication to paving the way for future generations of women in trades.

The Visionary Award

Sponsored by Meridian
Awarded to Angie Mcmillin of Angie’s Pawsitive Pet Services
Her decision to follow her passion for animals will inspire those around her to take the same leap of faith to pursue their own happiness.

 Thursday, March 7, 2024 at Liberty North
Celebrate women that inspire!

The Barrie Chamber of Commerce is proud to offer the Women in Business Awards for 2024. An awards luncheon that provides a platform to recognize the women that lead and succeed in Barrie. The nomination process is open to members of the public to nominate, recognize and encourage a woman or woman led business or organization that has excelled beyond their expectations over the past year. This awards program aims to honour local women who have shaped our community! By acknowledging social responsibility, entrepreneurial spirit, risk taking and innovation; trail blazers and leaders in our community will receive the recognition and accolades they so richly deserve.

#WIB2024  #PowerfulWomen  #BarrieChamber  #WomenInBusiness

WIB MCs Charlie & Amy

Meet Our MC's!

We're thrilled to announce that the ever-entertaining Charlie and the fabulous Amy Aust from 107.5 Kool FM will be gracing us as MCs for this year’s Women in Business Awards!

Charlie, whose wit and charm light up the mornings on Kool FM. Known for sharing her hilarious and relatable 'mom thoughts', she's guaranteed to keep us smiling and engaged. Her knack for storytelling and bringing laughter to the everyday will make our celebration even more memorable.

Joining her is Amy, a Barrie native and a voice that's been captivating our airwaves for nearly two decades, will bring her dynamic energy and infectious enthusiasm. As a self-proclaimed foodie, pop culture aficionado, and social butterfly, her vibrant spirit is sure to add an extra layer of excitement to our event!

We can't wait to come together to celebrate the achievements of phenomenal women in business with our hosts who embody the spirit of our community. It’s going to be filled with inspiration, celebration, and thanks to our MCs, a lot of fun!

WIB Daniel Tisch OCC (1)

Speaker: Daniel Tisch, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce

Daniel is a business, public policy, and community leader, having held executive roles in government and the corporate sector, and senior governance roles at public institutions and non-profit associations. He is known globally as an expert in corporate communications, public policy, community engagement, crisis and reputation management.

From 2003 to 2023, Daniel was the CEO, majority owner and entrepreneurial force in building Argyle Communications into Canada’s largest management-owned engagement, communication and reputation advisory firm growing to $38M in revenue, 155 employees and ten North American offices. Earlier in his career, Daniel held senior communications roles in the Canadian government, including serving as Senior Policy Advisor and Acting Chief of Staff to Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. In the latter role, he was a member of the Canadian delegation to the G7 Economic Summit.

Daniel has spoken to business audiences on every continent, lectured at Queen’s University’s Smith School of Business since 1996, and contributed to leading public relations and marketing textbooks. He appears regularly in print and broadcast media, including weekly commentary on CBC Radio and Global News during the 2019 and 2021 Canadian federal elections. In 2021, Daniel was named one of the world’s “top 100” social media influencers on public relations.

Born in Spain to a Latin American family and raised in Toronto, Daniel speaks English, French and Spanish. He holds two degrees from Queen’s University — a Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies and a Master of Business Administration. He is also a certified corporate director, with an ICD.D designation in corporate governance from the University of Toronto. Daniel has served as vice chair of the Queen’s University Board of Trustees, a leader in the international Scouting movement and a board member of Social Venture Partners International.

Keynote Speaker Candice Thomas (1)

Keynote Speaker: Candice Thomas

Candice Thomas, a force to be reckoned with, holds multiple titles and is a true leader of change. As the CEO of Evergreen Wellness Studio, founder of the Liv Mohr Project, and a fierce advocate for Maternal Mental Health, her impact is undeniable.

Candice's innovative approach to healthcare is evident in her creation of a collaborative care model. By bringing together a team of skilled practitioners and instructors, she ensures a comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses the root cause of health concerns.

Evergreen Wellness Studio, a multidisciplinary integrative wellness studio, is breaking down barriers between physical and psychological health. With a specific focus on women's health, Candice is determined to provide more support and raise awareness in this area.

Candice's advocacy work and unwavering passion for change in the healthcare system are truly inspiring. In just two years, she has helped raise over $35,000 in funding for Perinatal Mental Health services in the Barrie community. Candice proudly received the 2023 Barrie Chamber of Commerce Women in Business, "Heart and Soul" award.

Not only is Candice a force in her professional life, but she is also a devoted mother to her two daughters, Olivia and Ada – Future change makers!

Candice Thomas BAHSc, RMT, CEO

EVENT DETAILS

LOCATION
Liberty North,
100 Caplan Ave Unit 1, Barrie, ON L4N 9J2

DATE
Thursday, March 7, 2024

TIME
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST
11:00 am- Registration & Networking
12:00 pm- Welcome from MC's & Lunch Served

Keynote Speaker: Candice Thomas, CEO - Evergreen Wellness Studio

Presentation of Women in Business Awards

EVENT TIMELINE

*Subject to change

Launch of Nominations (and Acceptances Open):

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Nominations Close:

Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at 2:00pm

Acceptances Close:

Monday, January 22, 2024 at 2:00pm

Judging Open:

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Judging Closes:

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 2:00pm

Press Reception:

Friday, February 9, 2024 at 12:30pm

Early Bird Ticket Rates Close:

Monday, February 12, 2024 at 11:59PM

Ticket Sales Close:

Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 11:59PM

WIB Gala:

Thursday, March 7, 2024

GALA MENU

Starter

  • Fresh caprese salad - Vine ripened tomatoes and fior di latte cheese finished with cracked black pepper and sea salt and drizzled with Tuscan Strawberry Aged Balsamic Vinegar and Green Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil harvested in Spain, November 2023 from Olive Oil Co – Barrie, Newmarket, Midland, Orillia
  • Vegan/ Dairy free - Caprese salad with no cheese

Main Course

  • Kale crunch salad with cucumbers, roasted beets, fried chickpeas, shredded carrots, grape tomatoes, and pickled red onions topped with fresh lemon and herb marinated chicken breast drizzled with Pomegranate Balsamic paired with Herbes de Provence Olive Oil from Olive Oil Co – Barrie, Newmarket, Midland, Orillia (G.F./ D.F.)
  • Vegetarian/Vegan option will be the same salad topped with tofu cubes marinated with Sicilian Lemon Balsamic and Milanese Gremolata Olive Oil and marinated tofu cubes.  From Olive Oil Co – Barrie, Newmarket, Midland, Orillia

Dessert

  • Blueberry Custard tart finished with Blueberry Balsamic Vinegar marinated berries from Olive Oil Co – Barrie, Newmarket, Midland, Orillia
  • Vegan/ Dairy free/ Gluten free - Vegan chocolate brownie cake with Blueberry Balsamic Vinegar marinated berries from Olive Oil Co – Barrie, Newmarket, Midland, Orillia

Nomination, Acceptance and Judging Review Process

Our awards management platform, Awardify, is a user-friendly, secure, and Canadian-made solution specifically designed to streamline and enhance the nominations, acceptances, and judging processes. Its capabilities underscore the platform's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency and fairness.

Our esteemed panel of judges is carefully selected from across the Ontario Chamber network. This strategic selection of judges ensures an impartial evaluation of nominees, focusing solely on the merits of their applications and their business acumen. The Barrie Chamber is dedicated to a fair and unbiased review process.

To further support our nominees, we've introduced a Nomination Acceptance Tip page. This resource guides nominees through the acceptance process, offering valuable insights and tips to ensure they can fully leverage this opportunity. This initiative, accessible to all nominees, demonstrates our commitment to equality and support for every participant.

The Barrie Chamber elevates our awards approach with strategic judge selection, enhanced nominee support, and a strong focus on security and transparency. The very best of luck to all of our nominees.

Scroll To Top