This year’s finalists for the Businesswoman of the Year awards have been announced.
Started in 1983, the awards recognize the achievements and leadership of women in business and entrepreneurship across Ottawa. The event is organized by the volunteer-run Women’s Business Network, which represents members from both the public and private sectors.
On Tuesday, the awards announced the 15 local women who emerged from the pool of nominees. The five categories highlight both new and established women business leaders, as well as those who have made significant contributions to the broader community.
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The finalists will gather at the Infinity Convention Centre on Oct. 16 for the Businesswoman of the Year gala, where the winners of each category will be announced.
Emerging Entrepreneurial Leader
- Jill Fratpietro, OneLife Benefits & Consulting Inc.
- Helen Tang, HT Realty
- Kate Laird, Love Your Body Fitness
Established Entrepreneurial Leader
- Salima Ismail, Chiromax of Manotick
- Carley Schelck, Urban Element
- Susan Richards, numbercrunch
Enterprise Leader
- Meseret Haileyesus, Canadian Centre for Women Empowerment (CCFWE)
- Adrienne Vienneau, Christie Lake Kids
- Christine Crump, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa
Lifetime Achievement
- Deirdre Freiheit, Freiheit Consulting Inc.
- Marry Gunaratnam, Northern Credit Union
- Bree Jamieson-Holloway, Canadian International Trade Tribunal
Community Impact
- Emily Jones Joanisse, Connected Canadians
- Lisa Anna Palmer, Light Your Leadership Inc.
- Julie Findlay, Mom in the Know
