Business: Retailer selling a curated collection of furniture, homewares and gifts from Canadian makers.
Born: Brampton, Ont.
Biggest business achievement: Founded a retail startup and social enterprise that’s grown to $1.5 million in annual revenue, employs 10 people, sources products within Canada and has donated more than $100,000 to Ottawa community organizations through the #CraftChange Fund.
OBJ360 (Sponsored)
Sharing “PapaJo’s” story to shine the spotlight on the Campaign to Create Tomorrow
Visitors to the seventh floor of The Ottawa Hospital’s General campus may do a double take outside Room 7123. A plaque beside the door references “PapaJo” Johns. Who, you may
Legal tips for making workplace changes during a period of economic uncertainty
With the ongoing threat of severe trade disruptions and economic uncertainty in the air, business owners who have been economically impacted by the tariffs might be contemplating changes to their
Biggest obstacle overcome: Pivoted from an immersive, tangible in-store shopping experience to an e-commerce model during the pandemic while maintaining overall sales growth of 28 per cent.
Biggest influences: My mother, who was always passionate about shopping local and supporting artists before it was trendy.
Biggest lesson learned during COVID-19: That what we do as a business is essential to people’s lives.
Charitable involvement: Parkdale Food Centre
First job: Hockey referee
Advice I’d give the younger me: Share your ideas, foster partnerships, keep dreaming and be patient.
Favourite pastime: Playing guitar for my two kids.
