On March 7, the Barrie Chamber of Commerce hosted their Women In Business Awards where they announced the 2024 winners. Hosted by Kool FM’s Charlie and Amy Aust, the event was attended by several of Barrie’s prominent businesswomen, as well as friends, family, coworkers and other supporters.
Keynote Speaker Candice Thomas, owner of Evergreen Wellness Studio, spoke about her experiences as a woman, mother, and entrepreneur. Her advocacy work and unwavering passion for change in the healthcare system are an inspiration to many.
The Women In Business Awards celebrates women in 7 areas of entrepreneurship:
- Intrapreneur
- Entrepreneur
- Young Entrepreneur
- Community Impact
- Woman In Trade
- Visionary
- Healthcare Hero (New in 2024)
Each category received a number of nominees with 3 finalists in each. Today the finalists came together to find out who this year’s 2024 Women In Business were.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the 2024 Women In Business winners …
1. Intrapreneur - Stephanie MacMillan from Busch Systems
Steph MacMillan is the human resources manager at Busch Systems. She has been an integral part of the company for the past 25 years. Leading by example, she always has an open door and an attentive ear to lend. All while being instrumental in implementing many of the leading edge policies and employee benefits that make Busch such a wonderful place to work.
Don't let her “tough love” act fool you – from her extensive charity work to vocal encouragement of her colleagues and their endeavors, everyone knows she's got the biggest heart too.
2. Young Entrepreneur - Sarah Dahlgren and Emily Dahlgren from A Bradford Christmas
Sarah and Emily are two sisters who followed a dream to give back to the community by starting A Bradford Christmas at 14 and 15 years old. Since A Bradford Christmas’ inception, they have raised $75,000+ for charities across the GTA.
Supporting 3 charities, they’ve hosted 70+ fundraisers and welcomed dozens of generous sponsors. And they’ve done it all while partnering with local businesses and encouraging other youth to get involved in community work.
3. Entrepreneur - Cait Patrick and Lise Ravalli from Homestead Artisan Bakery
Cait and Lise have strived to create a local bakery and community hub dedicated to providing good food with real ingredients.
They specialize in long ferment sourdough breads and baked goods, crafted by hand in small batches using locally milled flours. They have also created an ever-evolving fresh foods menu and vibrant local in-house roasted coffee menu. Every aspect of the bakery strives to bring the best experience and offerings to the Barrie community.
Their goal in 2023 was to support farmers who make regenerative and sustainable farming a priority and are excited to make even more connections and source food responsibly going forward in 2024 period.
4. Community Impact - Sarah Fleming from Glowing Heart Charity
As the Managing Director and Board Chair, Sarah has been the driving force behind Glowing Hearts Charity, pushing the boundaries of what a volunteer-run organization can achieve within a short timeframe, providing innovative and proactive programs that have directly benefited thousands.
She does this because it truly brings her joy.
As a teacher with 23 years of experience who understands the impact of limited resources on individuals, Glowing Hearts Charity allowed Sarah to channel her energy, enthusiasm, and creativity to build brighter futures in our community.
5. Woman In Trade - Taylorr Martin from Bertram Construction
Barrie is Taylor’s home. She was born, raised and recently bought her first home here. From a young age she refused any misconception that gender defines what someone can accomplish.
She started her career as a drafting consultant and very quickly learned that the organization of a construction project was her true passion. Since then, she has been a construction project manager at Bertram Construction .
She spends her spare time giving back to her community and has a passion for the trades and paving a path for the next generation of construction leaders.
6. Healthcare Hero - Holly Martin from Touch A Heart Homecare Inc.
After 30+ years in corporate sales & family caregiver experience for parents and in-laws, Holly Martin enrolled in Georgian College's Personal Support Worker course. Holly graduated with honors on the Dean's List and started her own home care agency – Touch A Heart Homecare Inc.
Her business offers services from companion care, respite, and dementia through to end-of-life care. Holly's motto “Our family caring for yours” means someone will always sit and listen.
Holly's achievements include OPSWA PSW Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017, as well as Barrie Advance Readers’ Choice Awards every year from 2019 to 2023.
7. Visionary - Angie McMillin from Angie’s Pawsitive Pet Services
As a visionary in the pet service industry, Angie transformed her passion for animals into a thriving business. Angie’s Pawsitive Pet Services continues to foster a nurturing environment where clients experience comfort, security, and the highest standard of care.
Their commitment to transparency with pet owners further solidifies their reputation as a trusted leader, setting a benchmark for excellence.
Angie's Pawsitive Pet Services offers personalized services while fostering a community of satisfied clients. They stand out through innovative offerings where luxury meets canine comfort and have elevated the pet service industry and earn recognition as a trusted advocate for the prestigious and ethical treatment of animals.
2024 Women In Business
The Barrie Chamber of Commerce's 2024 Women In Business Awards concluded with a resounding celebration of the city's most inspiring female entrepreneurs and leaders. Each winner, across seven categories, exemplified dedication, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Congratulations to all the winners and nominees of the 2024 Barrie Chamber of Commerce Women In Business Awards!
