The RPA Women Entrepreneur Awards: Celebrating women entrepreneurs for Small Business Week

James (Jim) Green, RPA is owner and general manager of Green & Company, Registered Professional Accountants in Cambridge, Ontario, and secretary of the Society of Professional Accountants of Canada.

THE RPA Women Entrepreneur Awards have introduced me to an inspiring group of women whose stories have left a lasting impression. These women have not only achieved success but have become role models through their hard work, determination, and innovative spirit.

Among them was Estefania Hernandez Sanchez from Brampton, whose business, Enzo Latin Food Suppliers, has filled a vital niche in the community by providing a diverse range of Latin foods to local markets and restaurants. Then there’s Indira Khurana, owner of the Laser Cosmetics Clinic in Toronto, who has built a successful clinic that stands out in the competitive beauty industry through her dedication to excellence and client satisfaction.

In Ottawa, Merrique Richards made her mark with Vellencia Strategies, a consulting firm known for helping businesses navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth. Her innovative approach has made her a sought-after advisor for companies looking to scale.

Meanwhile, in Markham, Mahnaz Atkinson has turned her passion for design into a thriving business with Talah Rose Developments, an interior design firm celebrated for creating elegant, personalized spaces.

Lastly, Lenore Johnson from Kitchener delighted us with LenJo Bakes, her popular bakery known for artistic and delicious creations that have become a beloved part of the community.

These businesswomen were all winners at the 2023 RPA Women Entrepreneurs Awards. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of embracing one’s unique vision. But their journeys were not without challenges — challenges that many entrepreneurs face and that resonate with anyone who has embarked on the path of business ownership.

Why the RPA Women Entrepreneur Awards Matter

The RPA Women Entrepreneur Awards play a vital role in recognizing these achievements. They offer more than just accolades; they provide a platform for women entrepreneurs to share their experiences, inspire others, and receive the recognition they deserve. In a landscape where only 18% of businesses in Canada are majority woman-owned, these awards help highlight the opportunities to bridge this gap by celebrating success stories and encouraging more women to pursue entrepreneurship.

As a Registered Professional Accountant (RPA), I have had the privilege of participating in numerous networking and industry events that go beyond the day-to-day operations of my own firm. These events represent a collective effort to foster a thriving entrepreneurial community, and the Women Entrepreneur Awards are particularly meaningful.

They not only recognize remarkable achievements but also underscore the importance of a more inclusive and equitable business environment. By amplifying the voices of women entrepreneurs, we help build a community where individual successes contribute to a broader narrative of resilience and innovation.

One of the most powerful aspects of the RPA Women Entrepreneur Awards is the emphasis on storytelling — her business, her story. These personal narratives are more than just tales of success; they are blueprints that others can follow.

When women entrepreneurs share their stories, they offer valuable insights into overcoming obstacles, seizing opportunities, and carving out a place in the business world. These stories not only motivate and inspire but also serve as practical guides for other women on similar journeys.

How RPAs Can Help Women Entrepreneurs Thrive

As professional accountants, we have an ethical responsibility to contribute to our communities and support positive outcomes. The Women Entrepreneur Awards align with this mission. By providing services such as business planning, financial reporting, forecasting, and tax compliance, RPAs play an integral role in helping entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

As we look forward to the 2024 awards, let us commit to supporting and uplifting women entrepreneurs. Their stories deserve to be heard, their challenges addressed, and their achievements celebrated. By doing so, we not only honor their contributions but also move towards a more inclusive and vibrant economy. I encourage everyone in our community — RPAs and beyond—to take an active role in this effort. Whether it’s by attending the awards, nominating a deserving entrepreneur, or supporting women-owned businesses, we can all contribute to making a difference.

Nominations take place each year during the summer, closing at the end of August, and the ceremony is set during Small Business Week. This year it’s on October 26th in Mississauga. Further details are available on the RPA Canada website. Let’s come together to celebrate innovation, resilience, and the power of storytelling in shaping the future of Canadian business.

James (Jim) Green, RPA is owner and general manager of Green & Company, Registered Professional Accountants in Cambridge, Ontario, and secretary of the Society of Professional Accountants of Canada.