Member Spotlight
- December 30, 2020
Thought it was time to do a spotlight on the special projects girl! When you love what you do and do what you love that's a sign of a successful career. It's how Joanne Atkins feels about her position as Executive Assistant with Can accord Genuity Wealth Management in Uptown Waterloo. Joanne began her career in the investment industry over 40 years ago and is still passionate about her work and commitment to service. She thrives on helping others and sharing her positive energy with clients, colleagues, friends and family. Wherever she goes fun is following close behind- her attitude and spirit is contagious. Joanne enjoys bringing people together and creating a culture where people feel connected to one another.

Joanne learned early in life the value of hard work and responsibility through her family's business, Upshall's Garage on Bell Island; an experience she feels has shaped her entrepreneurial spirit. These are values both Joanne and her husband, Paul have passed on to their two sons, Mitchel and Justin, who also have their own businesses. Joanne is grateful for the many insightful and inspiring women she has met through the KWBWA over the past 30 years. She believes the purpose of the association is not about what you can get, but rather about what you can give.
Joanne continues to serve on the board and help create opportunities to highlight these incredible women in our community.
Website: schaeferfinancial.ca
12 Days of Christmas
- December 7, 2020
Welcome to the start of our 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas. Each day we will be showcasing a member of the KWBWA's business as well as other local businesses. It's not what's under the tree that matters, but by shopping local, we are keeping our money in our community and helping others. That's a great feeling!.
On the 1st Day of Christmas...
Kristin Moore, owner of Buy Moore Jewelry, has been a member of the KWBWA since December 2017. She is a local silversmith who makes beautiful jewelry in her home studio in Elmira. This is a sample of her work, available for sale. If you are interested in something, please message her directly through Instagram or Facebook. She can also be reached via email at kristin@buymoore.ca. Who DOESN'T love a gift of a shiny new piece of jewelry? Don't know the style or preference of your loved one? Gift certificates are available. Kristin welcomes ideas and custom orders.
On the 2nd Day of Christmas...
Sylvie Drader, Independent Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and member of the KWBWA. She loves to help people create beautiful cards that others will cherish. Since in-house classes aren't possible right now, check out her website for instructions to create your own at home. sylviestamps.com
Here is a sample of her cards that are available for sale. They are $20 for 5 (includes envelopes and curbside pick up). These can be mixed and matched and can be custom ordered (eg sympathy cards, congratulations cards, baby cards etc...). The advent calendar is $50 (curbside pick up). If you are interested in something, please message her directly through Instagram or Facebook @ Sylvie Stamps. We can all use some extra cards on hand.
On the 3rd Day of Christmas...
Mary-Lou Lang is an Independent Consultant with Arbonne International and has been a member of the KWBWA since July 2019, but attended as an alternate before that. Mary-Lou loves all the beautiful products that Arbonne has to offer: skin care, nutrition and make-up, just to name a few. Their products are non GMO, vegan, gluten-free, paraben and sulphate free. For the makeup-shy who don't know where to start, to those looking for a go-to fresh-faced look, the Ready in Five makeup set is a value everyone will love! This Set Special comes with one makeup must-have, 4 customizable options and a how-to brochure. Treat yourself or someone you love! If you would like a sample of the skin care, or to find out more, contact Mary-Lou at beautyunlimited6@hotmail.com.
On the 4th Day of Christmas...
Karen Savage, Senior Sales Specialist at Heffner Toyota has been helping people find their dream car for over 20 years. Whether you're looking to trade in your own vehicle, or give someone special an extra big gift this Christmas, come into Heffner Toyota this weekend to find your perfect car.
On the 5th Day of Christmas...
Delia Simu, registered homeopath, International Medical graduate, and BIE practitioner (Bioenergetic intolerance elimination) has been practicing homeopathic medicine since 1996. BIE is a natural, noninvasive method that helps a person's body to recognize the "culprit" stressors that are causing their health disorder. The first five people in December to mention this post and book a consultation will receive 25% off their initial visit. Give Delia a call today at 519-581-7111 and see for yourself the difference homeopathic and BIE treatment can make.
On the 6th Day of Christmas...
Dr. Lesley Jacklin is a chiropractor at Bruce Street Family Chiropractic. She is a past president and has been a member of the KWBWA since 2017. Dr Lesley is passionate about helping people achieve their health goals. She has seen the effects of stress, that when it overwhelms our body, it shifts our spine out of alignment causing various symptoms in the body. Gentle adjustments restore proper mobility to the spine, improving nervous system function and preventing further damage to the spinal joints.
Call 519 743 6339 or visit www.brucestreetfamilychiropractic.com to schedule your initial exam today and discover how good you were designed to feel! Mention KWBWA for a special exam fee of $67.
On the 7th Day of Christmas...
Connie Deckert has been teaching golf in the KW area for 15 years and is a long standing member of the KWBWA, since September 2008. Connie has teaching privileges at Max's Golf Centre in Waterloo year-round and during the golf season she is also at Wedges and Woods in Cambridge.
Do you have someone on your list who is interested in picking up a new sport? Are you looking to polish up your swing? Let Connie set you off on the right foot! Send Connie an email to get started today: connie@conniedeckert.com
On the 8th Day of Christmas..
Rachelle Garcia, Manager of Community Engagement at Centre In The Square.
Now more than ever, our theatres need your support. It's hard to imagine now, but we will come together again soon for your favourite shows like Alan Doyle, Australian Pink Floyd and more. 2020 is the best year to put a gift certificate under the tree for the theatre fan on your list. The Box Office is open to take your calls Monday to Friday 11-3 at 519-578-1570.
On the 9th Day of Christmas...
Kristin Werner, owner of Star Performance Dance Academy. She has been on the executive of the KWBWA and has been a member for over 5 years. Virtual Dance Experience - Starter Session!
Is your child dancing all over the house with extra energy? Let us take care of that for you with this once-a-week online dance experience, with Star Performance Academy's Virtual Studio. This 4 week session offers intro to dance classes for 3-5 and 6-10 year olds. Register today!
On the 10th Day of Christmas...
Natalie Kohlruss, Chartered Herbalist, herb farmer + founder of Huron Earth. Natalie has a property just outside of Kitchener-Waterloo on Huron Road where they grow never sprayed, medicinal herbs. They transform the herbs into teas, salves + herbal skincare using non invasive processing methods to preserve the medicinal properties of the herbs. Check out shop.huronearth.com today and discover all the goodness Huron Earth has to offer.
On the 11th Day of Christmas...
Alicia Stuart is a Partner at Harris Law, where she maintains a broad personal injury practice. She is a KWBWA past President, and has been a member since 2016. Harris Law (Personal Injury Lawyers) wants to help those in need in our community. The Kitchener law firm collected non-perishable food, unwrapped toys, and cash donations for its Annual Holiday Food and Toy Drive. Normally this time of year, they would be hosting a toy and food drive at the Apollo Cinema, but obviously that can't happen this year due to the pandemic.
On the 12th Day of Christmas...
We would like to give a shout out to everyone supporting those less fortunate in our community. If you can, support our local food bank, YW-KW, House of Friendship or any of our great local charities!

Zoom Christmas
- December 8, 2020
Our Christmas party was a little different this year, but maintaining connections with other business women in our community is still key. We are together, even though we are apart.
Spreading holiday cheer to those far and near!
New Member Talk

- November 19, 2020
Rachelle Garcia (Manager of Community Engagement) enlightened us about her employment at Centre in the Square. Her focus is building a comprehensive community engagement plan to enable Centre in the Square to better connect with residents and businesses in Waterloo Region. Recently due to COVID restrictions, Rachelle was laid off, but being the "team player"" that she is, Rachelle stepped up to the "plate" and is helping her husband at their restaurant/Latino grocery store. America Latina Grocery & Eatery - YOUR source for all Latin American foods, offering products from Mexico, Central and South America. If you don't see something
you're looking for, just let Rachelle know and she'll do everything she can to find it. They also offer reliable and confidential money transfer services using Transfast and RIA.
Website: americalatinavariety.ca
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/AmericaLatinaKitchener
- Star Performance Academy | Dance Star Team
Best Kids Camps: Gold - Lyfestyle Financial Inc.
Best Investment Company: Gold - Karen Savage
Best Auto Salesperson: Gold - Heffner Lexus Toyota
Auto Colision and Repair: Diamond
Auto Parts and Accessories: Gold
Best Auto Rustproofing: Gold
Best Imported Car Dealership: Diamond
New Car Dealership: Diamond
Transmission Service and Repair: Platinum
Used Car Dealership: Diamond

KW Record Readers' Choice - Winners
- October 29, 2020
The votes are in!
Congratulations to all the winners in their respective categories AND thanks to everyone who voted.
- Harris Law, Personal Injury Lawyers PC
Law Firm: Platinum
Best Legal Services: Gold
Best Personal Injury Law Services: Platinum - Promyse Home Care
Best Home Health Care: Diamond - Northstar Travel | Northstar Journeys
Best Senior Tours: Platinum
Best Travel Agency: Diamond
Guest Speaker
- October 22, 2020
Sandra Stepan, CoFounder of SnapAdvantage was our guest speaker and spoke to our members about creating Social Media content for our businesses, sharing some great tips in this ever-changing world and tackling the problem everyone is having during Covid. She is passionate about helping local and online businesses creatung loyal and repeat customers! Sandra created a "Keep It Local" FB group with the goal to assist KW business owners to overcome the current situation by sharing resources, knowledge and expertise. Contact Sandra to see how she can help YOUR business!
Website: snapadvantage.com
Member Spotlight
- October 22, 2020
We have the great pleasure of highlighting one of our long standing members, Connie Deckert. Connie recently celebrated her 12th anniversary with KWBWA in September of this year. As women in business, we are fortunate to have her influence, support and expertise. Connie shows us that humility in leadership is not about thinking less of yourself, its about thinking about yourself less. Thank you Connie for your role in helping us feel proud of our association.
Connie Deckert has earned the title of pro in every sense of the word, from the game of golf which was introduced to Connie at a young age by her Dad, to becoming a solo entrepreneur when running her family business in Elmira.
Connie learned the import lessons on how to build business success. An accomplished professional, Connie steadily built her career as a golf pro achieving the highly coveted membership in the LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals. She joins the elite 1,600 women worldwide with only 30 in Canada. In addition to being designated a LPGA Golf Professional, Connie is also a Level III golf teacher with the Golf Teachers' Federations in both Canada and the Untied States. Talent leads to mastery and For U Enterprises was born, a business of all things golf where Connie could pass on her experience and expertise.
Connie is an impassioned advocate of women's rights. As a member of Kitchener-Waterloo Zonta Club for over 25 years she has been honoured with the Betty Thompson Award for her work. She is a supporter of The Women's Legal and Action Fund in Toronto (LEAF), an organization that has been guarding women's rights in Canada in court cases since women were given equality under our Constitution back in the early 80's. When not on the golf course, Connie enjoys being a member of the Noteworthy Singers, a dynamic senior's choir, spends time travelling and influencing her clients in the game of golf and life on the golf course.
Website: www.conniedeckert.com
This past year has been a challenge...
- October 15, 2020
We all have had to adjust to changes in our personal and professional lives. As a group, we've embraced Zoom meetings, focussed on learning more about our members through social media profiles, and had a couple outdoor events.
Kendra Allen was a fabulous president who confidently led our group through the highs and lows of 2019-2020. She helped secure some great speakers, oversaw venue changes due to renovations and helped spearhead our online meetings.
As long standing member, Nancy Koebel said: "Kendra you did an awesome job of pivoting when everything changed due to covid."
Member Kristin Moore was asked to create a piece of jewelry as a thank you gift for our president. She created a cuff bracelet that she can see it when typing on the computer and read its message: #empowered. This is the heart of our group: supporting and cheering on our members as we grow and navigate change.
Thank you to all of the women on our Executive from 2019-2020.
First Meetup
- September 10, 2020

Thank you for joining us today for our first Meetup since COVID that the #kwbwa had an in person meeting. It was wonderful to see so many of you. The atmosphere was lively and buzzing with positive vibes towards women in business in our community. It was a great turnout, awesome food and even better company.
Our members finally had the opportunity to meet face-to-face while safely socailly distancing on the beautiful patio at Boston Pizza in Kitchener!
Awesome to see everyone in person... great food and the weather cooperated.
Special THANKS to...
Joanne Atkins for organizing the Member meetup. After speaking with management, she had tables of 4 set up/reserved that were spaced out safely.
Boston Pizza for hosting us out on your patio with delicious food and hospitality.
Stay safe, healthy and fabulous!
Member Spotlight
- August 28, 2020
Today we put the spotlight on one of our awesome KWBWA members. Community. Purpose. Compassion. They weave a common thread in the life and work of Nancy Koebel, Financial Security Advisor with Lyfestyle Financial. For nearly 30 years, Nancy has been helping business owners and entrepreneurs create financial freedom.
As a member of the Million Dollar Round Table, recognizing financial professionals worldwide, and winner of the Roger's Women of the Year Award for community service, Nancy's vision for excellence is clear. She has built a powerful personal brand through helping others. Nancy also encourages her family to volunteer and give back to the community they live in.
Nancy Koebel joined us after attending the Annual Gala in June of 2012. From that time, Nancy has devoted her time and energy into highlighting our association and its members.
In the words of Alexander Den Heijer, "Stars don't shine because they want to be seen. They shine because they are stars." Thank you Nancy for shining a light and making a difference!
Website: www.lyfestyle.ca
Member Spotlight
- August 11, 2020
Marie Wolf, is the Executive Director @ Promyse Home Care, who joined us in May of 2011 and has served on the board for many of those years.
For more than 10 years, Marie Wolf has been providing loving care and support services to seniors and adults in our community. Formerly Retire-At-Home Services, Marie and her husband Mike just rebranded their business to Promyse Home Care, aptly named to reflect the brand experience "a better life, together".
In a world that is currently experiencing a pandemic, Marie brings confidence and a calm demeanour that is necessary to run a successful health and home care business!
She is an ultimate professional who prides herself on the hands-on care she and her staff provide to positively impact their clients and families. It is this type of poised leadership that has influenced their two children, Christina and Connor to be independent and self-assured as they strive for their goals.
Thank you Marie for the amazing work you are doing to help make our world a better place!
Website: www.promyse.ca
Member Spotlight
- July 20, 2020
We are privileged to highlight the innovative and inspiring Tiffany Rezende, who joined the KWBWA in February 2018.
Tiffany is the owner of Atoms Integrator, a company focused on connecting foreign entrepreneurs to our community and is a Womenpreneur at heart - she is a visionary who is fueled by the success of others. Her flexibility and open-mindedness allows her to pivot and embrace new opportunities globally. Whether it's accepting the honour of attending and speaking at the EBW conference (Empowering a Billion Women global movement) in Austin, Texas or participating in the Creative Business Cup Global Finals in Copenhagen, Denmark, Tiffany is always shining a light on entrepreneurship in Canada and in her community!
Watching her 16 year old son, Gabe, evolve as a bright and empathetic young business mind is a source of Tiffany's pride. She has taught him many life lessons including the ability to step up and stop out of his comfort zone. To those who dare to take action and chase their dreams, you can be sure Tiffany will be there helping create an enriching experience for those on their entrepreneurial path.
Website: www.atomsintegrator.com
The Record Readers Choice Awards
- July 16, 2020
It's that time of year again! Voting time for the Readers Choice Awards! We have a number of our members who have been nominated in different categories. Please take a few moments to show your support for our members and vote! The nominations are open until July 26th and you can vote once a day.
Promyse Home Care:
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/senior-services
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/health-wellness-fitness-beauty/subcategories/home-health-care
Northstar Travel
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/travel-agency
Harris Law:
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/law-firm
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/legal-services
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/personal-injury-law-services
Alicia Stuart:
Star Performance:
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/dance-studios
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/entertainment/subcategories/kids-activities
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/music-instruction
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/entertainment/subcategories/summer-camps
Lyfestyle Financial:
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/insurance-company
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/investment-company
Karen Savage:
Heffner Lexus Toyota
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/auto-collision-and-repair>
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/auto-detailing
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/auto-glass-repair
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/auto-parts-and-accessories
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/auto-rustproofing
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/auto-service-centre
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/professional-services/subcategories/business-that-gives-to-community
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/imported-car-dealership
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/new-car-dealership
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/oil-lube-change
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/tire-sales-and-service
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/transmission-service-and-repair
- https://www.therecord.com/readerschoice/categories/automotive/subcategories/used-car-dealership
It's Live!
- June 29, 2020

KWBWA member Kristin Moore, was interviewed by Dr Sarah and Dr Thom on their podcast, Life in Elmira.
During this crazy pandemic isolation time, they decided to start recording a podcast wherein they feature different local businesses, because as they say, "we are stronger together, than apart".
Kristin designs and creates custom sterling silver jewelry, essential oil jewelery and stamped vintage silverware in her home studio. Follow Kristin on FACEBOOK and Instagram to see more of her creations. Check out the show notes for more information about the things we chatted with Kristin about: www.elirafc.com
Member Spotlight
- June 18, 2020
Today we present a spotlight on Mary-Lou Lang, District Manager for Arbonne International. She is one of our KWBWA members who joined us originally as an alternate for her sister, Paula Anstett, and now as a full time member.
Mary-Lou has enjoyed a successful career for ten years with the entrepreneurial company and global network marketing community. This flexibility has provided Mary-Lou an opportunity for indepndence in her career to enjoy more family time with her husband, three kids and eight grandchildren! One of her favourite sayings by Louise Hay..."Life Loves You" speaks to her passion for life!
Mary-Lou is a quiet influencer with a big impact. Her greatest satisfaction is found in helping others succeed. Contact Mary-Lou Lang by email, beautyunlimited6@hotmail.com to find how YOU can look good and feel amazing with non-toxic beauty products, botanical skin care and gluten and dairy free nutrition.
Thank you Mary-Lou for your professionalism and contribution to our group.
Member Talk
- June 5, 2020
Thank you to our member, Kristin Moore, who presented to our group yesterday on our weekly Web-ex call!
Creativity has always been at the heart of Kristin Moore and her jewelry business, Buy Moore Jewelry. The business name alone speaks to Kristin's innovative and savvy business mind.
Like many female entrepreneurs, she had two goals in mind: one, to have a home-based business where she could juggle family and a career under one room and two, to create a fulfilling career where she gets to design custom jewelry for those looking to have their ideas brought to life.
Kristin's jewelry designs tell a story. Each of her pieces resonate with inspiration and love of her artistry!
Thanks for showing us your inspiring jewelry creations and process.
Contact Kristin by email, Kristin@buymoore.ca to have your jewelry inspiration come to life!
Member Spotlight
- June 3, 2020
For the past month, the KWBWA has begun web meetings, featuring speakers from our varied talented members.
We thank Sylvie Drader of Stampin' Up for her demo of three different Covid 19 themed cards!
Visit FACEBOOK to view larger images!
Member Talk
- May 20, 2021

Annmarie Bordin, (Real Estate Investment Success Coach) enlightened us about Real Estate Investing 101!
She has her own business teaching people how to create wealth through real estate investing. She explained the fundamentals about real estate investing but it's really about creating wealth through real estate investing.
Her favourite part of the coaching is watching people reach their goals and watching them take it to the next level!
Thank You Annmarie!
Annmarie Bordin has been a member of the KWBWA since 2019.
Member Spotlight
- May 19, 2020
Today we highlight, Jacqui McFarlane , CFP, CLU, CH F.C. Certified Financial Planner and Licensed Insurance Agent.

Jacqui McFarlane has dedicated her life to helping people in her community. As a recipient of the Lions Club Citizen of the Year award, she has been recognized for her volunteer work. Jacqui assisted in the early 1970's with bringing Block Parent to every school in the Waterloo region.
She continues to help change women's lives with the Family Relocation Project and make a positive impact through her community work with The Kiwanis Club of Waterloo North.
In 1987 Jacqui started a new career in the insurance industry and joined the KWBWA. She is passionate about lifelong learning and sharing her knowledge with her clients and colleagues. Jacqui has worked hard to earn her impressive designations over the years and was honoured as a recipient of the Million Dollar Round Table award in 2000! As a member of Advocis, the professional association for Financial Advisors, she is informed and up-to-date with the changing financial environment.
Jacqui's education and training has given her the expertise to assist clients with their financial and retirement planning needs. Give her a call today!
Website: jacquimcfarlane.com
Member Talk
- May 13, 2020
Thank you to our member, Delia Simu (Hom., RBIE, IMG), for sharing some insights on how to boost our immune system, helping us on our health and wellness journey!
Health is a state of body. Wellness is a state of being. J. Stanford
Delia is a Registered Homeopath, BIE Practitioner and International Medical Graduate. Delia recommends a cocktail of vitamins and essential daily nutrients from supplements and food.
- Vitamin C - 3000 mg per day in divided doses
- Vitamin D - 2000 IU a day (Vitamin D dosage should follow an initial dosage of 5000 IU a day for two weeks)
- Zinc - 20 mg a day
- Magnesium - 400 mg a day of manesium citrate, malate, chelate or chloride form, helping in immune defenses
- Quercetin - 500 mg twice a day
- Nutrient Foods - increase dietary intake of: Vitamin C rich foods (camu camu, red peppers, strawberries and kiwi) Vitamin D rich foods (free range eggs, wild-caught cold-water fish, organic soy, mushrooms) Zinc rich foods (grass-fed beef, free range poultry, organic chickpeas, cage-free eggs, cashews and pumpkin seeds) Magnesium rich foods (dark green leafy vegetables, beans, whole grains, fish, almonds) Quercetin rich foods (unpeeled apples, dark cherries, cocoa, dark leafy greens, green tea and onions)

In Studio with Nadia Matos
- May 11, 2021
Nadia is joined by Tiffany Dawn, President of KWBWA to talk about the 40th Anniversary celebration and $1,000 Lift Gift.
Listen and Watch the interview: rogerstv.com.
Forty years is a lifetime and the Kitchener-Waterloo Business Women's Association is celebrating this milestone. The members are an incredible group of professional women that collaborate, build relationships, connect with the community and help other women in business!
KWBWA Speaker Series
- April 15, 2021

Thanks to all who joined us in the 2 part presentation by David Moylan, Head Instructor and Owner of the Waterloo Kung-Fu Academy.
David took us through some meditative breathing exercises and foundational stances!
For more information about the talented team of Black Sash instructors who are available to instruct online, please visit the Waterloo Kung-Fu Academy website: waterlookungfu.com
Member Spotlight
- May 7, 2020
We are thrilled to highlight one of our newer members, Karen Savage, Senior Sales Specialist at Heffner Lexus Toyota. While Karen is new to the KWBWA, she has been attending many of our events over the past year.
Her involvement in the community is extensive and her experience in the automotive industry spans 20 plus years.
Karen has a high standard of customer service excellence and has been honoured with the great of serving multiple generations. She has built her reputation on delivering exceptional service and long-lasting relationships.
Website: heffner.ca
Member Spotlight
- April 30, 2020
Today we highlight, Sharon Sweeney, Director of Admission, triOS College. Sharon is passionate about helping others - whether it's her students, colleagues or strangers, you will find her extending herself to others.
She has a beautiful gift of making this world a better place and will be celebrating a copule of milestones with her upcoming 60th birthday and 10 years as a member with the KWBWA!
If you are looking to enhance your skills or ready for a career change, reach out to Sharon and her team! Proudly Canadian owned and operated, triOS is one of Canada's largest career training organizations.
Website: trios.com
Member Spotlight
- April 23, 2020
It couldn't be more appropriate than to start our weekly KWBWA Member Spotlight with our president, Kendra Allen, Travel and Tour Coordinator at Frederick Travel, who is a glowing example of professionalism and leadership in our group!
An example of her leadership, Kendra has been a member of the KWBWA for 11 years, and has served on the board for 10 of those years! Thank you Kendra!
With an extensive background in sales, customer service and marketing, Kendra recently made the change to the travel industry and is now a 4th generation travel professional providing exceptional service for new and existing clients.
We encourage you to reach out to Kendra for your group tours, leadership programs and educational travel needs.
Website: worldwide.on.ca
- March 12, 2020
We welcomed Melissa Melnychuk, (VP Business Developer of the KW Titans Basketball Club) who spoke to our group about the upcoming Titan's April Women 2 Women Event. Melissa Melnychuk is a Waterloo native, with strong roots in the community!In her time with the Titans Melissa has executed a "Titans Impact" œmission in the region, working with over 14 charitable organizations in the first half of the season alone! She has also spearheaded work with Waterloo Region Economic Development organization and the City of Waterloo Ec Dev to position the team as a talent retention and acquisition pitch to bring in businesses and employees to our community.

Member Talk
- March 5, 2020
She also shared about her love for hockey, having become a player and trainer as an adult, to help understand the game that her daughters were playing. We are so pleased to have this positive, team player as part of our group! Need more information on your upcoming vehicle purchase? Visit Karen on FACEBOOK!
Member Talk

- February 27, 2020
Thank you to our member, Susan Hilton of VoxxLife, who gave our members a tutorial on CPR! CPR is so simple that anyone can use it to save a life.
We learned that by pushing hard and fast on the chest until paramedics arrive, it keeps crucial blood circulating to the brain and organs. Thousands of lives have been saved by bystanders responding to cardiac arrest in homes and public places. Susan is a Nursing Clinical Educator at McMaster Mohawk Conestoga Collaborative Program.
KWBWA Speaker Series
- February 13, 2020

We had two very special guests that came to speak to the KWBWA! The Honourable Robert Black and the Honourable Marty Deacon, Senators from Ontario, had kindly taken the time out of their schedules to present to us about their journey to the Senate, issues they are passionate about and what goes on in the Senate.
They explained to the group how they became Senators, what the role of a Senator is and how they affect changes in our society! Amazing work going on behind the scenes in our government. Thank you both for all your work on our behalf!

Lunch and Learn with Friends
- February 11, 2020
Thank you to KWBWA member Rachelle Garcia (Centre in the Square) for inviting us to the National Geographic Live! with Bertie Gregory event!
We heard stories from wildlife photographer Bertie Gregory and saw incredible footage of the wild animals found in urban settings. Some of his favourite pictures are the peregrine falcon in front of the Union Jack on a parliament building in London, and a leopard walking through a city park in the centre of Mumbai.
Out of the Box Luncheon
- February 6, 2020
KWBWA had an "Out of the Box" lunch at Station Park in downtown Kitchener,
hosted by Condo Culture & HimHer Design & Development.
This new development will revitalize the city. Jeff Gibson, founder of Condo Culture, and Erin Martin, co-founder of Him & Her Inc marketing, shared with us the vision for condo living in the next 7 years.

The integration of retail space, outdoor activities, entertainment and its proximity to the LRT and tech businesses (Google is across the street) will definitely attract people to our region.
It was so interesting to watch a video and see how our city has grown over the past hundred years. The way we live is changing, and it is great to hear of how developers are embracing this and looking forward.
Visit www.stationpark.com to learn more about it!
Member Talk
- January 30, 2020
Thank you to Brigitte Gingerich, Vision Travel, for sharing pictures from her most recent adventures.
Hearing the funny stories and history of some of these beautiful spots was so entertaining.
"Where in the world is Brigitte"? Everywhere, it seems!
For over 17 years, Brigitte has been a personal travel consultant. Let her know when you would like to go, what you would like to do and who you want to go with co-ordinating the details so you can enjoy the adventure!
Follow Brigitte on https://www.facebook.com/travelwithBrigitte/ and see where she is NOW.
Member Talk
- January 16, 2020

Thank you to Tiffany Rezende, from Atoms Integrator, for speaking to us this past week. She is gearing up for Austin Texas at the end of this month with her partnership with EBW (empowering a billion women) alongside Ingrid Vanderveldt.
She shared tools and resources that are helping women in business across the globe.
Visit the Atoms Integrator website: atomsintegrator.com/. They are ATOMS connecting bright global minds to Canada, a place where ideas matter.

Member Talk
- January 9, 2020
Happy New Year from the KWBWA! Our president, Kendra Allen, from Frederick Travel Waterloo, spoke to us about her recent travels to Iceland. In early December she travelled with other agents as part of a familiarization tour of Iceland. Her slideshow was beautiful.
She did see some the northern lights, but it wasn't as clear as the photo below.
Thank you for sharing your travel tips and information about this country with us.
Contact Kendra or visit the website: worldwide.on.ca for booking great vacation packages and professional services for business, leisure and group needs.
Member Update
- December 19, 2019

Don't worry about indulging over the holidays!
Our Herbalist Natalie Kohlruss gave us a great presentation today on what herbs help you with hangovers, colds, the sweet tooth and more over the holidays:
- The Hangover - Plantain, Alfalfa, Nettle
- The Dehydrator -(aka not enough water) - Plantain, Alfalfa, Nettle
- The Stressor - Lavender, Chamomile, Lemon Balm
- The Sweet Tooth - Favourite tea with alternative source of sugar: honey, maple syrup, date sugar and Supplement: L- Gluthamine
- The Christmas Cold - Lemon Balm, Ginger, Nettle, Echinacea (as long as you are not allergic to the daisy family or cell multiplier)
- Alfalfa + Nettle are great, safe additions to any tea as they are highly nutritious herbs.
Thank you Natalie for sharing your wisdom with us! For more information about herb, please visit Natalie's website: huronearth.com