25th Annual Women in Business Awards Gallery
The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) and Women in Niagara (WIN) presented the 2025 Women in Business Awards, powered by RBC, in a ceremony held at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel in Niagara Falls, attended by over 550 people.
“We are proud to celebrate the remarkable women shaping Niagara,” said Mishka Balsom, CEO of the GNCC. “Their accomplishments remind us of what’s possible when talent and purpose come together. We hope their example will empower more women and girls to lead, create, and inspire.”
The Women in Business Awards (WIBA) is an annual event to recognize the leadership and success of women in our business community. The WIBAs aim to encourage more women to seek out and reach for leadership roles in business, non-profits, and in their community.
This year’s recipients are:
- Cultural Arts Award
Lisa Donati - Excellence in Environmental Leadership Award, sponsored by CAA Niagara
Liette Vasseur - Community Impact Award, sponsored by Anchor Niagara
Melanie Sodka - Young Professional Award, sponsored by Ridley College
Kaitlin Vandenbosch - Emerging Business Award, sponsored by Niagara Pen Centre
Cara Krezek - Health Care Hero Award, sponsored by Niagara College
Elora Gartley - Equity Entrepreneur Award
Treasa Pappachan - Excellence in the Public Sector Award
Jill Croteau - Excellence in the Not-for-Profit Sector Award
Janet Madume - Corporate Leadership Award, sponsored by Hatch
Gina Delle Rose-Ash - Entrepreneurship Award, sponsored by Fedcap Canada
Sally Lovelock - Excellence in Hospitality & Tourism Award, sponsored by DDL & Co.
Dorian Anderson - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Award, sponsored by MNP
Lucy He - Excellence in Trades Award, sponsored by Kraun Electric
Helena Arsenault
At the awards, Anna Olson was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Chef Anna Olson is one of Canada’s most celebrated culinary figures: a classically trained pastry chef, bestselling author, and television host whose warmth and expertise have inspired home cooks and professionals alike. Based in Niagara-on-the-Lake, she rose to prominence through her acclaimed Food Network Canada series Sugar, Fresh with Anna Olson, and Bake with Anna Olson, and has since built an international following through her cookbooks and digital platform Oh Yum with Anna Olson. A mentor, educator, and advocate for excellence in Canadian cuisine, she has played a vital role in shaping Niagara’s food and hospitality culture alongside her husband, Chef Michael Olson. Her enduring influence reflects not only her mastery of her craft, but also her generosity in sharing it with others.
Shannon Passero was given the Ruth Unrau Legacy Award, sponsored by Niagara Community Foundation. The Ruth Unrau Legacy Award is given in the name of Women in Niagara founder Ruth Unrau to a woman who shares her spirit and dedication to advocacy for women in business. The recipient will have a reputation as an advocate and champion for women in commerce and leadership roles, and may be a campaigner, a mentor, or one who undertakes other significant work that advances the cause and the interests of female entrepreneurship.
Shannon Passero is an award-winning Canadian designer, entrepreneur, and community leader whose career blends creativity, conscience, and advocacy. A Welland native and University of Guelph graduate, she built internationally recognized fashion brands including Pure Handknit, Neon Buddha, and The Shannon Passero Collection, all grounded in ethical production and sustainability. Her work has empowered artisans around the world through fair labour and environmental stewardship, while her restoration of Thorold’s historic downtown spaces has revitalized the local community. Through the Shannon Passero Women in Business Grant, she champions and mentors women entrepreneurs across Ontario, reflecting her belief that business can be both successful and socially responsible. Her leadership exemplifies innovation with integrity and embodies the spirit of advocacy recognized by the Ruth Unrau Legacy Award.