Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Empowering Women, Celebrating Marketing Milestones and Local Auctioneers

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PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Welcome to this month's roundup of inspiring local business stories from the Peterborough + Kawarthas region! We are excited to share the latest updates that showcase our community's strength, innovation, and commitment to progress.

Empowering Voices: A Must-Attend Conversation on the Status of Women in Our Community

As we kick off spring, local leaders gather to discuss the realities, achievements, ongoing challenges, and future opportunities for women in our region.

Hosted by the Honourable Maryam Monsef through her organization ONWARD, and presented in partnership with the Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, this community gathering features a panel of diverse local voices. It's an invaluable chance to hear honest insights and actionable ideas that can drive positive change.

Event Details:

  • Date & Time: Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (some sources note slight variations to 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM—confirm on registration)

  • Location: Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, Peterborough

  • Tickets: Just $49.95 plus HST

Secure your spot today and join the conversation! Visit the Chamber's events page at pkchamber.ca/events or check the specific listing for "A Conversation About the Status of Women in Our Community".

This event is a perfect example of how our community continues to prioritize equity and inclusion—don't miss it!

Celebrating a Decade of Marketing Excellence: acorn30 Turns 10

In other exciting local news, one of Peterborough's standout marketing agencies is reaching a major milestone. Founded in 2016, acorn30 has evolved into a trusted full-service partner, helping businesses, public-sector organizations, and community leaders build stronger brands, refine strategies, and create lasting foundations for success.

As they mark 10 incredible years, the team is expanding their strategic advisory services to provide even greater clarity and alignment for owners and leaders navigating growth. A heartfelt thank-you goes out from acorn30 to their loyal clients, collaborators, and the broader Peterborough business community for their continued trust and partnership.

Congratulations on a decade of impact—here's to many more years of helping local organizations thrive! Learn more about their services and story at acorn30.com.

Local Auction Leader Honored: Jason McIntosh Named 2026 Member of the Year

Finally, a big congratulations to one of our own in the auction community! Jason McIntosh of JMAC Auctions (located on Matchett Line in Peterborough) was recently awarded the prestigious 2026 Member of the Year by the Auctioneers Association of Ontario at their annual convention banquet.

This well-deserved recognition highlights Jason's dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the industry. It's a proud moment for the entire Peterborough + Kawarthas business scene.

Discover more about their services and upcoming auctions at jmacauctions.com.

Share Your Story – We Want to Hear from You!

The Peterborough business landscape is vibrant and always evolving. If your organization, startup, milestone, or community event deserves some well-earned recognition, we'd love to feature it in the next Business Beat.

Simply send the details to businessbeatptbo@gmail.com, and you could be spotlighted soon next. We will see you next week!

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Peterborough Museum & Archives, Butterfly Run and Community Futures Peterborough

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PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Business Beat: Dinosaurs, Community Events, and Entrepreneurial Success in Peterborough

The prehistoric era may be long gone, but dinosaur-sized excitement is still stomping through Peterborough.

The blockbuster “Carnivorous Dinosaurs” exhibit at the Peterborough Museum & Archives continues to draw crowds and will run until March 22. The exhibit features life-sized skeletons of theropods like Tyrannosaurus rex and Allosaurus, along with touchable fossil replicas and bilingual interpretive panels that bring the prehistoric hunt to life.

Since opening last fall, the exhibit has welcomed a steady stream of visitors, including many families eager for a winter adventure. Recent events, such as the packed Dinosaur Story Time and Craft session, showed just how popular the attraction has become with kids and dinosaur enthusiasts alike. Admission is a suggested $20 donation per group, and visitors can catch the exhibit at 300 Hunter Street East during March Break before these Mesozoic giants disappear for good.

But that is not the only local event that is encouraging residents to take part in a meaningful community tradition.

The Butterfly Run returns for its 10th anniversary on April 26 at Millennium Park. The annual event raises funds for bereavement and family health programs through Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation and Your Family Health Team Foundation.

Participants can choose from several ways to take part, including a 5K run or walk, the 1K Kids Fun Run, or the free Memorial Walk. Virtual participation options are also available. Registration is now open, and anyone hoping to receive an official race shirt is encouraged to sign up by April 6.

Meanwhile, new entrepreneurs are making strides in the business community.

Community Futures Peterborough recently wrapped up its NEXT Program—short for New Entrepreneurial eXploration Training—which helps individuals explore business ownership after job loss or career transitions. The first 2026 cohort saw seven participants complete the program after attending workshops on business planning, cash flow management, marketing, and participating in a final Pitch Day.

Graduates include Kari Walmsley of Kari’s Glass Works, Ryan Douglas of Hilltop Land Clearing, Steve French—also known as The Plant Guy, Lori Alexander of ALT Accounting, Peter Falconeri of Side Hustle Apparel, Yomi Olaoye of MantaHQ, and Sara O. Shahsavari of Borderless. The program aims to help turn fresh ideas into viable businesses, strengthening the local economy in the process.

Residents interested in learning more about the program or supporting these new ventures can visit Community Futures Peterborough online for additional details.

And finally, if your business or community event deserves a moment in the spotlight, the Business Beat team wants to hear from you. Send your information to businessbeatptbo@gmail.com and your story could be featured in an upcoming edition.

That’s the Business Beat for this week.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring the City's Green Bin Pilot and International Women's Day Celebrations

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PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Downtown Restaurants: Go Green with Phase 2 of the City’s Green Bin Pilot

Peterborough restaurants have a fresh opportunity to lead the way in sustainability. The City of Peterborough is launching Phase 2 of its successful Green Bin program—a voluntary pilot targeting approximately 25 downtown restaurants to divert food scraps and organics from landfills. Restaurants generate 10–25 kg of organics daily, so this pilot will help the city refine collection logistics for high-volume commercial zones and prepare for broader rollout. Participation is completely voluntary, reduces your garbage load, and contributes to a cleaner, greener Peterborough. If you’re a downtown restaurant, apply now—the deadline is March 6 at peterborough.ca/greenbin.

International Women’s Day: Two Powerful Ways to Celebrate

March 8 is International Women’s Day, and Peterborough is marking the occasion with inspiring events.

The Tiffany Show returns for its 3rd annual free International Women’s Day Party, hosted by the dynamic Tiffany Arcari at The Venue downtown. This sold-out event promises high energy with powerful stories from local women, the transformative Self-Love Mirror experience, epic prizes, swag bags, and more. If you secured a ticket, remember to bring a menstrual product donation to support United Way’s Period Promise and help end period poverty. Check out thetiffanyshow.ca for all the details.

For those who didn’t get a ticket, there’s still a meaningful way to celebrate. On Saturday, March 7, join the community rally and gathering to honour women’s achievements and highlight this year’s theme: strengthening access to justice for women and girls. The day starts at 11:30 a.m. at City Hall with drumming, a declaration reading, and poetry, followed by a march downtown. The afternoon features live music, inspiring speakers, and community connection—all free. Registration is required at ptbolibrary.ca/libcal.com.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Community Futures Peterborough, Fastsigns and Kawartha Local Food Wholesale

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PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Summer Company Program is Open

A sure sign that the seasons are changing is that applications are now open for the 2026 Summer Company Program through Community Futures Peterborough.

Students aged 15 to 29 in Peterborough and the county are encouraged to apply for up to $3,000 in grants, plus training and mentorship, to start their own summer business. Funded by the Province of Ontario, it builds hands-on experience for young entrepreneurs returning to school in the fall. Deadline is April 30, so head over to www.communityfuturespeterborough.ca/programs/summercompany to find out more…

New Ownership For Fastsigns

FASTSIGNS, a Peterborough Signage provider is being acquired by a group of franchise specialists, bringing in new investment and leadership to support growth and expand capacity for commercial clients across the region.

The centre has been purchased by a consortium led by industry expert Paul Watson and print-industry veteran Bill Goss, who will also serve as general manager. Operating in Peterborough since 2005, FASTSIGNS delivers bespoke signage and visual communications for local government, construction, retail, and large-scale brand rollouts. You can learn more about FASTSIGNS by going to www.fastsigns.com/Peterborough-ON

Kawartha Local Food Wholesale

Peterborough County is boosting its farm economy by promoting the Kawartha Local Food Wholesale program.

This initiative, funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, connects over 800 local farms across 180,000 acres with buyers like restaurants, retailers, food services, tourist spots and golf courses in Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes. There is nothing like local Farm to Table meals and you can learn more about them by checking out www.grazeandgatherfood.ca or www.Kawarthachoice.com

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

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Eligible Liquor Licensees Can Sell Alcohol As Early As 6 A.M. For Final Day of 2026 Winter Olympics This Sunday

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For the final day of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has approved a temporary extension of liquor sale and service hours across Ontario on Sunday.

PTBOCanada Video Screenshot.

Eligible liquor sales licensees may begin selling and serving alcohol at 6 a.m. The standard closing time of 2 a.m. remains unchanged.

The extension applies only to indoor licensed areas, not to outdoor licensed areas such as patios, etc.

The gold medal game for men’s hockey between Canada and the USA starts at 8:10 a.m. EST on Sunday.

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The City Invites Businesses to Explore Leasing Opportunities At Miskin Law Community Complex

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The City of Peterborough invites businesses and organizations to explore a commercial lease opportunity at the Miskin Law Community Complex.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough

According to the City, the lease will enhance and expand services for visitors who use the facility. The space is 104 square meters, unfinished, with floor-to-ceiling windows and is located on the second floor in the northwest corner of the building. It is accessible off the walking track above the Russelle Toyota Pad.  

An interested leaseholder will be expected to commit to a facility naming right within the building to further support the business's marketing and awareness. Naming rights for the walking track and multi-purpose rooms are available to a potential leaseholder.  

Interested parties are invited to submit a written notice of interest to Scott Elliott, Corporate Sponsorship Manager, by email at selliott@peterborough.ca. 

The deadline to apply is Feb. 28.

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Taste of Syria Comes to Downtown Peterborough With Aleppo Castle Restaurant Grand Opening

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Peterborough can get a taste of Syrian cuisine as the restaurant Aleppo Castle had its grand opening downtown on Wednesday morning.

Aleppo Castle owner Amhed El Nime puts the finishing touches on aji (egg and parsley fritter) before presentation. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Located at 349 George St. N., the restaurant serves familiar classic Middle Eastern favourites inspired by Aleppo, Syria, such as shawarma, falafel and hummus. Aleppo Castle also serves traditional Syrian cuisine, including batatas faroojh, aji, fatoush and more.

Amhed El Nime, Aleppo Castle owner, arrived in Canada three years ago. He had help adjusting to a new country through the New Canadians Centre and his business was aided through Community Futures Peterborough.

El Nime said he is grateful to Canada and Peterborough for welcoming him to the country, where he can build a new life and start a business in a short time.

“Slowly, slowly, slowly, I’ve been working hard,” he said. “I’m so happy for the people who helped me. Thank you to god, thank you for everybody and thank you to Canada.”

Mayor Jeff Leal, Community Futures Peterborough and the Peterborough DBIA attended the grand opening and sampled the Syrian cuisine. It was capped off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the occasion.

@ptbo_canada Peterborough can get a taste of Syrian cuisine as the restaurant Aleppo Castle had its grand opening in Downtown Peterborough. ##ptbocanada##journalism##news##fyp##syria🇸🇾 ♬ Síria Syria سوريا - DJ Reverb & Ads

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Quickmill, City of Peterborough and K9 Health In Motion

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PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Quickmill is Headed on a Trade Mission

Local company Quickmill has been selected to join one of the largest government-led trade missions Canada has ever sent to Mexico between Feb. 15 to 20. Quickmill, based right here in Peterborough for over 40 years, is a world leader in building large-scale CNC machining centers — which are powerful machines that cut and shape metal parts for industries like aerospace, oil and gas, mining and defense.

This comes as Quickmill uses a smart diversified growth plan to stay strong amid trade challenges. Only a select group of top export-ready firms were chosen. To learn more about this read their recent blog post on www.quickmill.com/blog

New Plough Map for the City of Peterborough

We have had a winter, and the City of Peterborough has launched a new interactive snowplow map to help residents and businesses track winter maintenance in real time.

Introduced in early February, the online tool uses GPS technology to show where plows are and how recently roads have been serviced, with updates every five minutes and colour-coded routes across the city.

It highlights priority areas like arterial roads, transit routes, and neighbourhood streets, giving a clearer picture of snow-clearing operations. To see the map in action visit www.Peterborough.ca/snow

Canine Rehabilitation is Coming to the County

A new canine rehabilitation and wellness centre is opening in Norwood. K9 in Motion Wellness Rehab officially opens its doors March first, offering services to support dogs recovering from injury, managing mobility issues, or simply aging comfortably. The facility will provide therapeutic massage, red light therapy, mobility aids, pet first-aid courses, and educational sessions for owners.

Operating since 2016, this new location is designed to give dogs individualized care in a calm, supportive environment while helping pet owners stay informed. Visit their website k9inmotionwellness.ca to learn more about their services and stay tuned for their grand opening.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Community Futures Peterborough Expands Entrepreneurship 101 Series For This Spring 2026 In Partnership with Scotiabank

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Community Futures Peterborough has partnered with Scotiabank to deliver its most extensive Entrepreneurship 101 workshop series to date this spring, expanding the program in response to continued demand from local entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

The Spring 2026 series builds on the success of the fall workshops, which supported more than 120 unique entrepreneurs and small business owners across seven sessions. Launched as a four-part series, Entrepreneurship 101 has rapidly expanded as more businesses across the region turn to Community Futures Peterborough for advisory and lending support. Feedback from participants and growing interest in business advisory services highlighted the need for additional, more specialized topics, leading to a partnership with Scotiabank to expand the series with two additional brand-new workshops.

“Scotiabank is proud to partner with the amazing team at Community Futures Peterborough to support the expansion of this valuable program supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses getting the advice they need to grow in our local community,” said Nolan Frazer, Scotiabank business banking team lead. “The success of local businesses and business owners is critical to the success of the community, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring this to life.”

The new workshops added to the series are in direct response to clients asking for additional support in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Human Resources. Appear First – Search Engine Optimization & E-Commerce, delivered by Brendan Quigley, will introduce participants to building an online presence, improving search visibility and online sales, and Employer Essentials – Understanding Your Obligations as an Employer, a session developed to help business owners better understand their responsibilities when hiring staff, delivered by the Office of the Employer Advisor and Service Canada.

“The Government of Canada is committed to supporting entrepreneurs with access to programs that meet their needs,” said the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). “Peterborough continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering practical support that helps businesses in the region grow and adapt in a changing economy.”

Entrepreneurship 101 is designed to support individuals and businesses at various stages of their business journey, from those exploring an idea for the first time to existing business owners looking to strengthen their operations. The spring series places a stronger focus on practical areas such as e-commerce, search engine optimization, and employer responsibilities, reflecting the challenges business owners are seeking advisory support in.

“Investments in our local entrepreneurs help diversify and grow our economy, making success more inclusive across both the City and County,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By offering practical, expert-led workshops, Community Futures Peterborough is ensuring that every business owner has the confidence to take the next step. Our government is proud to see such dedicated local support for those who represent the best of the Ontario spirit.”

The expansion of Entrepreneurship 101 aligns with broader trends seen through the Business Advisory Centre. Since April, Community Futures Peterborough has supported more than 340 unique businesses through over 440 in-depth, one-on-one consultations. The workshop series complements this work by offering accessible, hands-on learning opportunities that help entrepreneurs build confidence and make informed decisions.

“Entrepreneurs across the riding of Peterborough have been clear that they need practical support to help their businesses grow. This expanded Entrepreneurship 101 series is a direct and thoughtful response to that,” said Emma Harrison, MP, Peterborough. “The strong turnout last fall showed just how committed and resilient our local business community is, and it makes me incredibly proud to see local organizations stepping up to deliver the tools and training that entrepreneurs need to succeed in a changing economy.”

The Spring 2026 Entrepreneurship 101 workshops will be held at the Venture North Building in Peterborough on the following dates:

  • Spark Tank – Brainstorm and Validate Business Ideas: March 4

  • Launch Pad – Business Planning: March 11

  • Brand Lab – Marketing and Branding: March 25

  • Funding Fuel – Explore Funding and Financing: April 1

  • (new for Spring 2026) Appear First - Search Engine Optimization & E-Commerce: April 8

  • Staff Smart – Hiring Your First Employee: April 15

  • (new for Spring 2026) Employer Essentials – Understand Your Obligations as an Employer: April 22

  • Money Map – Cash Flow Forecasting: April 29

  • Protect It – Intellectual Property for Small Businesses: May 6

The Entrepreneurship 101 series is open to anyone looking to start a business, grow an existing one, or sharpen their entrepreneurial skill set. Space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

Registration and additional workshop information are available on the Community Futures Peterborough website at www.cfpeterborough.ca

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Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Announces 2026 Luminary Awards Nominees for Women in Business

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The Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has unveiled the nominees for the 2026 Luminary Awards for Women in Business, celebrating women whose leadership, innovation and generosity are strengthening the region’s economy and community.

Photo by Felicia Massey.

Established to shine a light on women whose contributions are often overlooked, the Luminary Awards recognize leadership across entrepreneurship, employment, community service and long-term impact. The awards honour women who lead visibly and behind the scenes in business, non-profit and community settings, and who create opportunities for others through their work.

The inaugural Luminary Awards sold out in 2025, drawing more than 200 attendees and recognizing five outstanding recipients: Sheena Howard, Jenisha Sanjit Arora, Rachel Stark, Tiffany Arcari and Jeannine Taylor. Taylor received the first-ever Legacy Award, which recognizes a lifetime of excellence, generosity and community impact.

“The Legacy Award reflects the heart of what the Luminary Awards stand for,” said Chair of the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Board Susan Dunkley. “It honours women whose careers have not only achieved success but have changed lives and strengthened our community over time.”

The following five categories introduced in the inaugural year return for 2026:

Legacy

Honouring a woman whose career is defined by excellence, generosity and community impact. Her vision and success have created opportunities for others through employment, mentorship, philanthropy or long-term influence; leaving an enduring mark.

Nominees:

  • Judy Byrne

  • Monika Carmichael

  • Dr. Kristy Hiltz

  • Vanessa Oake Hogan

  • Dr. Jenny Ingram

  • Jenni Johnston

  • Cathy Olley

  • Anne Ryan

  • Susan Tung

  • Wendy Kelly

  • Betty Halman-Plumley

Trailblazer (Entrepreneur)

Celebrating a business owner whose leadership, ingenuity and boldness have sparked success and inspired others.

Nominees:

  • Winter Barringer

  • Kinjal Shukla Clement

  • Lisa Couture

  • Leanne Crump

  • Marsha Gaulton

  • Richa Grover

  • Catherine Hanrahan

  • Tracy Minnema

  • Ashley Flynn

  • Danielle Turpin

  • Rebecca O'Rourke

Emerging Entrepreneur

Celebrating a rising business owner who has launched a fresh, innovative venture that is already making its mark and shows exciting potential for the future.

Nominees:

  • Kara Ainsworth

  • Chasley Keepfer

  • Karen Kerr

  • Erin Shannon

  • Elena Thomas

  • Ashley Woollacott

  • Ashley Flynn

  • Marsha Gaulton

One to Watch (Employee)

Recognizing an emerging leader whose innovative ideas, meaningful contributions and proven success show outstanding potential for the future. Nominees may hold entry to mid-level management roles.

Nominees:

  • Allison Adam

  • Bethan Bates

  • Amanda Bedford

  • Lindsey Brodie

  • Michelle Nguyen

  • Rosalea Terry

“It still continues to be a big deal for women to be recognized and I think the Chamber’s doing an amazing thing with this,” said The Ten Spot’s Lindsey Brodie. “When you are being validated by other women it is so much more impactful.”

Barrier Buster

Celebrating a remarkable woman who has excelled in her field by breaking through barriers. She has faced challenges, whether gender-based, systemic, cultural, language, disability-related, or otherwise; and risen above them with skill, creativity and perseverance.

Nominees:

  • Ashley Flynn

  • Bridget McCluckie

  • Jane Bischoff

  • Jordan Lyall

  • Kayley Duggan

  • Nour Mazloum

  • Stephanie Wilson

  • Tori Silvera

  • Marsha Gaulton

New for 2026, the Chamber has expanded the awards to include two additional categories:

Building Belonging

Celebrating a woman whose inclusive leadership and equity-driven innovation has reshaped how business is done, demonstrating that building for belonging is not just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic advantage. Nominees may focus on workplace culture, employee experience and/or customer-facing innovation.

Nominees:

  • Mackenzie Annis

  • Akshana Katoch

  • Jennifer Lawson

  • Peggy Shaughnessy

  • Danielle Turpin

  • Patricia Wilson

  • Marsha Gaulton

Community Catalyst

Celebrating a woman whose leadership, collaboration and vision have sparked positive change in the community. A Community Catalyst brings people together, builds partnerships and drives meaningful progress on local priorities. Nominees can be paid staff or volunteers of a not-for-profit organization, or be an employee or owner of a business or enterprise.

Nominees:

  • Ashley Woollacott

  • Abby Zotz

  • Ashley Collins

  • Betty Halman-Plumley

  • Chelsey Carberry

  • Dana Hetherton

  • Emma Featherstone

  • Michelle Ferreri

  • Sheridan Graham

  • Tonya Kraan

  • Kat McCartie

  • Amy Muir

  • Marcia Steeves

  • Meryn Steeves

  • Rosalea Terry

  • Lois Tuffin

  • Susan Zambonin

  • Rebecca O'Rourke

  • Nour Mazloum

“I’m a female-owned business in the boxing industry, which isn’t the norm,” said Marsha Gaulton of Eastside Boxing and Wellness, who was nominated for four Luminary Awards this year. “This is a huge honour for me to be recognized for what I’m doing. Just to be seen like this in the community, it feels like my heart is exploding.”

The 2026 Luminary Award Ceremony will take place on May 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Great Hall, Trent University (1600 West Bank Dr.).

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