Connecting Canada to the World: Year End Trade Update and AGM

Connecting Canada to the World, December 3.  This December OWIT-Toronto event, combined with our Annual General Meeting and hosted by Bennett Jones, attracted an enthusiastic group and provided an inspiring and thought-provoking way to wrap up the year.  Thanks to Susana Vaz, Senior Manager – Strategic Planning and Initiatives with the City of Toronto’ economic development team who provided this summary:

 Wendy Cukier, Karima-Catherine Goundiam and Jessica B. Horwitz delivered insightful strategies for Canada’s role on the global stage and how women are contributing in this space, and the keynote by Fouzia Younis, British Consul General to Toronto was both real and inspiring. Her authentic leadership shines as a reminder of what women can achieve in international trade.

• Top 3 Takeaways:
  1️⃣    Own Your Expertise: Women have a vital role in shaping global markets—step into it with confidence!
  2️⃣    Build Cross-Border Connections: Collaboration and networking are key to unlocking opportunities in international trade.
  3️⃣    Lead Authentically: Fouzia Younis emphasized the power of staying true to your values while navigating the complexities of global leadership.
  
  Women in international trade are transforming the global economy by bringing diverse perspectives, innovative solutions, and collaborative leadership to the forefront. If you’re a woman in international trade, don’t miss out OWIT is an incredible community that supports growth, learning, and connection. Now is the time to step into the spotlight, lead authentically, and drive change on the global stage! 

                                   

Photo Credits Susana Vaz and Maria Marchyshyn. 

A round up of events attended by OWIT Toronto Board and Members. 

Unlocking Canada webinar in October. OWIT-Toronto’s VP International Susan Baka shared tips on entering the Canadian market for OWIT members worldwide in this webinar presented by OWIT International.

Toronto Global Forum in October, an annual, high-level forum that attracts delegates from around the world to discuss trade and economic issues. OWIT-Toronto’s VP Communications Clare Barnett and VP International Susan Baka attended

Picture, Clare Barnett and Susan Baka, OWIT-Toronto Board Members with Connie Fusillo, City of Toronto, Economic Development.

Pictured: Toronto Global Forum, panel moderated by Laurel Broten, CEO Invest Canada

Ontario Economic Summit in Toronto in November.  As part of our partnership with the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, President Audrey Ross, VP International Susan Baka and Co-VP Events Lilian Oliveira represented OWIT-Toronto at this annual Summit that provides insights into the economic priorities of top political and business leaders.   Both this and the Global Forum serve as good events to raise OWIT’s public profile and recruit new members

Follow our Events Page for upcoming events. 

OWIT Toronto and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Monterrey Unite to Explore North America’s Evolving Landscape

Written by Aditi Chaturvedi

Guest Speakers:

Moderated by - Jessica B. Horwitz Partner at Bennett Jones

Diane Francis - Journalist, Author and Editor-at-Large for the National Post

• Laura Macdonald - Chancellor's Professor in the Department of Political Science and the Institute of Political Economy at Carleton University.

In collaboration, OWIT Toronto and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Monterrey, Mexico, highlighted important developments reshaping the North American region. The discussions focussed on the interplay of global trends, including the implications of the U.S. presidential elections and Mexico’s historic election of its first female president. Her groundbreaking reforms are poised to redefine Mexico's socio-economic trajectory, offering profound benefits across North America. This collaborative dialogue emphasized the region’s evolving trade dynamics and the emerging opportunities for businesses and investors.

Panelists explored the challenges and benefits of economic and political integration, addressing contentious issues such as tariffs in the auto sector, GMO imports, and Mexico’s nationalist energy policies. Security and gender inclusivity were also central to the discussions, with advancements in Mexico acknowledged, but a need for broader enforcement and mechanisms to support underrepresented groups, including SMEs and women-owned businesses, highlighted.

The speakers examined the increasing influence of Chinese manufacturing investments and the growing pressure on Canada and Mexico to align with U.S. strategies aimed at reducing dependence on China. Changes in U.S. and Canadian immigration policies, with their unpredictable impact, were noted as a potential concern for maintaining global relationships.

Contentious topics such as supply management and the role of dairy farmers in Quebec were also addressed, with the upcoming Canadian elections expected to bring noticeable changes that could directly affect neighboring countries business relationships.

The discussion further delved into the evolving trade dynamics within North America under the CanCham, focusing on the challenges and opportunities leading up to the 2025 and 2026 review of the USMCA. CUSMA is seen as a pivotal opportunity for renegotiation, critical areas for consideration include environmental standards, digital taxation, and gender-based trade measures.

Panelists emphasized the vital role of trade associations in promoting inclusive trade, supporting member interests, and connecting businesses globally. The collaboration between OWIT Toronto and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Monterrey underscores the importance of dialogue in addressing challenges and unlocking opportunities, driving a more inclusive and prosperous future for North America.

Special Thanks to Alma Farias for organizing this event.  

Presented by the Richmond Hill Small Business Enterprise Centre

Import-Export Webinar

“From Local to Global: Expanding Your Small Business through Import and Export”

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

10 am until 12 pm

Register: Eventbrite Link

==================================

10 am – 11 am

Getting Started with Exporting: Tools and resources to begin to think Global

Description:

This comprehensive session will equip small businesses with the knowledge needed to embark on exporting. It will cover key considerations for assessing export readiness, guide participants through conducting effective market research to identify lucrative international opportunities and demystify the export controls and compliance requirements. Attendees will learn how to develop a robust export strategy, utilize tools and resources for market analysis, and ensure adherence to necessary documentation and international trade regulations, paving the way for successful entry into global markets.

30 minutes presentation

30 minutes Q&A

==========================

11 am – 12 pm

Topic for Importing Session:

“Navigating Import Regulations, Procedures, and Documentation”

Synopsis:

This session will provide an in-depth overview of the key regulations and compliance requirements set by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for importing goods. Entrepreneurs will learn about the essential documentation needed for customs clearance and will be guided through the step-by-step process of importing goods into Canada. The session will also highlight common compliance pitfalls and offer practical advice on how to avoid them, ensuring a smooth and efficient import process.

45 minutes presentation

15 minutes Q&A

Speakers:

• Sue Rauth – Director, Ontario Regional Office (ROONT) – Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)
• Debbie Bermudez – Senior Program Officer, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

Sue Rauth serves as Director within the Ontario Regional Office of the Trade Commissioner Service. In this role she leads a team of Trade Commissioners who support Ontario-based companies as they internationalize their business. For over 25 years she has been involved in counselling and collaborating with Ontario businesses across a variety of sectors in the international trade eco-system.

OWIT Toronto and Brazil-Canada Chamber of Commerce hosted the 17th Edition of Doing Business in Brazil.  The event gathered Brazilian and Canadian experts to talk about the Brazilian Infrastructure Market, focusing on regulations, investment, opportunities and challenges.
The Doing Business in Brazil was designed to assist Canadian companies in gaining insights into the Brazilian market and establishing connections with key players in the Brazil-Canada international trade industry.

Speakers Included: 

Marcia Nejaim., Regional Representative ApexBrasil in Sao Paolo and interim General Manager of ApexBrasil offices in North America. 

Luis Felipe Q., Specialist Advisor, Construction and Infrastructure Exports Latin American and Caribbean Markets, Department Exports at Investissement Québec.        Daniel De Falco Director, Infrastructure Latin America at Caisse de dépot et placement du Québec (CDPQ)

Andrea Gardella., Director and Principle Economist Alcance Solutions. 

From Lilian Marins (Co-VP Events and attendee): The trade and investment relationship between our two countries is thriving, with Canada ranking 11th in foreign investment in Brazil. Canadian companies are significantly invested in Brazil's mining, infrastructure, clean energy, and agriculture sectors. Meanwhile, Brazilian companies such as Vale, Votorantim, BRF, and Gerdau have established a strong presence in Canada, creating thousands of jobs and generating revenue.

While Brazil is a land of immense potential, it is also a complex market that requires more than just financial investment. Understanding the language, culture, and business dynamics is crucial for success. Throughout my career, I have been privileged to work directly within Brazil, gaining the local knowledge and building connections necessary to navigate its markets. Now, living in Toronto, I am delighted to be able to contribute to building this essential and strategic bilateral relationship.

Our signature event OWIT TO Export Awards Gala celebrates 3 Canadian women in the categories of Excellence Award for Leadership in International Trade, Exporter of the Year and Student of International Trade.
Start considering who in your network you can recognize. Past winners include Dr. Wendy Cukier, Christine Nakamura, Yvonne Robertson and Oluwayomi Dime.
Hosted at the Ontario Investment and Trade Centre, join us for a luncheon with networking, a Special Guest Speaker and the Awards celebration.

Registration & Nomination details to follow shortly.

Please welcome Karen Garcha, Susan Langdon and Mégane Visette as Directors of OWIT-Toronto, on the Board of Directors for 2024.

With new Officers of OWIT-Toronto:

•       Karen Garcha as Vice President, Membership
•       Susan Langdon as Co-Vice President, Events
•        Lilian Marins as Co-Vice President, Events
•        Mégane Visette as Vice President, Partnerships

Interim Board Appointments:

Karen Garcha, Board Member & Vice President, Membership

Karen is an international trade professional with 20 years of experience in business development within the financial services industry. Karen is currently a Senior Commercial Account Manager at Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) where she enables entrepreneurs across a broad range of industries to grow their businesses through financing and advisory support.

 Previously, Karen was a Commercial Account Manager in the Mid-Market Segment team at Export Development Canada (EDC), where she managed a diverse portfolio of clients to become more internationally competitive by providing market intel, risk mitigation and trade finance solutions.

 She holds Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com) degrees and is a certified Commercial Banking Credit Analyst through the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI).

Susan Keiko Langdon, Board Member & Co-Vice President Events

 Susan Keiko Langdon, a Toronto-born, third-generation Canadian, was recently honored as a Member of the Order of Canada for her significant contributions to Canada's culture and economy. In 1994, Langdon shattered barriers by becoming the first racialized woman to assume a leadership role in the Canadian fashion industry when she joined the award-winning non-profit organization, Toronto Fashion Incubator (TFI).

Langdon's journey is one of inspiration, marked by her unwavering dedication and mentorship. Her outstanding achievements have earned her numerous accolades, and she is renowned globally as a foremost authority on fashion incubation and entrepreneurship. Her career has been incredibly fulfilling, spanning roles as both a fashion designer with her own label and a part-time professor at local universities. Her impact as a leader, mentor, and volunteer has left an indelible mark on Canada's cultural landscape, making her a true role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and change-makers alike.

Mégane Visette, Board Member & VP Partnerships

Mégane is a bilingual public affairs professional specializing in government relations, fundraising, and international advocacy for inclusive socio-economic development. She’s currently Government Relations Manager at Futurpreneur, a national non-profit supporting diverse young entrepreneurs launch successful businesses, and the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance Sherpa for Canada. As Sherpa, she’s responsible for Futurpreneur’s G20-related mandate, including the recruitment, representation, and consultations of the annual G20 YEA Canadian delegations. Her focus has been on creating inclusive opportunities and dialogue on the global stage for/by diverse young entrepreneurs. She’s passionate about establishing partnerships for social and sustainable impact and advocating for intersectional equality and the defense of human rights throughout the global value chains. She has also worked for the Council of Ministers of Education, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea, HanVoice Support Association, and the NATO Association of Canada.

As VP of Partnership, Mégane hopes to leverage her non-profit experience and entrepreneurial network to create meaningful partnerships aligned with OWIT-Toronto’s mission & member needs. Export readiness, ESG monitoring, and trade literacy for early-stage/small businesses are also themes she’s eager to prioritize as a new board member.

New Officers

Lilian Marins, Co-Vice President Event

Lilian brings over 15 years of experience in the private and public sectors in Brazil and Canada, with four years of leading projects as an Executive Leader with the American Chamber of Commerce in Brazil. She is passionate about fostering collaboration within diverse teams and is an active mentor to entrepreneurs and SMEs.

She has a Masters in Business Management from FGV – Fundacao Getulio Vargas in Brazil and a Degree in Project Management and International Relations. Lilian speaks many languages, including Portuguese and is an Executive Master Coach.

It’s been a busy year for OWIT-Toronto board members who participated as speakers and guests at a number of trade events organized by our partners and raised our profile.  These included:

CAN-CHAM Monterrey (Mexico) Annual Women’s Forum in March:  Women in Today’s World:  Powerful Journeys featured a stellar panel of accomplished businesswomen from Canada and Mexico who shared their secrets to success and how they navigated the bumps along the way. As a result of a Collaboration Agreement signed with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce—Monterrey, Mexico—in March 2023, OWIT-Toronto was directly involved in selecting topics and recruiting two Canadian speakers for the forum. The messages delivered by Canadian entrepreneur Sahiza Hossenbaccus and  by Clare Barnett,  Director of Economic Development for the City of Brampton and OWIT-Toronto Board Member,  motivated and kept the Mexican and Canadian audiences engaged.  We will continue this successful collaboration in the coming Women Forums.

               

Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub’s March International Women’s Day event: Attended by some OWIT members, who participated in a roundtable on exporting and heard inspiring remarks from guest speaker Minister of  Small Business Rechie Valdez.

Casa Foundation for International Development Annual Women Inspire Forum in March:  In honour of this year’s International Women’s Day, Casa hosted this 5th edition of the forum as a celebration of women in business and leadership. OWIT Board Member Clare Barnett was invited to speak on a panel discussion - Presenting Case Studies of Women Entrepreneurs in Canada - Stories of Rising Entrepreneurs.

Supporting Women in International Trade event in April:  Presented by the Delegation of the European Union in Canada and hosted by Dentons,  this roundtable discussed trade promotion policies and instruments and shared best practices that support women’s participation in international trade under the CETA free trade agreement between Canada and the EU.  OWIT VP International Susan Baka participated in a moderated panel Q & A on inclusive trade in action.

                

Belgian-Canadian Business Chamber’s Awards Gala in April.  Several OWIT-Toronto members, including Justine Namara, Sue Rauth and KC Goundiam, attended this high-energy annual gala as part of our partnership with BCBC.

GroYourBiz EXCELerate2024 conference in Vancouver also in April.  OWIT-Toronto President Audrey Ross  joined fellow OWIT-International members for  a panel on Going Global: The Road to Globalization.  

City of Toronto May Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum 2024: Women Shaping Global Business. Anita Agrawal, a Past President of OWIT-Toronto and owner of Best Bargains Jewellery, participated in a panel on Growing Your Business Globally.  She shared why she joined OWIT, not only because she is an exporter, but membership has also allowed her to gain trade knowledge, be introduced to experts to help transfer knowledge, and to find a ‘hype women’ who lifts her up and connects her with valuable contacts.

What a view! 

Thank you to our attendees for joining us on Wednesday, June 12 to network, connect and converse.  We enjoyed the summer weather and Toronto skyline view at stylish Lavelle. 

OWIT Toronto President Audrey Ross and Board Members Myra Sable, Jessica Horwitz, Susan Baka and Cathy Williamson were on hand to welcome guests and share our passion for being part of OWIT. 

As new guests arrived they were greeted by an O

WIT Board member and quickly folded into introductions and conversations.   With the invitation for Members to bring a friend we welcomed many new faces. 

With attendees representing private business traders, federal and municipal governments, chambers of commerce and some well known names in accounting and law it was a dynamic group.  As per usual in Toronto, conversations were multi-lingual with a good portion of the group joining in discussion in Spanish. 

Guests enjoyed the poolside views, nibbles including signature wagyu sliders, sushi, karaage chicken and Hawaiian inspired veggie nachos. The theme was hydration in the humid Toronto heat so water first, followed by guests favourites or Lavelle signatures.  The Pomegranate & Apricot sangria and Passion Fruit Mimosa's seemed most popular.  Your OWIT President enjoyed a server recommended non-alcoholic mix of pineapple, cranberry & soda water to stay cool.  

Special Thanks to:

Glen, Kaye, Roman & Cody of Lavelle for being wonderful and attentive hosts. 

Our Board, volunteers and members for their continued support. 

Photo Credits: Audrey Ross, Maria Marchyshyn

3rd CUSMA SME Dialogue hosted by Global Affairs Canada in Montreal in May.  The event brought together SMEs and stakeholders from Canada, the US, and Mexico to delve into regional trade dynamics under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Themes like SMEs in value chains, inclusive trade, customs procedures, and more sparked dynamic discussions, fostering a full exchange of ideas among participants. Some key take-aways:
- Nearshoring: This represents a competitive advantage for SMEs.
- Shift Towards Services Exports: Notably, the trend towards service exports is gaining momentum, reshaping global trade landscapes.
- Empowering Underrepresented Group: There's a critical need to reimagine support structures for underrepresented groups, including women, youth, Indigenous communities, and minorities, to facilitate their participation in global trade.
- Awareness Gap on Available Resources: Many SMEs remain unaware of the abundance of resources at their disposal, such as the valuable support provided by organizations like our Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT)), which I represented at the Dialogue.
- Demand for Simplified Access to Resources: SMEs consistently express a desire for a centralized platform to access trade resources seamlessly, recognizing the complexities of navigating the market.

OWIT-Toronto’s VP of International Trade Susan Baka participated in a panel on Inclusive Trade, moderated by Claire Ehmann of the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Kudos to Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada for sponsoring the post-Dialogue reception hosted by OWIT-Ottawa and OWIT-Toronto and to Global Affairs Canada for its support.  A terrific collaborative effort! “OWIT added a great dynamic to the CUSMA Dialogue and it certainly created a better wrap-up to the day to have a reception,” says Joanne Tognarelli  EDC’s VP of Global Business Development, who welcomed reception guests on behalf of EDC.  “It provided an opportunity for some final connections to be made.”