Honouring the excellence, creativity and achievement of women entrepreneurs
Honouring women who are breaking boundaries, fostering inclusivity, and championing positive change. For the first time, attendees had the opportunity to digitally cast votes for this year's award winner. Each nominee shared their story and spoke to the audience highlighting why they deserved to be recognized. Votes were counted live, and winners announced at the evening awards ceremony. Says Lockyer; “All of our nominees exemplify diversity, creativity, and impactful change.
The purpose of these awards is to celebrate women who embody these values in their businesses and lives, and this year's winners are leading the charge. I offer them congratulations and thank them for paving the way for women in business.” Summit 2024 featured keynotes from Founder and CEO of Total Mom Inc., Anna Sinclair, and CEO and Owner of ElephantAI among other notable ventures, Maria Parysz, who shared stories of resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and success. The daytime programming offered thought-provoking discussions and a fireside chat panel with circle members who are part of a network of over 270 circles. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit the trade show to discover innovative products and services from vendors across Ontario, tailored to empower and support women in business. The evening's awards kicked off with a performance by local artists, Lockyer Boys.
The Summit was offered as both an in-person and virtual event, inviting individuals from across Canada to partake in the teachings of new and
seasoned business professionals. To learn more and see this year's award winners, visit www.paro.ca/summit_2024
About PARO For 30 years, PARO Centre for Women's Enterprise has supported women of diverse ages, cultures and needs to start, scale and grow their businesses. The organization is a key driver in Ontario's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Rosalind Lockyer, founder and CEO of Paro
“Paro is now across Canada with 276 Paro Circles which is the largest peer lending network in North America.” “Paro have moved their head office in Thunder Bay to 201- 34 Cumberland Street North after 24 years at May Street. After covid more staff worked from home for some days per week and our staff can still do that so they needed less office space.”
“So many came out today and are also oline from across Canada which is gratifying. We always have done our events as a hybrid event with online including Zoom as our clients are located across Canada.”
“ Paro will be 30 years old in January 2025 and we are very proud of our progress. It takes a village to make it work.”
Paro currently have 40 staff.
