As part of Innovation Factory’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem, we are pleased to feature select posts originally published by Haltech, which amalgamated with Innovation Factory on April 1st, 2024.
Please note that posts published prior to this amalgamation contain references to Haltech, reflecting its historical presence and contributions to the innovation community.
On Thursday, March 21st, Burlington Golf and Country Club became the epicentre of empowerment and inspiration as Haltech Regional Innovation Centre hosted its 7th annual HERhalton International Women’s Day Breakfast. With this year’s theme of #InspireInclusion resonating throughout the event, it was a sold-out affair, drawing over 180 individuals from Halton and beyond.
VIP Remarks
The morning kicked off with VIP remarks from the Honourable Karina Gould, MP for Burlington, and Esther Gibbs, Policy and Community Support Specialist representing Mayor Marianne Meed Ward. Their words set the tone for a day filled with reflection, celebration, and a commitment to fostering inclusion in all spheres.
Inspiring Power Talks
One of the highlights of the event was the PowerTalk sessions featuring four remarkable women who are leading change in their respective fields. Rosana Fernandez and Maria Virginia Anzola, co-founders of The FlipSide Plan, shared their journey of entrepreneurship and empowerment. Chantal Carter, the visionary behind the inclusive intimate wear line Love & Nudes, captivated the audience with her story of challenging norms and promoting inclusive body positivity. Amanda Calzolaio, an Executive, Team Coach and Mediator, brought insights into navigating challenges and fostering collaboration.
Engaging Networking
Attendees had the opportunity to engage in structured networking sessions, fostering meaningful connections and sparking genuine conversations about empowering diversity and inspiring inclusion. This intentional setup encouraged attendees to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the richness of diverse perspectives.
Keynote Address
The keynote address was delivered by Miryam Lazarte, Founder and CEO of Global Startups. Her expertise in bridging the gap between emerging and mature markets provided invaluable insights into the power of diversity and inclusion in driving global growth.
Throughout the event, each speaker shared personal anecdotes, triumphs, and strategies for overcoming barriers, emphasizing the pivotal role women play in inspiring inclusion and driving positive change.
Special Guests
In addition to the esteemed speakers, the event was graced by special guests including Councillor Lisa Kearns, Councillor Angelo Bentivegna, Councillor Paul Sharman, Councillor Rory Nisan, and Councillor Kristina Tesser Derksen, representing a unified commitment to supporting women’s empowerment and inclusion.
Thank You!
Haltech’s HERhalton International Women’s Day Breakfast was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Haltech Regional Innovation Centre, Halton Region, TechPlace, Burlington Economic Development, Town of Milton, and Angel One Investor Network. The support of Angel One Investor Network, Innovation Factory, Altitude Accelerator, Innovate Niagara, and ACE Coworking further amplified the impact of the event, underscoring the importance of community partnerships in advancing gender equality and inclusion.
As the morning came to a close, attendees left with hearts full of inspiration and a renewed commitment to championing diversity and inclusion in their personal and professional lives. Haltech’s HERhalton International Women’s Day Breakfast served as a powerful reminder that by lifting each other up, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone.
