Women Entrepreneurs Shine at Winnipeg Women’s Show

The Winnipeg Women’s Show took place at the RBC Convention Centre on March 9-10, 2024, spotlighting women entrepreneurs and their contributions to various industries. This year’s event, which marked its third anniversary, coincided with the celebration of International Women’s Day, emphasizing the importance of supporting women-led businesses.

Dolores Thiessen, the show’s manager and owner, reflected on the initial uncertainty surrounding the first event. “We weren’t sure how well the city would take to a women’s show because there’d never been one,” she stated. The overwhelming success of the inaugural event encouraged the team to organize a second show, leading to the vibrant gathering witnessed this year.

The event was designed to address a significant gap in the market, where women entrepreneurs often face challenges in securing financing compared to their male counterparts. Thiessen noted, “There are plenty of trade shows that are geared towards men. You have the RV show, boat show, and the renovation show. This is the only trade show, besides maybe the wedding show, that is geared directly for women.”

Showcasing Unique Offerings

Among the many entrepreneurs at the show was Chanelle Chalazan from Saskatoon, who showcased her business, Chic & Charmed Boutique by Chanelle. Offering a variety of affordable jewellery, Chalazan shared her strategy for competing with established brands. “When we started the company, we had competition in Canada who had their prices four times as high as ours,” she explained. The decision to forgo a physical store and employees allowed her to keep prices accessible to a broader clientele.

At just 16 years old, Chalazan also provided insightful advice for aspiring young entrepreneurs. “Any ‘no’ or ‘maybe’ – turn it into a ‘yes.’ Look at me, for example – how would you know that this small idea could fit into this big corporation?” she urged. Her message resonated with many attendees, encouraging them to pursue their dreams without hesitation.

Empowering Women in Business

The Winnipeg Women’s Show serves as a vital platform for women entrepreneurs, highlighting their innovations and the unique challenges they face in the business world. The event not only celebrates women’s achievements but also fosters a community where they can network, learn, and support one another.

As the show continues to grow, it reflects a broader movement towards gender equality in entrepreneurship. By providing visibility and resources for women-led businesses, the Winnipeg Women’s Show plays a crucial role in changing the landscape for future generations.

With a focus on empowerment and support, the event stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of women entrepreneurs, setting a positive precedent for similar initiatives in other regions.