Heather Holmes – TriTone Music Studios
I am a singer/songwriter who has never been able to picture my life without music. I attended university in NYC as a music major and learned incredible things about myself during that time. I think the most important part of that journey was the love of sharing my knowledge and abilities with others. When I moved back to Canada in 2012 I began teaching at local studios as a way to fill my time. An opportunity arose to open my own school and I knew it was right. TriTone Music Studios now has over 100 students per week who participate in yearly recitals, complete royal conservatory of music exams and write their own music. We teach all ages and levels, if you want to learn, we want to teach you! Music matters and we are thankful to share it!
Emma Rogers – United Way
Emma considers herself one of the lucky ones who have the opportunity to be a persuader of philanthropy. She enjoys being a community connector; nothing lights her up more than connecting people with each other and doing good for our community. She loves what she does and the local impact it has within the Dufferin Community. Whether it is sitting on the board for the Young Professionals Network of the Dufferin Board of Trade or working at United Way to help finically support non-profits within the Dufferin community, she is always striving for positive impact. Emma has been working in the Dufferin community for over three years now, collectively helping raise almost half a million dollars over this period.
Kathy Yardley – Headwaters Physiotherapy
I am a co-owner of Headwaters Physiotherapy in Orangeville. We are a multi-disciplinary health clinic with a focus on rehabilitation and preventative health. I opened my first clinic in January 2014 and recently opened my second clinic, at The Athlete Institute, on July 15, 2017! Our clinics employ 30 amazing young professionals. I am lucky because I truly love what I do. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to help others daily. I find joy in sharing my passion for life and healthy living with those around me. My goal is to inspire others to reach their goals, whether it be professional or rehab focused. I have 3 young children that remind me of the importance of balance and of being a good role model in all that we do!
Andrew James – Streams Community Hub
After winning the Dramatic Arts Award for his High School graduating class, Andrew went off to New York City to pursue an acting career and attended the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. Upon returning to Toronto, Andrew started his own entertainment company which focused on artist development, artist management, and event production. Andrew also produced a nationally distributed music magazine—Inspired—and an annual drumming skills competition—The Drumoff. More recently, Andrew published his first book; ‘Bird Words: Inspirational thoughts for everyday life in 140 characters or less’. Andrew is the co-founder of Streams Community Hub—a not-for-profit organization focused on helping youth to discover passion, potential, and purpose.
Jamie-Lee Higginson – Prim Pickins*
Prim Pickins has supplied both the wholesale and retail industry with quality, handmade furniture and home decor. Catching the attention of companies like Home Hardware, Lawtons Drugs, Great Wolf Lodge, Homesense, Hallmark and more, Jamie-Lee grew her business from a small hobby to a industry leading manufacturer. After landing a deal with Dragon Michael Wekerle on CBC’s DRAGONS’ DEN, she later declined the offer off air and has continued to lead her dreams with the help of her family and friends. Prim Pickins (and Jamie-Lee) have gained respect and admiration in the community and can often be found behind the scenes providing volunteer and donation efforts for local charities, events and fundraisers in the community.
*unfortunately Jamie-Lee Higginson is ineligible to receive this award as she was the recipient for the 2016 Young Professional of the Year Award
Emily Curd – Emily Jean Photography
Clint Black – C Black Construction
See Nominees For:
Business of the Year – under 10 employees | Business of the Year – 10 or more employees | Association of the Year | Emerging Business Award | Innovator Award | Young Professional of the Year | Sustainability | Business Citizen of the Year