Happy International Women’s Day! As we celebrate and recognize women everywhere today, I want to share with you some of the incredible women within our community who have inspired me through their passion, kindness and success. Some of these women I have known for many years and some just a couple short ones, but each one has inspired me in some way. I am so grateful to be surrounded by such amazing, successful women and I thank them for sharing a part of their journey with me.

Daphne Nissani (Boa Boutique)

I first met Daphne Nissani, the owner of Boa Boutique several years ago and I was instantly drawn to her kind, humble, confident personality.  Daphne is a force to be reckoned with, owning two successful boutiques (one in Downtown Oakville and the other in The Beaches), curating an awesome selection of North American designers/ apparel, and hosting the best online auctions Instagram has ever seen. To say I have been inspired watching Daphne navigate our new normal would be an understatement. I have an immense amount of respect and admiration for Daphne and watching her constantly pivot in the face of adversity (construction, pandemic) while running a successful business is a sign of her strength and perseverance. As soon as the pandemic hit last year Daphne and her team at Boa Boutique wasted no time in creating a unique, fun, online shopping experience for their clients. Drawing in an audience of hundreds, Daphne and her team continue to host online auctions through their Instagram (I’ve picked up so many great pieces from the auctions) and welcome the public to their physical locations. If you are looking to support an awesome, local, woman-owned business, look no further!

Erin Nocent (The Sweetest Thing)

Over the last decade I’ve watched as Erin Nocent, baker extraordinaire, grew her business from her home kitchen to the ever-so-popular The Sweetest Thing bakery on Kerr Street. I’ve always admired Erin’s determination and it didn’t take long for The Sweetest Thing to become the go-to bakery in town, constantly drawing in crowds from neighbouring cities despite the pandemic. Erin puts so much passion into all her desserts and you can taste the love in every bite. From cakes and ice cream to cookies and coffee, you will find a delicious selection of premium desserts fit for any occasion. Thank you for sharing your love and passion with the community Erin!

Meenia Rai (Maker’s Mojo)

Meenia Rai first opened the doors of her lifestyle boutique, Maker’s Mojo, in 2019 and in less than two short years it has become a go-to destination within the GTA for the best selection of unique, local artisan pieces for anyone in your life. Aside from offering one-of-a-kind  products, Meenia’s bright, energetic and joyful energy fills her space with so much positivity you can’t help but be happy when you’re shopping there. Meenia is another powerhouse businesswoman when it comes to navigating the pandemic, offering her audience a chance to shop Maker’s Mojo through her Instagram stories (such a quick & easy process), installing an automated count number on the door so you always know how many people are in the store and continuously supporting our local artisans.

Julia DeRubeis Malisa (Black Caviar)

I first had the pleasure of interviewing Julia DeRubeis Malisa back in 2015 (you can click here to read the interview), and it was during this interview where Julia shared with me the inspiration and vision behind Black Caviar. I’ve always been inspired by Julia’s chic and effortless style, which comes across in the beautiful pieces she picks for her boutique. From Theory to RMS Beauty to Carole Tanenbaum Vintage and much more, Julia has created a unique space bursting with little luxuries. Mom, wife, businesswoman (and much more), Julia wears many hats and continues to provide daily inspiration to me and the community through her style, passion and selection.

We are all different. 

We come in many shapes, colours and sizes. 

We bloom at different moments and shed our petals along the way.

We keep grounded in our roots but continue to reach for the sky every day.

We are individuals, but when we come together we create a garden of love, light, beauty and support.

-Kiki (Kiran) Khosla

I’d love to hear below about the women in our community who have inspired you!

xo, Kiki