Our Team
Jackie is fulfilling her dream of leaving a legacy inspired by her Grandmother, a Niagara teacher. Throughout her life Jackie has surrounded herself with successful, strong, loving, like-minded women. It seems fitting that this group comes together to empower women through their life experiences and their desire to help make Niagara women unstoppable.
Iva Heywood
Jackie Russell, – Founder
Born and raised in Niagara, Jackie is passionate about supporting female entrepreneurs and contributing to their success. She is the founder of 3 Niagara Businesses; Jacklynne Russell Photography, “We Said That’s What” Greeting Cards & T.B.A. Niagara Inc. mortgages. She surrounds herself with successful, like-minded strong women with the passion to empower others. In her time off, you will find Jackie taking photos, investing, socializing with friends, family and her dog Maggie.
Beth Macdonald
Beth spent much of her career in Toronto at Hanes and retired after selling the restaurant that she and her husband grew to a thriving business. She has vast experience in retail systems and has mastered skills needed by every entrepreneur. She is a passionate, confident mentor to anyone interested in expanding and streamlining their business. In her retirement you will find Beth mentoring small business owners, hiking with her dog, travelling, wake boarding, playing hockey and playing her violin.
Sylvia Dief-Atallah
As an owner of 2 franchised restaurants, Sylvia is a strong, independent entrepreneur known for her generosity in Niagara. She is an expert when it comes to business procedures, operating systems and food and labour cost management. She is a stylish, creative artist that has her own jewelry line Ketoora. Sylvia is known for her generous heart and care for her family and community. In her free time you will find Sylvia driving her Jeep, entertaining and travelling.
Cindy McGuire
Cindy has been a Clinical Social Worker in Niagara for over 30 years. She has her own private practice, McGuire Counselling. Cindy provides therapy/counselling for individuals and families, and is very much respected by her clients and peers. Cindy was the Founder of Hannah House, Niagara’s first maternity home, which provided shelter and support for over 200 young women and their babies. On Cindy’s day off you will find her near the water and trees, or in her garden and travelling.
Deanna Wolske
Being a land owner since she was in her 20’s, Deanna is a competent, skillful, independent woman. She has managed and mentored others as an event coordinator and is eager to share her experience with female founders. When Deanna has free time she loves to spend time with her dog, socialize with her many friends and paddle board.
Dena Atallah
Dena is a Biomedical Sciences student at Brock University with a passion for volunteerism. She has been involved in community outreach for her entire life, weaving it into every step of her educational career. Dena is also an artist and has recently started a jewelry business. Dena’s young, vibrant, innovative mind enhances our group with a fresh view of young people in Niagara.
Our Impact
Check out the amazing companies we have helped