This IWD, we’re celebrating women making an impact

Nominated for their community contributions and impact in their fields of work, these women were celebrated at Square One with Julianne Costigan’s signature Portraits with Impact experience. Treated to professional hair and makeup and a styling session with fashion expert Julianne Costigan herself, the women posed for beautiful portraits with photographer Erin Leydon.

See the stunning results below—and learn more about the important work that each woman is doing in the Mississauga community.

Victoria Clarke, Tourism Industry Leader

Victoria Clarke worked in a variety of industries—information technology, news media, fundraising—before embarking on an award-winning career in tourism marketing almost a decade ago. Now the CEO of Visit Mississauga, the executive helped launch the city’s destination marketing organization.

“Mississauga is more than just a place to me. It’s becoming woven into the fabric of my life,” says Clarke. “Having grown up on the outskirts of the city, and now returning, after having lived for 25 years in the Maritimes, I have the distinct privilege of rediscovering a place that has evolved into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, creativity and community spirit.”

Clarke is thrilled and honoured to have been chosen for the Portraits with Impact program, and excited for the opportunity to connect with fellow leaders and inspire others to pursue their passions. “It’s a beautiful reminder that no dream is too big,” she says, “and no journey is too daunting when you have a supportive community by your side.”

Valene Campbell, Author and Publisher

Born and raised in Mississauga, Valene Campbell is a true multi-hypenate—an entrepreneur, author, speaker, dementia advocate and model, whose diverse career is driven by her commitment to representation and empowerment.

“Each facet of my work is rooted in a shared mission to amplify voices that have historically been marginalized or overlooked,” says Campbell, whose experience as a caregiver to her mother inspired her to become a speaker and advocate for Alzheimer’s disease awareness.

Campbell is also a seasoned author and publisher. Through her boutique imprint, Zou Zou Media House, she has published The Amazing Zoe, a children’s book series touching on themes like health, friendship and social issues.

“Self-publishing The Amazing Zoe was not just about creating books—it was about reclaiming my narrative, championing diversity, and paving the way for a more inclusive future in Canadian children’s literature,” says Campbell. “It’s a journey fuelled by a deep-seated commitment to ensuring every child sees themselves reflected in the stories they read.”

Rafaa Chapti, Zaina Moussa and Amanee Nassereddine, Entrepreneurs Uplifting Other Entrepreneurs

The three women behind Run the World describe their community as “one of the fastest growing entrepreneurial event series for ambitious women in business.” They host pop-up markets and networking events, alongside a signature summit, which has welcomed inspiring speakers such as life coach Eva Redpath and fashion designer Lesley Hampton.

Founders Rafaa Chapti and Zaina Moussa and chief brand officer Amanee Nassereddine are passionate about supporting local talent and small businesses. “Run the World Summit events play an indispensable role in cultivating a nurturing ecosystem where women entrepreneurs can flourish, expand their enterprises, and contribute positively to their communities and industries,” says Chapti.

“At its core, Run the World is all about cultivating a community where females are seen, heard and supported,” adds Nassereddine. “Whether it is hosting an event, partnering with valuable brands or providing mentorship opportunities, our mission is to create a space where individuals feel a strong sense of belonging.”

For the trio, who all grew up near Square One, participating in the Portraits with Impact experience at the shopping centre is a full-circle moment. “This fantastic program is a great reminder that what we are creating is being seen,” says Moussa.

Lucie Shaw, Community Changemaker

Before co-founding a senior home care business with her husband in 2009, Lucie Shaw worked in customer experience and leadership roles in the airline industry. She then spent the next 15 years growing Nurse Next Door in Mississauga, offering much-needed, around-the-clock home care services for seniors, before recently moving on to pursue consulting work and personal endeavours.

Now, Shaw will have even more time to dedicate to volunteering. “Giving back to the community that we care for is so important and rewarding,” says Shaw.

She was a board member of the Mississauga Board of Trade for several years, and has volunteered with the Rotary Club of Mississauga for over a decade. “Being a Rotarian allows me to be part of many worthwhile fundraising opportunities,” says Shaw, adding that she hopes her participation in Portraits with Impact will “inspire others to be community-minded.”

This content was created by The Kit; Square One funded and approved it.