Each year, Women’s Post scours the nation to find the top 20 women of the year. These women all reflect strength, ingenuity, and confidence while contributing not only to society, but to the success of women in the workplace. This year we have assembled a diverse group, ranging from a CFO in banking to an acclaimed singer-songwriter; from a member of the House of Commons to an environmental activist. You will also find that one special woman has the honour of being a recipient of the Women’s Post Glass Slipper Award, bestowed upon someone who has gone above and beyond in helping not just her community, but other women in particular. Read on, and marvel at the accomplishments of this year’s prestigious crew of smart, and savvy, women. (We just want to point out that these are not ranked, all these women are excellent examples to follow.)

1. COLLEEN JOHNSTON
Colleen Johnston is group head, Finance, and CFO with the TD Bank Financial Group. Her career has been built on helping people make sense of money, and then helping them to make sensible decisions with it. At TD, her responsibilities include overseeing financial reporting, investor and rating agency relations, interest and liquidity risk management, as well as corporate real estate. Colleen is a chartered accountant who graduated from York University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1982.

Since she became the founding chairwoman of TD’s Women in Leadership Committee in late 2005, the representation of women in executive positions at the company has increased to 33%. Over the past year, Colleen also headed an initiative that cut $250 million of annual expenses simply by negotiating better deals with suppliers. According to Colleen, the key to building a business is to have a great team and to make the development of people a priority. “Add to that a strong understanding of your business and economic influences and a commitment to being authentic and transparent and you should be well on your way to building personal successes,” says Colleen

2. BONNIE BROOKS
Just over a year ago, Bonnie Brooks took over as president and CEO of the Hudson’s Bay Company, Canada’s largest and oldest merchandise retailer. Her daunting task is to revitalize the Bay’s brand at a time of economic instability.

Armed with over two decades of experience, which include serving as president of the Lane Crawford Group in Hong Kong, working as editor-in-chief for Flare, and working extensively for Holt Renfrew in merchandising, marketing, and as executive-vice president, Bonnie has taken her own approach to meeting this latest challenge. Her priority has been to review merchandise – dropping brands, adding others, and slowly transforming the Bay so it lives up to its potential. But most of all, Bonnie seems to understand that pleasing customers is the bottom line.

Many have said that if anyone can change the Bay, it’s going to be Bonnie Brooks. That’s a lot to live up to, but she’s getting the job done.

3. KATE BAHEN
Kate Bahen went from picking stocks to picking charities when she retired as an equity trader and launched Charity Intelligence in 2006. Now a registered charity itself, the organization researches and examines charities and not-for-profit agencies to help doners make informed decisions about the money they give. Kate finds the non-profit sector remarkably similar to working in business, yet more rewarding, with both focusing on objectives, goals, and execution. When asked what philosophy she lives by, Bahen laughed and used the saying on her coffee mug as inspiration: “Be the change you wish to see.”

4. SHAWNA PAGE
The topic of health always interested Shawna Page, founder & CEO of femMED who graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto in 1987. Before pursuing her passion, she spent 20 years in the field of investment banking. After graduation from university, she worked for Merrill Lynch Canada at the institutional equities desk; then headed up the marketing division. She then worked for the Toronto Dominion Bank before deciding to shift gears. Three weeks after leaving the banking world, Shawna wound up becoming an entrepreneur and FemMED was born.

Shawna became aware of many consumer pitfalls when searching for natural supplement options for women. Shawna and her team of medical doctors, natural healthcare practitioners, pharmacists, and herbalists developed the first and only consumer-friendly, all-natural line of comprehensive solutions for women’s most common health concerns. Thanks to an observation she made while scanning store shelves, she has given women the opportunity to make educated decisions about their health products. In Shawna Page’s own words, “Women’s health made simple, that just about says it all!”

5. MINISTER HELENA GUERGIS
The Honourable Helena Guergis is a prominent figure in federal politics. She was first elected to the House of Commons in 2004. In January 2007, she was named Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and last fall she was appointed as the first dedicated Minister of State for the Status of Women by Prime Minister Harper.

Before her career in politics, Helena attained an MBA from the University of Alberta and owned a small business for seven years. She has earned a reputation as a champion for Canadian businesswomen by announcing programs that improve market access for female-owned enterprises.

Minister Guergis’ greatest piece of advice to Canadian businesswomen is to seek out networking opportunities: “Find a mentor,” she advises, “and do not be afraid to ask a woman you admire for guidance.” She credits women with the talent and vision that will help weather this current global financial crisis.

6. SUSAN HODKINSON
In the course of a day, Susan Hodkinson can find herself reviewing budget and production numbers, thinking about how to market a new business idea, planning a technology launch, and interviewing a potential staff member. As the chief operating officer of Soberman LLP Chartered Accountants, Susan enjoys the variety her job entails and the opportunity to work with young women who are just starting their careers. “The other part of my job that I love is the ability to help junior people grow in their roles, and to watch them gain confidence, knowledge, and self esteem,” Susan explains. Susan’s philosophy is you only get back what you give – which she finds true in business, in community service, and in relationships. Susan Hodkinson believes in women – collectively and individually – and is committed to doing all she can to encourage women to believe in themselves. Susan is also a recipient of the Glass Slipper Award.

7. MAYA MAVJEE
As publisher of Doubleday Canada and editor at Random House, Maya Mavjee comes into contact with literary giants on a daily basis. She has worked with writers of all genres, acquiring book deals with the likes of Rick Mercer, journalists such as Rebecca Eckler and Christie Blatchford, and contemporary novelists such as Margaret Atwood.

When she was made publisher of Doubleday Canada at the age of 34 in 2000, Maya Mavjee was the youngest person ever to be appointed to such a senior position in the Canadian publishing industry. Maya is also responsible for Anchor Canada and Seal Books. In 2002, she received the Editor of the Year Award. Maya has acquired and edited many of Doubleday Canada’s leading Canadian authors, including Pierre Berton, Joy Fielding, David Adams Richards, as well as international authors such as Kate Atkinson, Bill Bryson, and Diana Gabaldon. Maya plans on continuing to grow her roster of literary talent.

8. KATE ZEIDLER
Kate Zeidler is a sophisticated and talented Toronto-based interior designer. Kate graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Arts degree, and then attained a diploma from the International Academy of Design & Technology in interior design.

Launching her own successful company in Toronto in 1985, Zeidler describes her designs as stylish yet “easy to live in.” Her rooms manage to be conservative with clean lines, yet have a breezy, approachable feel. Characteristic elements include sumptuous textiles, antique woodwork, warm neutral walls, tailored and elegant furniture, and a natural, soothing palette of hues that Zeidler balances in a manner that is always both subdued and effective – and sought after by a long list of faithful clients.

To prospective entrepreneurs, Kate advises to “always be honest, direct, and kind” and to have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish before jumping into projects. This way you will leave clients satisfied and ensure your relationship with them will be long lasting.

9. CHRISTINE FLYNN
After years as an art director at branding and design agencies across North America, Christine Flynn started Love The Design. Here she combines her passion for photography and graphic design in order to create unique prints that have become a hit in the local and national markets, making her a well-known artist.

“Working on something I’m passionate about helps me stay motivated. That, and setting small, achievable goals that I can work toward. When I’m photographing a new subject, or working on new designs, I get caught up for hours and do not even notice that time has gone by. It’s the sweet spot you find when you’re doing something you love. Whatever it may be, find your passion and you’ll never lack motivation!”

10. CATHARINE FENNELL
After successful careers in marketing and technology, Catharine Fennell founded Market Yourself Smarter in 2002. The concept was to create tools to help people market themselves better. Market Yourself Smarter has since transformed into a new venture with the launch of videoBIO, a three-minute video pitch that is designed to brand individuals and companies. Catharine also launched a company called SWING Think with two partners and is dedicated to listening to, and communicating back through various communication vehicles, the voice of women as consumers and as people.

“I love helping people unearth the best of themselves and to package that in a way that surprises and delights them,” says Catharine. As a mother of two, she strives to set a good example for her children by showing them that they can be anything if they work hard and remain optimistic.

11. DIANNE CARMICHAEL
Dianne Carmichael has had multiple successful careers in marketing, sales management, and investment management, as well as creating and spearheading a successful wealth management platform. However, it was Dianne’s father’s tragic cancer diagnosis and his passing that inspired Dianne to improve Canada’s flawed health record file-sharing system and reduce the confusion and frustration it caused her. She quit her job and became president of Best Doctors Inc. – a benefit company which aims to link seriously ill patients and their physicians with a community of world-renowned specialists to confirm diagnoses, recommend treatment options, and share information and support.

Brimming with enthusiasm and positive energy, Dianne’s advice for success is to find your own passion and not let any obstacles stand in your way. Only by challenging yourself, stepping outside your comfort zone, and maintaining a positive attitude is success attainable: “Tell yourself you can and have the confidence to know you will!”

12. SAMMIE KENNEDY
From “average” to fitness model in just over one year, Sammie Kennedy has become a certified personal fitness trainer, founder of SkyHigh Fitness, and CEO and creator of Booty Camp Fitness, a brand with over 90 locations and 15,000 women enrolled across Canada. Author of the workout journal The Ultimate Girl’s Guide to a Healthy & Sexy Body, Sammie continues to give the gift of health and fitness to thousands of women.

“Stay motivated by setting short and long-term goals. It keeps you directed. At Booty Camp, we encourage our recruits to set three goals – four-week, eight-week, and year-long – and then to reward themselves after accomplishing each one. Often, long-term goals can seem overwhelming, making them difficult to stick to, so it’s important to set short ones as well that will keep you on track.”

13. CHANTAL KREVIAZUK
Chantal Kreviazuk is known to most as a Canadian singer-songwriter, pianist, and performer. The two-time Juno winner is married to Our Lady Peace’s frontman Raine Maida and the pair has three children. What is less known about Kreviazuk, however, is her active involvement in charity work. In support of War Child, Chantal “Busked for Change” this year with the goal of building and running a youth centre in Darfur. She is a spokesperson for the Canadian Mental Health Association and for Polar Bears International. Going back to her hometown roots, Chantal is dedicated to the University of Winnipeg’s Opportunity Fund, which provides tuition assistance for inner-city youth. Both Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida were recently awarded the 2009 Tiffany Mark Award that honours Canadian men and women who are making their mark in charity work.

14. JANE ROOS
Jane Roos’ promising athletic career ended after a car accident at the age of 19. Recognizing that Canadian elite athletes need money to pay for proper training, coaching, nutrition, and living expenses, Jane started the Canadian Athletes Now Fund, a not-for-profit organization that ensures that money goes directly to Canadian athletes. Recognized by CAAWS as one of the most influential women in Sport, and honoured with the Live Olympic Award, Jane is also an artist with “See Jane Paint” and owns the Jane Roos Gallery in Toronto.

“Be committed to your passion, not attached to the results,” she says.

15. JACQUELYN CYR
CEO and partner of Toronto-based marketing agency Espresso, Jacquelyn Cyr has guided the agency through a major relaunch since 2008 that included rebranding the company, developing an internal philosophy around brand infiltration, and developing stronger consultative strategy, event marketing, and social media tactics.

“Do what you love. There isn’t a possible way to get downtrodden and bored with what you’re doing if you’re crazy and joyfully obsessed with your work. Of course, doing what you love alone clearly isn’t enough – as such, I am a firm believer in being completely imbalanced in order to ensure ongoing motivation. I have no guilt about the imbalance that comprises my life – to me, balance is stagnation, because you’re not unleashing the parts of you that are fiery and excited and compelled to do something you used to think wasn’t possible. To me, that’s the whole reason to work – the whole reason to be!”

16. KIMBERLEY NEWPORT-MIMRAN
Kimberley Newport-Mimran is the co-founder, president, and head designer of Pink Tartan. She studied fashion merchandising and manufacturing at George Brown College in Toronto.

In 2002, a year after the birth of Kimberley’s daughter Jacqueline, Pink Tartan was born. The company’s name was inspired by the new bundle of joy, hence the “pink” in Pink Tartan. Kimberley has always aimed to create her clothes so that they are pretty but practical. She has also taken the practicality of her designs into the work force and signed her name to the uniforms of Porter Airlines staff, and for hip hotels including the Rooftop at 60 Thompson and the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel’s Tropicana bar.

In the fall of 2004, Kimberley took a leap across the border and took Pink Tartan to New York catwalks. It has now become the label of choice for many top models and A-list celebrities including Kim Catrall, Jenny McCarthy, Vanessa Williams, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Kate Hudson, making Pink Tartan one of the most coveted lines in North America. “I’m extremely detailed, very driven, highly organized, and always leading by example, involved in all aspects of the business.”

17. ANN KAPLAN
Ann Kaplan is the president and CEO of Medicard Finance Inc., a Toronto-based company that provides Canadians with information and financing for elective medical procedures not covered by the public health care system.

Ann launched the company in 1996, and today it is Canada’s largest medical procedure finance company of its kind, even being dubbed an industry innovator. For her incredible success, Ann has been the recipient of multiple prestigious awards, including the Peak Award of Excellence in Finance and is considered one of Canada’s top female entrepreneurs – she was named one of the 100 most powerful women in Canada. Ann is also a twice published author, currently completing her PhD in business, and has six kids to boot!

Her advice to Canadian entrepreneurs and businesswomen is simple: “Take care of the immediate issues one step at a time,” she advises, “but keep your eye on the end goal.” That’s a mantra we can all follow.

18. JENNIFER WRIGHT
Chief environmental activist and founder of Green Shift, Jennifer Wright has been passionate about nature and wildlife preservation since she was a child. Beginning at a very young age, Jennifer spoke on behalf of a pollution committee started by her father, who’d bought a property on an untouched small lake in the Georgian Bay area. Working closely with businesses from the service and manufacturing sectors, Green Shift’s projects have ranged from full facility audits and assessments for Canadian and US environmental and certification agencies, to long-term ongoing consultative assistance for private enterprises.

“Make sure your job, and the goals you seek to achieve, are something you are passionate about, and that you always stay in touch with the jobs that allow you to feel the sense of accomplishment toward that. Be positive, surround yourself with others who are positive and know when to see and remove negative energy creeping in. Lastly, know your limits, keep things manageable, stay on focus and be careful to not let the demands of others bog you down or steer you off track.”

19. FARAH PERELMUTER
In June of 1995, Farah married Martin Perelmuter and together they quit their jobs, moved, and started Speakers’ Spotlight. They wanted to change and improve the way that conference organizers, meeting planners, and speakers are served. Speakers’ Spotlight has worked with hundreds of speakers with the goal of finding the best and most effective speaker for any given event. The company has since expanded and has offices in Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. The Perelmuters have hooked speakers up with clients in more than 30 countries worldwide. The client list is long and varied – from former prime ministers to comedians, athletes, astronauts, and authors. Speakers’ Spotlight’s success is well beyond what Farah could have ever imagined.

20. STACEY MOWBRAY
For Stacey Mowbray, now the president of Second Cup Coffee in Canada, it’s about making every cup of coffee count for her customers. Stacey holds an MBA from York University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier. She has worked at Molson Canada, Cara Operations, and Pepsi Canada, taking key roles in making important decisions within the food industry.

Stacey plans to put her experience to good use and help Second Cup emerge from the coffee wars by offering exceptional customer service and opening 10 to 15 new stores in prime locations.

“I’m not sure that it’s a skill, but I’d say the most valuable quality I have as it relates to business is my intuition.” Stacey also says she “respects the people I work with, and who work for me. I listen to others, am curious, and enjoy continually learning. I focus on what I love to do and take into consideration all facets of my life while helping others along the way.”