#KINDNESS International Women’s Day Power Luncheon 

Hello Amazing Business Women of Ottawa and Beyond,

We are thrilled to officially invite you to #KINDNESS, a curated International Women’s Day Power Luncheon designed for bold Canadian business women who are actively building their communities through leadership, compassion, and purpose.

Hosted by She Shops Local in partnership with the National Arts Centre of Canada, this unforgettable experience is returning for its 7th year - and tickets are officially on sale now. We have been completely blown away by the response and are excited to welcome everyone!!

This event is already 65% SOLD OUT, and seats are going quickly. We highly encourage you to secure your ticket now before we are fully sold out. 

Purchase here www.sheshopslocal.ca

Co-Hosts

We are proud to welcome two extraordinary leaders as our hosts for the afternoon:

Michelle Groulx is a senior leader in Ottawa’s business and municipal landscape, with over 25 years of experience working across the private, non-profit, and civic sectors. Currently, Michelle works at OCOBIA representing local businesses across Ottawa. She works tirelessly for her community, constantly building strong working relationships and championing the success of businesses throughout the city.

Alongside her, the brilliant business leader Janice McDonald - a sought-after speaker, advisor, and award-winning serial entrepreneur. With ventures spanning the music industry, apparel and accessories, and start-ups, Janice brings both entrepreneurial depth and strategic leadership experience. She has completed leadership training at Harvard and INSEAD and was appointed to the Women’s Leadership Board at Harvard Kennedy School. A four-time recipient of WXN’s Canada’s Most Powerful Women recognition and Hall of Fame inductee, Janice is widely respected for her work advancing women entrepreneurs across Canada and serving on numerous national boards.

Special Guest

We are honoured to welcome:

Annabelle Cloutier, President & CEO of the National Arts Centre of Canada.

Annabelle is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience serving at the highest levels of the public and cultural sectors. Her leadership sits at the intersection of the arts, governance, diplomacy, strategic planning, and communications. Known for delivering results in complex and rapidly evolving environments, she combines vision, political acumen, empathy, and a deep understanding of institutional dynamics.

At the NAC, Annabelle has played a central role in shaping the institution’s strategic direction, spearheading transformative initiatives including major national celebrations, international tours, digital innovation during the pandemic, and long-term strategic plans that are guiding the future of Canadian performing arts. Previously, she served in senior leadership at Rideau Hall, acting as spokesperson to three Governors General and contributing to state visits, royal tours, and national honours ceremonies. A trained lawyer with graduate studies in communications and executive education from Harvard Kennedy School, Annabelle brings a rare combination of cultural leadership, governance expertise, and national perspective to our stage.

Groundbreaking Panel Discussion

For the first time ever, we will host a panel featuring three of Ontario’s leading mayors — three women who are actively brand building, scaling local economies, and collaborating with business communities:

• Mayor Christa Lowry - Municipality of Mississippi Mills
• Mayor Nancy Peckford - Municipality of North Grenville
• Mayor Corinna Smith-Gatcke - Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands

This groundbreaking discussion will explore what’s ahead for business and community growth in 2026.

A Culinary Experience Like No Other

This year’s Ladies Who Lunch Ottawa menu is inspired by the Northwest Territories, presented by Red Seal Executive Chef Stephanie Baryluk, 

alongside the National Arts Centre of Canada Culinary Brigade  Executive Chef Kenton Leier , Chef Connor McQuay and General Manager, 

And under the direction of Food and Beverage, Nelson Borges.

Together, this exceptional culinary team (#teamexcellence) will deliver a thoughtfully curated dining experience that reflects excellence, culture, collaboration, and intention.

Vendor Marketplace + Interactive Experiences

We are happy to welcome you to the Vendor Marketplace on the iconic Governor General’s Red Carpet, where numerous local businesses will be set up for your shopping pleasure.

And don’t miss:

Vibe 360 Unique Photo Booth hosted by young entrepreneur Blessing Okoro, creating magazine-worthy cover moments. Blessing is also the creator of “Website In A Day” that everyone is talking about.

The Candy Bar in collaboration with Youth Services Bureau and local business Sweet Escape Candy Emporium, will be selling sweet treats in support of this important youth initiative.  www.ysb.ca

The Flower Bar featuring beautiful bespoke bouquets that can be purchased in support of VOICE FOUND, Cynthia Bland and her team and their vital work ending child trafficking in Ottawa. www.voicefound.ca

The Cake Bar “It’s a piece of cake to serve up support!” Purchase delicious cake slices to bring home in support of Nutrition Blocs,a food security organization helping to feed over 50,000 children here in Ottawa. The work they are doing is in need of much support. www.nutritionblocs.org

Why #KINDNESS?

Because in this wild world, one thing makes everything better: human connection. human touch. human interaction

This event is built around one powerful idea:
We arrive as strangers. We leave as allies, collaborators, and friends.

#KINDNESS is the networking experience where women sit at new tables, spark new ideas, open doors for one another, and build meaningful partnerships.

Our mantra: #GiveToGain

When women share knowledge, make introductions, and support growth beyond their own businesses, success multiplies.

The Experience

This is a power luncheon designed with purpose:

• Curated seating to encourage meaningful conversations
• Guided prompts that move beyond small talk
• Space for bold ideas and real opportunity
• A room filled with women who believe in lifting as they climb

No forced networking. Just authentic connection with real impact.

Our Home

We gather once again at one of Canada’s most iconic cultural spaces — the National Arts Centre of Canada, our proud partner for over seven years.

A globally revered, multicultural centre that reflects who we are: diverse, inclusive, bold, and rooted in community.

Get Your Tickets Now

Tickets are available now: www.sheshopslocal.ca 

QUESTIONS can be directed to Catherine Landry

catherineknows@me.com

613 608 1038