Small Business Advisory Council
What is the Small Business Advisory Council?
The Small Business Advisory Council is a group of small business members from a variety of sectors. They work alongside our team at The Winnipeg Chamber to help shape things like our programming and events, based on current issues that are important to Winnipeg’s small business community.
Our advisory council helps plan and brainstorm events like the Small Business Forums, where our goal is to not only give you access to experts who can help you elevate your business, but also give you access to each other, for an opportunity to network, make some new connections, and learn from other local small business owners.
Kate Hanson
Co-Chair
Speaker, Author and Founder & CEO, KHC
What is one interesting fact about you people wouldn’t know?
Most people don’t realize I have a deep passion for the arts—I love sketching and painting and I’m currently taking vocal lessons to learn how to sing jazz.
Reanna Khan
Co-Chair
Owner of Reanna Khan Creative Co-Owner of Vibes Energy
What is one interesting fact about you people wouldn’t know?
I LOVE a good true crime book. 2024 has ignited my love of reading and you can often find me binging books in between life’s many demands.
Kahla Evans
Public Speaking + Confidence Coach, Founder of Fave Self CEO
What is one interesting fact about you people wouldn’t know?
My favourite animals are cows! I grew up on a farm and my very first pet was a baby calf I named “Baby.” I still have a picture of the two of us hanging up in my office!
Carman Johnston
Director of Development & External Relations Prairie Theatre Exchange
When you are not working, what is something you are doing?
I enjoy gardening, all arts and making fruitcake (once a year).
Elizabeth Czyrnyj
Lawyer, Pitblado Law
When you are not working, what is something you are doing?
Staying active outdoors – During all of Winnipeg’s seasons!
Ernie Thiessen
Connect on Linkedin
When you are not working, what is something you are doing?
When I’m not working one of the things I am doing is playing senior men’s volleyball (often against people that are my kid’s age).
Merissa King
Owner and Principal Consultant, Unlock Communications
When you are not working, what is something you are doing?
I love creative writing, and I’m currently writing a historical fiction novel set in Winnipeg! I enjoy gardening in the summer and cross-country skiing in winter.
Ryan Nykvist
Principal Consultant, Nykvist Strategic Solutions
When you are not working, what is something you are doing?
Enjoying Winnipeg’s fantastic arts and culture scene, unwinding on nature walks, and cheering on the Winnipeg Jets and Blue Bombers on game day.
Kimberly Kiemeney
Co-Owner/ Chief Marketing Officer Homecare Solutions for Everyone
What is one interesting fact about you people wouldn’t know?
When my children were little, I made all their birthday cakes from scratch — every decoration, every detail. I created everything from sunflowers with tiny ladybugs to race cars, princess castles, Harry Potter themes, and even Lego cakes. It was a true labour of love, and each cake was a reflection of their personalities and passions. Every one told a story, and I poured my heart into making them feel special.
Noor Anmol
Owner, Two Macaws Concept Store
What is one interesting fact about you people wouldn’t know?
Most people wouldn’t know that I am a certified meditation guide and sound healer. Through sound bath experiences, I create spaces for people to unwind, restore balance, and reconnect with themselves and help create accessible wellness practices for the community.
Neville McDonald
Owner, NJ's Mechanical Inc.
Connect on Linkedin