Women Behind the Brands: Celebrating Island Good Entrepreneurs for International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Across Canada, communities are recognizing the impact women have in shaping business, leadership, and innovation.

At Island Good, that impact is especially strong. Over 60% of our members are women owners or leaders in their organization, representing an incredible range of industries from food and agriculture to manufacturing, retail, and wellness. Behind every product is a story of determination, creativity, and community connection.

This International Women’s Day, celebrate by shopping local and supporting the women behind Island Good.

Here are just a few of the inspiring women leading Island Good businesses:

As an Indigenous woman entrepreneur, I’m driven to build regenerative businesses rooted in land, culture, community care, and inclusion inspired by the strength of the women before me. Through RavenSong, I blend traditional knowledge with modern enterprise to create sustainable livelihoods, mentor Indigenous youth and women including those with visible and invisible disabilities and protect our coastal ecosystems for future generations.

Alissa Assu, Owner
RavenSong Soap & Candle
Campbell River

As a woman entrepreneur, I’m driven to help new beekeepers keep their bees alive and thriving. HoneyBee Lane Bees strengthens food security, pollinator health, and community education in the Cowichan Valley, turning confusion into confidence and protecting both bees and beginners.

Janette Chudleigh
Founder, HoneyBee Lane Bees
Duncan Smith Lake Farm

More than twenty years ago, I left an international career, picked up a shovel, and planted a cider orchard. Sea Cider unites my passions for environmental stewardship, community connection, meaningful celebration, and crafting exceptional cider.

Kristen Needham, Founder
Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse
Saanich

I’m driven to reshape what farming can look like on Vancouver Island: profitable, community-centered, and welcoming to all. Through agritourism and direct food sales, we’re building a model that supports farmers, protects land, and strengthens local economies.

Clea Adair, Owner – Farmer – Teacher
Smith Lake Farm
Merville

Bloom Botanicals offers truly natural, female-formulated body care that honours every person’s skin and story. We celebrate the uniqueness of our bodies and aging as a privilege because beauty lives in authenticity, diversity, and our individuality in every moment of life.

Karen Perras, Owner
Bloom Botanicals
Quadra Island

Stonehouse Teas

What drives me is showing that women can build businesses rooted in creativity, heart, and strength. Through my café, I hope to foster community, support other local makers, and create an inclusive space where people feel empowered, connected, and inspired.

Melissa Scott, Owner
Witch’s Brew Cafe & Bakeshop
Port Alberni

Fresh Fetch

Creating healthier pets and knowledgeable pet owners is what drives me as a woman business owner. It’s Fresh Fetch’s mission to provide the absolute best nutrition that is attainable and non cost prohibitive.

Markella Gionet, Owner
Fresh Fetch
Campbell River

Fresh Fetch

My business philosophy is the 3 C’s: Creativity, Collaboration and Community. I believe that a strong community is reliant on strong collaborations.

Christine Lilyholm, Owner
Stonehouse Teas
Campbell River