The Hub (The Loft, Fourth Floor)
Celebrate International Women’s Day at this exciting panel event designed to inspire, connect and empower
Learn from women entrepreneurs as they share their real journeys, discuss how their university experience helped shape their path and reflect on the realities of starting their own venture.
Featuring
- Hot breakfast
- Women-owned vendor showcase
- Professional LinkedIn headshots
- Networking
- Panel discussion

Stephanie McLarty, Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners
ModeratorStephanie McLarty is Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners, Canada’s largest electronics reuse and recycling company. In her role, Stephanie leads the sustainability strategy for the company’s 15 locations and 700 employees. Quantum has received numerous accolades and awards for their ESG leadership. She is also a respected thought leader and host of the podcast, The Circular Future, which shares business success stories in circularity.
Stephanie joined Quantum in 2022 when Quantum acquired the company she founded, REfficient Inc. Founded in 2010, REfficient was Hamilton’s first Certified B Corp and served customers in 14 countries in the reuse and recycling of telecom equipment.

Olivia Billeci, Founder of Thirds Roasting Collective
PanelistOlivia Billeci is the Founder of Thirds Roasting Collective, a Hamilton-based small-batch roasting collective built around the idea of “coffee for community.” With over 20 years of experience tutoring math and a background in both mathematics and theatre, Olivia brings a unique blend of analytical thinking and storytelling to everything she builds.
She is currently completing her MBA at McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business, where she focuses on strategy, growth, and entrepreneurship. Before fully stepping into her venture, Olivia worked as a strategic sales analyst in heavily regulated CPG industries, specializing in data-driven growth and category strategy.
Through Thirds, she is passionate about creating accessible third spaces, supporting other entrepreneurs, and building businesses that strengthen local communities.

Tammy Hwang, City Councillor and Co-Founder, CoMotion Group Inc. and CoBuild Hamilton
PanelistTammy Hwang was elected to Hamilton City Council in 2022 and is a dedicated advocate for urban development and community growth. She currently serves on several influential boards, including City Housing Hamilton, the Hamilton Waterfront Trust, and Hamilton Enterprises Holding Corp. Prior to her election, Tammy worked in Economic Development, where she worked on international investment strategies and supported immigrant entrepreneurs in accessing city resources.
An experienced entrepreneur, she has co-founded multiple local ventures, such as CoMotion Group Inc. and CoBuild Hamilton. She remains a passionate champion of the city’s technology sector, smart city initiatives, and small business ecosystem. Tammy resides in Hamilton with her husband, Mike, and their dog, Riker.

Ashleigh Montague, Executive Director and Co-Founder, BLK OWNED
PanelistAshleigh Montague is a community-driven leader and the Executive Director of BLK OWNED, a non-profit she co-founded to foster Black empowerment and economic opportunity. She oversees all organizational funding and ensures alignment with the organization’s mission.
Ashleigh also serves as Manager of the Shaw Visionary Scholars Program at Visions of Science, creating an ecosystem that supports students from Grade 8 through their professional alumni years with leadership training, mental health supports, and financial development.
Her career is rooted in service and innovation, from launching Sisters 4 Sisters to serving as a Black Graduation Coach. Recognized with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, Pilon School of Business Hall of Fame induction, and a 40 Under 40 Award, Ashleigh is a sought-after speaker and facilitator. She empowers the next generation of leaders, living by her mantra of being a “Connection Specialist” to create a more inclusive and accessible future.
McMaster entrepreneurship in action — discover women-owned businesses and support
Featured vendors:
- Beadexy | Luxury beaded accessories
- Earrings by Margaret | Earrings and unique crafts
- Mimi’s Mall | Bonnets, scrunchies and tote bags
- Oasis Within | Skin care
Informational booths for entrepreneurs:
- The Forge | A business incubator funded by McMaster University, serving novel startups in the Hamilton, Greater Toronto and Niagara Regions.
- Lab2Market | Canada’s national research commercialization program supported by Mitacs and NSERC.
- McMaster Industry Liaison Office (MILO) | Here to help McMaster researchers take their discoveries from the lab to the market.
Opportunities to unlock potential
Visit the McMaster Entrepreneurship website for a range of ways to get involved, whether you’ve already started your entrepreneurial journey or you’re just getting started.
The 2026 theme for International Women’s Day is “Give to Gain”
When people, organizations and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Learn more about this theme.

