Inspirational Entrepreneur Leading the Forefront in Facilities & Construction Management and Community Advocacy
We are pleased to highlight Shauna Lenius as our Business Woman of the Month. She is the President of Freshco.ca, representing the essence of entrepreneurship and leadership within Canada’s Facilities Management & Construction sector. Leading an acclaimed, woman-owned company with over three decades of experience, Lenius has driven Freshco’s expansion while promoting community growth and advocating for the skilled trades. Her journey is characterized by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to empowering others.
Building Greatness from an Early Age
Hailing from Regina, Saskatchewan, Shauna was ambitious from a young age. She often told her parents, “I don’t know what I’m going to do yet – but I know it will be something great.” Her unwavering confidence in her abilities not only influenced her personal growth but also laid a robust groundwork for her future successes.
Freshco.ca was established in 1995 as a specialized facilities management firm focusing on multi-site maintenance and project construction. Located in Ontario, the company has transformed into a leading force in North America under Lenius’s guidance. Freshco has earned certification as a woman-owned and LGBTQ2+ business, emphasizing its dedication to diversity and inclusion.
Lenius joined Freshco to expand its operations and expanse. Under her management, the firm has developed partnerships with significant Fortune 500 clients throughout Canada and the United States. This impressive growth path has generated jobs and strengthened the Canadian trade sector.
Impactful Leadership and Guidance
Currently, as the President of Freshco, Shauna has not only fulfilled that childhood dream but is also pushing boundaries in the construction sector, an industry where women are often underrepresented. Her vision for Freshco is driven by a desire to create significant transformation both within the organization and throughout the industry at large.
Shauna’s leadership style is founded on collaboration, promoting innovation, and a dedication to questioning traditional norms. She strongly contends that women leaders can thrive in construction when they are allowed to lead and present new ideas free from bias. Her style of leading is paralleled with her love of sports, often referring to her style as “head coach”.
Building New Age Frontiers in Construction
Shauna has upped the game in the construction industry, which has long been characterized by gender imbalances. By strongly advocating women’s empowerment and guiding them towards achievements, she has opened a new way for inclusivity to thrive within Freshco, where diversity and open communication are fundamental tenets.
Shauna aims to motivate more women to not only join but also excel in the construction industry. By participating in mentorship programs and being involved in influential women-focused business networks, she commits to fostering the growth of aspiring women entrepreneurs. Her leadership goes beyond her own achievements; it focuses on paving the way for other women to thrive.
Advocacy for Skilled Trades
One of the fundamental principles of Lenius is promoting skilled trades, an essential area in Canada’s economy. Through Freshco’s activities, she has led efforts that create substantial employment opportunities in communities throughout North America. Her leadership excellence lies in spreading harmony with the organization’s goal to foster growth in the trade sector, guaranteeing that skilled workers are acknowledged as crucial participants in economic progress.
Spreading the Wings of Community Engagement and Philanthropy
Apart from her accomplishments in the corporate world, Lenius is strongly devoted to community service. Freshco’s alliances with Canadian organizations have bolstered local projects that make a significant difference in the nation’s economy. For instance, through partnerships such as Amazon’s “Together, We Give” initiative, Freshco aids social causes that resonate with its principles.
Lenius’s personal experiences contribute an element of inspiration to her achievements in her career. Her son Brayden Lenius recounted her sacrifices during difficult periods, highlighting how she triumphed over challenges to care for her family while establishing a thriving career. These life lessons have influenced her compassionate style of leadership. Daughter Marea speaking of her ability to truly connect with people being a significant trait in her legacy.
A Guiding Light for Women Entrepreneurs
Shauna Lenius symbolizes not only achievement in business but also the core of empowerment and bravery that every woman entrepreneur can aspire to. Her journey stands as a compelling reminder that with the appropriate mindset, relentless determination, and a solid support network, any objective can be reached.
In her very own words, Lenius says it all, “We get one shot here, so wait for what. The journey won’t always possess clarity and definitely not easy, but that doesn’t diminish your capacity for greatness or the fire that stirs inside. Surround yourself with individuals who genuinely believe in your vision, I can’t reiterate that very statement enough.”
Recognition as a Business Leader
As the President of Freshco.ca, Shauna Lenius exemplifies the highest level of entrepreneurial achievement in Canada. Her efforts have gained her acknowledgment as a groundbreaking leader in facilities management & construction. By promoting inclusivity in her business and championing skilled trades, she serves as a role model for other women entrepreneurs aiming for greatness in their industries.
Leaving a Footprint of Inspiration and Excellence
Shauna Lenius’ journey serves as an inspiring tale of personal growth, incredible perseverance, and a relentless quest for elitism. As she continues to overcome obstacles and reach new heights in the construction sector, her path stands as a powerful testament to the strength and potential of women entrepreneurs to transform industries and redefine leadership.
Through her noteworthy accomplishments, Shauna not only enhances Freshco’s reputation but also confronts entrenched societal expectations about women in leadership positions. She is a true trailblazer, and her uplifting story will surely continue to inspire and empower women entrepreneurs for many years to come.
Your role in staying updated is integral to our shared mission of fostering a community of innovators. CanadianSME Magazine is a valuable treasure trove of entrepreneurial knowledge. Click here to subscribe to our monthly editions for updates on Canadian businesses. Follow our handle @canadian_sme on X to remain updated on all business trends and developments. Your support is crucial to our mission.
