Entrepreneur of the Year 2025

Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award

Winning the CanadianSME National Business Award is an incredible honour and a humble reminder of how far this journey has come. I am deeply grateful to my family, clients, community, and everyone who has supported and believed in me and the work I do. This recognition is a celebration of the power of perseverance, purpose, taking inspired actions, and creating meaningful impact. It inspires me to continue helping others grow, lead with confidence, and believe in what is possible.

A special message or advice to small business owners

Building a small business takes courage, patience, and the willingness to keep learning and growing. My advice is to be like water: stay grounded in your purpose, but remain flexible and adaptable as circumstances change. Do not wait for everything to be perfect before taking action. Confidence grows by showing up, learning, and putting in the reps. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, support you, and genuinely want to see you succeed. Ask for help sooner, protect your energy, and celebrate your progress. Keep moving, keep adjusting, and trust that every experience is shaping you into a stronger leader and business owner. And as I always say, You got this!!

Izabela Kvesic

CEO & Founder of Blue Water Performance Ltd.

Izabela Kvesic is an award-winning entrepreneur, business and transformational coach, international speaker, best-selling co-author, and community builder. With more than 25 years of experience in business growth and leadership, she helps entrepreneurs grow both personally and professionally, amplify their voices, and believe in what is possible. She is the Co-Founder and CEO of Blue Water Performance Ltd. and the creator of the She Soars™ Collective, a global community for entrepreneurial women. Izabela also hosts The Mindful Entrepreneur Talks podcast, is a proud mother of three, and is a passionate advocate for mindfulness. Her favorite phrase is, “You got this!”