The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International TradeThe Honourable Mary Ng was elected as Member of Parliament for Markham–Thornhill in April 2017.
Minister Ng is a devoted community leader who has always believed in the power of public service. She has 20 years of experience in the areas of education, women’s leadership, job creation, and entrepreneurship.
Minister Ng immigrated to Canada from Hong Kong with her family and grew up learning about the struggle and eventual success that many new immigrants experience in Canada.
Her years working for the Ontario Public Service, Ryerson University, and the Ontario Ministry of Education led to her being recognized as one of Canada’s top-performing public sector leaders. She later served as Director of Appointments for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
What is your definition of Leadership?
To me, leadership is getting involved in a cause you care about – and encouraging and empowering others to do the same.
What are the most important values and ethics you demonstrate as a leader?
Growing up, my dad taught me and my siblings to be proud of who we are and where we come from, and to listen to people especially when you we didn’t agree with their point of view. He also taught me to find a way to get involved to make our community a better place.
Now, more than ever, I would say that those life lessons – an ability to listen, work together with others, and find innovative ways to solve problems – are at the core of how I aim to serve my community and all Canadians.
How do you encourage the development of your employees?
I believe that mentorship is incredibly important. In my own professional journey, my parents were my first mentors. Growing up, I always noticed my father’s quiet determination, and the way my mom made sure my siblings and I were kind and respectful of one another.
I have worked with incredible leaders who have challenged my thoughts and supported my goals. I aspire to promote this kind of mentorship and guidance within my office and beyond. Encouraging people and empowering them to succeed is how we can best serve small businesses, entrepreneurs, and all Canadians across the country.
What is your advice to Canadian business owners during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
We are living through an extraordinary period in the face of COVID-19 – and I know Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs are feeling the brunt of it.
Our government will do whatever it takes to help small businesses and all Canadians get through this challenging time.
Whether you are self-employed, a small business owner, or an entrepreneur – you shouldn’t have to worry about having to lose your business or your job.
That is why we are working hard to provide immediate relief for small businesses so you can keep more money in your pocket, and keep people employed. Whether it’s our Emergency Response Benefit, enhanced Work-Sharing Program, or increased lending capacity from financial institutions, we are working around the clock to get small businesses and workers the support they need to get through this.
Canadians are innovative, we are strong, and we are resilient. We will get through this together.
For more information about supports for small businesses, visit http://canada.ca/covid-19-business.
