Dolce Empowering Women
Dolce is proud to present its Spring Edition class of empowering women, whose passion and excellence continue to inspire the next generation of women.
Spring is the time of the year when the birds are chirping, flowers are blossoming, and the cold ends. But as we slowly approach warmer weather in the new year, we can’t help but reflect on what the past year has been like. It is reasonable to say that we have endured some of the most troubling times in recent years, and seen the world wracked by sickness and warfare on an international scale.
Resilience, now more than ever, deserves to be acknowledged. Dolce is honoured to showcase this class of incredible women because their resilient spirit has inspired others to pursue their goals, no matter how daunting the path may be … that is what la dolce vita is all about.
These intelligent and beautiful women demonstrate that “the sweet life” is not about materialism. It is about dedicating your life to your passion and seizing doors of opportunity when they arise, thereby reaching your full potential. We are proud of every one of these incredible women because they refuse to give up. The success of their life’s work reflects the beauty of their character and work ethic.
As the famous Italian proverb observes, forza e coraggio che la vita è un passaggio, which means: “Strength and courage, for life is a passage.”
1. PAULA STACHYRA
Award-winning chef, media personality and dynamic entrepreneur is reigning over multiple industries with her expertise. She is the best-selling cookbook author of “Wing Crush – 100 Epic Recipes” and “The Big Book of Barbecue on Your Pellet Grill” set to release on May 7, 2024. Proudly featured on AC BBQ by Cedric the Entertainer and Anthony Anderson, The Food Network, and more. When she’s not cooking she embraces her love of fashion and creative expression through modelling and acting.
@queenofthegrill
2. DIANE KROE
If not for the visionary eye of Canadian designer Diane Kroe, the fashion industry would not be what it is today. Believing in her less-is-more design concept, she always faced and conquered the challenges of managing a solo woman-owned fashion brand. Navigating through evolving trends, her passion fueled her perseverance. While the fashion industry is widely considered to be the most demanding, her collections have been revered for their elegance, versatility, and style.
www.dianekroe.com
@dianekroestyle
3. SALT. FINE JEWELRY
Experience the transformative elegance of SALT. Fine Jewelry by Sally Brooks and Tara Turnbull. Founded in 2017, this visionary brand effortlessly transitions daily to night, offering versatile pieces with deep meaning. SALT., known for diamond jewelry also works with gemstones such as emeralds, sapphires, moonstones, and more. From personalized jewelry, and beautiful talismans, to their stunning earrings. Discover the epitome of women’s style and personal expression.
www.saltfinejewelry.ca
@saltfinejewelry
4. LISA DE LA PRECILLA
Owner and Creator of Elle Design Planning, which she operates from the design studio Coco by Covers Couture. Combining expert craft, detail and experience in all event facets. Over the years, she has developed an eclectic style that is unique to her business and her client’s interests. She works to ensure that their visions come to life and seeing their happiness brings joy and motivation to continue to do what she loves.
elledesignplanning.ca
@elle.design.planning
5. ROXY ZAPALA
Founder and Creative Director of Art of Celebrations Event Planning + Design Firm and the event industry’s triple threat – an event planner, a floral designer, and an interior design consultant. With over 20 years of local and international special event production, her work has garnered worldwide recognition. Her passion continues to grow as she is also the Founder and Director of the SickKids Fired-Up Gala – an annual event benefiting the Burns and Plastics Unit at the SickKids Hospital in Toronto.
artofcelebrations.com
@artofcelebrations
6. AMELIA MALTEPE
Amelia Maltepe is a trailblazer in transgender rights, real estate and fashion, redefining norms in Toronto. Known for transforming properties, she’s equally influential in advocating for transgender rights and breaking fashion barriers. Her story exemplifies resilience, courage and embracing one’s true identity.
www.ameliamaltepe.com
@ameliamaltepe
7. DEB NIVEN AND ALLISON FRAME
Co-founders of The Divine Destination Collection, a luxury boutique travel company offering a carefully curated selection of life-changing travel adventures. They craft experiences that steep you in luxury while unveiling the most unique, unusual and sacred aspects of faraway places along with uncommon encounters and magical moments that touch the heart and rejuvenate the spirit. This is truly Travel with Meaning!
www.divinedestinationcollection.com
@traveltddc
8. LEILA LAVAEE
A travel enthusiast, enabler and entrepreneur. She is the Founder & Chief Travel Designer of Travel Design by Leila, a boutique travel concierge and agency that creates once-in-a-lifetime trips and experiences for travel lovers. Leila travelled to 90+ countries, and her mission is to educate, inspire and assist travel lovers to explore our beautiful world.
traveldesignbyleila.com
@travel.design.by.leila
9. LIA BAIOCCHI
A leader, mentor, and visionary! Owner & Director of Maya Advanced Skin and Body Care, Lia Baiocchi has continually redefined beauty for over 20 years through ongoing education, setting new standards in clinically effective skin treatments. She pioneers the industry with a stellar reputation, passionately overseeing daily operations and bridging the gap between medical aesthetics and spa serenity.
www.mayaskinandbodycare.com
@mayaaesthetics
10. KARY DICK
Second Nature Boutique’s family-owned business has been a beacon of style and sustainability since 1974. Founded by Kary’s mother, Ruth, their mission has always been to empower women with affordable, luxury fashion. Kary and her daughter, Jenna, inject new energy, driving growth and customer satisfaction. They prioritize eco-friendly practices, excellence, and empathy, ensuring each customer feels valued. Kary’s move to a second location solidifies a legacy of integrity, resilience, and inclusivity.
Secondnaturebtq.com
@secondnatureboutique
11. G.C. & CO. SALON AND MED SPA
Facialist of 29 years, Gianna Ugolini is celebrated for her unparalleled facial massage techniques. Beyond her mastery in skincare, she’s the innovative mind behind her NEW revolutionary “Cleansing Oil.” Viral since its release in 2023 and along with her transformative touch, she has established herself as a luminary in the world of beauty and skin rejuvenation.
www.gcandco.ca
@gianna_gcandco
12. VIRGINIA AND ISABELLA MUNDEN
Virginia and Isabella Munden, Founders, Buzz Buzz Media Inc., a dynamic Canadian Real Estate Media Agency, innovates and enhances the industry. Their mission is strategic elevation for all Real Estate Professionals, Brands, Partners, and Alliances nationwide, fulfilling clients’ dreams of homeownership. The BUZZ Conference stands as Canada’s Premier Real Estate Conference.
www.buzzbuzzmediainc.com
@thebuzzconference
