Jessica’s passion for entrepreneurial creativity started at age 9 in one of Toronto's diverse neighbourhoods with an ironing business to pay for field trips. She never looked back – homework often seemed unpractical in light of real world stakes – and she’s continued to look forward to interesting new ventures that make a difference. After studying political science at York University’s Glendon College, Jessica took on a role in fund development for the Osteoporosis Society of Canada. That spurred another passion: corporate social responsibility and creatively engaging corporate partners. Too many and too fun to mention in a bio! Since 1994 Jessica has enjoyed working for a wide range of nonprofits including Festival Manager for the Hillside Community Festival, Events Manager at Big Brother and Big Sisters of Toronto, and Program and Fund Development at the Sustainability Network.

Why I do what I do:

I'm hard wired to find new angles and creative ways to help people and ideas move forward. Corporate social responsibility has been one of the most exciting developments to take place in our society and I'm excited to be a part of it!