Business forum helps women entrepreneurs

 
A group of Aboriginal women in Thunder Bay are one step closer to fulfilling their dreams of becoming entrepreneurs.

The Ontario Native Women's Association partnered with the PARO Centre to hold the first-ever Aboriginal Women’s Economic Development Forum. Motivational speakers and local Aboriginal entrepreneurs spoke to the crowd about how to overcome the social and economic challenges they might face when thinking about a career in business.

ONWA officials opened an economic development office for Aboriginal women last September, to help turn their business ideas into reality. Executive Developer Denise Bouchard says they'll work closely with the women from the forum to help them in their business ventures.

Lunchtime entertainment included a fashion show organized by young women. ONWA officials plan to make the economic forum an annual event.