As GOSS celebrates eight years in business and the milestone of 100 issues published, we find ourselves returning to where it all began: Montréal. This city has been the ORIGIN for our Founder Rebecca Inès Perez, and it has been a launchpad for visionaries, founders, artists, leaders, and women bold enough to imagine a bigger future for themselves. Montreal Made is a tribute to that spirit.
Within this spread, you’ll meet an extraordinary group of women who are stepping into larger arenas, expanding their influence, and redefining what is possible in their respective industries. They represent the evolution of a city that continues to produce world-class talent, innovation, and leadership. As we reflect on the journey that brought GOSS from a Montreal Made publication to a global media platform, we are reminded that every great movement begins with a community willing to believe in something before the rest of the world sees it. These women embody that belief and we celebrate them in their becoming!
Alexandra Topalian
Alexandra Topalian has built a career around connecting people, ideas, and cultures on some of the world’s most influential stages. Born and raised in Montreal, she has transformed the city’s unique blend of multilingualism, confidence, and global perspective into an international career as a sought-after master of ceremonies, moderator, and speaker.
From leading conversations at global events such as COP28 in Dubai to hosting exclusive gatherings across Europe and the Middle East, Alexandra has become known for her ability to command a room with authenticity, intelligence, and effortless presence. Her work spans industries, with a particular focus on wellness, longevity, innovation, and human performance—fields that are shaping the future of how we live, work, and thrive.
Fluent in English and French, with additional proficiency in Spanish, Alexandra embodies the multicultural spirit that defines Montreal. Her ability to build meaningful connections across borders and cultures has made her a trusted voice on international stages and a powerful ambassador for the city that helped shape her journey.
Follow her journey at @alexandratopalian and learn more at alexandratopalian.com
Carla Kay
Carla Krikorian is redefining what women’s health conversations look like. As the founder of Carla Kay Fitness and a leading expert in Diastasis Recti, postpartum, and prenatal wellness, she has built a global movement dedicated to helping women heal, strengthen, and reconnect with their bodies after motherhood.
What began as her own recovery journey has evolved into a community of more than 5 million women and a mission that has helped over 182,000 mothers restore confidence through natural and accessible methods. Through Carla Kay Fitness and the Women First Foundation, Carla continues to break the silence surrounding postpartum challenges while empowering women across Quebec and beyond.
Follow her journey at @carlakay.fitness and learn more at stan.store/carlakay_fitness.
Caroline Elie
Caroline Elie is redefining what luxury means for the modern woman. Through The Everyday Luxury, her podcast, and upcoming book, she invites audiences to see luxury not as something reserved for a select few, but as a way of living rooted in intention, self-worth, and meaningful experiences.
Drawing from a career spanning luxury, hospitality, media, and digital marketing—including collaborations with brands such as CHANEL and ELLE—Caroline has developed a unique perspective on what creates true value and lasting impact. Today, she shares that vision with a growing global audience, inspiring others to cultivate a life that feels rich from the inside out.
Follow her journey at @caroline.elie and @theeverydayluxury or visit theeverydayluxury.com.
Chantale Arsenault
Chantale Arsenault is proof that powerful movements often begin with a simple idea. As the founder of the Girlboss Project, she set out to help women entrepreneurs gain visibility, confidence, and momentum in their businesses. What started as a passion project quickly evolved into a thriving platform that has empowered thousands of women and generated nearly half a million dollars in impact-driven growth.
Built on a pay-it-forward philosophy, the Girlboss Project reinvests success back into the community, creating opportunities for the next generation of female founders. Through her work as an entrepreneur, photographer, and community builder, Chantale continues to challenge traditional business models by proving that purpose and profitability can grow together.
Follow her journey at @chantalearsenaultphotography
Chloe Robinson
Chloe Robinson brings a unique perspective to wealth creation and financial security. After spending a decade trading gold and currencies, she transitioned into wealth management and insurance, combining market expertise with long-term financial strategy.
Today, Chloe works with ambitious women, entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners across Montreal, helping them build, protect, and preserve their wealth with confidence. Her approach is rooted in the belief that financial success is not only about growing assets, but also about creating security, stability, and freedom for the future. Through disciplined planning and personalized guidance, Chloe empowers women to make informed financial decisions and take ownership of their financial legacy.
Learn more at chloerobinson.com or follow @chloe.robinson.finance
Diana Eskander
Diana Eskander is helping women redefine what it means to experience love, intimacy, and partnership. As the founder of The School of Love® and leader of the She Who Receives movement, she has spent more than a decade guiding women toward relationships rooted in self-worth, feminine embodiment, and authentic connection.
Drawing from her own journey of transforming anxious attachment patterns and creating a thriving marriage, Diana teaches women how to cultivate deeper standards, embrace receivership, and open themselves to the kind of love they truly desire. Through her programs, teachings, and global community, she has helped hundreds of women attract meaningful partnerships and deepen intimacy within existing relationships.
Learn more at dianaeskander.com or follow @dianaeskander_
Dr. Selwa Rafi
Dr. Selwa Rafi is a scientist, entrepreneur, and innovator advancing the future of artificial intelligence across aerospace, defence, and space technologies. As the Founder of KEPLR Intelligence, a Montréal-based AI company, she develops decision-intelligence solutions designed to support complex operational environments where precision, adaptability, and human performance are critical.
With a Ph.D. and expertise in mathematical modelling and information processing, Dr. Rafi has built her career at the intersection of artificial intelligence, complex systems, and scientific innovation. Her work transforms advanced research into practical technologies that help organizations make smarter, faster, and more informed decisions while strengthening Canada’s leadership in emerging technologies.
Deeply committed to Québec’s aerospace ecosystem, Dr. Rafi serves on the Board of Directors of CRIAQ and contributes to national policy discussions through Space Canada’s Public Policy and Advocacy Committee. As an alumna of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), she is a strong advocate for scientific entrepreneurship as a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and international collaboration.
Through KEPLR Intelligence, Dr. Selwa Rafi continues to demonstrate how Canadian innovation can shape the future of aerospace and artificial intelligence while inspiring the next generation of scientists, entrepreneurs, and technology leaders.
Learn more at www.keplrintelligence.com
Follow @selwarafi
Frédérique Le Grand
Frédérique Le Grand is the founder of Clinique Beauté & Santé Koza, a wellness and beauty destination dedicated to helping women feel confident, radiant, and empowered. With a passion for self-care and personal transformation, she has built a space where beauty and well-being work hand in hand, creating an experience that goes far beyond traditional aesthetic services.
At Clinique Koza, Frédérique’s vision is rooted in the belief that confidence begins with feeling comfortable in your own skin. Through a personalized and client-centered approach, she has cultivated a warm, welcoming environment where every woman feels seen, supported, and cared for throughout her journey.
Driven by a genuine desire to help others thrive, Frédérique continues to inspire women to embrace their natural beauty while prioritizing wellness from the inside out. Through her leadership, Clinique Koza has become a trusted destination for those seeking both beauty and balance.
Instagram: @fre_netic | @cliniquekoza
Website: cliniquekoza.com
Jessica Chabot
Jessica Chabot is a Canadian contemporary artist and the creative force behind CHABOT ART, a brand celebrated for its emotionally driven and richly textured paintings. Drawing inspiration from beauty, travel, philosophy, and personal growth, she creates immersive works that seamlessly blend elegance with raw emotion, inviting viewers into deeply personal and transformative experiences.
Since becoming a full-time artist in 2020, Jessica has developed a distinctive visual language that explores authenticity, connection, and the human experience. Her work is recognized for its layered textures, expressive energy, and ability to evoke both reflection and emotion, transforming each canvas into a timeless collectible piece.
Through CHABOT ART, Jessica continues to create meaningful works that inspire conversation, celebrate individuality, and bring beauty into the spaces they inhabit. Her commitment to artistic excellence and emotional storytelling has established her as a rising voice in the contemporary art world.
Learn more at jesschabot.com
Follow @chabotart
Julie Mila Bouffard
Julie-Mila Bouffard creates art that celebrates the power, freedom, and complexity of women. Drawing inspiration from pop art, street art, graffiti, and contemporary expressionism, the Quebec-based artist has developed a bold visual style where vibrant color, symbolism, and emotion converge to tell compelling stories.
At the heart of her work are women who embrace their individuality and live unapologetically. Often accompanied by lions and other powerful animal symbols, her subjects embody courage, resilience, and self-expression. Through each canvas, Mila invites viewers to reconnect with their own strength while exploring themes of identity, empowerment, and feminine energy. Represented by Galerie Lenoir in Montreal and featured in international art publications, Mila continues to expand her creative vision through both fine art and wearable art collaborations, bringing her message of authenticity to audiences around the world.
Discover her work at juliemilabouffard.com and follow @juliemilabouffard_art.
Kalika Hastings
Kalika Hastings understands the power of visibility. As the founder of KHPR, she helps founders, athletes, entertainers, and brands transform their stories into opportunities through strategic public relations, partnerships, and personal branding.
With a career spanning media, marketing, and communications, Kalika has built a reputation for connecting clients with the right audiences while helping them create lasting influence. From professional athletes and entrepreneurs to consumer brands and public figures, her work sits at the intersection of culture, storytelling, and business growth.
Beyond her agency, Kalika is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders through mentorship, education, and community impact. As a workshop facilitator, board member, and co-founder of Nova Stevens Academy, she continues to champion confidence, leadership, and authentic self-expression. Through every venture, Kalika’s mission remains the same: helping people own their story and amplify their voice.
Learn more at kalikahastings.com and follow @kalikahastings
Karine Therien
Karine Thérien is the embodiment of reinvention. A real estate investor, commercial real estate broker with PMML, entrepreneur, and endurance athlete, she has built a remarkable career driven by growth, resilience, and ambition.
After an international career spanning fashion, sales leadership, and business development, Karine made the bold decision to turn her passion for real estate into her life’s work. Today, she serves as President of Logika Property Management, overseeing a portfolio of more than 50 residential units while helping investors and business owners acquire, sell, and strategically position commercial real estate assets across Quebec.
Driven by a desire to create meaningful impact, Karine is also the founder of Maison Arborescence, a coliving initiative designed to support women navigating major life transitions. Through each of her ventures, she demonstrates how real estate can be a powerful vehicle for financial freedom, personal growth, and lasting legacy.
Learn more at pmml.ca/c/karine.therien and follow @karinetherien.immo
Laurie Gonzalez
Beauty has always been both an art and a craft for Laurie Gonzalez. As the founder of Glamchic, she has spent more than a decade helping women enhance their natural features through refined, personalized beauty services that prioritize elegance, confidence, and authenticity.
Since entering the industry in 2014, Laurie has become known for her signature approach to lash extensions, lash lifts, and brow lamination, combining technical precision with an artistic eye for detail. Her philosophy is simple: beauty should enhance who you are, not change who you are. Every service is tailored to the individual, creating results that feel effortless, natural, and uniquely personal.
Driven by a passion for excellence, Laurie expanded her expertise into education in 2022, training and mentoring aspiring beauty professionals who want to elevate their skills and build meaningful careers within the industry. Her commitment to quality, creativity, and continuous growth has earned her the trust of both clients and students alike.
Outside the studio, Laurie’s love of fashion and sewing further reflects the artistry that defines her work. Whether designing, teaching, or creating, she approaches every detail with intention, precision, and care. Today, Glamchic has become a destination for women seeking beauty services that celebrate individuality while delivering exceptional results.
Learn more at glamchicmtl.square.site and follow @glamchicmtl
Maddie K
Madeleine “Maddy” Kojakian has spent more than two decades bringing people together through extraordinary experiences. As the founder of Maddy K Events, she has become one of Montreal’s most influential event producers, creating luxury celebrations, corporate experiences, destination weddings, and high-profile gatherings that have helped shape the city’s social and hospitality landscape.
Known for her entrepreneurial vision and ability to create meaningful connections, Maddy’s impact extends far beyond events. Through ventures including Le 9e, Le Fou Fou at Royalmount, RETREAT by Rennaï, the Maddy K Circle, and Casa Evexia, she continues to build spaces and communities where collaboration, wellness, culture, and human connection thrive.
A champion of female entrepreneurship and community building, Maddy remains at the forefront of Montreal’s evolution as a global destination for hospitality, innovation, and experiences. Her work is a testament to the power of bringing the right people together at the right moment.
Follow her journey and discover her latest projects at @maddykatelier
Marie-Josée Therrien
Marie-Josée Therrien is proving that true leadership begins with service. As the founder of the FONCEUSES Foundation, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, she has dedicated her work to empowering young women facing adversity by providing mentorship, support, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Driven by a deep belief in the power of community, Marie-Josée has created initiatives that help women rebuild confidence, develop independence, and step into their full potential. Her mission extends beyond philanthropy—she is passionate about inspiring others to recognize their own ability to create meaningful change. Through the FONCEUSES Foundation, Marie-Josée continues to champion a future where every young woman has access to the resources, guidance, and support needed to thrive.
Learn more at fonceuses.com and follow @fonceuses_fondation and @marie_joseetherrien
Mariela Katz
Mariela Katz is bringing a fresh perspective to the snack industry through creativity, quality, and innovation. As the founder of Nutterie, she has transformed a simple idea into one of Quebec’s most exciting emerging food brands, offering premium nuts, dried fruits, chocolates, and signature blends enjoyed by customers across Canada.
With a background in marketing, communications, and entrepreneurship, Mariela has built Nutterie around a commitment to exceptional ingredients, memorable flavors, and a customer experience that keeps people coming back. Every product is carefully sourced, roasted, and crafted in Laval, Quebec, reflecting her passion for quality and attention to detail.
As Nutterie continues to grow, Mariela remains focused on creating products that bring people together while redefining what everyday snacking can be.
Discover more at nutterie.com and follow @itsnutterie
Marilene Tentomas
Marilene Tentomas has spent more than 16 years at the forefront of wellness innovation. As the founder of Elk RedLight and Slimwave Technologies, she has dedicated her career to developing advanced technologies that support recovery, performance, and overall well-being for both people and animals.
Driven by a passion for proactive health solutions, Marilene has pioneered technologies spanning red light therapy, EMS, infrared wellness systems, and aesthetic innovations used by clinics, health professionals, and wellness facilities across North America. Inspired by her connection to the equestrian world, she later founded Elk RedLight to bring accessible, cutting-edge wellness technology to horses and pets, helping owners prioritize prevention, recovery, and long-term performance.
Today, Marilene continues to bridge the worlds of wellness, technology, and animal care through innovative solutions designed to improve quality of life and support healthier outcomes for all.
Learn more at elkredlight.com and slimwave.ca
Follow @elkredlight and @slimwavetechnologies
Marina Tachtchian
Marina Tachtchian is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate one of life’s most important financial decisions with clarity and confidence. As a Mortgage Broker with Orbis Mortgage Group, she specializes in creating tailored financing solutions for first-time homebuyers, homeowners looking to refinance, and real estate investors seeking to grow their portfolios.
Known for her client-first approach, Marina combines industry expertise with a commitment to education, ensuring every client feels informed and empowered throughout the mortgage process. Her focus extends beyond securing competitive financing—she is passionate about helping people build strong financial foundations that support their long-term goals.
Through her growing online platform, Marina continues to share valuable mortgage insights, market updates, and practical advice, making homeownership and real estate financing more accessible for Canadians.
Follow her journey and mortgage tips at @mortgagewithmarina
Naomy Stern
For Naomy Stern, couture is the art of transforming dreams into something tangible. As the founder of Naomy Stern Couture, she is known for creating exquisitely crafted garments that blend timeless elegance with a deeply personal design experience.
Each creation begins with understanding the woman behind the gown. Through thoughtful collaboration, Naomy translates vision, personality, and emotion into one-of-a-kind pieces that feel effortless, sophisticated, and uniquely her own. Her appreciation for exceptional fabrics, impeccable construction, and flattering silhouettes has made her a trusted name for women seeking couture that transcends trends.
Whether designing for a bride, a gala, or a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, Naomy believes every woman deserves to feel extraordinary. The result is more than a dress—it is a statement of confidence, beauty, and individuality, designed to be treasured long after the occasion has passed.
Learn more at naomysterncouture.com and follow @naomysterncouture
Nadia Salmi
Nadia Salmi is helping Canadians turn real estate goals into reality through strategic financing and personalized guidance. As a mortgage broker with Dominion Lending Centres Continental Mortgage, she works with individuals, families, investors, and business owners across Canada, providing tailored residential and commercial mortgage solutions.
Known for her client-focused approach, Nadia supports borrowers through every stage of the financing journey—from first-time home purchases and refinancing to investment properties and commercial real estate acquisitions. Her commitment to transparency, education, and personalized service helps clients navigate complex financial decisions with confidence.
Passionate about entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and wealth creation through real estate, Nadia empowers her clients to make informed decisions that support their long-term success and financial growth.
Learn more at nadiasalmi.ca and follow @nadiasalmi
Sanaa Benzakour
For nearly two decades, Sanaa Benzakour has helped shape the future of commercial real estate in Quebec through visionary leadership, strategic growth, and a deep commitment to developing people. As Co-Founder and Co-Owner of PMML, she has played an instrumental role in building one of the province’s leading commercial real estate firms, helping expand its services while fostering a culture rooted in excellence, innovation, and long-term value.
Beyond her entrepreneurial achievements, Sanaa is a passionate advocate for advancing women in business and commercial real estate. Through her leadership with CREW M, mentorship with Futurpreneur Canada, and service on several influential industry boards, she continues to champion the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders, believing that meaningful success is built by lifting others along the way.
Today, Sanaa is recognized not only for her impact on Quebec’s commercial real estate industry, but also for her dedication to creating stronger organizations, more inclusive leadership, and thriving communities. Her story reflects the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to shape Montreal’s business landscape and inspire future generations.
Learn more at pmml.ca and follow @sanaabenzakour
Siham Aber
Siham Aber has spent nearly a decade helping women feel more confident by enhancing their natural beauty. As the founder of Adik Beauté, a Montreal-based permanent makeup studio, she has built a reputation for creating natural-looking brows and lips while empowering both clients and aspiring beauty professionals through her mentorship and training programs.
At the heart of Siham’s work is the belief that beauty should never transform who you are—it should simply reveal and elevate what already exists. Her journey as an entrepreneur has been shaped by resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to her craft, even through significant personal challenges and loss.
Today, Adik Beauté stands as a reflection of Siham’s passion, strength, and dedication to helping women feel their best. Through every client transformation and every artist she mentors, she continues to honor the values that inspired her journey and the legacy that motivates her every day.
Learn more at adikbeaute.ca and follow @adikbeaute
Stephanie El-Chakieh
Stephanie El-Chakieh is redefining what modern healthcare can look like. A scientist, holistic health expert, and Founder & CEO of WellVerve, she combines pharmaceutical science, clinical expertise, and integrative wellness to help individuals achieve more personalized and effective health outcomes.
With a doctorate in Pharmacy and a master’s degree in Advanced Pharmacotherapy from the University of Montreal, Stephanie spent 13 years practicing across hospitals and pharmacies throughout Quebec before expanding her work into research, entrepreneurship, and coaching. Today, she is recognized for her systems-based approach to health, blending evidence-based medicine with functional medicine, herbal medicine, and holistic wellness practices.
As an author, educator, and thought leader, Stephanie explores the connections between health, identity, emotional intelligence, and personal transformation. Through her writing, research, and innovative work with WellVerve, she continues to challenge traditional paradigms while empowering others to live healthier, more aligned, and vibrant lives.
Learn more at stephanieelchakieh.com and wellverve.com
Follow @StephanieElChakieh
Tania Martel
Tania Martel is a passionate entrepreneur, mentor, and visionary dedicated to helping women redefine success on their own terms. As the Founder of House of H.E.R., a private coaching company for high-performing women entrepreneurs and leaders, she empowers ambitious women to step out of survival mode and into self-mastery, creating lives where success, freedom, and fulfillment coexist.
A multi-entrepreneur for more than eight years and a respected professional with over 18 years of experience in the beauty industry, Tania has built her career around transformation—both inside and out. Through her work, she guides women in cultivating confidence, resilience, and alignment, helping them unlock their next level in business and life.
In addition to her coaching practice, Tania is the owner of Oasis Coiffure, a thriving salon and boutique that has become a trusted destination for beauty, self-expression, and empowerment. Her unique ability to blend entrepreneurship, leadership, personal development, and wellness has positioned her as a powerful advocate for women who are ready to rise into their fullest potential.
Through House of H.E.R. and Oasis Coiffure, Tania continues to inspire women to embrace their worth, lead with authenticity, and build businesses and lives that reflect who they truly are.
Learn more at oasiscoiffureboutique.com
Follow @taniamartel and @oasis.coiffure
