President’s Message Sept 2019
Dear Friends and Colleagues:
It is a great honour to welcome you to CAMSC’s 14th annual Business Achievement Awards Gala. As with previous years, this evening’s event provides a forum to thank all of our certified suppliers and corporate members who strive to advance supplier diversity in Canada. Across the board, the commitment of these partners to support and showcase diverse representation in various industry sectors cannot be overstated. As we build momentum towards an expanded and diverse supplier pool, we remain optimistic for the strides that we have made – and continue to make – in this area.
At this time last year, we were reminded of our good fortune as Canadians, with Canada’s 150th celebration still fresh in our minds. This year, we look towards the future and continue to build momentum with the goal of expanding on our mandate of representation and diversity within all sectors in the business community. Now, more than ever, we recognize the crucial role that Aboriginal and minority-owned businesses provide to the Canadian economy and beyond.
As we move into the final months of this year and look forward into 2019, it is salutary that we recognize those key companies and partner organizations who have made a considerable difference in supporting the Aboriginal and minority-owned businesses that drive our economy forward. Without their ongoing commitment to the mission and values that we collectively share, none of our successes would be possible.
The importance of Supplier Diversity as the standard, not the exception, is being increasingly recognized by businesses in a variety of sectors. This strategic business process that facilitates inclusivity in supply chain practices has been the key to having a competitive advantage for participating entities. Further, greater representation across vertical markets can only result in opportunities for business growth resulting in ensuring employment and businesses success for both the Aboriginal and minority communities served and the businesses that partner with them.
This evening, we are pleased to welcome Mohamad Fakih, founder and CEO of Paramount Fine Foods as our Keynote Speaker. Mohamad exemplifies the type of diversity success that CAMSC supports, having started his business from scratch and having built it up to be what it is today: a successful multi-million-dollar company.
Thank-you to the CAMSC board and staff for the diligent work that has resulted in this year’s success and more specifically, this evening’s event. Thank you as well to our many sponsors, attendees and partners who have made tonight’s gala possible.
Finally, congratulations to all of our nominees and award winners. Your diligence and commitment to supplier diversity has been an inspiration and has made a positive difference for both suppliers and businesses across the country.
Sincerely,
Cassandra Dorrington
President and CEO