The Direct Sellers Association of Canada recently hosted the DSA Canada Connect 2024 conference at the scenic Queen’s Landing Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The event drew industry leaders from Canada and the U.S., offering unique networking opportunities and an energetic forum for sharing insights.
Conference Highlights
The event was packed with informative sessions, including:
- Jennifer Ménard-Shand’s Keynote: The CEO and Founder of Staff Shop delivered a poignant address on her journey of resilience and success as a First Nations Ojibwe and French-Canadian entrepreneur, sharing insights into staffing, employee retention, and Indigenous reconciliation.
- Fireside Chat: Peter Maddox, President of DSA Canada, engaged in a meaningful discussion with Vance Badawey, MP for Niagara Centre, focusing on the political landscape and its impact on the direct selling industry.
- The PayQuicker Power Panel: This session featured industry leaders who discussed strategies to boost workforce stability and growth and offered practical advice for attendees.
The conference also featured the DSA Canada awards ceremony, recognizing exceptional contributions to the direct selling industry. The award recipients include:
- Industry Innovation Award: Pampered Chef for its innovative Pampered Chef Live program, which has redefined virtual sales experiences.
- Making a Difference Award: USANA and the USANA Foundation for their impactful charitable work.
- Partnership in Progress: Modern Direct Seller for their role in fostering company success through innovative solutions.
- Distinguished Service Award: Colleen Leithman was honoured for her exemplary tenure as DSA Canada Board Chair.
- DSEF Circle of Distinction: Vida Achundsada from Mannatech, was celebrated for her commitment to the Direct Selling Education Foundation.
- Ivan P. Phelan Award: Lewis Retik of Gowling WLG received DSA Canada’s highest honor, as he was recognized for his significant contributions to the direct selling sector.
Board Leadership Transition
The conference also marked the conclusion of Colleen Leithman’s term as Board Chair. Peter Maddox lauded her contributions: “Colleen has been instrumental in propelling our association towards growth and success. Her leadership has made a significant impact on our community and established a benchmark for future governance. While we will miss her guidance, we are grateful for her dedication and wish her the best in her future endeavours.”
Marcia Cota, Senior Vice President, North America at MONAT, will move into the role of Board Chair.
The DSA Canada Connect 2024 conference was a resounding success, leaving participants inspired and better equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of direct selling.
Industry now looks forward to next year’s DSA Canada Conference, which will be held in Kelowna, British Columbia, in June 2025.
