Local women in business finding support and connection at one local market
Posted March 16, 2025 4:21 pm.
Last Updated March 17, 2025 8:11 am.
A group of women-owned businesses in Edmonton found support and connection at a local market. The event showcased what small businesses have to offer amid economic hardships.
“A lot of the time just being in business is hard and just getting your voice out there and trying to be on social media and trying to balance up your life. Sometimes you just wanna give up. It’s like not worth it anymore,” Abril Gonzalez, the owner of Amorcito Sweets, explained while tearing up.
Gonzalez had to close her business in 2016 due to economic pressures. But in 2020, she decided to start a small bakery operation. She tells CityNews that being part of a market helped her grow her business tremendously.
“Finding women that are in the same boat. That they are vulnerable enough to say hey like my business is struggling. It’s just amazing to find your people,” she explained.
Alisa Tukkimaki, the organizer of Rebel Boss Market says,” We started recognizing that there are more barriers for female business owners. And we want this to be like a safe space where everybody has the chance to participate.”
The Rebel Boss Women’s Day Market featured about 50 small businesses including clothing, jewelry, and food. Organizers say markets like this one encourage Edmontonians to shop local and help small businesses survive as trade tensions with the U.S. mount.
“Part of our goal is to create this community and uplift each other and show each other that we’re here to help and you’re not alone. And we can do it,” said Tukkimaki.
Gonzalez says, “When I started, I think like butter was $4. Now it’s close to 6. Flour has gone up and with me as a decorating business a lot of the materials come from the States.”
Megan Semeniuk, with Desperately Seeking Hot Sauce, adds, “Especially now let’s just show the world that we support each other and love each other and we want everyone to grow and be well and do well.”
In addition to the market, the event also includes a silent auction in support of female genital mutilation survivors.
“This year we’re really tackling gender-based violence and we’re supporting the end of the GM Canada Network. All the money raised here today will go to support the mental health needs of survivors,” said Tukkimaki.
Gonzalez adds, “One of the reasons I wanted to start a business was to be able to give back. if people are investing their money with me the least I can do is give back.”
