The Essential is a modern mash-up. It’s part platform, part community, part conference. Here you’ll find inspiration to bring your ideas to life and motivation to nudge you to your next big thing. You’ll find a community designed to empower + uplift modern women dreamers, makers + doers.
In response to COVID-19:
We have compiled a directory of local businesses which could use your support during this trying time. Most businesses have had to alter their normal daily operations, but have come up with safe and convenient alternative options to stay “open”! Let’s show these small (but mighty) businesses some extra love:
HEALTH & FITNESS:
(Virtual Workouts and Health Tips)
Fit Club
My Body
Norwood Chiropractic
Peg City Yoga
Sculpt Barre Winnipeg
The Fitual
Thrive Active
The Prairie Collective
FOOD + BEVERAGE:
Buttercream by Alareen
Cramptons Market
De Luca’s
Food Studio Winnipeg
Fortify
Frigs Natural Meats
Fusion Grill
GORP Energy Bars
Jenna Rae Cakes
Kenaston Wine Market
La Belle Baguette
Merchant Kitchen
Peasant Cookery
Pizzeria Gusto
SKY Convenience
SMAK DAB
Spreads by Cede
Sweet Impressions
The Cheese Mongers
Utoffeea
BUSINESS SUPPORT / RESOURCES:
Giovanna Minenna
Intentional Futures
Strategic Charm Boutique
The Kinship Studio
Image courtesy of Mandy Wright Photography
meet the TEAM
Anita Sharma Turner
CO-CREATOR
At age 24, Anita ventured into entrepreneurship running a popular beach town restaurant and beverage room. Since then, she's owned and operated clothing boutiques, a magazine and an award-winning real estate office. Anita was named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Women’s Business Owners of Manitoba in 2012.
Anita has been an independent real estate agent with RE/MAX Associates since 2008. She quickly found passion in helping clients achieve their home ownership dreams. Today, Anita is consistently a RE/MAX Top Producer and finds herself recognized for her achievements year after year by both RE/MAX and the Winnipeg Real Estate Association. And today, she's still guided by that same client-centred focus of helping people through the biggest purchase decision of their lives.
A busy mom of three, Anita enjoys family and spending time in Gimli, her adopted hometown and that of her husband. And wine. She also enjoys a bit of wine here and there.
Gabriela Klimes
CO-CREATOR
Throughout a career spanning 20 years in marketing, communications, public service and leadership, Gabriela has honed a philosophy that engagement comes from being in an authentic circular relationship with audiences. She's worked for the CBC, the Government of Canada, entrepreneurs and non-profit agencies.
The Essential brings together Gabriela's belief that only by encouraging risks, curiosity and creativity can leaders lift up those around them. Through this belief and with like-minded women, The Essential will provide a foundation for modern women to thrive in today's complex and changing world.
Gabriela is passionate about travel, food and photography. And as a working mom with two very busy young daughters, she is also passionate about coffee and her sanity-saving Google calendar.
Jennifer Buors
SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE COORDINATOR
After 12 successful years of working in the world of (fashion) retail, Jennifer decided to make a career change and is now working alongside Anita at RE/MAX Associates. In addition to her realty tasks, Jennifer is a a self-taught social media and marketing coordinator for various Winnipeg based businesses.
Jennifer obtained a business degree from the University of Winnipeg and received a diploma for Interior Design from the New York Institute of Art and Design (needless to say, she enjoys anything that allows her creative juices to flow).
Jennifer is a lover of fashion & champagne, (minor) shopoholic, creative soul, pizza enthusiast. In addition, she is a firm believer in women supporting women and the notion of collaboration over competition - making The Essential the perfect personal and professional fit!
ON THE BLOG
A curated collection of posts from an array of influential women on topics such as entrepreneurship, money, relationships, health + fitness and many more!
The Best Tips for Managing Your Money
Via Jillian Harris | Written By: Jennifer Bickley
Creating a Business Plan
Via Scotiabank
Dear Body: A Powerful Practice in Self-Love
Via The Prairie Collective
The #1 Key to Manifesting
Written By: Gabby Bernstein
LET’S GET SOCIAL
