Famous Canadian Business People

Kevin O'Leary is a Canadian businessman, investor, journalist, and television personality known for his appearances on various television shows such as Dragons' Den, Redemption Inc., and Shark Tank. He co-founded SoftKey Software Products, which became a major player in the educational software market through acquisitions. The company later changed its name to The Learning Company and was acquired by Mattel, making O'Leary a multimillionaire. He also briefly campaigned to be the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada in 2017.

Linus Gabriel Sebastian is a prominent Canadian YouTuber renowned for his tech-focused content. He gained fame through his main channel, Linus Tech Tips, which boasts millions of subscribers and views. Prior to his YouTube success, he presented tech videos for NCIX. As the founder and former CEO of Linus Media Group, he played a pivotal role in its growth. In 2023, he transitioned to the position of Chief Vision Officer within the company, demonstrating his ongoing influence and dedication to the tech industry.

Robert Herjavec is a successful businessman and investor known for founding BRAK Systems, an Internet security software company he sold for $30.2 million in 2000. He later founded The Herjavec Group, a prominent IT and computer security company in Canada. Herjavec has appeared as an investor on various versions of the business reality series Dragon's Den/Shark Tank. He is also a published author on business topics. Herjavec has received accolades such as the Ernst & Young Ontario Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Technology.

Jack L. Warner was a pioneering Canadian-American film executive who led Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California for over 55 years, overseeing the transition to talking pictures with "The Jazz Singer." Known for his tough-mindedness and shrewd instincts, Warner recruited top stars and promoted the studio's hard-edged social dramas. Despite his contradictory nature, he supported projects promoting democratic policies and opposed fascism and communism. Warner's impactful career in the motion picture industry lasted until his retirement in the early 1970s.

Charles Joseph Clark is a Canadian businessman, writer, and politician who served as the 16th prime minister of Canada from 1979 to 1980. Rising quickly in federal politics, he entered the House of Commons in 1972, becoming the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party in 1976. Despite a brief tenure as Prime Minister, he held various ministerial positions under Brian Mulroney's government. Clark retired from politics in 1993 but made a comeback in 1998 to lead the Progressive Conservatives before their dissolution. Today, he works as a university professor and runs his own consulting firm.

Chamath Palihapitiya is a prominent figure in the technology and investment world, known for his roles as a venture capitalist, engineer, and CEO of Social Capital. He gained early recognition as a senior executive at Facebook and later founded The Social+Capital Partnership, where he made strategic investments in companies like Yammer and Slack. Alongside other tech experts, he co-hosts the popular technology podcast All-In, discussing industry trends and insights. Palihapitiya's professional journey has been marked by impactful contributions to the tech and investment sectors.

Garrett Camp is a prominent Canadian businessman, investor, and software engineer known for his contributions to technology. He co-founded the popular search engine StumbleUpon and played a key role in the creation of Uber, a groundbreaking transportation network company. With a strong background in software engineering, Camp has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape and driving innovation in the tech industry. Currently residing in Los Angeles, his professional journey has been marked by a commitment to pioneering projects that have had a significant impact on the way we navigate and utilize technology.

Mike Holmes is a renowned Canadian builder/contractor, businessman, investor, television host, and philanthropist. He is best known for his expertise in home renovation and construction, showcased through various television shows where he educates viewers on proper building practices and the importance of quality workmanship. Holmes has built a successful career by advocating for higher construction standards, promoting sustainable building practices, and emphasizing the significance of integrity and honesty in the construction industry. His dedication to improving housing quality has earned him a solid reputation as a trusted authority in the field.

Elizabeth Arden was a visionary Canadian-American businesswoman who established Elizabeth Arden, Inc., transforming it into a cosmetics powerhouse in the US. By 1929, she expanded her empire globally, owning 150 salons across Europe and the US, with her products sold in 22 countries. As the sole owner, she reached the pinnacle of success, becoming one of the wealthiest women globally. Arden's innovative approach and dedication to quality solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in the beauty industry.

Scott McGillivray is a Canadian entrepreneur, investor, television host, author, and educator known for his work in the home renovation industry. He is the host and executive producer of the series Income Property, which airs on HGTV Canada, DIY Network (Canada), HGTV, and DIY Network in the United States. McGillivray also serves as a judge on HGTV's All American Handyman and Canada's Handyman Challenge, alongside industry experts like Mike Holmes, Bryan Baeumler, and Paul Lafrance. His expertise in real estate and renovation has made him a respected figure in the industry.

Jack Kent Cooke was a Canadian-American businessman who found success in broadcasting and professional sports. Starting in sales, he became a partner in a network of radio stations and newspapers in Canada. After facing setbacks in Toronto, he moved to the United States and built a business empire in broadcasting and sports franchises. Cooke owned teams such as the Washington Redskins, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Kings, Los Angeles Wolves, and Toronto Maple Leafs. He also developed sports venues like The Forum and Jack Kent Cooke Stadium, achieving championship success with the Lakers and Redskins.

Shane Smith is a Canadian media executive known for his leadership at Vice Media, where he served as CEO from its inception until March 2018. He currently holds the position of executive chairman at Vice Media, overseeing an international network of digital channels, a television production studio, a record label, creative services agency, book-publishing house, and feature film division. Smith is focused on content creation and developing strategic partnerships to drive the company's growth.

Brian Tracy is a renowned Canadian-American motivational public speaker and self-development author. With over eighty books to his name, he has made a significant impact in the field of personal development and motivational speaking. His works, such as "Earn What You're Really Worth," "Eat That Frog!," "No Excuses! The Power of Self-Discipline," and "The Psychology of Achievement," have been widely acclaimed and translated into numerous languages. Tracy's expertise in empowering individuals to reach their full potential has earned him a reputation as a leading authority in the industry.

Mark Carney is a prominent Canadian economist and banker with a distinguished career in central banking and finance. He served as the governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, demonstrating strong leadership during challenging economic times. Carney has also held key roles in the private sector, including positions at Goldman Sachs and Brookfield Asset Management. His expertise extends to global financial stability as demonstrated by his chairmanship of the Financial Stability Board. Additionally, Carney plays a crucial role as the UN Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance.

Michael Lee-Chin is a prominent Jamaican-Canadian billionaire businessman and philanthropist. He is the chairman and CEO of Portland Holdings Inc, a successful investment company based in Ontario, Canada. Lee-Chin has been recognized for his contributions to business and society, with notable appointments such as chairman of the Economic Growth Council in Jamaica. He has also demonstrated his commitment to education and healthcare through significant donations to institutions like the Royal Ontario Museum, the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management, McMaster University, and the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation. Lee-Chin's leadership extends to the academic realm, where he has served as chancellor of Wilfrid Laurier University.

Edgar Bronfman Jr. is an American businessman, filmmaker, and media executive known for his roles in various prominent companies. He served as CEO and Chairman of Warner Music Group, overseeing its operations during a significant period of growth and transition. Prior to this, he held leadership positions at Seagram and Vivendi Universal. Bronfman is also involved in the entertainment industry as a Broadway and film producer, as well as a songwriter under different pseudonyms. Currently, he serves as a managing partner at a private equity firm focused on technology companies and is chairman of FuboTV.

Michael Rapino is a prominent Canadian-American businessman known for his leadership in the entertainment industry. In the late 1990s, he co-founded Core Audience Entertainment, a concert promotion company. He later held various positions at Clear Channel Entertainment before becoming the CEO of Live Nation in 2005. Following the merger of Live Nation and Ticketmaster in 2010, Rapino assumed the role of CEO and president of Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. His career has been characterized by a strong focus on promoting and enhancing the live entertainment experience.

Galen Weston was a prominent British-Canadian billionaire businessman known for his leadership at George Weston Limited, a major Canadian food processing and distribution company. He was also involved in the retail sector, overseeing the operations of Loblaw Companies, a leading food retailer in Canada, as well as luxury goods retailers such as Holt Renfrew and the Selfridges Group. Additionally, Weston was actively involved in philanthropy as the chairman of The W. Garfield Weston Foundation, a charitable organization that has made significant donations in Canada.

Edgar Miles Bronfman was a prominent Canadian-American businessman known for his leadership role in the family-owned Seagram distilled beverage firm. He held various key positions within the company, including president, treasurer, and CEO. Additionally, Bronfman made significant contributions as the president of the World Jewish Congress by initiating diplomacy with the Soviet Union. His efforts led to the legitimization of the Hebrew language in the USSR and enabled Soviet Jews to practice their religion freely and immigrate to Israel.

Anna Olson is an accomplished American pastry chef known for hosting various cooking shows on Food Network Canada, including Fresh with Anna Olson, Sugar, Kitchen Equipped, and Bake with Anna Olson. She currently serves as a judge on popular TV shows like Great Chocolate Showdown and Junior Chef Showdown. In addition to her television appearances, Olson shares her culinary expertise through short videos on her YouTube channel, Oh Yum with Anna Olson. Residing in Welland, Ontario, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the culinary world.

James Jerome Hill was a prominent Canadian-American railroad director who served as the chief executive officer of the Great Northern Railway. He oversaw a family of lines that covered a vast area of the Upper Midwest, the northern Great Plains, and the Pacific Northwest in the United States. Hill's significant economic influence and the extensive reach of his railways earned him the nickname "The Empire Builder." He amassed a considerable fortune during his lifetime and left behind a lasting legacy, with his former home now preserved as a museum in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Zalman Yanovsky was a Canadian folk-rock musician known for his role as the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band Lovin' Spoonful, which he co-founded in 1964 with John Sebastian. He was a key figure in the band's success, contributing to their distinctive sound and achieving significant recognition in the music industry. Yanovsky's talent and contributions to folk-rock music led to his induction into both the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1996 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.

Peter Munk was a prominent Hungarian-Canadian businessman, investor, and philanthropist. Known for founding and leading successful ventures such as Clairtone, Trizec Properties, and Barrick Gold, he left a lasting impact on the business world. Munk's entrepreneurial spirit and strategic leadership were evident throughout his career, particularly in the growth of Barrick Gold into the world's largest gold-mining corporation. Apart from his business achievements, Munk was recognized for his significant philanthropic contributions, supporting institutions like the Munk School of Global Affairs and the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre.

Suroosh Alvi is a Canadian journalist and filmmaker known for co-founding Vice Media, a digital media and broadcasting brand present in over 50 countries. As a well-traveled journalist and executive producer, Alvi has covered diverse topics such as youth culture, news, and music globally. He has hosted and produced documentaries on controversial issues, armed conflicts, and subcultures, including investigations into conflict minerals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Iraq War, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Pakistani Taliban, and global terrorism.

Pansy Ho is a prominent Hong Kong billionaire businesswoman known for her role as the managing director of various companies founded by her father, Stanley Ho, including Shun Tak Holdings. She holds major interests in two of the six casino licence-holders in Macau, contributing to her significant wealth. Pansy has been recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals in Hong Kong, ranking 25th on Forbes' list of the richest people in the region. Her successful career in the business world solidifies her position as a key figure in the industry.

Jim Pattison is a prominent Canadian business magnate, investor, and philanthropist based in Vancouver, British Columbia. He serves as the chief executive officer, chairman, and sole owner of the Jim Pattison Group, Canada's second largest privately-held company. With over 45,000 employees globally and annual sales of $10.1 billion, the Group operates in 25 divisions, spanning industries such as packaging, food, and forestry products. Pattison's significant wealth has garnered him recognition as one of Canada's wealthiest individuals, with numerous accolades and inductions into prestigious halls of fame.

David Thomson, 3rd Baron Thomson of Fleet, is a Canadian/British media magnate and hereditary peer. He became chairman of Thomson Corporation after his father's passing and inherited the British title, Baron Thomson of Fleet. Following the acquisition of Reuters in 2008, he assumed the role of chairman of the combined entity, Thomson Reuters. As of June 2024, Thomson is recognized as the wealthiest individual in Canada and the 22nd richest globally, boasting an estimated net worth of $61.3 billion USD.

Stewart Butterfield is a Canadian billionaire businessman known for his co-founding of the popular photo-sharing website Flickr and the team-messaging application Slack. His professional journey includes successful ventures in the tech industry, where he played a crucial role in creating platforms that revolutionized digital communication and collaboration. Butterfield's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative vision have established him as a prominent figure in the technology sector, with his creations impacting the way people connect and share information online.

Guy Laliberté is a Canadian billionaire businessman known for co-founding Cirque du Soleil in 1984. Before creating the renowned circus company, he gained experience as a busker, showcasing his talents as an accordion player, stiltwalker, and fire-eater. Laliberté's entrepreneurial success was recognized when he was named the Ernst & Young Canadian Entrepreneur of the Year in 2006, followed by being named Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007. Forbes ranked him as the 11th wealthiest Canadian in January 2018.

Victor Li Tzar-kuoi is a prominent Hong Kong businessman with an illustrious career in various leading companies. He currently serves as the chair of the board and group co-managing director of CK Hutchison Holdings Limited. Additionally, he holds key positions as the chairman of the board and managing director of CK Asset Holdings Limited, along with being the Chairman of CK Infrastructure Holdings Limited. Victor Li Tzar-kuoi has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and strategic vision in guiding these renowned organizations to success.

René Angélil was a prominent Canadian musical producer, talent manager, and singer known for his significant contributions to the music industry. As the manager of the globally renowned singer Celine Dion, he played a crucial role in shaping her career and guiding her to international stardom. Angélil's expertise and strategic vision were instrumental in establishing Dion as one of the most successful and influential artists in contemporary music. His legacy as a skilled manager and producer continues to inspire aspiring talents in the industry.

Benjamin Weider was a multi-faceted professional with a diverse range of expertise. He was a Canadian soldier, author, and historian specializing in Napoleonic history. Weider was a prominent figure in the fitness industry, co-founding the International Federation of BodyBuilders (IFBB) with his brother Joe Weider. Together, they established successful ventures in gyms, nutritional supplements, and magazines such as Muscle & Fitness. Weider's contributions extended to the literary world, with best-selling books on Napoleon, notably "The Murder of Napoleon," which was translated into 45 languages.

Mark Shapiro is an accomplished American professional baseball executive. He served with the Cleveland Indians for nearly 25 years, starting in player development and eventually becoming team president. During his tenure, he oversaw various aspects of the organization, contributing to the team's success and growth. In 2015, he transitioned to the Toronto Blue Jays, where he currently holds the position of president and CEO. Shapiro's expertise and leadership have made a significant impact on the MLB landscape, solidifying his reputation as a respected figure in the industry.

Richard Li Tzar-kai is a prominent Hong Kong businessman known for founding and chairing Pacific Century Group (PCG), a private investment group. He began his career in the 1990s by establishing STAR TV, a pan-Asian television network, and later founded PCCW and HKT Trust. Under PCG, Li acquired AIG Investments' asset management business in 2010, renaming it PineBridge Investments. In 2013, he founded FWD Group. Li currently serves as chairman of PCG, PCCW Ltd., and HKT Limited, as well as on the board of Pinebridge Investments.

Eugene Melnyk was a prominent Canadian businessman, philanthropist, and sports team owner. He was known for his role as the owner, governor, and chairman of the NHL's Ottawa Senators and AHL's Belleville Senators. Melnyk also founded, chaired, and served as CEO of Biovail Corporation, a leading pharmaceutical company in Canada. His entrepreneurial success was evident through Biovail's substantial annual revenue and his inclusion on Canadian Business magazine's list of the country's wealthiest individuals. Additionally, he was recognized as one of the wealthiest residents of Barbados.

Sunanda Pushkar was a prominent businesswoman with a successful career in sales and investments. She held a key position as a sales director at TECOM Investments in Dubai, showcasing her expertise in the field. Additionally, she demonstrated her entrepreneurial skills as a co-owner of Rendezvous Sports World (RSW), a cricket franchise in the highly competitive Indian Premier League. Through her professional endeavors, Sunanda Pushkar made significant contributions to the business world, leaving a lasting impact on the industries she was involved in.

Jim Balsillie is a prominent Canadian businessman and philanthropist known for his leadership at Research In Motion (BlackBerry) as the former chair and co-chief executive officer. Under his guidance, BlackBerry experienced significant success, reaching annual sales of US$19.9 billion at its peak. Following his tenure at BlackBerry, Balsillie has been actively involved in various roles within Canadian business and society. He founded the Balsillie School of International Affairs, the Centre for International Governance and Innovation think tank, and currently serves as chair of the Canadian Council of Innovators.

Sergio Marchionne was a prominent Italian-Canadian businessman known for his successful turnarounds of automakers Fiat and Chrysler. He held various leadership positions in the automotive industry, including chairman and CEO roles at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Ferrari, and Maserati. Marchionne was recognized for his sharp insights on industry challenges and his role in the strategic alliance between Fiat and Chrysler, which led to the formation of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. He was acclaimed for his bold leadership and significant contributions to the automotive sector.

Patrick Moore is a Canadian industry consultant and former activist who was an early member and past president of Greenpeace Canada. He left Greenpeace in 1986 and has since criticized the environmental movement for what he perceives as scare tactics and disinformation. Moore has taken public stances against major environmental groups on issues such as forestry, nuclear energy, genetically modified organisms, and pesticide use. He has also denied the scientific consensus on climate change, claiming that increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is beneficial and that anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions do not cause global warming.

Jayde Nicole is a Canadian model and businesswoman known for her achievements in the modeling industry. She gained prominence as Playboy's Playmate of the Month in January 2007 and was honored as the 2008 Playmate of the Year, making her the first Canadian to receive this title in 26 years. Her successful career in the entertainment world includes being featured in various publications and projects. With her talent and dedication, Jayde Nicole has established herself as a respected figure in the modeling and business sectors.

Belinda Stronach is a prominent Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist with a diverse career. She served as a Member of Parliament in the House of Commons of Canada, initially representing the Conservative Party before crossing the floor to join the Liberals. During her time in politics, she held the role of Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. Following her political career, she transitioned to the business world, holding executive positions in companies such as Magna International and founding The Stronach Group and The Belinda Stronach Foundation.

Yael Cohen Braun is a prominent health activist known for her work in founding the nonprofit organization "Fuck Cancer." Through her leadership, she has made significant strides in raising awareness and support for cancer patients and their families. Her dedication to the cause has garnered widespread recognition and has inspired many to join the fight against cancer. Yael's professional life is characterized by her passion for making a positive impact in the health sector, advocating for better support and resources for those affected by the disease.

Ted Rogers was a prominent Canadian businessman known for his leadership as the president and CEO of Rogers Communications. He played a crucial role in expanding the company's telecommunications and media presence, solidifying its position as a leading industry player. Under his guidance, Rogers Communications experienced significant growth and innovation, becoming a key player in the Canadian market. Ted Rogers was also recognized for his philanthropic efforts, contributing to various causes and initiatives throughout his career.

Kenneth Douglas Taylor was a Canadian diplomat, educator, and businessman known for his pivotal role in the 1979 "Canadian Caper" during the Iran hostage crisis. As the Canadian ambassador to Iran, he collaborated with the CIA to help six Americans escape by providing Canadian passports and organizing a cover story. Taylor's actions were crucial to the success of the operation, saving lives and earning him praise as the main hero of the escape. His bravery and leadership were recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal.

Christy Chung is a Canadian actress and restaurateur known for her work in films such as Mermaid Got Married, The Bodyguard from Beijing, Love on Delivery, and Jan Dara. With a successful career in the entertainment industry, she has garnered acclaim for her performances on the big screen. Additionally, she has ventured into the restaurant business, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and diversifying her professional endeavors. Christy Chung continues to make a mark in the entertainment world with her talent and business ventures.

Feras Antoon is a prominent figure in the adult entertainment industry, known for co-owning and serving as the CEO of Aylo, a major player in the pornography sector. He is recognized for his involvement in launching popular websites such as YouPorn and Pornhub. Antoon initially established his presence in the industry by creating his first porn website in the early 2000s. He later co-founded Brazzers, focusing on the MILF genre, and went on to acquire Manwin (MindGeek, Aylo) in partnership with David Tassillo.

Frank Giustra is a prominent Canadian businessman known for his roles as a mining financier, philanthropist, and founder of Lionsgate Entertainment. He has served as the CEO of Fiore Group of Companies and co-chair of the International Crisis Group think tank. Giustra was previously the chairman of merchant banking firm Endeavour Financial, specializing in financing mining companies. His involvement in the Uranium One controversy garnered attention following a significant donation to the Clinton Foundation.

Susur Lee is a renowned Canadian celebrity chef known for his innovative and fusion approach to cooking. Based in Toronto, Ontario, he has made a significant impact on the culinary scene with his unique dishes that blend Asian and French cuisines. Lee has received numerous accolades for his exceptional culinary skills and creativity in the kitchen. He has also garnered a strong following of food enthusiasts and has established successful restaurants that showcase his culinary talents.

Frank Stronach is a billionaire businessman and politician known for founding Magna International, an international automotive parts company, as well as Granite Real Estate and the Stronach Group. He has an estimated net worth of $C3.06 billion and was ranked as one of the richest Canadians. Stronach entered Austrian politics in 2011 by founding the Stronach Institute and later the political party Team Stronach for Austria. In 2024, he faced legal troubles with charges including rape and sexual assault allegations dating back several decades.

William Brett Wilson is a prominent Canadian investment banker, businessman, and investor known for his appearances as a panellist on CBC Television's Dragons' Den during seasons 3, 4, and 5. His professional life has been marked by significant attention and media coverage, largely due to his controversial public statements, especially on social media. Wilson has established himself as a respected figure in the business world, leveraging his expertise and experience to make successful investment decisions and contribute to various ventures.

Peter J. Nygård is a Finnish-Canadian businessman and former fashion executive who founded Nygård International in 1967. Initially a sportswear manufacturer, the company later transitioned to producing women's apparel. Nygård was once ranked among the richest Canadians and held the position of chairman of Nygård International. However, his career took a turn when he faced serious legal accusations related to sex trafficking, sexual assault, and racketeering. These allegations led to his resignation and the subsequent bankruptcy of the company. Nygård was later formally charged with various criminal offenses, including sex trafficking involving minors, and was ultimately convicted of sexual assault in a Canadian court.

Hugh Acheson is a highly accomplished chef and restaurateur known for his culinary expertise and innovation. With four successful restaurants in Georgia, he has made a significant impact on the culinary scene. Acheson's influence extends beyond his restaurants, as he also serves as a respected judge on the popular reality cooking competition show Top Chef. Additionally, his skills have been showcased on Iron Chef Canada, where he competes as an Iron Chef. Acheson's professional journey is marked by creativity, talent, and a passion for creating exceptional culinary experiences.

Paul Snider was a Canadian nightclub promoter and pimp known for his involvement in the adult entertainment industry. He gained notoriety for his turbulent relationship with his estranged wife, Dorothy Stratten, a Playboy model and actress. Snider's criminal activities and violent behavior ultimately led him to commit the heinous act of murdering Stratten before taking his own life. His tragic actions and the events surrounding his life and death have been the subject of various media portrayals and discussions.

Nathaniel Philip Victor James Rothschild is a British-born financier with a wide range of international business interests. He settled in Switzerland and became the chairman of Volex plc, a UK-listed manufacturer. In addition to his role at Volex plc, he has various other professional endeavors. Rothschild is known for his expertise in finance and has successfully navigated the business world with his diverse set of skills and experience.

Ralph Victor Gilles is a prominent Canadian-American automobile designer and executive with a distinguished career spanning several decades. He began his journey in 1992 at Chrysler and quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his exceptional design skills. Over the years, Gilles has been instrumental in creating iconic vehicles such as the award-winning Chrysler 300 and the SRT Dodge Viper. His leadership roles within Chrysler and later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles culminated in his current position as the Chief Design Officer of Stellantis NV since the merger in 2021.

Michael Bonacini is a prominent Welsh-Canadian chef with a successful career in the culinary industry. He is the owner of eleven restaurants in Toronto, Ontario, including popular establishments such as Jump, Canoe, Luma, and Bannock. Co-founding Oliver & Bonacini Restaurants, he has made significant contributions to the Canadian dining scene since immigrating in 1985. Bonacini's expertise extends to television, where he serves as a judge on MasterChef Canada, hosts Bonacini's Italy, and has appeared on various cooking programs, showcasing his talent and passion for food.

Andrea Jung is a Canadian-American executive known for her leadership in the business and non-profit sectors. She served as the first female CEO and chairman of Avon Products, Inc., a prominent multi-level marketing company. Jung also held key leadership roles in industry associations and organizations such as Grameen America. Her contributions to the Avon Foundation for Women and public-private partnerships have been recognized with awards, highlighting her commitment to empowering women and addressing social issues like violence against women and breast cancer.

Jim Treliving is a prominent Canadian businessman known for co-owning Boston Pizza. He gained national recognition as an investor on the popular television show Dragons' Den from 2006 to 2021. Treliving's expertise in entrepreneurship and business acumen has made him a sought-after mentor and advisor for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to pitch their business ideas. Through his role on Dragons' Den, Treliving has played a significant role in shaping the Canadian business landscape and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Maxime Bernier is a Canadian politician and founder of the People's Party of Canada. He served as a Conservative MP and held various Cabinet positions in the Harper government. Bernier ran for the Conservative Party leadership in 2017, coming second. In 2018, he left the Conservative Party to form the PPC. Bernier has taken libertarian and far-right political stances, opposing government subsidies, mass immigration, and climate change consensus. He has been vocal against COVID-19 public health measures and mandatory vaccinations.

Harold Edwin Ballard was a prominent Canadian businessman and sportsman known for his ownership of the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL and their home arena, Maple Leaf Gardens. He was a key figure in the Leafs organization, serving as a senior executive and eventually becoming majority owner. Ballard also owned the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL, achieving success with a Grey Cup championship in 1986. His legacy includes multiple Stanley Cup wins, inductions into the Hockey Hall of Fame and Canadian Football Hall of Fame, and the distinction of having his name on both the Stanley Cup and Grey Cup.

Frank McKenna is a Canadian businessman and former politician and diplomat. He has held various prominent positions throughout his career, including serving as the Canadian Ambassador to the United States and as the 27th premier of New Brunswick. McKenna is currently the Deputy Chairman of the Toronto-Dominion Bank. He is known for his successful tenure as premier, where he achieved the remarkable feat of winning every seat in the province in his first election. McKenna's professional life has been marked by a commitment to public service and excellence in the business sector.

K.C. Irving was a prominent Canadian businessman known for building a successful business empire that started with a family sawmill in New Brunswick. Over the years, he expanded his operations into various industries, including oil, gas, forestry, and transportation. Through strategic acquisitions and investments, Irving grew his company into one of the largest and most influential conglomerates in Canada. His contributions to the business world were recognized when he was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1989.

Daryl Katz is a prominent Canadian billionaire businessman known for founding and chairing the Katz Group of Companies. As a former lawyer, Katz has established one of Canada's largest privately owned enterprises with interests in pharmacy, sports & entertainment, and real estate development. Notably, Katz Group owns the Edmonton Oilers and has spearheaded the development of major projects such as Rogers Place and the Ice District. Katz resides in Edmonton, where he continues to play a significant role in various business ventures and community initiatives.

Lino Saputo is a prominent Italian-Canadian billionaire businessman known for founding Saputo Inc., a leading Canadian cheese manufacturer. With an estimated net worth of US$4.7 billion as of November 2022, Saputo has established himself as a successful entrepreneur in the food industry. His leadership and vision have played a crucial role in the growth and success of Saputo Inc., positioning the company as a major player in the dairy sector. Saputo's business acumen and dedication have earned him recognition as a key figure in the business world.

Sir Terence Hedley Matthews is a renowned Welsh-Canadian business magnate and serial high-tech entrepreneur. He has played a significant role in the high-tech communications sector by founding or funding over 100 companies, including Mitel and Newbridge Networks. With a notable entrepreneurial spirit, he has held positions as the chairman of Wesley Clover and the Swansea Bay City Region board. Additionally, he is known for his ownership of prominent establishments such as the Celtic Manor Resort, KRP Properties, the Brookstreet Hotel, and the Marshes Golf Club.

Dov Charney is a Canadian entrepreneur and clothing manufacturer known for founding American Apparel, a major garment manufacturer in the United States. Charney later became the CEO of Yeezy and founded Los Angeles Apparel after being fired from American Apparel due to allegations of sexual harassment, racism, and sexual assault. Despite the controversies surrounding his departure from American Apparel, Charney continued to make significant contributions to the fashion industry with his new ventures.

William Cornelius Van Horne was a prominent figure in the development of transportation infrastructure, particularly known for his leadership in the construction of the first Canadian transcontinental railway. As president of the Canadian Pacific Railway, he oversaw the rapid completion of this project and expanded the company's operations into sea transport, luxury hotels, and international ventures. He played a key role in the establishment of the Cuba Railroad Company and was instrumental in shaping the landscape of transportation and hospitality industries during his time.

Joseph Chung-Hsin Tsai is a Taiwanese-Canadian billionaire business magnate, lawyer, and philanthropist. He is a co-founder and chairman of the Chinese multinational technology company Alibaba Group. Tsai also owns the Brooklyn Nets of the NBA, the New York Liberty of the WNBA, and the San Diego Seals of the National Lacrosse League. He has interests in several other professional sports franchises. Tsai's professional life is marked by his successful business ventures, leadership in the tech industry, and ownership of various sports teams.

William Samuel Stephenson was a Canadian soldier, fighter pilot, businessman, and spymaster known by his code name, Intrepid, during World War II. As head of the British Security Coordination (BSC), he facilitated the exchange of intelligence between the western allies, played a key role in sharing British and American secrets, and helped shift American public opinion towards supporting entry into the war. Stephenson's impactful work as a strategic intelligence liaison and his role in inspiring the character of James Bond have solidified his legacy in espionage history.

Thomas J. Bata was a prominent Czech-Canadian businessman and philanthropist who led the Bata Shoe Company for several decades. Taking over in the 1940s, he steered the company through significant growth and modernization, expanding its operations globally. Under his leadership, Bata became a well-known international footwear brand, known for its innovative designs and affordable prices. Bata's strategic vision and business acumen were instrumental in establishing the company as a major player in the global shoe industry until the 1980s.

John Manley is a prominent Canadian lawyer, businessman, and politician. He served as the eighth deputy prime minister of Canada from 2002 to 2003 and was a Liberal Member of Parliament for Ottawa South from 1988 to 2004. Following his political career, he became the president and CEO of the Business Council of Canada from January 2010 to October 2018. Currently, he holds the position of chairman at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) and is a member of the advisory board of the Leaders' Debates Commission.

James McGill was a Scottish-Canadian businessman, fur trader, land speculator, and philanthropist known for founding McGill University in Montreal. He was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Lower Canada and appointed to the Executive Council. McGill was an influential trader in Canada, considered one of the richest men in Montreal at the time of his death. He played a key role in large-scale fur trade in the northwest territory, was a major investor in the fur trade in Lower Canada, and a prominent member of the Beaver Club.

J. Michael Evans is a prominent Canadian technology executive, currently serving as the President of Alibaba Group. With a strong background in finance, he accumulated 20 years of experience at the esteemed U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs before transitioning to his current role. Evans is also recognized for his athletic achievements as a former Olympic rower. His diverse professional journey showcases a blend of expertise in finance, technology, and leadership, making him a respected figure in both corporate and sporting arenas.

Mike Lazaridis is a Canadian businessman and investor known for co-founding BlackBerry, a pioneering company in wireless handheld devices. He held various leadership roles within BlackBerry, including co-chairman and co-CEO. Lazaridis is a strong advocate for the potential of basic science and quantum computing, as evidenced by his founding of Quantum Valley Investments and support for research institutions like the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and the Institute for Quantum Computing. He has also served as chancellor of the University of Waterloo and is an Officer of the Order of Canada.

Walter Wolf is a prominent Slovenian-Canadian businessman known for his ownership of a successful Formula One team that achieved victory in three races. He is also recognized for being the inspiration behind various well-known brands, such as cigarette, perfume, and clothing lines that bear his name. Throughout his career, Walter Wolf has made significant contributions to the business world, showcasing his entrepreneurial skills and innovative spirit in both the sports and fashion industries.