Walking into Google Canada
Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, is a date I won’t soon forget.
After a whirlwind week of preparation, I walked into Google’s Toronto headquarters with my heart absolutely racing.
The lobby was buzzing with energy. Entrepreneurs checked in at the Startup Canada table, some pacing with last-minute practice, others laughing nervously with new friends. Fifty finalists—brilliant, driven minority- and women-owned entrepreneurs—had gathered to share their businesses, their stories, and their dreams.
I couldn’t help but look around and think, Wow, I’m really here.
Nerves, Doubt, and a Deep Breath
I was placed in Group 2. Twenty-five of us were scheduled to pitch between 11:15 and 11:30 a.m.—all at the same time. There were 3 groups of 7 & 8 pitchers in 3 different rooms, all sitting with our own assigned judge.
Even though I’d rehearsed more times than I could count, when I sat down in front of my judge, my stomach did a full flip. The judge was calm and professional, but there was no mistaking the seriousness of the moment.
I took a deep breath and reminded myself why I started this work:
Because women in trades—and all women—deserve to feel safe, capable, and respected in their own homes.
And then, it was my turn.
Sharing My Story
I began the way I always do:
“Have you ever had a faucet that just wouldn’t stop leaking…?”
Those three minutes went by in a blur.
I told my story—being a single mom, learning to fix things the hard way, and eventually building Canadian Handywoman. I explained how this work isn’t just about home repairs. It’s about women feeling confident, capable, and independent.
I painted a picture of a dedicated space for DIY workshops where women can learn hands-on skills with no judgment and plenty of support.
It wasn’t just about leaky faucets. It never has been. It was about building confidence, independence, and community.
Relief, Pride and Perspective
When I wrapped up, I felt a wave of relief and pride.
I didn’t know if I’d win. But honestly, just being there to share my mission felt like a victory in itself.
Because if you’ve ever stood in front of a room and shared your story, you know this truth: you walk away changed, no matter what happens.
My Takeaways From This Pitch Competition Experience
Looking back, here are three things that helped me feel ready:
- Rehearse until it feels natural. I practiced in front of friends, mentors, even my phone camera—until my words felt like part of me, not a script. And then I rehearsed some more!
- Anchor your pitch in a story. People remember stories far more than stats. My leaky faucet opener gave me a way to connect right away.
- Remind yourself why you’re there. I wasn’t just pitching for funding—I was pitching for every woman who deserves to feel safe and capable in her own space.
These tips carried me through the nerves and into a moment I’ll never forget.
What Comes Next
Curious how it all turned out? Stay tuned—next time, I’ll share what winning the Pizza Hut Canada Equal Slice Pitch Competition means for me and the hundreds of women I hope to serve through Canadian Handywoman.
👉 Read the Full Winning Pitch:
See exactly what I shared to earn $10,000 for Canadian Handywoman. Click HERE to download my pitch. I hope it gives you the little nudge you need to share your own big idea.
👉 Sometimes you just need to talk it through
If you’ve got a project in mind or a skill you’d like to build, I’d love to help you out. If you’re unsure where to start, book a free 15-minute Discovery Call and we’ll chat about your project or repair. Ready to get right to it? Book a 45-minute Confidence Call ($99) and get clear answers, a solid plan, and the know-how to move forward — no guesswork, no stress.
👉 Looking for a Speaker or Collaborator?
If your organization believes in empowering women, confidence and mindset, or workshops for women, I’d love to connect. Click here to book a discovery call with me today!
