Thank them for the opportunity to speak Introduce yourself and Maribel We are the owners of GEM Renovations. We have been in business since 2003. We are a renovation company made up entirely of tradeswomen.

As you are aware, 14,000 women in Ontario use emergency shelters every year, staying an average of 21 days. These shelters provide safe accommodation for women and children. In these shelters women find the support services necessary to reestablish their lives.

Born and raised in Medellin, Colombia Because of violence and social intolerance we were forced to leave in 2003 We came to Canada without money or support. We left our family, friends, possessions and our careers in hopes of building a better life. Our first home was a women’s shelter in St. Catharines. So, we know first-hand the importance of these shelters. We were offered a safe-place, where we got the support we needed to figure out what we were going to do next.

2 months later we moved to Toronto, where the electrician in our building gave us jobs painting apartment units. GEM Renovations began to develop from that point.

All along, we have felt that we represent the women in the shelters The constant struggle, but ultimately the achievements that can be realized. As we’ve built this business, we’ve always kept in mind that we want to be role-models for other women. So, the concept for GEM Renovations emerged. We all know that the need for skilled trades is growing. And, women should have equal opportunity to perform these jobs. GEM is a network of skilled tradeswomen (plumbers, carpenters, electricians...), completing renovation projects to the highest standards.

Women are as physically capable as men AND bring an extra element of communication, care and thoughtfulness to the job. Women crews are less likely to intimidate women living in the shelters. In this male-dominated industry, women work hard to prove their capabilities and exceed expectations. Most importantly to us, tradeswomen can become role models to other women, prompting them to take charge of their future. The professionals at GEM Renovations will motivate other women to get a head start on a new, independent and productive life with a trade career. Because of our own experiences, we are committed to empowering women with training, guidance, mentorship and support — helping them find success in the trade industry. We want to help open their eyes to a whole new world of possibilities in the trade industry.

When we first came to Canada, there were lots of challenges and set-backs. But, with help from others and a determination to succeed, we are building a strong, successful business. We are grateful for the opportunities here and are committed to giving back to our communities. Every six months we collect clothes, school supplies and food in Canada and deliver them to children in small communities around the world. We continually collect and repair good quality furniture and then donate it to women moving out of shelters or new immigrants to Canada trying to establish a new home.

We offer all of the standard renovation services. Initial consultation to discuss project needs Free on-site evaluation to analyze the project Creation of a project plan and renovation design Provide a written quote

We have the first-hand experience with the shelter system We have the first-hand experience with the shelter system. We’ve been there. We know how important these temporary homes are. We are an example to other women of what can be accomplished with support from the community and a determination to succeed. We want to give back to others. So, consider working with our team of skilled tradeswomen. We are dedicated to providing quality services while enriching the lives of women through future employment opportunities. We empower women with career options and a sense of accomplishment, reminding them they are not a product of their environment and their history does not determine their future. We are living proof that every day is a new day to start over.