I was proud to visit True North Tropical Farms in Baden, Ontario, a women-owned Afro-heritage farm growing culturally significant African and Caribbean vegetables that can often be difficult to find locally.

It was inspiring to see firsthand how owner Aramide Taiwo is turning a strong idea into a growing Canadian business while helping make culturally relevant foods more accessible to families and communities. Businesses like True North Tropical show how entrepreneurship can strengthen both our economy and our food system.

As Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism, I know that small businesses play an important role in creating jobs, strengthening local supply chains, and bringing innovative products and services to market. Supporting entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds also means creating more opportunities for Canadian businesses to reflect and serve the communities around them.

Thank you to Aramide for welcoming us and sharing her story, and to MP Tim Louis for joining me in highlighting this inspiring local business. Entrepreneurs like Aramide are helping build a more resilient, inclusive, and locally connected Canadian economy.