Tanya Bédard, 25, is the Ontario director for the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF), an organization that assists young entrepreneurs. She has a diploma from Canadore College in Small Business Management and was a scholarship winner. She keeps busy with sport activities and community work.

Q: What is your greatest accomplishment?
A: In 2008, I had the opportunity to become the director of Ontario for a one-year term, while continuing to serve as the program's sole representative in northern Ontario. I led the provincial team from the North Bay office in its core duties of providing loans to young entrepreneurs. One hundred and forty-eight businesses were established under my direction. I was asked to consider the new role on a permanent basis and re-locate to Toronto. I was able to convince management I could perform my responsibilities from North Bay.

Q: Who is your most valued mentor?
A: Shelley Marinigh, CYBF's vicepresident of programs, has been instrumental in my development with this organization. She has believed in me from the beginning and continues to inspire and challenge me on a daily basis.

Q: What do you love most about North Bay
      and area ?
A: I very much enjoy the combination of urban amenities and natural features. It also has a bit of a smalltown feel. I don't often go out without bumping into someone I know.

Q: What else would you like to accomplish?
A: I would like to continue to further my career in economic development, helping entrepreneurs reach their goals and succeed in launching new businesses. I would also like to continue to contribute to my community by mentoring other young entrepreneurs/professionals.