Merrique is the Founder of Vellencia Strategies, a boutique business advisory firm dedicated to innovative solutions and bridging the equity gap that so many small businesses face in today's heavily saturated market. With over a decade of experience in business administration, combined with her expertise in change management in today's post-COVID economy, Merrique is a business consultant of high accomplishment, driving innovation and forward momentum in her field. She has worked with big hitters based in Canada and the United States and has led global initiatives such as venturing into the Vietnam market. She has had the privilege of working with a diverse portfolio of clients from various industries, including tourism, broadcasting, tech, and beauty, who have seen massive value through her exceptional strategic planning and change management skills. Her attention to detail, great sense of humour, high emotional intelligence and focus on high-touch client relationships make her an authentic force within the industry. ​Merrique holds an Executive MBA from the Telfer School of Management and is known for her honest and direct approach to aligning analytical thinking with business objectives and functions. She thrives on cultivating productive internal and external working relationships and succeeds through collaboration and strategic partnerships. Merrique is a passionate advocate for empowering small businesses and female entrepreneurs and is currently undertaking The HERA Connects Project, launching a mobile app connecting a national network of women in business. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Merrique is dedicated to engaging in healthy, active living and spending time with her beautiful 5-year-old son, Zaythan. She is particularly passionate about working with grassroots and women's rights organizations, driving clear focus through a social equity lens and paving a path forward to shatter the stigma around her son's diagnosis of being non-verbal on the autism spectrum. With her unwavering commitment to creating positive impact in both her personal and professional life, Merrique is a true leader in her field.