Shaping Futures: Celebrating and Empowering Women

Vaani Maharaj, Chief Financial Officer

In the ever-evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, few stories are as compelling and inspiring as that of Vaani Maharaj, the Chief Financial Officer at Entourage Health. This International Women's Day, we spotlight transformative leaders like Vaani, whose strategic vision and influence break down barriers for women in all sectors. Her journey from Trinidad and Tobago to Canada in 1999 has shaped her leadership style, marked by inclusivity, diversity, and a commitment to positive change.

Vaani's mission is clear: to make a lasting impact within her team and the broader sector by advocating for  change. "Leadership is not merely a position or title; it's the courage to stand up for your ideas, have a voice, and challenge the status quo. It's about making decisions that reflect your values, inspire others, and shape the future," she adds.

"Championing change has always been my mantra," she explains. "Engaging in dialogue is essential for progress, as it lays the groundwork for advancements." A former colleague and mentee attests, "Vaani is a  mentor and a guide, encouraging everyone around her to reach their highest  potential and profoundly impacting those around her, highlighting her influence in creating a workplace anchored on collective success."

Significant achievements have marked Vaani's leadership at Entourage. Her inclusive approach, bolstered by an eye for talent and active coaching, has cultivated a nurturing corporate environment where women flourish. The evidence of her influence is clear: half of the Company's workforce are women, and impressively, more than one-third hold leadership positions. 

Despite her success, Vaani's journey has had its obstacles. Being a minority woman in a predominantly male industry has been manifold in her strategy for overcoming obstacles. “Embracing ambiguity—whether it's the courage to pose a question, to hear the unspoken, to acknowledge mistakes, or to pursue learning. Though seemingly small, these acts often yield the most rewarding outcomes,” shares Vaani. 

International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the impact women can make in any sector. It's a call to action for all industries to embrace diversity, recognizing women like Vaani, who are not just changing industries but also paving the way for future generations of female leaders. 

Vaani leaves us with one final thought, “We all need to forge spaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, where traditional views of leadership are challenged, and where inclusive practices, inspired by women from all backgrounds, can succeed and lead.”