After a lengthy career in leading and managing long-term care and retirement residences in Ontario, Steven Golden made his initial venture into the natural health retailing industry in 2022, when he purchased L’Amie de la santé in Hawkesbury, Ontario.

The Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA) hosted its 2025 Organic Leadership Awards and Gala at Seasons in the Park restaurant in Vancouver, BC, on April 24, celebrating nine years of recognizing excellence in Canada’s organic sector.

A platform for startups and innovators, CHFA Launch Pad gives award hopefuls the floor to pitch their businesses for a chance to win the title of “Most Innovative Product” and a grand prize pack worth over $50,000.

The big winner of the CHFA NOW Vancouver 2025 Launch Pad was Magic Scoop Nutrition’s Magic Scoop – All-in-One Nutritional Greens.

In this column, Ellen introduces you to Mona Jagota, a dynamic and accomplished business leader with a passion for innovation, community engagement, and empowering others.

 With over two decades of experience at Nature’s Source, Mona has established herself as a trailblazer in her domain, blending entrepreneurial vision with operational expertise to drive success and inspire those around her. Since joining Nature’s Source in 1998, Mona has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success.

It was not so many years ago when our industry was divided and in turmoil—caused primarily by the federal government’s desire to clarify and impose a stricter regulatory standard to our products.

 If you were around back then, you can remember how people were clearly on one side or the other. It was a very unsettling time.

 Today, a different federal government—this one from south of the 49th—has caused confusion and turmoil in our industry and in our country, with its desire to impose tariffs.

The alive editorial team was out in full force at CHFA NOW Vancouver—attending seminars, networking at industry events, and exploring the latest innovations on the show floor.