Lifetime Achievement Award for Su Oulette to be Presented at International Women’s Day Celebration

KEMPTVILLE – Su Ouellette, founder and owner of Sugold Jewellers & Giftware in Kemptville, will receive the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s International Women’s Day celebration, taking place on March 5 at the North Grenville Municipal Centre.

Su has built Sugold for more than 35 years into a trusted community business and a destination for jewellery and giftware across Eastern Ontario and beyond. Established in 1988, the shop began in a small Prescott storefront before relocating to Downtown Kemptville, where it has become a long-standing fixture in the heart of the town.

“Su’s success and dedication are to be commended. With over 38 years in business, she has demonstrated the importance of female leadership in small business while supporting her community. Su’s commitment and longevity have contributed to her accomplishments and gained her admiration and respect from many in the region,” said Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.

Su’s impact extends well beyond her storefront. Her long-term presence has helped strengthen Kemptville’s downtown, supporting the local economy while creating a welcoming space where customers feel valued and cared for. She’s received several accolades for her volunteer work and has served on the BIA board and as Chair in both Prescott and Kemptville. Su also credits her family and staff for their ongoing support and for the longevity of Sugold.

“I am absolutely thrilled for Su. Sugold Jewellers has been a fixture in downtown Kemptville since 2010. The Municipality of North Grenville thanks her for her dedication to leading local initiatives and supporting fellow businesses to help strengthen our local economy,” acknowledged North Grenville Mayor Nancy Peckford.

Recalling conversations, Su explained, “I remember people telling me that when you reach the five-year milestone in business, you’ve done it. Five years was awesome, but hitting the ten-year mark made me feel even more accomplished and made me want to continue forward,” she added. “I overcame challenges such as the ice storm and COVID-19 and persevered through it all. Surviving these challenges has boosted my self-confidence. I gave it my all and became stronger. Perseverance has power to create change,” she said.

Su is the 13th business leader to be selected for this coveted award, which recognizes decades of commitment, innovation, and leadership in empowering rural communities and championing women’s roles in driving economic growth.

Carol Hardy, Development Officer for Leeds Grenville Small Business, added, “International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a call to continue building an inclusive and supportive business community. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a small business owner defined by leadership, generosity, and lasting impact, while the event itself reflects the power of collaboration, because meaningful progress happens when we rise together.”

The Leeds Grenville Small Business Lifetime Achievement Award was created to recognize a woman who has been in business for over 15 years and has demonstrated hard work, community contribution and resilience. The award, given annually by Leeds Grenville Small Business, will be presented at the North Grenville Municipal Centre on Thursday, March 5th, 2026. This year’s International Women’s Day theme is “Together We Rise.”

In addition to the Lifetime Achievement Award presentation, valuable insights will be shared by guest panellists Rhiannon V. Iles, P. Eng., President of HFI Pyrotechnics Inc., Katie Nolan, Executive Director of Community Futures Grenville and Cathy Maggio Howley from Pauline’s Lingerie. New this year is an interactive ‘Knowledge Bar’ session where local professionals will share their business wisdom. Enjoy a delicious buffet-style dinner followed by gifts and door prizes. Registration is open. Purchase your tickets today.