Her Power, Her Story

As part of its third consecutive Women of Influence series, El Break TV spotlights six inspiring women whose leadership and vision are shaping industries and communities across Canada.

By Christina Armanious

For El Break TV, the prominent Hispanic television and radio show based in Toronto, the name is rooted in the idea of the break you need—a brief pause in a busy day, an invitation to pay closer attention to stories that matter. “El Break TV was created with a clear purpose: to become a platform where powerful stories can be seen, heard, and felt,” say co-founders Natalie Rivera and Stefania Serna. This year, that mission took on a more visible form, ensuring those stories aren’t just told, but impossible to miss.

Now in its third consecutive year, the network spotlights female leaders across Canada through its Women of Influence series. This year’s initiative, HER POWER, HER STORY, brought that recognition beyond the screen and onto a billboard in Toronto.

For Rivera and Serna, the concept is simple: make space for the stories that deserve it most. “The billboard initiative is an extension of that mission—bringing visibility to women whose work, leadership, and vision are shaping our industries and communities.” At its core, they add, it’s about connection—creating a platform that not only celebrates success but inspires others to pursue their own paths with confidence and authenticity.

The initiative first launched in 2024 alongside Living Luxe co-founder Jennifer Lipkowitz, grounded in a shared belief that meaningful progress happens when women support one another. “From the start, the goal has been to dream big,” Rivera says, “because we believe the industry grows stronger when women uplift each other.”

This year’s six nominees reflect that thinking, each one bringing leadership, resilience, and innovation to her field, and together representing the next generation of creators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

Amber Walker | CEO, Amber Walker Events

With more than a decade of experience in event planning—and over six years specializing in corporate summits—Amber Walker has built a reputation for producing large-scale events with precision and creativity. From corporate gatherings to charity events and launch parties, she is known for her ability to lead teams, manage complex logistics, and deliver seamless, high-impact experiences. A dynamic problem solver and innovative professional, she approaches each project with energy and a willingness to challenge convention, consistently creating events that are both impactful and memorable.

Jennifer Lipkowitz | Publisher, Living Luxe and Co-Founder, Living Luxe Media Group

Jennifer Lipkowitz has played a defining role in shaping Canada’s luxury design and lifestyle landscape. As publisher of Living Luxe, she has led the brand’s growth through strategic partnerships—including collaborations with major hotel groups—while fostering a strong, empowered team culture. With roots in both publishing and the building and design industries, her work is equally grounded in business leadership and creative vision. She is also deeply committed to philanthropy, having co-chaired Living Luxe’s first charitable initiative in support of the SickKids Foundation.

Grace Lombardi | Vice President of Marketing, Branding, and Communications, CHIN Radio

Grace Lombardi brings a multifaceted career spanning media, production, and brand strategy. A writer, producer, and director, she has worked on award-winning documentaries and led a range of high-impact campaigns. As vice president of marketing, branding, and communications at CHIN Radio, she has contributed to the expansion of its broadcast operations while shaping cultural programming and major events, and is also a segment producer for CHIN Television. She is a host of the long-running Festival Italiano di Johnny Lombardi on OMNI Television. Her work also extends into community leadership, with involvement across several boards and organizations, including the UHN Toronto Rehab Foundation, where she contributes to branding and communications initiatives, reflecting a career rooted in storytelling and connection.

Anaida Poilievre | Founder, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Pretty & Smart Inc.

Anaida Poilievre is the founder, publisher, and editor-in-chief of Pretty & Smart Inc., the parent company of Pretty & Smart Co., a lifestyle platform dedicated to highlighting ambition, drive, and the stories of women shaping the world. Prior to entrepreneurship, she spent over a decade in Canadian politics, holding senior roles in both the House of Commons and the Senate, where she worked as a political advisor and communications strategist at the intersection of policy, media, and leadership. Today, she oversees editorial vision, content strategy, partnerships, and business development, building platforms that inform, inspire, and connect diverse audiences. Born in Caracas, Venezuela and raised in Canada, she brings a global perspective shaped by cultural fluency and resilience, and is committed to creating work that bridges cultures and ideas.

Zulia Castellanos | Credit and Automotive Sales Consultant for Latino and Spanish-Speaking Communities

With over 20 years in the automotive industry, Zulia Castellanos has built a strong reputation for her expertise in vehicle sales and her commitment to client relationships. Originally from Colombia, her work is grounded in transparency, trust, and personalized guidance, approaching each sale as an opportunity to understand her clients’ needs and help them make confident, informed decisions. She has also been a pioneer in developing credit and financing solutions for Latino and Spanish-speaking communities, helping to break down longstanding language and cultural barriers while creating meaningful pathways to vehicle ownership. Her strong connection to the community continues to drive her work, balancing commercial success with lasting, positive impact.

Rosangela Sanchez | Founder, Capricho Collective

Rosangela Sanchez is a Colombian entrepreneur and cultural ambassador who has spent over a decade in Canada building a brand rooted in craftsmanship and cultural identity. As founder of Capricho Collective, she works with women heads of household in Colombia who preserve ancestral weaving and handcrafting techniques, creating opportunities for economic independence and access to international markets. Her work is centred on uplifting Latina women as entrepreneurs while also serving as a cultural bridge, allowing Colombian heritage to be experienced and celebrated across borders. She has also played a role in strengthening connections between Colombia and Canada through her work alongside the Chamber of Commerce, helping to foster cultural exchange and sustainable economic growth.

Built to Belong

Setting The Scene