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Board Members

NWBN is proudly led by a fully volunteer board, a group of individuals who give their time, energy, and expertise every single month to something bigger than themselves. United by a shared purpose, we are committed to continually investing back into our own community to create strong, meaningful connections that uplift and empower everyone within it.

Rita Cousins President Nanaimo Women's Business Network

President

Rita Cousins

We’re Rita & Rachel Cousins, a mother-daughter mortgage duo based in Nanaimo, proudly serving Nanaimo, Parksville, Ladysmith, Duncan, and surrounding Vancouver Island communities and beyond with a combined 40+ years of experience. We provide mortgage solutions for all kinds of clients, from first-time buyers to those seeking alternative lending. Rita brings the wisdom of over 35 years in banking and mortgage brokering. Rachel adds a modern edge with fresh insight, organization, and a deep care for each client’s journey. Together, we balance experience and innovation to create a mortgage experience that feels less stressful, more personal, and tailored just for you. We know that getting a mortgage isn’t just a transaction; it’s a life moment. That’s why we take the time to truly listen, offer clear advice, and walk with you through every step. Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or investing in property, our goal is simple: to make you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.

Rachel Cousins, Secretary of the Nanaimo Women’s Business Network

Secretary/Treasurer 

Rachel Cousins

We’re Rita & Rachel Cousins, a mother-daughter mortgage duo based in Nanaimo, proudly serving Nanaimo, Parksville, Ladysmith, Duncan, and surrounding Vancouver Island communities and beyond with a combined 40+ years of experience. We provide mortgage solutions for all kinds of clients, from first-time buyers to those seeking alternative lending. Rita brings the wisdom of over 35 years in banking and mortgage brokering. Rachel adds a modern edge with fresh insight, organization, and a deep care for each client’s journey. Together, we balance experience and innovation to create a mortgage experience that feels less stressful, more personal, and tailored just for you. We know that getting a mortgage isn’t just a transaction; it’s a life moment. That’s why we take the time to truly listen, offer clear advice, and walk with you through every step. Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or investing in property, our goal is simple: to make you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.

Blaise website.png

Director of Communications
& EDI

Blaise Hunter

Blaise Hunter is a dynamic leader, speaker, multi-award-winning writer, human rights and EDI expert who’s passionate about empowering people and building strong, connected communities. With over 20 years of experience in business development, communications, and event leadership, she has a gift for bringing people together and turning ideas into real impact. She is also the founder of Footprints Infertility & Pregnancy Loss Support Society, championing reproductive health rights and support. In 2022, Blaise was selected to represent Canada at an international human rights summit in Turkey, where she spoke to delegates from over 50 countries and the United Nations about her work. She has led standout initiatives like the WIN Awards, drawing sold-out crowds of 700 three years in a row. Known for her energy, clarity, and inclusive approach, Blaise inspires others to step into their voice, lead with confidence, and create meaningful change.

Judy website.png

Director at Large - Membership Growth Initiatives

Judy Stephan

Editor / Publisher - Judy immigrated to Canada from South Africa in 2009. She was a high school teacher for 23 years and reinvented herself as a magazine publisher when she arrived in Nanaimo. She is passionate about being the positive voice of the community, is a serial volunteer, is incredibly patriotic and enjoys working in the community. Her magazines reflect this passion giving a voice to local personalities, businesses, community initiatives and the Arts.

Events Ambassador

Interested In Making A Difference?

Be part of the heartbeat behind our events. Our events thrive because of members who step in, support, and bring the energy.


If you’re interested in volunteering at our monthly events, connect with us at info@nanaimowbn.com

NWBN

In the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, we would like to acknowledge that the Nanaimo Women's Business Network operates on the traditional territories of the Snuneymuxw First Nation peoples. We thank them for allowing us to live, work, and play on their traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory.

NWBN Email:  info@nanaimowbn.com

Copyright 2026 Nanaimo Women's Business Network

www.NanaimoWBN.com

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