Entrepreneur Spotlight: Michelle Shemilt, CEO of Numi
In the world of entrepreneurship, stories of innovation, determination, and empowerment are constantly unfolding. Michelle Shemilt’s journey as the Founder and CEO of Numi is a testament to the power of addressing real-life challenges and turning them into solutions for women in the professional sphere. Today’s Entrepreneur Spotlight shines a light on Michelle Shemilt’s inspiring story and the creation of Numi, a brand that’s making waves with its high-performance clothing designed to alleviate everyday style concerns.
The Birth of Numi: A Solution-Driven Approach
Michelle Shemilt’s path to entrepreneurship began with a simple yet compelling need: practical and stylish clothing solutions for professional women. As a woman working in finance, Michelle recognized the frustration of wearing clothing that either exhibited sweat stains or required expensive dry cleaning. This realization ignited her journey towards developing a line of clothing that would not only address these challenges but also empower women in their daily lives.
From Concept to Reality: The Numi Journey
Leaving her finance career behind in 2013, Michelle embarked on a journey filled with determination, learning, and growth. Despite her lack of experience in the fashion and manufacturing industries, Michelle’s vision for Numi pushed her to knock on factory doors and embrace the process of starting from scratch. With unwavering dedication, she transformed her concept into a tangible reality.
Empowering Women Through Innovation
Numi’s first product, the high-performance women’s undershirt, encapsulates Michelle’s commitment to innovation and empowerment. Designed to be worn comfortably and invisibly under clothing, this solution-oriented garment reflects Michelle’s dedication to support professional women in their pursuit of confidence and success. By developing products that seamlessly blend function and style, Numi is not just a brand, but a movement that’s redefining professional attire.
Sustainability and Local Manufacturing
Michelle’s entrepreneurial journey also highlights her dedication to environmental sustainability. Numi takes pride in being consciously designed and sustainably manufactured. With a commitment to utilizing sustainable materials and collaborating with local factories, Numi is making strides towards a more eco-conscious fashion industry. This alignment between empowering women and protecting the planet underscores Michelle’s holistic vision for her brand.
Recognition and Impact
Numi’s innovative approach and commitment to solving everyday style pain points have not gone unnoticed. The brand’s recognition as one of Canada’s fastest-growing companies by esteemed publications like The Globe & Mail and Canadian Business speaks to the impact Michelle and her team are making. The brand’s products have garnered praise from media outlets such as InStyle, TODAY, Glamour, and Women’s Wear Daily, positioning Numi as a style must-have for professional women.
Michelle Shemilt was chosen to participate in this year’s esteemed Canaccord Genuity Advisory Program for Women Entrepreneurs which provides female founders with mentorship, strategic advice and valuable networking opportunities. Earlier this month at the 43rd Annual Canaccord Genuity Growth Conference, Michelle and her fellow program participants shared inspiring stories about their path to entrepreneurship and the challenges they have overcome.
Empowerment in Every Stitch
Michelle Shemilt’s journey as the Founder and CEO of Numi encapsulates the spirit of female entrepreneurship. Through her dedication, innovation, and determination, Michelle has not only addressed a common challenge faced by professional women but has also paved the way for a new standard in functional and sustainable fashion. Numi’s success story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, who are looking to make a positive impact through their ventures.
