

Celebrating the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs across Halton and beyond.
Using her entrepreneurial pre-sentence background and experience, Emily birthed the idea for Comeback Snacks (formerly ‘Cons and Kernels’)—a popcorn brand that uses high-quality, health-conscious ingredients to create unique flavours inspired by the ones Emily developed in prison. In June 2021, Emily opened Comeback Commissary, Comeback Snacks’ first-ever retail store, with a focus on telling her story and the stories of other inmates in a physical setting.
Through her trailblazing efforts, Emily is an example that positive change can happen within correctional institutions with passion, drive, and a positive mindset. Emily is determined to help remove the stigma surrounding people with prior convictions, as well as give them opportunities for reintegration through training, empowerment and education. As a leading voice in this unique movement, Emily is frequently called upon by media, including CBC, CTV, Global, Toronto Star, iHeartRadio, CHCH, VICE, and more.
Emily was awarded the Business Leadership & Entrepreneurship award at the 2020 YWCA Hamilton Women of Distinction Awards and, most recently, was named a finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year by the Women’s Empowerment Awards. In 2022, she also received The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee for Community Service in recognition of her dedication to social justice.
Emily is currently penning a memoir outlining her experience throughout the criminal justice system and beyond. For more on Emily, visit her website.
With an industry leading portfolio of women-led startups at Haltech, our HERhalton Women’s Day Breakfasts are gaining popularity. Each March we invite the innovation and entrepreneur community to join us and celebrate the many successes of women entrepreneurs across Halton and beyond. Hear inspiring stories, meet new people, and celebrate!
Owner | TK Events
Founder & CEO | Wealthnuvo
Executive Director | Burlington Economic Development
President and Executive Coach | Julie Ellis & Co.