Rediscovering Sight and Empathy: The Journey of Jennie Coleman
- Tony Chapman
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 20
What if the challenges life throws at you aren’t roadblocks but stepping stones to something greater?
Join us in this transformative episode of Chatter That Matters, where host Tony Chapman delves deep into the inspiring journey of Jennie Coleman. From her early challenges with vision, to her extraordinary role as an advocate for ethical produce, Jennie's story is one of resilience, empathy, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
At age 13, Jennie faced a life-changing surgery that gave her the gift of sight, leading her to a life filled with both personal trials and professional triumphs.
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Jennie's early life was marked by significant visual impairment. She shares, “I didn’t know how limited I was... but mostly, I didn’t know what I was missing.” This newfound sight gave her a unique perspective on life, allowing her to embrace challenges with optimism and gratitude.
Embracing New Ventures and Changing Lives
Shifting her focus from a successful corporate career at Bombardier to entrepreneurship, Jennie found her calling in the fair trade fruit business. She passionately explains, “What we want to do is to change the banana industry… Let's try a new version of this banana business model.”
As the founder of Equifruit, Jennie takes on industry giants to ensure fair wages and conditions for banana workers. Her efforts underscore the hidden costs of our favorite fruits, driving a mission to uplift lives from the ground up.
Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship
Beyond her professional endeavors, Jennie is a devoted mother, navigating the complexities of raising a child with a rare genetic condition.
Her story is a testament to resilience, empathy, and redefining success on her terms. “She’s my eternal baby,” Jennie reflects on her daughter, sharing the deeply personal and ongoing journey her family is on.
Jennie's journey—from corporate warrior to purpose-driven entrepreneur—earned her the title of RBC Momentum Award Winner. The Harvard Business School has published a case on her accomplishments, and Jennie has been named Canada's Most Admired CEO by Waterson Human Capital.
Jennie Coleman's story isn’t just about business. It’s about family, and humanity, and someone who sees beyond profit to a higher purpose.
To learn more about Equifruit, https://equifruit.com/en/
To learn more about RBC and their programs visit
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