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Let’s break the cycle of violence. Show your support for Gillian's Place, one of Ontario's first shelters for survivors of abuse and violence. Gillian’s Place has been providing safe refuge and non-residential programs that enable women, gender-and sexually-diverse folks, and their children to break the cycle of violence for over 40 years.

Gillian's Place is much more than a safe shelter. Their team provides confidential and compassionate counselling, legal advice, and transitional support to women, children, Two-Spirit, genderqueer, trans and non-binary people facing gendered violence in our community. We desire to offer services and spaces where all survivors can come without reservation, knowing they will be welcomed, respected, and provided with hope, support, and choices.

As a member of the Board of Directors and Director of Sponsorship for Niagara Canada International Fashion Week, Elyza Valdez plays a key role in shaping the vision, partnerships, and execution of the event. She leads sponsorship development, connects emerging designers with business opportunities, and promotes cultural diversity through fashion, helping position Niagara as a vibrant hub for style, creativity, and innovation.

Gillian's
Place

Niagara Canada
International Fashion
Week

Get ready to experience the best of international fashion at the Niagara Canada International Fashion Show — it's going to be epic! Join us at the Greg Frewin Theatre for a night of glamour, style, and creativity. Witness top designers from around the world showcase their latest collections on the runway. Rub shoulders with models, designers, and fashion enthusiasts as you indulge in the latest trends and styles. From elegant evening gowns to cutting-edge streetwear, this event will surely inspire your inner fashionista.

As a member of the Board of Directors and Director of Sponsorship for Niagara Canada International Fashion Week, Elyza plays a key role in shaping the vision, partnerships, and execution of the event. She leads sponsorship development, connects emerging designers with business opportunities, and promotes cultural diversity through fashion, helping position Niagara as a vibrant hub for style, creativity, and innovation.

Elmarval Inc. is the Niagara Regions business, networking and marketing partner. We represent a diverse and growing portfolio of innovative and natural product lines—from baby food and wellness to automotive solutions. The company operates on a commission-based model, offering strategic sales and marketing guidance, product development, and B2B connection services across the region. Founded by Elyza Valdez, a tenacious entrepreneur who prioritizes authenticity, strategic growth, and impactful results.

Elyza, the founder & CEO of Elmarval Inc. is also the host of the Build Beyond Podcast and sits on the boards of Niagara Canada International Fashion Week, Niagara Canada International Film Festival, Brand & Story and is an Ambassador for Gillian’s Place, a shelter for survivors of abuse and violence that has been providing safe refuge and non-residential programs that help women, gender-and sexually-diverse peoples and their children break the cycle of violence for over 40 years. Elyza also is a member of the Niagara Travel & Tourism Circle Table. A dynamic entrepreneur, devoted mother, and passionate community leader, Elyza has over two decades of experience in sales, marketing, and branding, Elyza has built a reputation for helping organizations grow, scale, and enter new markets. Her journey is deeply rooted in resilience and transformation—turning life’s challenges into strength and building the best version of herself. Elyza’s professional background includes time as a model, fashion consultant, and stylist. She holds a Diploma in Massage Therapy and Certification as an Esthetician, showcasing her broad expertise in wellness and personal branding. She leads with integrity, empathy, and strong Christian values—anchored in her belief that respect, honesty, and kindness are the foundation of meaningful relationships.

About Me

Since moving to the Niagara Region in 2012, Elyza has fallen in love with the region, its beauty, its people and the potential in all. Often thought of as the wine region, and for the falls and the touriust attractions—but little else—Niagara Falls is in fact a vibrant city with a thriving business community, attracting both small businesses and large corporations. Its strategic location near the United States and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), offers easy access to major markets and transportation networks.

The Niagara Region has a diverse and robust economy fueled by tourism, manufacturing, professional services and commercial sectors. This is a region full of opportunity—not just a tourist destination, but a place where communities thrive and businesses grow. From Fort Erie’s cross-border access to Grimsby’s charm, from St. Catharines’ cultural hub to Niagara-on-the-Lake’s world-class appeal, every town—from Welland to West Lincoln—brings something unique. Niagara is where natural beauty meets real business potential. It’s time to see this region differently; and build something great here. And let’s not forget the wine, when it is time to celebrate.

Why Niagara

Inspired by her work with NFIF, Elyza founded and hosts the Build Beyond Podcast. Through her podcast, she provides a meaningful platform where guests share personal, professional, and spiritual journeys. The show focuses on resilience, transformation, leadership, and faith—giving voice to powerful stories that uplift and inspire. Elyza is looking to collaborate with local dignitaries and community leaders and on of her first guests is Jim Diodati, the much loved Mayor of the City of Niagara Falls.

Build Beyond Podcast

Members at the Niagara Falls Innovation Hub believe that creativity and innovation thrive in an open, positive, and collaborative environment. As the leading business support hub in Niagara, NFIH provides a vibrant ecosystem where entrepreneurs can access premium amenities, cutting-edge tech resources, and tailored business support. Their mission is to create an affordable, all-encompassing collaborative workspace that empowers businesses to grow, scale, create jobs, and diversify the local economy. Elyza is proud to serve as a Business Development Advisor at NFIF, where she supports startups and emerging entrepreneurs in achieving market-readiness and sustainable growth. She is actively involved in grand openings across Niagara Falls, promoting local economic development and entrepreneurship.

Niagara Falls
Innovation Hub

NFIH

PODCAST

EVENTS

GILLIAN'S PLACE

CONTACT

The Niagara Falls Small Business Enterprise Centre provides resources and advice for startups and growing businesses.

Programs like Starter Company Plus help entrepreneurs develop business plans, network, and potentially receive funding.

The Niagara Falls Small Business Enterprise Centre organizes events and workshops on various business topics.

The Niagara Business Directory provides a snapshot of the business community and helps customers connect with local businesses.

The Niagara Falls Chamber of Commerce leads and facilitates a sustainable business environment.

Resources:

The Niagara Canada International Film Festival (NCIFF) stands out for its role in bridging global communities through the universal language of cinema in a strategic location. Niagara Canada International Film Festival celebrates diverse ethnicities and their stories through film, fostering a platform for global filmmakers based in Canada. Our focus is on embracing differences and discovering shared experiences, promoting equality, social justice, and multiculturalism. We accept films of all genres worldwide, providing filmmakers with an opportunity to showcase their work and compete in a rigorous evaluation process by film experts.

As Director of Sponsorship for NCIFF, Elyza Valdez connects the film industry with cultural and business communities across Canada and beyond. With a strong background in business development and media, she bridges cinematic storytelling with diverse cultural narratives, while building strategic partnerships that elevate the festival’s impact both locally and internationally.

Niagara Canada
International Film Festival
(NIFF)

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Elmarval
Client List

Hungry Tiger (Canada)

As Business Development Partner and through our partnership, Hungry Tiger benefits from strategic market entry, increased visibility in Canadian retail, and access to a network of trusted grocery and specialty stores. Our support accelerates brand growth, connects the product with health-conscious families, and strengthens its position as a trusted organic choice for infant nutrition.

LimeOrder POS Systems

Elmarvel is an effective Strategic Partner for Toronto’s most advanced and now top-rated POS system, LimeOrder. We help them gain a competitive edge through our partnership by expanding into the Niagara region. Through Elmarval Inc., the brand benefits from targeted outreach, business introductions, and regional positioning that connect LimeOrder with restaurants, retailers, and service providers seeking reliable, contract-free POS solutions to streamline operations and enhance customer experience.

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Brand & Story

In 2025 Brand & Story relocated to the Niagara Region from the GTA. It was a fresh start, and one that would be impossible without the help of a well-connected and respected business advisor., Elyza helped connect Brand & Story with the Niagara Innovation Hub and future business leaders in the Greater Niagara Region. Together the plan is to make the region the future hub of business growth in Ontario, with it's ideal location and access to the US market.

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© 2025 by Elmarvel Inc.. Built in Wix Studio by Brand & Story

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ABOUT
WHY NIAGARA
NFIH

ABOUT
WHY NIAGARA
NFIH

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