Maryam Muritala is a foreign-trained lawyer with expertise in Business, Technology, Copyright, Trademark Law and Contract Management. She is also a seasoned Business Development Consultant, having successfully guided entrepreneurs on five continents in launching and managing thriving businesses. She is the founder of Canada Vendors, a Business Development and Advertising Company, where she utilises digital marketing tools to provide structured visibility for businesses across Canada and the Diaspora. Furthermore, Maryam is the driving force behind Brand Expo, a prominent brand visibility event that showcases diverse brands across Canada. In 2021, she launched a compelling mini-series on YouTube titled, ‘The Entrepreneurial Journey’, featuring interviews with business owners across Canada. Maryam’s tenacity, determination and unwavering support for female business owners in Canada are commendable, making her a true inspiration in the entrepreneurial world. In this interview with ESTHER IJEWERE, she shares her story 
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Childhood influence
I was born and raised in the commercial city of Lagos State, Nigeria. I had a beautiful childhood growing up in Lagos. I was born into an entrepreneurial family. Both my maternal and paternal grandparents were seasoned entrepreneurs. I was brought up by kind parents who believe in service and that has inspired my journey in building connections and providing opportunities. I was inspired to study Law by my aunt who encouraged me.

Career path
I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2008 and I worked in the commercial and corporate law sector for a while. I was introduced to business development when I worked with clients on several projects in that industry. I was in charge of drafting and analysing contract agreements on several projects.

The inspiration behind Canada Vendors
The digital marketing space has evolved tremendously after the COVID-19 pandemic. Most businesses had to pivot using digital marketing tools to help their brand get more visibility.  At Canada Vendors, we launched different initiatives to get more companies on board to embrace integrating technology into their business process. Most businesses that use digital marketing tools now have more structured visibility in the online space.

Navigating business challenges
The common challenges faced included not having proper information on how to register and incorporate their businesses, integrating digital marketing into their operations and applying for accessible funding. The Canada Vendors Team launched several virtual info-session events to cater to the needs of these businesses during the pandemic.
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Why Brand Expo was created
Brand Expo is our annual business networking where business and organisations showcase their products, services and brand image to potential customers, partners and investors. The event provides an opportunity for businesses to network, build relationships and promote their brand. The expo usually includes workshops, exhibitions, presentations and networking events. The primary goal of the Expo is to increase brand awareness and visibility, generate leads and sales and establish business relationships both locally and internationally.

The Entrepreneurial Journey
The Entrepreneurial Journey was created to spotlight the small business community in Canada. During the pandemic, a lot of businesses were highly impacted due to the fact that they mostly operated from their home base and they haven’t learned about the advantages of integrating technology into their business process and the benefits of investing in digital marketing tools. The digital landscape has impacted a lot of businesses in Canada positively, especially in the areas of visibility, which has impacted business growth across various business communities in Canada.

Being a Woman of Rubies
My ability to create opportunities wherever I find myself makes me unique. A woman of Rubies is capable of achieving anything she sets her mind to do. She wears her crown proudly and tall.

Women who inspire her
Michelle Obama, Ibukun Awosika and Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

The Nigerian community in Canada
The Nigerian community has contributed significantly to Canada’s vibrant multicultural society in all sectors and continues to play a significant role in contributing positively in the areas of business, politics, healthcare and technology. We have Nigerian trailblazers across different communities.
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