From post-Soviet beginnings to Canadian leadership, her story oozes resilience, passion, strong self-belief and authentic success.
The world has witnessed the rise of several professionals across sectors, but among them, a handful stand apart for their sheer passion, brilliance, strong self-belief, and resilience. These high-performing and highly driven professionals leave no stone unturned in creating a life of their choice by overcoming challenges and ensuring to learn along their paths. Serving as one of the finest examples is Susanna Shtanko, a woman driven not just by passion but also purpose. She is already on her way to building a unique niche and a legacy to inspire others along her journey.
The journey that Susanna Shtanko has lived thus far proves how one’s background can shape not only ambitions but also an unshakable worldview. She came from a post-Soviet environment and cultivated a mindset rooted in resilience, adaptability, and limitless possibility. Challenges, much like in the lives of other determined professionals, were also a part of Susanna’s journey, but she saw them as stepping stones and fueled her belief that there are no true boundaries to success. She holds a strong academic background with two diplomas with honor’s in fashion and economics, and has built a multidisciplinary foundation. This has allowed her to excel across industries and inspired other women to do so.
One of the most defining factors in her rise as a business leader, mentor, and change-maker is how she merges creativity with strategic thinking. Today, Susanna stands tall as an elected director at the Improve Canada Centre, representing over 450 businesses. She also serves as the director at Business Women Pro Canada. These significant positions showcases not just her expertise but also the trust she has earned within her professional community. Recalling the challenges on her path, she says how as part of a post-Soviet joint venture, she ventured into uncharted territory, layering the groundwork for her entrepreneurial spirit. However, one of the most defining moments in her life came in 2000 after she moved from Ukraine to Canada.
Starting anew in a new country brought with it several other challenges, like financial responsibilities, cultural adaptation, and the need to establish credibility in a competitive market. However, it was her determination that helped her keep moving ahead. Over time, Susanna successfully built a thriving life, balancing a strong family foundation with achievements in business, real estate, investments, and personal branding. While Canada offered her the chance to pursue a dream Harvard education, she made a conscious choice to put her family and responsibilities first. She not only excelled as a mother to twin sons but also as a leader responsible for the livelihoods of over 100 employees at her factory. Years later, after fulfilling her responsibilities, she returned to her passions like engaging in community initiatives, and social projects that added more meaning to her life.
Though the world of business has seen some significant growth and progress, women in business even today encounter unique challenges. Susanna Shtanko thus highlights how communication is everything. According to her, success isn’t just about having a great product or service, it is also about connection, visibility, and relationship-building. She emphasises that personality also plays a crucial role in business success. The ability to create meaningful relationships also helps in making business success stand apart and last for long.
Susanna Shtanko today wants more and more women to understand the importance of having a dream and never abandoning it. Her own journey into beauty pageantry, earning titles such as Mrs TCP Canada Platinum 2025 and Mrs TCP Universe Kindness 2026, proves how it’s never too late to pursue dreams and aspirations. Her journey has not been just about success, but also about living with intention, purpose, and passion.
