We spoke with Co-Founders Isaac Langleben (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Jacqueline Prehogan (Co-founder and Chief Brand Officer) to learn how this Toronto-born business grew from a local start-up into one of North America’s highest scoring cat and dog food companies and why their mission matters now more than ever.

What is your business called and what does it do?

Our company is called Open Farm, a mission-driven pet food brand helping pets live their healthiest, happiest lives. We make premium quality nutrition using clean ingredients from some of the best farms and fisheries in the world. Our products range from high-protein kibble and fresh meals to freeze-dried raw and treats.

But the “what we do” is only part of the story. Open Farm was founded on the belief that better farming, better ingredients, and better transparency could meaningfully improve the food system. When we started the company, we saw a lack of accountability across animal agriculture and a disconnect between how food was marketed and how it was produced. We set out to change that. Since our first bag, we have led our industry in animal welfare with 100% of our meat ingredients having third-party animal welfare certifications, and every ingredient can be traced back to its geographic source. Transparency isn’t something we added along the way; it’s one of the principles the company was founded on. We are more committed to our mission than ever, having earned our B Corporation Certification and bringing on one of Canada’s leading Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to our team.

What made you want to do this work?

Our path into the pet industry wasn’t linear. I was in law school, and Isaac was working in finance when we adopted our rescue dog, Bella, a Puggle who changed the entire trajectory of our lives. Caring for her made us realize how limited the options were for pet parents who wanted products that reflected their values. That realization pushed me to rethink my own career path and ultimately inspired the creation of Canada Pooch. As we became more aware of issues surrounding ingredient sourcing, animal welfare, and environmental impact in our own food choices, it also became impossible to ignore the gaps in pet nutrition, which is what eventually led us to build Open Farm.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

In 2014, transparency in pet food was almost nonexistent. Ingredient sourcing, farming practices, and animal welfare standards were rarely discussed. Meanwhile, the broader food system was facing pressure around ingredient sourcing and consumer trust. We wanted to build a pet food company that reflected the values people apply to their own food—responsible farming, real transparency, and high-quality ingredients. By embedding those principles directly into our supply chain from day one, Open Farm became a way to show that great nutrition and great farming practices go hand in hand.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Our customers are pet parents who want to feed the absolute best to their pets. They’re conscious consumers—families, young professionals, and urban pet lovers—who care about what goes into their own food and expect the same level of integrity in their pets’ nutrition.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

You can find Open Farm in over 8,500 neighbourhood pet stores across North America, as well as on our website. We’ve launched more than 130 recipes in the past two years alone, all made with responsibly sourced, third-party certified ingredients.

We’ve always believed that doing some good and doing well in business can coexist. That belief is why we’re a Certified B Corporation, meaning we measure success through social and environmental impact as well as financial performance. In 2024, we became the highest-scoring national dog and cat food brand in North America, which we’re incredibly proud of. In addition to creating the highest-quality pet nutrition, our team is laser-focused on our impact, including advancing our regenerative agriculture and zero-waste-to-landfill goals, as well as supporting people and animals in our communities.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

You can find Open Farm recipes in neighbourhood pet stores all across Toronto, including Global Pet Foods and Pet Valu. We’re big believers in supporting local retailers; they’re the heart of our community. At our headquarters in Little Italy, you’ll find a passionate team with leaders in animal nutrition such as our veterinary nutritionist, innovation specialists, and our head of animal welfare, all working together to raise the bar for pet nutrition.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

Pet parents today are asking all the right questions, but one we get a lot is: “How do I know this food is actually good for my pet?”

At Open Farm, every recipe is created with veterinarians and animal nutritionists to ensure it’s complete, balanced, and goes above and beyond to benefit pets’ long-term health. We use only premium, responsibly sourced ingredients, never with fillers or additives. We obsess over every standard, ingredient and nutrient. We also believe trust comes from transparency. Every Open Farm product includes a QR code on pack that lets pet parents see exactly where each ingredient comes from and view the product’s carbon footprint. That level of openness is something we’re extremely proud of.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part is hearing from pet parents who tell us their pets are healthier, happier, and more energetic because of Open Farm. Knowing we’re helping improve the lives of animals while supporting better farming and sustainability practices is incredibly rewarding. The hardest part? Redefining an industry that’s been slow to change. But meaningful change takes persistence, and it’s worth every step when we see how far we’ve come.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

People like to joke about the fact that they’re feeding their pets better than themselves (and with Open Farm, this can sometimes actually be the case)!

Where can we follow you?

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook. You can also visit openfarmpet.ca to learn more about our mission and shop our recipes.

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Reach Personal Fitness on Dupont. Incredible gym with a very experienced and passionate team. Shoutout to Ben and Greg!

Ezra’s Pound on Dupont Street! Best coffee and food, nicest staff, and great vibes.

The post Homegrown Business: Isaac Langleben and Jacqueline Prehogan of Open Farm appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

Super Bowls – Serving vibrant and nutritious acai bowls and smoothies.

What made you want to do this work?

Desire to build something we can be proud of

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

Lack of healthy, quick-serve food options

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Wide range of ages, health-conscious individuals

How does your business make money? How does it work?

Through our store and catering

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Roncesvalles, West End.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

What makes us unique?

We believe our bowls speak for themselves. They are vibrant, nutritious, and our customer service and experience reflect that. Our goal is to serve the highest quality ingredients, paired with the best experience we can offer

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part about what we do is hearing how much our customers love us.

The worst part is sustaining profitability when the cost of food keeps going up.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

That we went from 9-5 jobs to working 24/7.

Where can we follow you?

On Instagram at @superbowlsroncy

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Anchor fish market – Hygge wellness

The post Homegrown Business: Reza Karami of Super Bowls appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

The concept for Canada’s Wonderland took shape in the late 1970s, when the U.S.-based Taft Broadcasting Company joined with Canada’s Great‑West Life Assurance Company to explore building a major theme park near Toronto. After surveying multiple sites, the area around what is now Maple in the city of Vaughan (north of Toronto) was chosen because of its access to highways (especially Highway 400), space for expansion, and population growth potential. Construction officially began in April 1979.

Approval for the park was not straightforward—local residents and environmental groups raised objections about traffic, noise, changing land‑use, and whether the sculpture of a “mega‑park” was appropriate for what had been largely rural farmland. Yet in March 1978 the Ontario Municipal Board granted approval, requiring among other things a strong level of Canadian‑content in the attraction and themed areas.

The developers purchased about 330 acres of land and embarked on building what would become Canada’s Wonderland. The park opened on May 23, 1981, in a spectacular ceremony including thousands of helium balloons, parachutists, doves, and figure‑skater and sports‑star guests. At opening, five themed areas were ready (International Street, Medieval Faire, The Grande World Exposition of 1890, Hanna‑Barbera Land, and Frontier Canada), with more planned.

At the time of opening, the park was operated by Taft and its Canadian partner, but ownership and operational structure changed over the years. In 1993 ownership shifted to Paramount Communications (via its Paramount Parks division) when they purchased the remaining stake. In 2006 the park was sold to Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, which restored the original name and removed the “Paramount” branding. More recently, with the merger of Cedar Fair and Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, Canada’s Wonderland became part of an even larger amusement‑park group.

The Changing Landscape & Regional Impact

When the park first opened, the surrounding area was largely farmland and open space. Over the subsequent decades, the growth of the Greater Toronto Area transformed Vaughan and Maple into increasingly suburban and commercial zones. What had been outlying farmland is now surrounded by shopping centres, residential subdivisions, major roads, and transit expansions.

The presence of Canada’s Wonderland helped drive infrastructure improvements: roads, transit access, zoning changes and commercial developments followed the arrival of the park. It became a major economic engine for Vaughan, bringing tourism, jobs (both seasonal and full‑time), and related hospitality investments. The park’s development spurred the surrounding land to shift from rural/residential‑agriculture use into mixed uses: entertainment, retail, housing and hospitality.

From a planning perspective the park presented challenges and opportunities: traffic management, noise and light concerns for nearby residents, environmental storm‑water management, and integrating a large seasonal destination into a residential growth region. Some local groups voiced opposition early on, concerned about how the park would interweave with the community, but over time it became broadly accepted as a landmark.

Ownership & Branding Through the Years

At opening in 1981, the park was operated by Taft Broadcasting and Great‑West Life; its thematic design included 12 architecture/engineering firms and more than 700 trades people in the construction phase.

In 1993, Paramount Communications acquired the remaining 80 % stake in the park and renamed it “Paramount Canada’s Wonderland,” using more film‑themed attractions and branding.

In June 2006, Cedar Fair announced the purchase of Paramount Parks, including Canada’s Wonderland, and by January 2007 the park dropped the “Paramount” name.

In 2024, with the merger of Cedar Fair and Six Flags, the park became part of the expanded Six Flags family, making it part of one of North America’s largest amusement‑park operators.

Significant Moments in Its History

• 1981 (Opening Year): Canada’s Wonderland opens with five roller coasters among many other rides, becoming Canada’s first major theme park.

• 1993 (Paramount Era): Acquired by Paramount Communications and renamed “Paramount Canada’s Wonderland,” introducing movie-themed attractions.

• 2006: Cedar Fair purchases the park, removing the “Paramount” name and refocusing on family thrills and general entertainment.

• 2010s Onward: Expansion of rides, addition of record-breaking roller coasters, and growth of the water park section.

• Modern Era: Now home to 18 roller coasters, seasonal events like Halloween Haunt and winter festivals, and remains a top regional attraction.

Some of the Famous Rides Over the Years

• Behemoth: Tallest and fastest steel coaster in Canada at the time of opening, featuring huge hills and high speeds.

• Yukon Striker: Record-breaking dive coaster known for height, speed, and thrilling inversions.

• Time Warp: Flying-style coaster formerly themed to “Tomb Raider,” now retired, showing how the park refreshes attractions over time.

• Original Coasters: Wilde Beast and Dragon Fyre, giving visitors a classic thrill experience.

• Modern Thrills: Behemoth, Leviathan, and Yukon Striker represent the park’s high-speed, high-adrenaline offerings.

• Family Favourites: Flight Deck, Vortex, and Splash Works offer variety for all ages.

• Seasonal & Themed Attractions: Halloween Haunt, WinterFest, and live shows keep visitors returning year-round.

Timeline Sidebar: Key Years & Milestones

• 1979: Construction begins in Vaughan/Maple.

• 1981: Grand opening of Canada’s Wonderland.

• 1993: Paramount Parks acquisition; movie-themed rides introduced.

• 2006: Cedar Fair purchase; focus shifts back to general family entertainment.

• 2008: Behemoth opens, setting Canadian records.

• 2019: Yukon Striker opens, a modern thrill coaster record-holder.

• 2024: Time Warp retired, continuing the park’s tradition of updating attractions.

Why It Matters

Canada’s Wonderland is more than an amusement park; it is a key piece of Canada’s entertainment landscape and one of Toronto’s most iconic destinations. Its mix of roller coasters, family rides, water attractions, and seasonal events makes it appealing to all ages. Long-standing rides provide a nostalgic experience, while new attractions ensure excitement for returning visitors. The park remains a major draw for tourism, family entertainment, and thrill-seekers, maintaining its status as Canada’s premier amusement destination.

Fun Facts & Trivia

• Canada’s Wonderland was the first major theme park in Canada, predating similar large-scale parks in the country.

• The park’s water section, Splash Works, covers roughly 20 acres and includes slides, wave pools, and interactive play areas.

• Yukon Striker holds the record for the tallest, fastest, and longest dive coaster in Canada.

• Canada’s Wonderland has hosted millions of visitors over four decades, making it a cultural touchstone for Ontario families.

• Each year, the park produces seasonal events like Halloween Haunt, attracting tens of thousands of visitors during special celebrations.

• The park is accessible via Highway 400, making it one of the most visited attractions in the Greater Toronto Area.

Check out more photos from the opening of Canada’s Wonderland.

The post The History of Canada’s Wonderland appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.

MUSE Arts is an artist-run, community-based organization that creates spaces where art becomes a tool for connection, healing, and social change. We work closely with communities, especially newcomers, refugees, youth, and equity-seeking groups through workshops, residencies, and collaborative art projects that center lived experience and collective storytelling.

What problem does it aim to solve?

We respond to the lack of access, visibility, and support for emerging artists—particularly those from marginalized or displaced communities. Many artists have powerful stories and practices, but limited platforms or networks. At the same time, communities often lack inclusive cultural spaces where people can gather, express themselves, and process shared realities. MUSE Arts works at that intersection—using art to reduce isolation, amplify voices, and build more just and connected communities.

When did you start/join it?

I co-founded MUSE Arts and have been part of its journey since its early stages, helping shape its programs, partnerships, and community-centred approach over the years.

What made you want to get involved?

My background as a human rights lawyer and community organizer deeply shaped my path. I saw how art could reach places that policy and legal frameworks often cannot—emotionally, culturally, and collectively. Art creates space for dialogue, healing, and imagination, especially for communities impacted by migration, violence, and displacement. MUSE Arts became a way to bring those worlds together.

What was the situation like when you started?

When we started, there were very few accessible and inclusive spaces for newcomer and refugee artists to share their work or feel part of a creative community. Many artists were working in isolation, without resources or recognition. There was also a gap in how arts programming engaged with social justice in meaningful, community-led ways.

How has it changed since?

Over time, MUSE Arts has grown into an international and deeply collaborative platform. We’ve supported hundreds of artists, developed community partnerships, and expanded into initiatives like micro-grants, international residencies, and community-based research. For example, our programs in Colombia and Canada now bring together artists across borders to co-create and exchange knowledge, strengthening both local and global artistic ecosystems.

What more needs to be done?

There is still a need for sustained funding, long-term support for artists, and deeper investment in community-led cultural work. We need to continue challenging traditional hierarchies in the arts and ensuring that marginalized voices are not just included, but centered. Art should not be a privilege—it should be part of how communities imagine and build their futures.

How can our readers help?

People can support by engaging—attending events, sharing artists’ work, collaborating, or volunteering. Donations and partnerships also help us sustain programs and reach more communities.

Do you have any events coming up?

Yes—one of our upcoming highlights is the HAPPENING Multicultural Festival, a vibrant, community-centred event that brings together artists, performers, and cultural practitioners from diverse backgrounds. May 15 to May 25 Community Activations and May 28 to May 30 HAPPENING Multicultural Festival.

Where can we follow you?

Website

PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?

Nia Centre for the Arts is an inspiring Toronto organization that uplifts Black artists and communities—creating space for creativity, visibility, and cultural leadership through the arts.

The post Charitable Choices: Paola Gómez of MUSE Arts appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

We spoke with Co-Founder and CEO Sherri Belton to learn how SHER Produce is reshaping the breakfast aisle, tackling food insecurity through its Buy One, Feed One program, and proving that real, whole-food nutrition can fit into busy, everyday life.

What is your business called and what does it do?

We are SHER Produce Technologies, a women-led Canadian company behind SHER Squares, a revolutionary way to get fresh fruits, vegetables, and complete protein in a convenient breakfast or snack. 57% of consumers use Sher Squares for Breakfast. SHER Squares can be eaten on their own, toasted, or paired with yogurt, and they are sold refrigerated in the produce section.

What made you want to do this work?

We wanted to make real, whole-food nutrition easier for real life, and while people can eat healthier and gain “affordable nutrition,” we also wanted to help out the community with our “Buy One, Feed One” program. Too many “healthy” options in the breakfast and snack aisle rely on ultra-processed ingredients and fillers, and we believe that Canadians deserve a convenient, affordable, genuinely whole-food alternative that also creates positive community impact. We NEVER use powders, syrups, concentrated or refined sugars, ONLY Whole Food Fruits and Vegetables.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

We set out to close a major gap in the Canadian breakfast and snack aisle by creating accessible, affordable and convenient whole-food nutrition that fits into busy lives. We also wanted to prove that a food company can build impact into everyday purchasing decisions through a simple model that supports communities, reduces food waste, and creates inclusive employment.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Our customers are people looking for convenient, nutrient-dense, whole-food nutrition, including busy professionals, parents, and students, as well as commuters and active, health-minded shoppers. We have 2-year-olds to 80-year-olds eating our Sher Squares every day and we have everyone from long-haul truckers to former Olympians and everyone in between eating Sher Squares. SHER Squares also appeal to consumers seeking clean-label options that fit common dietary needs, including gluten-free and nut-free choices, and to people who want their everyday purchases to support social and environmental impact.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

SHER Squares are sold at retail for $3.99 per package and offer 40 grams of protein, 20 grams of fibre, and four full servings of fruits and vegetables, with no additives, preservatives, gluten, or nuts, and they are Kosher certified. We also use a Buy One, Feed One model where every purchase provides a serving of nutritious food to someone in need, and we recently surpassed the milestone of donating 8 million servings to food banks across Canada. We use about 20% of our whole food fruits and vegetables that are “upcycled,” which helps keep our costs down to provide consumers with affordable nutrition.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

You can find SHER Squares in the refrigerated produce section at major retailers, including Loblaws, Sobeys, Zehrs, Farm Boy, Longo’s, and other retail partners.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Provide the answer as well.

A great question is: “Is it truly made from whole foods, and where does the nutrition come from?”

The answer should be clear and specific: SHER Squares are made from 95% fresh fruits and vegetables, and the remaining 5% of the product is egg whites and whey protein. These ingredients provide a complete protein, which is critical for all of us to get in our diets. Each package, which is sold for $3.99, contains 40 grams of protein, 20 grams of fibre, 4 full servings of fruits and vegetables and contains NO additives, preservatives, gluten or nuts, concentrates, or ultra-processed fillers.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part is knowing our product helps average people get affordable nutrition while also doing good for society through food donations, rescued produce, and inclusive employment. The worst part of what we do and pour our heart into is not having consumers fully understand what our product is all about because it is so different, so revolutionary. Unfortunately, “healthy products” are almost always dominated by ultra-processed products, so there is the question of combating misinformation. We do all this while maintaining the high quality, freshness, and operational standards required for a refrigerated, produce-based food.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

We like to joke that we work in “produce tech,” which sounds futuristic, but it mostly means we are finding smarter ways to help people eat more whole food fruits, vegetables and protein affordably.

Where can we follow you?

Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Nutes Fresh-Frozen Smoothies and The Little Cacao Co. — we love them because they are also women-led organizations that are trying to make a difference in Canada and the USA.

The post Homegrown Business: Sherri Belton of SHER Produce Technologies appeared first on Toronto Guardian.