Ashleigh Montague is a dynamic community leader, professional speaker, and the Executive Director of BLK OWNED, a non-profit organization she co-founded with her two sisters in 2020 to empower and uplift the Black community in Hamilton, Ontario. A passionate advocate for equity and impact, Ashleigh has been recognized with several honours, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, 40 Under 40 awards, induction into the Pilon School of Business Hall of Fame, and a nomination for the Women of Distinction Awards in 2021. Her love for community is evident in her past initiatives; from launching Sisters 4 Sisters, a grassroots group focused on women and youth issues, to co-leading Operation Feed the Homeless in Mississauga, providing meals and warm clothing to those in need.
In addition to her non-profit leadership, Ashleigh is a professional speaker known as the Connection Specialist, inspiring audiences to build meaningful networks through the power of connection. She has worked within school systems as a Health and Wellness Connector and as one of the first Black Graduation Coaches in the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, advocating for the success of Black students. Whether she’s leading a workshop, delivering a keynote, or giving back to her community, Ashleigh brings passion, presence, and a deep commitment to creating lasting impact wherever she goes.