In the baking sector, numerous women are making significant strides. However, there remains a desire to see more women in leadership roles. The April 2025 issue of Bakers Journal highlights two remarkable women who have become influential leaders and mentors within their respective enterprises: Rosalyn Hyslop from Mrs. Dunster’s bakery in Sussex, New Brunswick, and Vicki Manness from Pretty Sweet Bakeshop in Calgary. Both exemplify how fostering supportive environments can lead to business success and employee satisfaction.

Redefining Leadership in the Baking World

Within the charming town of Sussex, New Brunswick, Rosalyn Hyslop co-owns and co-leads Mrs. Dunster’s bakery alongside her husband Blair. Known for her exceptional leadership skills, she has cultivated an innovative company culture that encourages long-term employee engagement. At every team meeting, Hyslop emphasizes celebrating achievements, regardless of their scale, which has transformed shy employees into eager contributors. Meanwhile, in vibrant Calgary, Vicki Manness established Pretty Sweet Bakeshop with a vision of creating a nurturing workplace. Her past experiences in kitchens where mistakes led to feelings of inadequacy inspired her to build a safe space where learning and growth thrive. Manness prioritizes hiring individuals willing to learn, recognizing that such openness is crucial for professional development.

The stories of these women underscore the importance of mentorship in shaping successful careers. Mentorship extends beyond traditional boundaries; it includes industry insiders, external entrepreneurs, and even those outside the baking world who inspire through transferable skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and positive attitudes. Establishing a thriving mentoring program, as outlined by Sherry Hartnett, involves seven key steps beginning with defining your purpose and progressing through goal setting, recruitment, nurturing, and continuous improvement.

As we celebrate these trailblazing women, it becomes evident that mentorship plays a pivotal role in lighting the path forward. Their journeys remind us that fostering supportive networks and embracing diverse influences can significantly enhance both personal and professional growth within any industry.