The governance and direction of the Cookstown & District Chamber of Commerce are entrusted to our
Board of elected Directors and Immediate Past President.
Each member of the Board contributes a unique blend of experience, leadership, and business insight, helping guide the Chamber’s initiatives and support the success of our local business community. Together, they play a vital role in shaping the growth and prosperity of Cookstown.
meet our Board of directors
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Heidi Visser is a dedicated REALTOR® serving Simcoe County, with a special focus on Cookstown, Innisfil, and Oro-Medonte. As a proud Cookstown resident and President of the Cookstown and District Chamber of Commerce, She is deeply connected to our community - supporting local businesses and the people who make this town such a wonderful place to live. Heidi helps families and individuals find homes and lifestyles that truly fit them. Her approach is caring, hands-on, and relationship-focused - because real estate isn’t just about houses, it’s about people, stories, and new beginnings.
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Samantha Valencia is an experienced entrepreneur, community leader, and proud mom of two, now serving as Vice President of the Cookstown Chamber of Commerce. Born and raised in Cookstown, Samantha blends small-town heart with big-picture strategy to help local businesses and the community grow together. Before co-founding The Valencia Team — one of Simcoe County’s top-producing real estate teams — Samantha built a successful, 10-year career as a published wedding and family photographer. She also worked with major municipalities including Brampton, Newmarket, and New Tecumseth in recreation and community development, leveraging her Recreation and Leisure degree from Seneca College. Today, as a real estate investor and business owner under the Nest Seekers International brand, Samantha is known for her high-level marketing, genuine approach, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her role with the Chamber is driven by a passion for supporting local entrepreneurs, building relationships, and helping Cookstown shine as a thriving hub for both heritage and innovation. |
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Lisa Whibley is the co-owner of Lavender Valley Farm. A boutique Lavender Farm in the Nottawasaga Valley. Lisa brings 25+ years of finance and business experience. In addition to her Bookkeeping, strategy and financial background, Lisa has extensive entrepreneurship and business management experience as she was the Director of Finance and Operations for an award-winning PR & Marketing agency in Toronto for over 6 years. Lisa has served on numerous Steering Committees, providing management and oversight over key functions. She was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the Ontario Lavender Association. She served as Director on the Board of Directors for Theatre by The Bay in Barrie for a 2-year term. |
|  She lives in Innisfil with her spouse Simon and daughter Isabella. Stephania has a love for interior design, bringing creativity and an eye for detail to every project she undertakes. She also has a passion for animals, often spending time at her farm in Oro with her pony, Puddin’. Stephania is passionate about nurturing creativity in herself and those around her, whether through her professional work, community initiatives, or mentoring. Excited about the group’s new office in the heart of downtown Cookstown, Stephania looks forward to continuing to provide exceptional service while contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the local community. |
|  Anna is the founder and owner of Bubbly Bites Co.—your go-to for Luxury Mobile Charcuterie and Mobile Bar Service. With years of experience in banquet halls, restaurants, mobile pop up catering and event planning, I know how powerful the right details can be in creating seamless events and unforgettable moments. |
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Jeanette Bradbury is the proud owner and operator of Bradbury Small Family Farm Inc., a local farm dedicated to sustainable practices, high-quality produce, and community-focused farming. Located just outside Cookstown, Jeanette’s farm is built on generations of agricultural knowledge, combined with a modern passion for healthy living and local food. At Bradbury Small Family Farm, Jeanette specializes in growing fresh, seasonal crops and raising livestock with care and respect for the land. Her commitment to sustainable farming, animal welfare, and supporting the local food movement has made the farm a trusted source for families across the region. Beyond her work on the farm, Jeanette is an active supporter of community initiatives and a proud member of the Cookstown and District Chamber of Commerce, believing strongly in the power of local connections and collaboration. Through her farm and her community involvement, Jeanette’s mission is to nurture a healthier, more connected future for everyone. |
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