By Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Four Mennonite women with one shared mission have created a new centre of women‑led entrepreneurship in Tilbury, opening a collaborative business space at 11 Prospect Street that brings together four distinct services under one roof. What began as individual journeys — shaped by family, loss, resilience and community spirit — has grown into a unified initiative led by Maria Martens, Ana Neufeld, Helena Guenter and Katharina Unger.
The new location is home to Lil’ Treasures & More, Lena’s DMT, Katharina’s Deep Muscle Therapy and Lymphatic Drainage, and Sisters Bookkeeping & Accounting. Each business has its own story, but all four women share deep family ties and a commitment to supporting one another. Ana and Maria are sisters, Helena and Katharina are sisters, and Maria is also sisters‑in‑law with Helena and Katharina — a family network that has now become a business network.
Their search for a shared space came at a time when commercial rents and economic pressures made it difficult for small businesses to secure affordable locations. That challenge shifted when Gloria Mailloux, Executive Director of the Tilbury BIA, stepped in to help. Understanding the value of women‑led entrepreneurship in the community, Mailloux worked with the group to identify a suitable location and ultimately helped them secure the building at 11 Prospect Street. Her support, the women say, was instrumental in turning their shared vision into reality.
For Maria Martens, the journey began three years ago when she and her sister Lisa Neufeld launched Sisters Bookkeeping & Accounting as a home‑based business. Their goal was simple: create the flexibility needed to care for their mother, whose health was declining. “We wanted to be there for her,” Maria said. “Starting our own business gave us that freedom.”
Their mother also held a hope for Ana — that she would one day open her own store. After her passing two years ago, Ana honoured that wish by launching Lil’ Treasures & More, a gently used baby store that also carries new items and gifts. The shop opened a year and a half ago and has quickly become a welcoming space for young families in Tilbury.
Helena Guenter’s path began long before her business had a name. Born with a natural gift for deep muscle therapy, she spent her life helping people without ever asking for payment. As word spread and demand grew, she decided to formalize her skills, earning certification and opening Lena’s DMT. Her practice continues the work she has done since childhood — easing pain, supporting healing and offering comfort.
For Katharina Unger, the decision to start Katharina’s Deep Muscle Therapy and Lymphatic Drainage came from a place of necessity and courage. After her husband passed away, she knew she needed a career that would allow her to support her family. She discovered lymphatic drainage therapy, felt an immediate connection to the work, and pursued training. Her business, now two years old, reflects her commitment to caring for others while rebuilding her own life.
As each woman built her business, they all faced the same challenge: finding an affordable, accessible space in a difficult economy. Instead of struggling alone, they chose to stand together. With the guidance and support of Tilbury BIA’s Gloria Mailloux, they secured a shared location — a decision that turned four separate dreams into one collective vision.
Today, the building at 11 Prospect Street is more than a business address. It is a symbol of collaboration, family strength and women supporting women. Each business remains independent, but the women work side by side, encouraging one another and creating a welcoming hub for clients across Tilbury and beyond.
From baby goods to bookkeeping, from deep muscle therapy to lymphatic care, the four women have built a space rooted in compassion, community and shared purpose. Their story is one of resilience — and of what becomes possible when women lift each other up.
The open house runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 6.
