Local business owner recognized for community involvement and high-quality leadership

Marian deWever, owner of Home & Company Real Estate Corp Brokerage, has been named business leader of the year by the Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce.

The Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce has named Marian deWever business leader of the year.

With over 35 years of experience, deWever, owner of Home & Company Real Estate Corp Brokerage, will receive the award at the 29th-annual Business Excellence Awards Gala at the Best Western Arden Park Hotel on May 1. deWever will also be as guest speaker for the event. 

“I am incredibly honoured and even a bit overwhelmed to be given this honour,” said deWever. “It came as a total surprise; I had no idea that I was being considered for this incredible recognition.”  

deWever, who is a former member of the judging and nominating committee for the Business Excellence Awards, said she had never placed herself in the category or even considered herself for this level of recognition. 

“It was always incredible to me to learn of the various accomplishments of local companies and the amazing work they were doing,” said deWever. “Then, to find out that I was chosen to be the recipient of this award for 2025 is so unexpected; I was stunned.” 

Aaron Martin, general manager of The Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce, said deWever demonstrates the qualities of a true leader in the business sector, and as a community member. Her community involvement played a major role in the board’s decision to nominate her.

“When it comes to community involvement, you seem to see her at every single event, not only on the business side, but she is also involved in the community and that’s something we want to see in a business leader as well,” said Martin. “We want a person that’s amazing at business and is also involved in their community; that's what true leadership is, in our opinion.” 

Some of the events deWever has participated in include the Alzheimer Society’s Walk for Memories and the Stratford Pride Celebration. Martin said deWever has built a successful firm at Home & Company with a positive and supportive staff who enjoy working there. 

“Marian is an absolutely delightful person; she’s very warm and welcoming anytime you're talking with her,” said Martin. “I always admire that from a person when they have this special aura around them. Even when you interact with some of her employees, you can tell that they are happy, and I think those are the telltale signs of a good leader.” 

With a legacy of leadership, dedication and community spirit, deWever’s recognition as business leader of the year is a testament of her unwavering commitment to both her team and the Stratford community.