When Angie Kim (Class of 2001) was named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, it was a huge milestone that celebrated years of hard work, courage, and purpose that trace all the way back to her days as a student at the Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore.

“CIS gave me the foundation to think globally, communicate confidently, and appreciate diversity. That international perspective has shaped how I lead, connect, and collaborate with teams wherever I go.”

Since graduating from CIS in 2001, Angie has navigated a path from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship. After completing an Honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto, Angie spent over a decade in national leadership roles at some of Canada’s largest retailers. In 2021, she embraced a new challenge: entrepreneurship. Today, Angie leads and runs a Canadian Tire store, directly engaging with her community, supporting her team, and delivering a trusty customer experience.

Angie’s leadership has earned her national recognition over the years. She has received the Women of Inspiration Award and was nominated for Canada’s Top 40 Under 40.

“Being an entrepreneur is both humbling and empowering. You wear every hat – strategist, mentor, community advocate, problem-solver – and success is no longer theoretical. It’s found in the everyday moments: a child riding their first bike, families getting home safely on new snow tires, a young employee gaining confidence, or the store coming alive at Christmas.”

Angie’s influence goes beyond running her store. For her, business and community go hand in hand. She’s big on inclusivity and giving back, especially around the holidays. She supports local toy drives, sponsors the town’s young baseball team, and hosts community events that raise funds for children’s mental and physical well-being.

Looking back on her school years, Angie says CIS provided her some of the skills that have mattered most in her career. The international environment taught her to be adaptable, to understand different perspectives, and to think globally. Her advice to aspiring business leaders and entrepreneurs is simple:

“Get close to the front line early, understand your customers and team, and prioritise mastery over titles. And remember that leadership is about service, not control, and the most effective leaders know how to ask the right questions and bring out the best in others.”

Thank you Angie for sharing your story. We are so proud to have such an inspiring alumna making a difference in her community.