Join us for a coffee and chat with Karren Menil, the visionary founder of Green Light Customs Broker! Born in the Philippines as the youngest of five, Karren grew up immersed in family and community. In 2014, she seized the opportunity to study in Canada, bringing with her a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a rich background in banking, insurance, and even running her own manufacturing business, Germ-Proof Solutions.
Her initial plan was to take her manufacturing business global upon returning to the Philippines after completing an international trade program in Vancouver. However, fate had other ideas. Instead, Karren dove into the world of customs brokerage, first with AMA Contract Customs Broker and later with FedEx Trade Network during the remote work era of COVID-19. This extensive experience laid the groundwork for her bold entrepreneurial leap.
After relocating to Alberta, with her husband, Karren began working as a customs specialist for BDS. It was this hands-on experience, collaborating closely with customs brokers, that ultimately inspired her to branch out, provide the full spectrum of services herself, and launch her own company. Fuelled by her deep understanding of customs and logistics, Karren started Green Light Customs Broker in 2023. The name itself, inspired by a literal green light, symbolizes her mission to be a "green light" for trade and customs for others. Since then, her company has rapidly expanded its reach across Canada and is soon entering the U.S.
Beyond business, Karren is driven by a profound dream to build communities, aiming to establish schools, libraries, hospitals, and orphanages to ensure basic necessities are accessible to all. She's also penned a guide book for children and teens, currently in the design phase and set for publication this year. Next year, she plans to gift copies to every student at her alma mater in the Philippines, further extending her vision of prosperity and accessibility.
Get ready to be inspired by Karren's journey of unexpected turns, entrepreneurial spirit, and her unwavering dedication to community building and global impact!
Let us know your thoughts in the comments and leave us a review!
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