Nadine Spencer
Connect with Nadine:
Instagram, X, Facebook: @msnadinespencer
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadine-spencer-9489806/
CEO & President - BrandEQ Group
There was a moment, not long ago, when the ground beneath me shifted. Publicly. And as someone who’s built her life advocating for women, for equity, for Black entrepreneurs—I had to face the very thing I teach: how to stand tall in the face of scrutiny, how to lead when it hurts.
But let’s be clear—the spotlight was never about me. I didn’t step into visibility seeking fame. As a marketer, I’ve always understood that the first step toward change is awareness. The spotlight was a tool. A way to shine light on the deeper issues: gender inequality, racial bias, systemic exclusion from the tables where decisions are made. Some didn’t get that. Others saw my visibility and responded with criticism or envy. But the real wound wasn’t personal—it was professional. What hurt wasn’t what was said about me. It was how those words diminished the work. Work that uplifted women living through real struggles: domestic violence, economic hardship, invisibility. That’s who was harmed—not Nadine—but the thousands of women my work was created to support.
One thing I’ve come to understand—and what I’ve heard echoed by women at every level, from politics to the private sector—is that imposter syndrome doesn’t only appear when you're stepping into power. Sometimes, it shows up when someone else does—and we haven't claimed our own. It feels personal. It triggers doubt. And too often, that misplaced discomfort turns into judgment.
Imposter syndrome doesn’t just whisper. Sometimes, it roars. Late one night, after a wave of public criticism, I sat alone and asked, “Do they see the heart behind the work?”
Here’s what I know now: the power isn’t in how people perceive you. It’s in how you choose to show up, even when perception tries to define you.
I created Public Image, a leadership offering within Boss Women, because I know how essential it is for women—especially Black women—to own our stories before someone else does. This isn’t theory. It’s lived experience. I’ve stood in the fire, and I’m still here. Stronger. Clearer. Your story is your power.
If there’s anything I want women to take from this, it’s this:
Protect your peace—but never shrink your presence. You can be strategic and bold at once.
And remember—your visibility is not a liability. It is your legacy in motion.
We need more women willing to reach back and say, “I’ve been there—and I’ll walk with you.”
So if you’ve faced doubt, silence, or misunderstanding—I see you. You’re not alone. I work with women ready to reclaim their voice and lead with integrity. Let’s redefine what leadership looks like. Together.
Nadine Spencer is the Chief Executive Officer of BrandEQ, a global marketing and communications firm specializing in strategy, brand architecture, and equity-centered campaigns. She leads a multidisciplinary team that advises organizations on how to grow influence, protect reputation, and drive measurable impact through integrated marketing. With over two decades of experience, Nadine has designed and led major initiatives across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Her leadership is grounded in the principle that marketing drives awareness, and awareness drives societal change. Under her direction, BrandEQ has become a trusted partner for clients seeking to align their brand with purpose, navigate complexity, and lead with clarity in high-stakes environments.
Nadine previously served as President (2017–2021) and Chief Executive Officer (2021–2023) of the Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA), one of Canada’s most prominent economic advocacy organizations. During her tenure, she led a period of national growth and visibility, advancing policies and programs that directly addressed systemic barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs. Her leadership helped transform the organization’s profile, expanded access to capital, and positioned the BBPA as a key stakeholder in national conversations on economic equity.
She is also the founder of Boss Women Entrepreneurship Program, a global initiative advancing women’s entrepreneurship through leadership development, access to capital, and strategic visibility. Through this platform, she champions a model of economic growth that is inclusive, sustainable, and scalable.
Nadine currently serves on the Board of Governors at York University, the Diversity Institute Advisory Council, and the Lifelong Leadership Institute. Her previous board appointments include the Toronto Police Services Board, the Canadian Association of Police Governance, the Ontario Task Force on Women and the Economy, and the Junior League of Toronto, where she served as President.
She has spoken at multiple United Nations convenings and global leadership forums, offering insight on entrepreneurship, economic inclusion, and the future of leadership. Nadine holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Honours from York University and has received numerous awards, including the United Nations Volunteer Award, the Harry Jerome Business Award, and the Certified General Accountants Businesswoman of the Year.
Nadine Spencer’s work operates at the intersection of strategy, equity, and influence. She is reshaping the future of leadership through strategy, visibility, and systems change.