Executive

Monika Wang, President
aged 7. Her efforts to balance a demanding career with family life and community service are driven by her passion to make a meaningful difference wherever she can.

Sam Sanderson, Vice President

Filip Hrga, Past President
Filip is an Associate Lawyer working at Cox & Palmer. Filip received his education and training in Ottawa where he attended law school and then worked as an associate lawyer at a mid-size law firm. Filip is a strong advocate for his clients, whether it’s negotiating settlements or contracts. Filip has assisted clients on the sale and purchase of businesses large and small. When he’s not in the office, Filip enjoys exploring all the natural beauty that Prince Edward Island has to offer. Filip also likes to put his negotiating skills to the test by playing strategy and board games with his family and friends.

Doug Smith, Treasurer
Doug has been the proud treasurer and board member of the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce since 2022. Doug was born and raised in Hunter River and lives in Summerside with his girlfriend and two young children. Doug works at the Provincial Credit Union in Kensington, where he’s an Account Associate for the Business Service Department specializing in commercial loans. When Doug isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his family and playing sports, mostly basketball, golf and harness racing.

Melanie Schmidt, Secretary
Melanie Schmidt has been the RBC Summerside Branch Manager for the last 3 years and is excited to serve her second year as a GSCC chamber director. Melanie’s passion and commitment to customer service has allowed her to serve and provide financial advice to many clients in the banking industry for over 20 years. Having owned and operated two small businesses in a tourism market she understands and has a soft spot for the entrepreneurial spirit. She sits on the RBC Atlantic Women’s ERG. Melanie and her husband, CFW “came from away” and moved to PEI from Ontario in October of 2020. She loves spending time in her garden, and exploring new island adventures. While she is “from away” she likes to say she is IHN “I’m Here Now” and says that moving to PEI was the best decision they could have ever made.
Directors

Brian Ramsay
Brian Ramsay is a dedicated professional with a diverse background, having graduated from Acadia University with a BBA in Information Systems. His career includes experience in banking, financial planning, customer experience management, business sales, and car sales, with roles at the Bank of Nova Scotia, Lord & Ramsay Limited, Money Concepts, Summerside Storm, VR Business Brokers, and Summerside Toyota. Active in his community, Brian has also served on the boards of Downtown Summerside Inc., and Harbourfront Theatre. He also shares a passion for harness racing, currently co-owning three Standardbred horses. Brian has been happily married to his wife Sonya for 36 years.

Spencer Gallant
Spencer is the President of World Wide Websites, where he and his team use strategic design paired with modern technology to help businesses with web solutions on PEI and beyond. He holds diplomas in Business Administration and Project Management, and in his free time he enjoys backcountry camping, hiking, biking, and disc golf.

Hesham Elsayad
With over a decade of experience in the hospitality and tourism industries, Hesham has worked in various roles, from a tour guide in Egypt to his current position as Accommodations Manager at Slemon Park Hotel & Conference Centre. He holds a Master’s degree in Egyptology and several professional certifications. Hesham has also been an active community member, serving on local committees and as a Board Member for Quality Tourism Services.

Jennifer Waugh
With a decade of experience in corporate media, Jennifer transitioned into digital media, founding JW Media. She specializes in digital marketing, lead generation, and online training. Now serving as Director of Operations at HMS Office Solutions, she combines a data-driven approach with creative, community-first marketing strategies.

Derek Nicholson
Derek Nicholson, a seasoned group insurance advisor from Prince Edward Island, brings over 25 years of experience in health, life insurance, and investment solutions. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top Producers in 2023, Derek has earned numerous awards, including the Sales and Service Excellence Award in 2004. He is also the Shelterbox ambassador for PEI and operates Nicholson Group with his family.

Jesse Knox
Jesse is a CPA and Senior Manager at Doane Grant Thornton in Summerside, with more than 8 years of experience in assurance services, including audits, financial reporting, and tax compliance. Passionate about supporting the local business community, Jesse looks forward to helping businesses grow and connecting them with valuable networks as a member of the GSCC Board.