Lessons from the Climb: What Scaling an Independent Agency Has Really Taught Me

When 1Milk2Sugars was named one of Canada’s Fastest-Growing Companies by The Globe and Mail’s Report on Business (for the second time!) it felt like a full-circle moment. For a proudly independent agency founded in Québec, one of only 12% of companies on the list from the province, this recognition represents more than numbers. It’s validation that our way of building, rooted in creativity, culture, and connection, works.

For me, it’s also deeply personal.

As a female founder of East Indian descent, I’ve often been one of few (if any) in the room. In Canada, women hold majority ownership in less than 20% of small and medium enterprises. So growing 1Milk2Sugars has never been just about business metrics; it’s been about representation. It’s been about proving that diversity in leadership, perspective, and values doesn’t just belong in the room, it can actually redefine the industry standard.

Here’s what the climb has taught me so far.

The Good

Growth is exhilarating. Watching a handful of passionate people evolve into nearly 60 Sugars across two countries has been proof that vision, grit, and trust can defy the odds. Every campaign launched, every creative breakthrough, every client milestone reminds me that success isn’t a single summit, it’s a series of small, determined climbs.

The Bad

Scaling is rarely linear. It means making tough calls without perfect information, stretching resources thin, and learning to lead through uncertainty. There are moments when the pace feels relentless, ambition races ahead of infrastructure, and you have to build while in motion.

The Ugly

Behind every “overnight success” are years of unseen sacrifices. Entrepreneurship demands resilience, especially when you’re also navigating the responsibility of representation. There’s a quiet pressure to succeed not only for yourself, but for everyone watching who might see their own possibility reflected in your path.

Still, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

This recognition isn’t just about revenue or rankings, it’s a reflection of what’s possible when independent thinking meets unwavering purpose. It’s proof that agencies led by diverse voices can stand proudly among Canada’s best and help shape the future of this industry.

To our team, our clients, and our community: thank you for believing in what we’re building. The climb continues, and the view keeps getting better.