TFI Resident Alumna
Elena Conte graduated from Sheridan College’s Fashion Technique and Design program in 1992. After holding various positions within the fashion industry, retail management, public relations, and graphic design, Conte formed a solid foundation in many different facets of business.
In 1999, she started her own business, and joined the TFI where she was a Resident for three years. From 1999 to 2005, Elena specialized in a contemporary women’s sportswear line, and her collections were available in boutiques across Canada.
Elena attributed her success to the nurturing, cooperative atmosphere of the TFI, and was able to benefit from the business advice and access to production equipment and facilities. “It’s very challenging to work independently in such a competitive field,” she says. “I would highly recommend the TFI’s Resident Program to any new entrepreneur -- the creative environment there is very positive.”
Seeking new experiences and challenges, in 2005, Conte made a transition to the home textile business, joining Joseph Mimran & Associates, a company that develops private label products for one of Canada’s major retailers, Loblaw Companies Limited.
Her broad knowledge of textiles, production management skills, and design sensibility, paved the way for her new position as Product Developer for the President’s Choice Brand of bed and bath home products. She currently manages the home textile team at JM&A, which designs and develops the entire assortment of the PC brand and non-branded home textiles and accessories for various categories including bath, rugs, laundry/closet, kitchen and table top linens, décor and bedding.
