Accelerating Action: How Natasha Koifman Is Championing Women In Business

As International Women’s Day 2025 approaches, Natasha Koifman, Founder and President of NKPR, stands as a powerful example of what it means to drive meaningful change. A self-made entrepreneur, Natasha built her agency from the ground up, creating a women-led workplace that champions leadership, growth, and opportunity.

Beyond business, her impact extends into philanthropy, advocacy, and even architecture—her namesake Natasha The Residences is a testament to her influence. As Chair of the Board for Artists for Peace and Justice, she has helped raise over $35 million for education in Haiti, proving that business success and social impact can go hand in hand.

In this conversation, Natasha shares her journey as a female founder, the importance of accelerating action for gender equality, and how she’s fostering the next generation of women leaders. —Noa Nichol

Your career has been built on storytelling and championing important causes. How do you see the role of storytelling in accelerating action for gender equality?

When I started NKPR over 20 years ago, it was because I wanted to be able to share stories of substance. Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to drive change. When we amplify the voices of women—sharing their successes, challenges, and perspectives—we inspire action and create meaningful conversations that lead to progress. Authentic storytelling, which is what the PR industry is grounded in, fosters connection and empathy, making issues like gender equality impossible to ignore. It’s through these narratives that we can challenge biases, shift perceptions and accelerate real, lasting change.

NKPR is a women-led agency, and you’ve created a culture that fosters leadership and growth. What are some key ways companies can better support and empower women in the workplace?

There’s a quote I love that says “Empowered women empower women” and I believe that to be completely true. Women in the workplace need to act as champions for each other, advocating for one another. It’s cliche to say, but when one woman wins, we all win. In terms of our agency, I believe that creating a supportive environment starts with representation at all levels—when women see other women in leadership, they know it’s possible for them too. Having strong mentors—both men and women—who actively champion and advocate for female talent can make all the difference in helping women step into leadership roles. At NKPR, I’ve seen firsthand how access to mentorship and opportunities fuels confidence, skill-building, career growth and long-term success. That’s why we prioritize a culture of empowerment—encouraging open dialogue, recognizing achievements, and providing continuous learning opportunities.

As a single mother and founder, you built NKPR from the ground up. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a female entrepreneur, and how did you overcome them?

I had to learn to embrace fear as a catalyst to change. When I decided to go off on my own and start my own agency, it was scary – I needed to not only succeed for myself, but for my son. But what I’ve learned is that fear generally pushes us to where we are supposed to be, and who we are supposed to be. Establishing NKPR as the agency that it is today came with its challenges—I had to prove myself, not just as a business owner but as a leader. But ultimately, I focused on authenticity – making decisions that were true to who I am and what I wanted my business to be. I stayed committed to delivering meaningful results for our clients, surrounding myself with a strong team and never shied away from taking calculated risks. I also learned that confidence comes from action—the more you push yourself outside your comfort zone, the more you realize what you’re capable of. Success is built on consistency, vision and the people you choose to have around you.

You’ve been recognized as one of Canada’s most powerful women in PR. What advice do you have for young women looking to break into leadership roles in male-dominated industries?

My advice to young women looking to break into leadership roles is to focus on preparation, persistence and building strong relationships. Social media fools us into thinking that success happens overnight. It doesn’t. It comes from hard work and consistency. Immerse yourself in your industry, stay curious and always be willing to learn. Seek out mentors who can offer guidance and support, and surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Most importantly, believe in your own potential and take initiative—leadership isn’t about a title, it’s about showing up, contributing, working hard (saying it again!) and making an impact. 

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is Accelerate Action. What does that mean to you, and what are the most urgent actions we need to take to create real change for women in business?

Accelerating action means moving beyond conversations and implementing real change. It’s about actively creating opportunities for women—whether through mentorship, funding for female entrepreneurs, or ensuring more women are in decision-making roles. We need to challenge outdated norms, push for greater representation, and foster a culture where women feel empowered to take up space and lead with confidence.

As Chair of the Board for Artists for Peace and Justice, you’ve helped raise millions for education in Haiti. How has philanthropy shaped your leadership style, and why is giving back so important to you?

My family immigrated to Canada when I was only three. We came here with nothing, and we received help from organizations on the ground which I’ve never forgotten. Experiencing firsthand the impact of community has shaped my entire approach to purpose-driven work, which is so foundational to who NKPR is. My role with APJ has shown me that true leadership is about creating opportunities for others and using your platform to drive meaningful change. I’m so proud to say that since inception, at APJ we’ve raised over $35M and helped 31,000 students a chance to go to school. Education has the power to uplift entire communities for generations. My hope is that through APJ’s work, we can empower children in Haiti to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.

You’ve been honored with your own namesake condominium project, Natasha The Residences. What does this milestone represent for you as a businesswoman and leader?

Natasha The Residences is the first female-named high-rise in Toronto, making it a groundbreaking moment in history. It’s incredibly humbling to not only collaborate with Lanterra Developments, but to have a namesake building in the heart of Toronto’s Cultural District that reflects two decades of building my business and career in the same neighbourhood. I remember moving into our offices on John Street when the area was up-and-coming. There was no TIFF Lightbox and no condos. It has been incredible to see the neighbourhood transform. This project reinforces my belief in pushing boundaries, embracing bold ideas and creating spaces that inspire. The design is also deeply personal—a reflection of my modern, monochromatic and mostly black style—blending fashion, design, and storytelling in a way that feels both timeless and uniquely me.

What advice would you give to women struggling with imposter syndrome or self-doubt in their careers?

You are in the room for a reason—never forget that. Self-doubt is normal, but don’t let it dictate your actions. Confidence is built through experience, so say yes to opportunities, even if they scare you. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and remind yourself of your accomplishments. Most importantly, reframe imposter syndrome as a sign that you’re growing—because if you’re not a little uncomfortable, you’re not pushing yourself enough.

What is one lesson or piece of wisdom you wish more women knew about leadership, success, or personal growth?

Leadership is about continuous growth—being open to learning, adapting and evolving. Success isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about collaboration, lifting others up and creating opportunities. Confidence comes with experience, and the more you step outside your comfort zone, the more capable you become.

Looking ahead, what’s next for you and NKPR, and how do you hope to continue making an impact for women in business and beyond?

At NKPR, we’re always evolving, finding new ways to tell meaningful stories and create impact. We’re focused on expanding our presence, supporting the next generation of female leaders and continuing to champion brands that align with our values. Looking ahead, I want to continue fostering opportunities for women in business, supporting brands that align with our values and finding ways to give back in a way that creates lasting change.