Originally from Bogota, Colombia, Esmeralda Rodriguez moved to Winnipeg in 2019 and then joined the WTC Winnipeg as a Trade Advisor. Her role is to help Manitoba businesses reach their corporate goals through obtaining strategic data, locating business opportunities, and connecting businesses with potential Canadian and international partners; as well as provide advisory services on issues such as export planning, market entry strategies and financing options.

She finished her International Business post-graduate program at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) and received her International Certification as a Trade Professional (CITP®, FIBP®). Before joining the WTC Winnipeg, Esmeralda worked for the United States Embassy in Colombia for ten years and was responsible for the transition of Immigrant Visa cases from Cuba and Venezuela to Guyana.

Esmeralda speaks Spanish, English and French.

Paul Keefe is a Business Advisor with the WTC Winnipeg. Once working as a personal trainer and later starting his own consulting business, he’s developed an ability to foster deep relationships, help individuals create clear goals and objectives, and offer them support every step of the way to seeing their ultimate success. Paul also possesses direct business knowledge and experience from starting his own company here in Manitoba.

Passionate about small businesses and entrepreneurship, Paul is here to help you get your business started and to see you succeed. He brings a high level of positive energy, empathy, and focus to all his interactions.

Paul loves all things health and fitness, reading, live music, visiting local coffee shops, craft beer, and anything outdoors!