When a woman like Elizabeth Kilvert follows her passion, good things happen. A former public servant with Environment Canada, Elizabeth discovered in 2012 that what she really wanted wasn't more time in an office — it was to build a sustainable and ethical business based on her love of food and travel. Within two months of leaving her government position, she opened her doors and The Unrefined Olive was born.

"Food and travel are my passion, but food has to be ethical, delicious, nutritious, sustainable and accessible. It has to be fair to everyone, from the farmer to the shop owner."

Tapping into Ottawa's food culture, Elizabeth has expanded to two locations, offering olive oils and balsamic vinegars that are not like anything available elsewhere — they bring the best the world has to offer to everyone's kitchen.

"If people know you're doing the right thing with the right intentions, and you provide information and education, you'll be received with open arms."

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By: Distinctive Women

January 01, 2016 — BirdDog Design Collaborator