YWCA Vancouver Recognizes Ratana Stephens For Achievements In Community And Workplace.

Ratana Stephens of Nature’s Path Named Woman of Distinction

Richmond, BC (June 4, 2009) – Nature’s Path Foods’ Chief Operating Officer and Co-founder Ratana Stephens has been named YWCA Vancouver’s Woman of Distinction for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. The awards honor, encourage and recognize women whose activities and achievements contribute to the health and future of the community they live and work in, as well as businesses and organizations that support the diverse needs of their employees.

A true trailblazer in both business and the eco-movement, Ratana has co-founded and operated two successful, sustainability-directed companies. After beginning her career as a lecturer in India, Ratana moved to Canada and founded both a vegetarian restaurant and Nature’s Path Foods, which has become the number one organic cereal manufacturer in North America. A role model for entrepreneurial women, Ratana is committed to opportunities that meet the needs of people as well as the planet.

"I am so humbled that the YWCA has bestowed this great honor upon me, and I couldn’t have made this journey without the encouragement and support of my family and the people at Nature’s Path,” said Ratana. “We at Nature’s Path feel that as individuals and organizations we have a responsibility to support others – even in a small way – and I am honored to be in the company of the other Women of Distinction and the wonderful YWCA organization, all of which are working towards this goal.”

Founded more than 100 years ago, YWCA Vancouver is dedicating to building better futures for women and their families through advocacy and integrated services. The non-profit is committed to fostering economic independence, wellness and equal opportunities, and continues to develop and maintain programs and services for the health of Vancouver community. Since 1984, YWCA Vancouver has honored more than 200 deserving women and workplaces with the Women of Distinction Award.

Founded in 1985, Nature’s Path Foods operates its headquarters in Richmond, B.C., Canada and employs more than 350 people at its five facilities throughout Canada and the U.S. The privately held, family owned company produces breakfast foods, snacks and pasta that are sold in specialty foods stores and national retailers in 42 countries around the world. The company’s innovative brands include Nature’s Path®, Flax Plus, EnviroKidz® and Optimum®.