Charmain Emerson is a powerhouse in marketing and communications, with a career spanning journalism, PR, and brand strategy across industries like finance, governance, DEI, education, and consumer goods. As the founder of Cultured Communications and Cultured Collections, she champions diverse storytelling. She also co-founded the Black Opportunity Fund, a national charitable initiative tackling systemic discrimination and economic barriers for Black communities in Canada.
After nearly a decade running her PR agency and gaining invaluable experience at a global fashion brand under an inspiring female leader, Charmain returned to her independent roots. With Cultured Communications, she amplifies diverse voices, ensuring brands and organizations tell stories that truly resonate.
During the pandemic, she co-founded the Black Opportunity Fund alongside Ray Williams and other esteemed Black professionals. The initiative pools resources for grants and loans, fueling Black entrepreneurship, education, health, and housing. With robust community and financial institution support, Charmain takes immense pride in the Fund’s rapid success and the collective impact behind it.
We met Charmain at her favorite Italian spot, Terroni Queen West, right next to our Meg boutique. Over delicious food and conversation, she styled some of her most-loved Meg pieces. Her warmth and elegance brought our designs to life, embodying our shared love for timeless craftsmanship.
HOME WORK WITH CHARMAIN EMERSON
MEG: First off, happy 60th! What excites you most about this new chapter?
CHARMAIN: My greatest joy comes from my husband and children. Their unwavering love allows me to show up as my full, authentic self. At this stage, I’ve learned that true fulfillment comes from the relationships we nurture, not just career milestones. If you don’t have love and trust in your inner circle, nothing else matters.
I’m also thrilled about my latest venture, Cultured Collections, a boutique wholesale fashion agency specializing in accessories. Every brand I work with is one I genuinely adore, and telling their stories fuels my passion. At 60, I’m also embracing the physical changes that come with age—and wearing Meg certainly makes it more fun! (cheeky laugh)
Charmain is wearing Erin Knight Designs, a jewelry line her agency represents, highlighting vintage-inspired pieces curated from around the world.
M: Describe your style in three words, and how has Meg complemented it?
C: Funky, spirited, and simple. I love bold, unique pieces that reflect my personality without being fussy. I discovered Meg 20 years ago, and it was a game changer. Her designs are effortlessly cool—never trendy, just timeless. Meg’s clothes let me have fun with fashion while staying true to my style.
M: What advice do you have for women navigating success?
C: Be kind – to yourself first, then to others. Kindness fosters meaningful connections. Stay open-minded – new opportunities and perspectives lead to growth. Persevere – a “no” often means “not right now.” Keep pushing forward. Own your confidence – believe in yourself, because self-assurance is just as crucial as skill.
M: Outside of work, what are your passions?
C: Fashion is my first love, and I feel lucky to work in the industry. Fitness is a close second—staying active has helped me embrace every stage of life. I also love traveling, quality time with my family, and deep friendships. Giving back is essential, too, which is why I co-founded the Black Opportunity Fund. We’ve made incredible strides, and our next major focus is housing accessibility across Canada. Learn more.
M: Where can people connect with you?
C: Visit my website Cultured Collections, or find me on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram (@CharmainEmerson). For business inquiries, email me at charmain@culturedcollections.ca.
M: Favorite Meg piece from the shoot?
C: The Airflow Black Liquid Dress! The moment I put it on, I felt powerful, sexy, and confident—it was a transformative moment. The Leopard Set (Ponte Tee, Lunes Pant, and Boyfriend Vest in Leopard) was another favorite. It felt like a modern power suit—effortlessly chic and incredibly comfortable.
M: Any must-haves from the Spring/Summer '25 collection?
C: Absolutely! The Renegado Drawstring Top, the 80s Set (80s Tee & 80s Jogger), and the V-neck Lightweight Flowy Dress (It Dress 2.0) capture my funky yet effortless vibe perfectly.
Celebrating inspiring women like Charmain is at the heart of what we do. Stay tuned for more Friends of Meg stories, and shop many of her favorite looks in New Arrivals.
Photography by Rhiannon Pinarreta.