Kiirsten May

(she/her)

Kiirsten May is the co-owner at UpHouse Inc., a nationally recognized marketing and public relations agency based in Winnipeg. As an award-winning copywriter and brand strategist, Kiirsten brings over 15 years of experience helping organizations across sectors – including non-profit, healthcare, agriculture, education and the arts – build powerful, purpose-driven brands.

In 2017, she and Alex Varricchio co-founded UpHouse with the mission to elevate in-house marketing teams through collaboration, creativity and inclusive practices. The firm has earned numerous industry accolades and achieved B Corporation certification, underscoring its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. She is also a strong advocate for supplier diversity, with UpHouse proudly certified by the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC).

Kiirsten and Alex were finalist for EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year award in the Prairies Region, which recognized UpHouse’s rapid growth and success.

Kiirsten is the co-author of The Proximity Paradox, a strategic marketing guide that explores how stepping back from day-to-day execution can spark deeper innovation. She is a frequent speaker on topics related to storytelling, brand purpose and social impact. She also serves as co-chair of B Local Manitoba, on the board of directors for Easter Seals Canada and on a curriculum advisory committee for Red River College Polytech.

Kiirsten’s leadership is marked by a deep dedication to values-driven business, inclusive growth and community engagement.