Written by Matthew Celestial

As we move further into 2025, Statement Worldwide continues to stand at the intersection of innovation, resilience and strategic growth. The economic climate presents undeniable challenges—sociopolitical shifts, trade complexities and the evolving state of the Canadian economy require businesses to adapt, pivot and push forward with intention.

Yet, despite these external pressures, Statement Worldwide is experiencing a period of evolution and significant expansion. While our initial intention was to respond to these shifts, we have proactively sought opportunities, investing in new ways to engage with consumers and strengthening the foundation of our ecosystem to ensure long-term success.

CREATING IMMERSIVE WORLDS IN CONSUMER PRODUCTS

One of the most exciting developments within our ecosystem is the continued success of Matte Equation. We are advancing our three-product portfolio—the Quantum Mud Mask, Function Flow Cleanser, and Infinite Dimensions Moisturizer—as we refine our identity as a performance-driven wellness skincare brand specializing in fitness recovery, stress relief and better sleep.

This year, we have deepened our commitment to immersive brand storytelling, pushing the boundaries of how a skincare brand can connect with its audience. This began with this month’s campaign, The Ache of Almost, an immersive audio skincare journey designed to transform skincare from a routine into a deeply personal ritual. These experiences shift skincare from being a habit to an intentional, emotional and communal practice, reinforcing our mission to create products that feel deeply personal.

As we continue to expand, Matte Equation is exploring new partnerships, refining product innovation and expanding our retail footprint to better serve our growing audience. Expect to see thoughtfully curated experiences, expanded distribution channels and a stronger local retail presence in the months ahead.

EXPANDING MEDIA VENTURES TO CONNECT CONSUMERS

With digital spaces becoming increasingly saturated, authentic connection is more valuable than ever. Statement Worldwide is doubling down on its commitment to building media properties that engage, inform and inspire. We have a deep commitment to launching outlets that connect with audiences worldwide. As well, we will continue to experiment with new ways of storytelling and engagement.

This means launching a series of media brands, each catering to different aspects of our audiences' lives while ensuring that every brand aligns with enhancing daily living and fostering meaningful conversations.

Recently, we launched POP! Canada, an entertainment and cultural media brand amplifying the voices of Canadian artists, filmmakers, musicians and storytellers. Moving into March, we will be launching:

The Wellness Edit – Our in-house health and well-being media publication.
Next Vote – A platform dedicated to youth political engagement in Canada.
The Good Balance – A personal finance publication focused on health and wellness.
Yonge Times – A Toronto-based lifestyle and events media brand.

Looking ahead, our focus remains on strategic content development, audience engagement and media partnerships, ensuring these properties drive meaningful impact while reinforcing the broader Statement Worldwide ecosystem.

A CONNECTED ECOSYSTEM FOR GROWTH

We’re in a unique position. We go beyond building brands. We’re interested in building an interconnected ecosystem. The future of business is collaborative, cross-functional and intentionally structured, and that is precisely the framework we are developing.

Each of our business units—Matte Equation, Statement Strategies, Statement Animation, Statement Media Network and more—play a role in strengthening the entire organization. We are building a model where:

Consumer brands and wellness intersect with media and culture.
Consumer brands leverage immersive storytelling and strategic positioning to build a lasting impact.
Consumer brands are driven by innovation, fueled by cross-functional collaboration across industries.

This interconnected approach ensures that as one division grows, the entire ecosystem benefits, reinforcing our vision for sustainable, long-term expansion.

This also means adopting an agile leadership approach to our work. Over the past few months, I’ve worked on the frontlines with clients and partners, taking on projects across app development, product design, creative strategy and operational management, all to ensure lean operations and agile decision-making.

A BETTER CANADA: ADVOCATING FOR BUSINESS GROWTH & GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

While Statement Worldwide is committed to driving its own success, we recognize that systemic change requires strategic partnerships and advocacy.

This year, I am prioritizing direct engagement with all levels of government to advocate for policies and initiatives that support Canadian businesses, foster innovation, and create opportunities for Canadians to thrive.

OUR KEY AREAS OF FOCUS INCLUDE:

Expanding government-backed initiatives for independent businesses, particularly those navigating supply chain and trade challenges, and increasing productivity within Canada.
Strengthening Canada’s reputation as a hub for innovation and brand incubation.
Strategically growing our talent base by working with our federal government to develop on-the-ground solutions that attract and retain top-tier talent in Canada.
Advocating for robust education systems at the provincial level, ensuring we develop a strong, future-ready workforce.
Strengthening relations with Quebec, driving French-language learning initiatives and creating interconnected opportunities across all provinces.
Meeting with local governments, including the Region of Durham and the Town of Whitby, to push for greater support for businesses at the community level. As more people work remotely and freelance, it is critical that local economies adapt and provide resources for modern business structures.
Engaging directly with CBC's President & CEO to advocate for a renewed push for Canadian-content creation, reinforcing the need for strong domestic media representation in an increasingly globalized world.
Encouraging investment in creative industries that drive economic and cultural value for Canadians and our growing talent base.
Designing an ecosystem within Statement Worldwide that creates jobs, grows talent and positions Canadians as global leaders.

I believe that private sector innovation and government collaboration must work hand in hand to create a thriving economic landscape. As we push for rapid growth in 2025, we are also pushing for the infrastructure that enables businesses like ours to continue making an impact.

THE ROAD AHEAD

The road ahead is ambitious. However, Statement Worldwide has never been about playing it safe. This year, we are embracing growth, evolution and strategic risk-taking to expand our reach, strengthen our brands and solidify our position as a leading Canadian brand incubator.

To our partners, supporters, and communities who continue to believe in our vision—thank you. Your engagement fuels our drive to build, create and lead with purpose.

Matthew Celestial

President & CEO