As founder of The Publishing Pad, Chisom Ezeh (MBA'22) is empowering authors to share their stories and their voices with the world.

Since its founding in 2022, the award-winning and Canadian-based publishing company has grown to become a one-stop shop for authors, providing comprehensive services that take a manuscript from its early draft to a published book sold in stores.

Along with her team of remote staff, Chisom offers coaching, editing, formatting, design, marketing, and production services. The process is tailored to the individual needs of each author to bring their project to life, at any stage.

Throughout her entrepreneurial journey, Chisom has helped publish over 200 books worldwide ranging from self-help to fiction novels, and more. In 2024, she was recognized as one of Canada's Top 100 Black Women to Watch and as the 2024 Youth Entrepreneur of the Year from the Black Business Initiative (BBI) for her impactful work.

But Chisom's business journey has come with many challenges and rejections. She says it has also been a lesson in finding confidence in her own voice, as she works to change industry biases and break barriers for authors, especially underrepresented authors.

"As a writer, I've published a lot of my own books, but they were all written in pennames," says Chisom.

"Looking back, I wish I had written under my real name. Now I'm working on correcting the perception of Black authors in this industry. It's a journey, but we're getting there."

Originally from Nigeria and now living with her family in Saint John, N.B., Chisom says business and entrepreneurship have always been part of her life. After co-investing in a business in Nigeria that later faced significant financial hardship, Chisom decided to draw on her background in communications and love for writing to embark on her own publishing journey.

"I reached out to my friends who had successfully published their books on global platforms for guidance on starting my publishing journey. They taught me the ropes and helped me get started."

This experience fuelled her passion for publishing.

After moving to Canada in 2021 to pursue a master of business administration at UNB Saint John, she took the leap and officially launched The Publishing Pad after graduation.

Chisom says she is very grateful for the people and community who have helped her build confidence as an author and entrepreneur. As she works towards her business goals for 2025, she's also excited to spend time promoting the business and celebrating success.

"I had to get myself to the point where I had the courage to step forward and be proud to be the face of The Publishing Pad. It hasn't been easy; I've faced many rejections. But I have a strong community who believe so much in me that I too have come to believe deeply in myself."

In two short years, Chisom has led the business through many special milestones. In January, The Publishing Pad released its first Spanish-language book, a project that came to life through the addition of translation services. They also recently received the Canadian Choice Award for Publishing in Saint John.

"Our clients nominated us for this award. To be recognized for our work is truly an honour; receiving feedback from our authors especially has been so rewarding."

Though The Publishing Pad started with a strong clientele in the U.S., Chisom says she is now attracting Canadians. In 2024, they worked with four Canadian authors, a milestone that she's especially proud of as she continues to work on growing her local presence.

The next big project? Audiobook recording services – with a goal to launch by the end of the year.

"I started by offering only editing, but The Publishing Pad has evolved into a full-scale book publishing services company offering different services to authors. We are constantly evolving based on industry trends and our authors' needs. It's exciting to see our business grow and expand."

With much to look forward to for The Publishing Pad, Chisom remains committed to helping authors share their stories with the world and building an industry where representation matters.

"It's not just about the book for me, it's also about the mindset of the author. This is their story and I want to make sure they are confident in owning and sharing it."