OUR STORY
The origin of our company's name helps define who we are, where we come from, and sets the vision for our future.
Humble Beginnings
The philosophy of Henryk Branding Co. started long before our Founder and Principal was even a thought...
Henryk Joseph Slawek was a talented architect who moved to Canada in the mid-nineteen fifties to pursue a better life for his family. A Polish immigrant educated in Manchester, England, Henryk was a gifted creative with a modern design aesthetic focused on creating open, welcoming spaces. His impeccable taste for simplicity and clean lines can only be described as ahead of his time.
The idea for Henryk Branding Co. is rooted in the principles of welcoming, simplicity, and high-quality work. We approach each client portfolio with the same rigour, dedication, and attention to detail that Henryk took throughout his career as an architect. Our love for the clean and modern is rooted in all that we do. We take care to ensure each client receives a finished product that enhances their vision and exceeds their expectation.
We pride ourselves not only in helping our clients deliver exceptional brand experiences, but ensuring they receive the best brand experience from our company as well. We take a unique approach to helping each client uncover their authentic brand and true corporate narrative. Throughout our process, clients receive thoughtful attention, unbounded creativity, timely communication, and precise execution.
Henryk Branding Co.'s approach, our practice, and our experience delivery are unmatched by any other branding company in Western Canada.
Carina A. Ludgate, Founder and Brand Strategist
With nearly fifteen years of experience in brand strategy and communications, Carina works closely with founders, executives, and leadership teams to clarify positioning, strengthen strategic messaging, and build brands with lasting credibility.
Her work spans public institutions, entrepreneurial ventures, and growing organizations, giving her a broad understanding of how brands operate within complex environments and evolving stakeholder expectations. Carina is known for her thoughtful, detail-oriented approach and her ability to translate complex ideas into clear, effective brand strategy.
In addition to her work with clients, Carina serves as a sessional instructor in MacEwan University’s Bachelor of Communication Studies program, where she teaches media relations, advanced strategic communications, and business writing. She is also completing a Master of Arts in Communications and Technology at the University of Alberta, where her research examines brand loyalty and the psychological impact of messaging.
Carina holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Alberta and a Bachelor of Communication Studies from MacEwan University. She is conversationally bilingual and committed to mentoring emerging leaders through initiatives such as the InterVivos Mentorship Society and the Peter Lougheed School of Leadership.
Outside of her professional work, Carina is a lululemon Legacy Ambassador who enjoys staying active, reading widely, and spending time outdoors.
