Sunny M. Dai: Turning passion for pets and fashion into successful businesses

When Sunny M. Dai arrived in Halifax in 2016, she brought hope, ambition, and a vision for a new life in Canada. Her first role at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, strengthened her skills and connected her with people, but it was her journey as part of the Immigrant Women Entrepreneur Network (IWEN) that truly defined her path.

“IWEN gave me structure and clarity,” she says. “It helped me turn my ideas into action and build a network of supporters around me.”

Through mentorship, training, and a welcoming community of women who understood the immigrant experience, IWEN empowered Sunny to navigate everything from business regulations to marketing and finance with confidence.

 “IWEN reminded me that I didn’t have to do it all alone,” Sunny explains. “Having guidance and encouragement from women who had walked a similar path made all the difference.”

Today, Sunny proudly owns two flourishing businesses in Halifax: Petite Urban Pooch and Serre Ko Press On Nails.

Born from a lifelong love of small dogs, Petite Urban Pooch is a boutique daycare and grooming space exclusively for pups under 35 pounds.

“Since taking over the business in 2024, we’ve grown into more than a luxury daycare center,” Sunny says. “We’ve become a trusted community hub where every dog is cherished like family. Petite Urban Pooch is proudly serving families in the Halifax Region by offering a luxury dog daycare solution in the heart of North End Halifax.”

Her second business, Serre Ko, was first founded in Seoul in 2022 and is now based in Halifax. Inspired by her master’s degree in fashion from the UK, Sunny created a platform for high-end nail artistry that is accessible to women of all ages and backgrounds.

“While Petite Urban Pooch is about community and caring for families and their dogs, Serre Ko is about celebrating individuality and self-expression,” Sunny explains.

With ISANS’ support, Sunny has also been able to deepen her roots in the Halifax community.

“ISANS gave me the confidence to step forward,” she says. “They opened doors to local markets, networking events, and opportunities to showcase my work. That exposure gave my businesses visibility and credibility I never could have achieved alone.”

Her businesses have already achieved remarkable milestones: Petite Urban Pooch celebrated its 10-year anniversary, while Serre Ko was featured on an Amazon Prime series. But for Sunny, true success goes beyond recognition- it is measured by impact.

“Success for me is seeing customers smiles, creating meaningful work opportunities, support other immigrants, and give back to the community that welcomed me,” Sunny reflects.

Looking ahead, Sunny plans to expand both businesses with another branch for the daycare and Serre Ko through collaborations with local artists and eventually a dedicated store.

“Your background and experiences are not limitations; they are your strength. Believe in your vision and give yourself permission to grow into it.”