Founder Story
Where Winnie's love for the game became something bigger
In tennis, a let gives you another chance at the point. In life, Winnie learned what it meant to fight for one.
She fell in love with tennis at 10 years old – the court becoming her outlet, her language, and her place of peace. That peace was shattered after a life-altering car accident. Recovery demanded more than physical rehabilitation, it required rebuilding trust in her body again and facing the anxiety of not knowing if she’d ever return to the court. While others chased rankings, Winnie held onto the sport through patience, stillness, and an unshakable belief she’d find her way back.
And she did. Stronger and more grounded. Competing in ITF Masters tournaments and training with top coaches across Europe and Canada, including at the Justine Henin Academy, Winnie rediscovered tennis not as pursuit of perfection, but as a practice of purpose. Even off the court, Winnie gave back by volunteering and working with Tennis BC and the Stanley Park Open, helping young players find their footing.
Then, at 24, she lost her father to cancer, yet another turning point where grief reshaped her definition of success. It pushed her to live with intention, to align her work with purpose, and create something that could offer others the kind of support and second chance she once needed.
All of this let to ALET.
ALET was born from that intention. Winnie founded ALET Apparel as a way to bring her two worlds together: her deep love for tennis and her desire to create something meaningful. Drawing from her background in healthcare and nine years of hands-on entrepreneurship, she built a brand grounded in performance, purpose, and authenticity. A self-proclaimed fabric nerd, she designs pieces that marry function and form: built for performance on the court, yet refined with a timeless aesthetic that reflects an athlete’s discipline and focus.
But the heart of ALET lives beyond the clothing itself. It exists to serve the next generation of players - those with talent, drive, and heart, but without the financial support or access they need to thrive. Winnie knows that reality firsthand. That’s why a portion of ALET’s profits is reinvested into supporting up-and-coming athletes who face similar barriers. Whether it’s helping cover tournament travel, training, or coaching, ALET is committed to leveling the playing field.
ALET is built on resilience, purpose, and the belief that everyone deserves a shot at the game they love. ALET was shaped by her journey and now it continues through yours.
