With an MA in English Literature and a BA in Psychology, Ratana began her career in India as a college lecturer.
She met and married her life-partner Arran Stephens in 1969 and moved to Canada, soon joining his then small, but growing vegetarian restaurant enterprise.
In 1984, she and Arran started Nature’s Path Foods with very little capital, out of the back of their restaurant.
As Co-CEO, Ratana is often described as the “heart” of the company and is at the center of every development. With acumen and practicality, she has helped lead and inspire significant successful growth. In 2009, Ratana was recognized with the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award along with several other awards for community service.
Ratana and Arran are parents of three daughters and a son, who are passionately involved in various aspects of the enterprise.
A role model for entrepreneurial women, Ratana is committed to opportunities that meet the needs of people and planet.