Capital Current introduces people who have had an impact on the city.
Who is she?
Caroline Phillips is an Ottawa-based reporter, though she hesitates to call herself a journalist. After 30 years in traditional news, Phillips founded Caroline in the Capital, focused on covering community events and initiatives.
What is her background?
When Phillips was preparing to graduate from Carleton University’s journalism program in 1994, she did not have a job. A spontaneous trip to the Yukon, however, opened a door.
Phillips’ first reporting gig was an internship at the Klondike Sun, a newspaper in Dawson City, Yukon. She then spent five years at various Canadian publications before returning to the capital for a position at the Ottawa Sun.
The last publication Phillips worked for was the Ottawa Business Journal, where she found her niche in community reporting.
In February 2025, Phillips founded Caroline in the Capital, where she continues to tell community stories. The idea came after 11 local businesses offered to sponsor her.
“I felt valued, like people really wanted to support me,” Phillips said. “This past year has been the best year of my career.”
What is she known for in Ottawa?
Phillips is known for covering any local event she can, from fundraisers to summits to galas.
Her work has earned her a reputation for caring deeply about the Ottawa community, culminating in a Community Builder Award from United Way East Ontario in 2024.
She highlights individuals or organizations trying to make a positive change. For Phillips, the most important stories are those with a tangible impact.
One example is Jack’s Gala, a charity event named for Stittsville, Ont. resident Jack Laidlaw, a young boy with a rare genetic condition. “A story like that was really heartwarming for me because I really wanted to help them,” Phillips said.
Her latest claim to fame is Ottawa Made, a book she co-authored with radio host Sam Laprade. It describes inventions made in Ottawa, such as lacrosse sticks and instant mashed potatoes and noteworthy people from the city’s past.
What do people say about her?
In an Apartment 613 article discussing her Community Builder Award, United Way East Ontario called her a “beacon of community spirit.”
“For many years, she has highlighted hundreds of non-profits and charities in Ottawa using her writing and photography skills,” the article said.
Ottawa Business Journal reporter Mia Jensen said Phillips’ co-authored book, Ottawa Made, was published at a “pivotal time.”
Ottawa Life Magazine staff wrote, “Phillips’ expertise ensures the book is packed with rich details and compelling narratives.”
What’s a lesser-known fact about her?
Phillips was a volunteer Can Can dancer while she was working in the Yukon. As an entry-level reporter working far from home, Phillips said dancing was the best way to meet new people.
