YOUR GATEWAY TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP
startGBC Alumni Showcase
A celebration of talent, innovation and entrepreneurship from the George Brown community.
Meet our entrepreneurs.
Learn more about our alumni entrepreneurs.
startGBC has an incredible network of talented entrepreneurs. Read more about them below.
Are you an alumni of George Brown College? Do you operate your own business? Apply to join the showcase below.
Tina Todaro (Lady K)
Luis Padilla
Quest Atkinson
Livia Tabnor
Paul Rowan
Emefa Kuadey
Lucas Takashi
Lizelle Tucci
Amy Symington
Joshua Hyman
Mark Miller
Navid Momeni
Jeremy Wang
Katie Wilson
Adunni Rufai
Brandon Jones
Lesley Hampton
Paige Burchell
Alanna Fleischer
Janelle Marpa
Samantha McAdams
Brian Cheng
Oganalp Canatan
Aisha Addo
Ramkumar Arunamoorthy
Annissa Rodriguez
Diana Coatsworth
Dymika Harte
Alex Rushdy
Beckee Kavanagh
Eleonora Caldato
Erin Gamelin
Sarah Dougall
Jesse Thompson
Kim Drosdick
Fidel Pena
Ashley Kwong
Madhur Tyagi
Dom Mazzuca
Maria Gabrentina
Bruce Lee
John Baker
Mutiat Olaniyan
Angela Grant Buechner
Laura Harris
Nikole Goncalves
Maryanne McMullen
Laura Roppa
Francis Luta
Monah Water
Janine Kwok
Wes Grove
Katherine Cabrera Velasquez
Adam Bartman
Daniel Janetos
Vimal
Doina Oncel
Hammad Fasih
Karen Barbalat
Justine Apple
Jo Stewart
Zhorrah Grant
Stephanie Duong
Chris Palivan
Dan Perdue
Lilia Costa
Will Tennyson
Megan Ernst
Alberto Richards
Idil Asik
Tom Cordeiro
Lolita Richards
Ryan Bornstein
Stephanie Cole
Brian Almeida
Darren Sampson
Halley Requena-Silva
Caitlin Legere
Suzanne Crudden
Betsy Campos
Salma Nadaf
Sarah Power
Caylan McMullan
Carey Pearson
Charisse Mendoza
Lady Killa Airsoft Co.
Tina Todaro (Lady K)
Tina Todaro
Lady Killa Airsoft Co.
Community Worker program, 2017
Founded 2 years ago, Lady Killa Airsoft Co. is a brand, within the Airsoft and Tactical Industry, that aims to provide Airsoft players with quality, long-lasting, and eye-catching gear and accessories, handmade and customized to the players preference.
“Never get discouraged. Entrepreneurship is a roller-coaster but is ultimately a perfect way to creatively express yourself, while being in control of your businesses decisions.” – Tina Todaro
Supramorphous
Luis Padilla
Luis Padilla
Supramorphous
Fashion Techniques and Design, 2017
Supramorphous is an inclusive fashion label created in 2017.
Made with sustainable practices and natural fibres of the highest quality textiles. Designed by a forward-thinking duo, Ana Carpio and Luis Padilla fusion product and fashion design.
The brand seeks to create a connection between nature and the human being that is constantly evolving through the aesthetics of design that is expressed in each collection. The brand’s collections aim to break stereotypes that shape more open-minded persons who enjoy being part of modern society.”
“Your future is now, create with values and evolve.”- Luis Padilla
COCO XO Chocolate
Quest Atkinson
Quest Atkinson
COCO XO Chocolate
Professional Chocolatier Certificate, 2019
Quest has always had an inclination towards chocolate. Being caught countless times over the years sneaking away chocolate and giggling, she decided study this decadent “food of the gods” and earned a Professional Chocolatier Certificate at George Brown. Quest gets intense enjoyment in preparing tasty treats for others to savor. Most of her unique products are the result of happy collaborations with regulars, for custom orders. As someone who’s had a lifelong struggle with anxiety and depression, Quest started this business with the hope of creating happy moments for others. So naturally, love is at the core COCO XO.
“Make these things your non-negotiables: learn the art of self-forgiveness, find a loved one to support and anchor you, have trust in the journey. ??” – Quest Atkinson
Umbra
Paul Rowan
Paul Rowan
Umbra
Graphic design, 1974
Based in Toronto, Canada, Umbra (Latin for “shade”), has become a global leader in product design and currently distributes in over 120 countries across the world with offices in Europe, Canada, the United States, Brazil, and China.
Umbra was born out of passion for original design and the desire to create products for every home. At Umbra, our team of international designers brings thought and creativity into everyday items. Driven by innovation, we pull inspiration from the global marketplace, in order to push boundaries in our approach to original design.
“Have a strategy but let accidents happen.” – Paul Rowan
israella KOBLA
Emefa Kuadey
Emefa Kuadey
israella KOBLA
Fashion Techniques and Design – 2019 Graduate
Launched in 2019 by British born Ghanaian designer Emefa Kuadey, the women’s ready-to-wear clothing and accessories brand redefines minimalism through structure and bold femininity. israella KOBLA was created for the confident woman with a distinct sense of style. She stands out, effortlessly.
Inspiration for the Toronto based brand comes from a juxtaposition of the designer’s interests; fashion and a past life as a civil engineer. israella KOBLA pieces highlight an appreciation for architecture and timeless design. Ultimately, the goal is to redefine the way we look at minimalism and modern fashion.
“Get comfortable talking about your business or project – you never know who might be interested or able to help you further your venture.” – Emefa Kuadey
13AM Games
Lucas Takashi
Lucas Takashi
13AM Games
Game Programming, 2014
13AM Games is a game development studio based in Toronto, known for creating high-quality action and multiplayer titles.
“Be ready to make sacrifices, but if make sure to enjoy the ride, everything will pay off.” – Lucas Takashi
A Mindful Collective & LIZELLE MARPA TUCCI
Lizelle Tucci
Lizelle Tucci
A Mindful Collective & LIZELLE MARPA TUCCI
Registered Dental Hygienist, 1996
A Mindful Collective
Founded by Janelle Marpa of House of Marpa, Lizelle Marpa Tucci, author and wellness educator (IG) @l.marpatucci.author, Kiki Athanas of MEbyKiki, and Ashley Parker of The Kindness Practice; we are four mindful entrepreneurs who crossed paths in our shared passion for mindfulness as a way to navigate the stressful and overwhelming demands of everyday life. Our goal; get you curious AF about mindfulness. We swear by the practice because it has CHANGED our lives, and now we’re ready to show you how YOU can use it to slowly transform the way you think and the way you live – all for the better!
With mindfulness at the heart of all we do, we provide education in a supportive space to begin and/or enrich an existing mindfulness practice. Our vision is to build a community of mindful mavens to support each other in the mission to live more mindfully; bringing meditation, positivity, manifestation and self kindness into the mainstream through premium-curated experiences we know you will love.
LIZELLE MARPA TUCCI
Lizelle is a mother of three young boys, and live north of Toronto. She has been a health care educator for over fifteen years and a dedicated lifelong learner.
Lizelle started a doctorate of distance education with Athabasca University and felt overwhelmed with studies, work, and family life. She discovered the stress-reducing benefits of mindfulness and mindfulness meditation, reminding me to pause and take a breath!
She meditates with her sons daily and has noticed how this has reduced their anxiety. She has found that a regular practice allows her to pause, opening the floor to heartfelt conversations with her boys that have improved their resiliency and overall well-being.
This experience inspired her to write and self-publish a children’s book based on mindfulness. She hopes that her book will help parents experience the benefits of mindfulness and mindfulness meditation with their child.
As a Dental Hygiene practitioner and educator, her discovery and practice of mindfulness and meditation has helped her understand how self-care is key to providing care for patients, managing workplace stress, and personal relationships!
She has a passion for online learning allowing access to education anytime and anywhere! Through her online and blended courses, she hopes to share her knowledge and experience with those who are curious about how mindfulness can impact their personal and professional lives.
“Be of service to others!” – Lizelle Tucci
Amelia Eats
Amy Symington
Amy Symington
Amelia Eats
Culinary Management Nutrition, 2010
Amy Symington, MSc. is a nutrition professor, research associate and plant-based chef at George Brown College in Toronto, Canada. She runs the culinary nutrition programming at Gilda’s Club Greater Toronto, a not-for-profit organization for those touched by cancer and does recipe development and food writing for various publications in Toronto. Amy believes in the evidence-based health and environmental benefits of plant-based diets and is the recent author of The Long Table Cookbook: Plant-based recipes for optimal health.
Her personal consulting business, Amelia Eats, provides plant-based nutrition consultations, menu development, recipe development and nutritional analysis for small and large business and nutrition focused catering/culinary classes.
“Never underestimate the power of good nutritious food, having a strong moral compass, the ability to listen, sincerity in the interactions you have and good old fashioned hard work. These are building blocks for a success entrepreneur.”- Amy Symington
The DeZinr
Joshua Hyman
Joshua Hyman
The DeZinr
Advanced Graphic Design – 2006
The DeZinr is a Creative shop with a focus on Art, Design, Advertising print, and digital media optimization. Specializing in handcrafted Luxury Art in the traditional and digital mediums, finished in resin, diamond dust, Swarovski crystals, and 18-24kt gold, mounted on wood.
“Rock bottom is a good lesson, the only way you can go is up”.
No Sleep
Mark Miller
Mark Miller
No Sleep Software
Game Programming, 2014
No Sleep Software offers professional software development and technical consulting services in the Toronto area. Our objective is to help other technology businesses take on more projects each year by providing flexible, value-driven technical services on a contract basis. We specialize in mobile and web-app development, and the video game industry which is our team’s passion. Whether you require additional programming muscle to pick up the slack on your project, or need a technical team to help with software design from the ground up, No Sleep has the technical know-how to solve your problems.
“The journey of entrepreneurship is both extremely challenging, and extremely rewarding. Enjoy the highs, learn from the lows, and most of all be persistent.” – Mark Miller
Jrop
Navid Momeni
Navid Momeni
Jrop
Bachelor of Applied Business in Hospitality and Tourism, 2011
Jrop helps properties digitize their site layouts, to give their visitors a streamlined ridesharing experience today and seamless access to driverless cars in the future. We map staging areas i.e. pick up and drop off points to increase the efficiency of ride-sharing and AV shuttle providers.
“The critical ingredient is getting off your butt and doing something. It’s as simple as that. A lot of people have ideas, but there are few who decide to do something about them now. Not tomorrow. Not next week. But today. The true entrepreneur is a doer, not a dreamer.”- Navid Momeni
Ribbit
Jeremy Wang
Jeremy Wang
Ribbit
Advanced Machining for U of T Engineering, 2015
The world’s first regional cargo airline with fully autonomous aircraft – better service, better rates, and no pilots.
“A start-up’s only real advantage is speed. So listen to your customer, be reliable, be fast.”- Jeremy Wang
Soul Chocolate
Katie Wilson
Katie Wilson
Soul Chocolate
Professional Chocolatier Certificate, 2011
We are bean to bar chocolate makers. Our tiny shop in Toronto whips up single origin chocolate bars and chocolate goods from scratch.
“Business is hard. But the opportunities in front of you are bound by your imagination. So dream big and make it happen!” – Katie Wilson
AADÙN
Adunni Rufai
Adunni Rufai
AADÙN
AADÙN is a sustainable brand that upcycles and repurposes traditional African Handwoven fabric.
Aso òkè, is considered an artifact and is often passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom. They stand the test of time because they are quality fabrics traditionally handwoven on a loom made out of original cotton. However, as more ceremonies are being held and different aso òkè adornments are being worn to each of them. They end up taking up space in our closets as we all keep buying new ones for the next ceremony. Consequently, over the years, we amass bags and bags of aso òkè sitting idle, collecting dust or worse ending up in a landfill.
AADÙN is tackling waste by collecting these high-quality fabrics that were previously owned and repurposes them into timeless handcrafted pieces for everyday use. Thereby contributing to the circular economy and a more sustainable environment.
“Getting started is more important than being right.” – Adunni Rufai
Andre Jones Design
Brandon Jones
Brandon Jones
Andre Jones Design
Mechanical engineering technologies, CNC Machine Precision, 2020
Andre Jones Design is a small design firm founded by Brandon Andre Jones. They focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly smart designs through creativity, technical skills, and CAD modeling. Andre Jones Design is based out of Toronto, Canada.
“Try not to allow fear to prevent you from pursuing your passion, you’ll most likely feel a empty void and that something is missing. In order to succeed as an entrepreneur you must confront your fears head on, so they don’t determine your future —you do.” – Brandon Jones
Lesley Hampton
Lesley Hampton
Lesley Hampton
Founder, Fashion Designer, Creative Director of Lesley Hampton
Fashion Techniques and Design, 2017
Lesley Hampton is a fashion label established in Toronto, Canada specializing in luxury evening-wear and premium After 5 designs. It’s an indigenous owned fashion brand, focused on mental health awareness, body positivity, and authentic indigenous representation. The Lesley Hampton brand is known for promoting inclusion and diversity that represents a broader perception of beauty.
“It is empowering to be your own boss and to make the change you want to see in the world!” – Lesley Hampton
Emma Paige Designs
Paige Burchell
Paige Burchell
Emma Paige Designs
Fashion Techniques and Design, 2010
Emma Paige Designs is an independent fashion brand specializing in custom bridal wear. All pieces are designed and made-by-hand in Toronto.
“I didn’t learn from my success but rather from my failures, as every mistake was a lesson learned and a pivot in the right direction. The journey has pushed me to unimaginable lengths which, I am forever grateful for.”- Paige Burchell
The Edible Story
Alanna Fleischer
Alanna Fleischer
The Edible Story
Culinary Arts-Italian & Culinary Management, 2011 & 2012
The Edible Story is a unique hospitality venue that can host events and parties as well as operating a full service catering company on and off site. Edible daily business consist of cooking classes, large format catering such as weddings and corporate/in home deliveries.
House of Marpa
Janelle Marpa
Janelle Marpa
House of Marpa
Fashion Techniques & Design, 2006
The Marpa sisters, born 12 years apart- makers and curators of goods to inspire mindful living and support your mindfulness meditation practice. As a lifestyle brand, they not only create products to support a mindfulness meditation practice, they also intend to spread awareness of the benefits associated with a mindfulness practice through experiential workshops that pair everyday activities with mindfulness practices.
“Be open to opportunities to collaborate with other entrepreneurs to help each other grow.”- Janelle Marpa
Samantha McAdams Jewellery
Samantha McAdams
Samantha McAdams
Samantha McAdams Jewellery
Jewellery Methods, 2016
Inspired by all things antique, Samantha is influenced by the tradition and sentiment of heirloom jewellery. Her work demonstrates an appreciation for the fine details found in classical techniques and high-quality craftsmanship. Samantha is passionate about the custom jewellery process and working one-on-one with her clients to fully execute their vision. She takes pride in personally connecting with new people to create pieces that can be a part of their families for generations to come.
“Explore your industry. Work for established entrepreneurs and soak it all in. Take this knowledge and find out where you see yourself and go there!” – Samantha McAdams
The Edible Story
Brian Cheng
Brian Cheng
The Edible Story
Culinary Italian, 2014
Catering and Event Space for cooking classes, weddings, corporate and unique food experiences.
“Patience, build one client at a time.”- Brian Cheng
Omegon North Technologies Inc.
Oganalp Canatan
Oganalp Canatan
Omegon North Technologies Inc.
Business Program, 2019
Omegon North Technologies Inc. (ONT) is the company of researchers and business people who discovered ultrafast laser ablation cooling and accomplished to 3D laser process inside Silicon; something previously impossible. ONT focuses on the R&D, and commercialization of next-generation laser and laser processing technologies. By utilizing ONT’s ablation cooling discovery, the speed of the laser increased by 100 times, meanwhile reducing the required energy by 1,000 times. A significant outcome is the removal of brain tissue at two cubic millimeters per minute and dentine at three cubic millimeters per minute with no thermal damage to the sample. Details of our discoveries were published in Nature.
Our field of operations in photonics include; Light-matter interactions, processing thermally sensitive materials, and conductors, semiconductors and dielectrics, medical applications (dental, ophthalmology, neuroscience, nano-surgery), biomedical imaging, laser micro-machining. Omegon North Technologies is the home of new advancements in biotechnology and industrial applications.
“Never stop self-development. As the saying goes, ‘Who we are is but a stepping stone to what we can become.” – Oganalp Canatan
DriveHER Transportation Inc.
Aisha Addo
Aisha Addo
DriveHER Transportation Inc.
Business Administration Accounting, 2013
DriveHER is a ridesharing App and community designed to empower and provide a safe space for women and people who identify as women through transportation, technology, and lifestyle.
“Feel the fear and do it anyway!” – Aisha Addo
GDG Cloud Toronto
Ramkumar Arunamoorthy
Ramkumar Arunamoorthy
GDG Cloud Toronto
Information System Business Analysis, 2013
An Official GDG Chapter of Google: A group of Cloud enthusiasts that foster learning of Cloud technologies. this is a local community-ran meetup for cloud aspirants interested in resources and technology from Google. We have grown to a considerable size of 2000+ members in a year. Each of our hands-on study labs have a minimum attendance of 120-150 participants on a given day.
“Money isn’t success; It’s a byproduct of success.”- Ramkumar Arunamoorthy
Lamiaceae
Annissa Rodriguez
Annissa Rodriguez
Lamiaceae
Analytics for Business Decision Making, 2018
Lamiaceae, is an all natural skincare company! We are devoted to creating natural skincare, that is handcrafted locally, with zero chemicals and dyes!
“Commit yourself to personal mastery – Evolve yourself daily!” – Annissa Rodriguez
Diana Coatsworth Design
Diana Coatsworth
Diana Coatsworth
Diana Coatsworth Design
Fashion and Design Techniques, Fashion/Apparel Design, 2015
Fashion business that aims on combining comfort and elegance combined. Aimed to marry classic details and modern flair. Easy, effortless, stand out pieces you will cherish for years.
“Once you understand that there’s no overnight success or quantum leaps in business; but, many, many small & consistent daily steps towards realizing a vision, will you succeed.” – Diana Coatsworth
UNSGND
Dymika Harte
Dymika Harte
UNSGND
Graphic Design, 2018
UNSGND is a female powered one stop shop creative agency focused on building brands and creating content for small businesses, recording artists and community initiatives.
“Being an entrepreneur means you get full control of your time, but it also means you decide whether you’re going to make money or not every day”- Dymika Harte
13AM Games, Inc.
Alex Rushdy
Alex Rushdy
13AM Games, Inc.
Game Design, 2014
13AM Games is an independent game development studio focused on making bold, stylish, 2D action games.
“What you make is only as good as what drives you to make it.” – Alex Rushdy
Paper & Poste
Beckee Kavanagh
Beckee Kavanagh
Paper & Poste
Graphic Design, 2008
Paper & Poste is a Toronto-based stationery studio focused primarily on wedding stationery and specializing in letterpress and eye-catching design. Having been in business for 8 years, Paper & Poste has become the go-to for high-level clients seeking elevated invitations for their events. Their design expertise and notable style has been sought out by multiple celebrity clients, both wedding & corporate, and are well-trusted by the country’s leading event planners. Paper & Poste has received accolades from a number of publications, winning 2019 Stationer of the Year at the Weddingbells Canadian Wedding Awards, and has been featured in the prestigious WedLuxe Magazine countless times for their contributions to styled shoots and real weddings. Most recently, they appeared on The VIP Collective podcast as stationery experts in their field, and will be speaking to planners and photographers at an upcoming Revel Sessions conference regarding the importance of stationery details in the event industry. At Paper & Poste, our small team of 4 continue to push the creative restrictions on the traditional wedding invitation, eager to create innovative designs that strike that elusive balance between timeless and trendy.
“To keep your business relevant and ahead of the curve, you have to continue to explore and introduce new innovations and ideas in your industry that excite your potential clients.” – Beckee Kavanagh
MANGIA & BEVI Resto-Bar
Eleonora Caldato
Eleonora Caldato
M&B Hospitality Inc. – operating as MANGIA & BEVI resto-bar
Culinary Management, 1996
At Mangia e Bevi the food is simple, fresh and made with honest ingredients – combined just the way they should be. The recipes come straight from Italy so do the ingredients. We also love to support our local Ontario producers and farmers.
“Persevere! You do not need to win every battle.” -Eleonora Caldato
Louis Cifer & Stout Irish Pub
Erin Gamelin
Erin Gamelin
Louis Cifer & Stout Irish Pub
Business-Marketing, 2000
Louis Cifer is a 4000 sq/ft Brewpub on the Danforth that makes award winning craft beer and from scratch food.
Stout Irish Pub is an award winning gastro-pub located in the heart of Cabbagetown. Featuring a wall of board games, a cozy fireplace and a quaint grassed in boutique patio, you will be sure to enjoy your evening!
“Don’t be afraid to fail. Success teaches you very little, failure teaches you everything. Any failure is life just telling you to find a different route.”- Erin Gamelin
Made You Look Jewellery
Sarah Dougall
Sarah Dougall
Made You Look Jewellery
Jewellery Arts, 2001
Sarah’s company represents over 100 Canadian jewelry designers, 20 of whom create their work on-site in our state of the art jewelry studio.
“Entrepreneurship is about recognizing a need, seeing an opportunity and being brave enough to do something about it.”- Sarah Dougall
Fetch Moto
Jesse Thompson
Jesse Thompson
Fetch Moto
Design Management – 2009
Fetch Moto is the first online marketplace that enables vehicle buyers to conduct a reverse auction in order to get themselves the best deal on a vehicle without shopping or negotiating.
“It will be 10x as hard and take 10x as long as you thought it would. Start hustling now”.
Flux + form & Kim Drosdick Jewellery
Kim Drosdick
Kim Drosdick
Flux + form & Kim Drosdick Jewellery
Jewellery Arts, 2001
Flux + form is three intuitive designers working in a warm, inviting space and creating jewelry that shares our art and celebrates our client’s stories.
Kim Drosdick Jewellery ‘Do what you love’ is what I always say! I’m one of the lucky ones that get to do that every day. As a graduate of GBC’s Jewelry Arts program I’m trained to work with almost every material and jewelry request imaginable. I create wearable works of art using ethically sourced and recycled materials. I love being able to re-use clients existing jewelry to create something new and meaningful for them – I call it Re-Jewel™!
“I think if you are a successful entrepreneur then you know that it’s the ONLY way to move through life doing what you love.”- Kim Drosdick
Underline Studio
Fidel Pena
Fidel Pena
Underline Studio
Graphic Design, 1995
Underline studio takes on a wide range of projects in brand, digital, corporate and marketing communications. Underline’s client list is consciously diverse, ranging from corporate and retail enterprises, to media and publishing organizations, to educational and cultural institutions.
“Follow the work, not the money.”- Fidel Pena
Memory & Company
Ashley Kwong
Ashley Kwong
Memory & Company
Activation Co-ordinator/Gerontology, 2000
Memory & Company is a Premium Day Program and Respite Resort for people living with memory loss located in Markham Ontario. Her club is the first club of its kind in the world and has been recognized by the London School of Economics as the “future of dementia care”.
To accomplish great things we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe. -Anatol France
Inbound Marketeers Inc.
Madhur Tyagi
Madhur Tyagi
Inbound Marketeers Inc.
Marketing management: Financial Services, 2019
Inbound Marketeers is a full-service inbound marketing company designed to do one thing: make people see why your business is special and deserving of their business. We’ll challenge you to rethink your business and bring out what makes it great. Let’s be honest – like most things worth doing, it’s going to be tough. But if it were easy, wouldn’t everyone be doing it?
It’s not about getting your business, it’s about keeping it alive.
We help of small, medium, large businesses and startup to stand out and get noticed. Now, it’s your turn. Let’s separate your company from the pack.
“Everyone is BUSY. Marketing is not EASY.” – Madhur Tyagi
To connect: Send an email at startGBC@georgebrown.ca & mention the name of the advisor.
Maple Mountain
Dom Mazzuca
Dom Mazzuca
Maple Mountain
Business Administration – Project Management, 2022
Maple Mountain will be a staple of the Canadian outdoor lifestyle brands. While our main focus is revolutionizing the cooler industry, our main goal is to become a household name across the nation and represent a Canadian outdoor lifestyle brand. We pride ourselves on our ability to innovate and push the limits in an industry that’s largely dominated by billion-dollar brands that refuse to acknowledge product flaws.
“You’ll never go broke gambling on yourself, so take the risk, and try to have some fun along the way.” – Dom Mazzuca
Mattive
Maria Gabrentina
Maria Gabrentina
Mattive
Transitions to Post-Secondary Education, 2021
Hi, My name is Maria (Dessy). I was born in Manila and had my first 24 years in Montalban, Rizal, Philippines. I was a Registered Nurse back home and came to Canada as a landed immigrant.
Sadly, when I came here, I was struck by a disease which made me unable to perform my duties as a Nurse. Thank goodness I found my passion in doing arts and crafts. I also incorporated some of my knowledge in health care thru Holistic Therapies.
I am proud to be part of the Filipino diaspora and to share my knowledge and culture to everyone. Long time ago, Filipinos were all Natives. We were able to keep our culture alive, immersed with Catholicism to keep the peace between two nations.
About the Company-Mattive produces craft items made from processed recycled plastics and beads, and organic materials available from the local store. We also offer teas, and diffuser oils.
“Keep going on. Every business is a progress. The more you stay put in it, the more it grows.” – Maria Gabrentina
Roselle Desserts
Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee
Roselle Desserts
Culinary Arts-Italian & Cook Apprenticeship Advanced, 2011
Roselle Desserts is a French-inspired dessert shop operating in Toronto since 2015. We specialize in cakes, cookies, croissants, and confections.
Mobile Arts Programming
John Baker
John Baker
Mobile Arts Programming
Child and Youth Care Practitioner, 2018
Mobile Arts Programming (MAP) brings the recording experience to you. Within the comfort of your own community setting, experienced facilitators run music workshops that explore various aspects of songwriting as a way to expand creative capacity and healthy forms of self-expression. Those skills are implemented throughout the workshop resulting in the writing and recording of a song.
May9
Mutiat Olaniyan
Mutiat Olaniyan
May9
Fashion Design and Techniques, 2019
My name is Mutiat Olaniyan and i am excited to welcome you to this Amazing Community of Modesty! This for me is a dream come true. The ability to create a brand for myself and other women and men alike who desire modesty in clothing and Fashion.
My husband and I had this dream of having a modest Fashion brand for years, but as it turned out, it only came to fruition when he passed on, on May9, 2017. May9 Canada was officially started on May9, 2019 In Ontario Canada. I decided to pursue this dream alone not just for me but for other amazing women out there in other to demonstrate strength in weakness. May9, even though it started out as the darkest day of my life has given me strength and determination like no other. It’s our promise to use the best fabrics to make the most beautiful and elegant designs of modest wears with superior finishing. To deliver only quality service and superb customer relations. We are also a company that gives back to charity for every percentage of profit we make. We are based in Canada and we want to reach out to you anywhere you are in the world. We want to have a very good relationship with you our community too, so we welcome your advice, comments and recommendations.
“Entrepreneurship is a test of your patience, resilience and consistency” – Mutiat Olaniyan
Nutmeg Consulting
Angela Grant Buechner
Angela Grant Buechner
Nutmeg Consulting-Birth Babies & Breastfeeding
Registered Nurse-Perinatal Intensive Care Nursing, 2003
Private practice providing Lactation Consultant home visits, Breastfeeding Prep & Baby care consults, Birth Doula care for ALL kinds of birth, and Postpartum Doula visits for day/night support.
“Using education, creativity and passion, you can create new ways to help others.”- Angela Grant Buechner
Securepanda
Laura Harris
Laura Harris
Securepanda
Network and System Security, 2019
Laura created a startup that makes cyber-security simple and reliable for businesses.
“Be fearless, resilient and courageous.Failures and mistakes are your best advisers.”- Laura Harris
Health Nut Nutrition
Nikole Goncalves
Nikole Goncalves
Health Nut Nutrition
Business Administration-Marketing, 2011
Nikole Goncalves is passionate about food and nutrition. Her YouTube channel HealthNut Nutrition, has videos on food, lifestyle, and wellness. She has over 600,000 subscribers, who she calls the HealthNut Fam. She has also released her first ever cookbook, The HealthNut Cookbook.
The Next Music Generation
Maryanne McMullen
Maryanne McMullen, Founder and CEO
The Next Music Generation
Psychology Program 2021
The Next Music Generation (TMNG) Entertainment brand allows you to showcase your musical talent and prowess. It is no news that The Next Music Generation (TNMG) aims to serve as a stepping stone for the upcoming talented artists all around the world, seeking to showcase what they are made of, in other words, their musical talent. The Next Music Generation (TMNG) allows talented artists to work with the best musical crews ranging from music producers, DJ’s and other great minds in the artistic fields to groom your musical talents to become the best in The Next Music Generation Band.
Be open to learning, pivot with the times, never be afraid to fail and seek advice if you don’t understand something. Always remember the proverbial phrase “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”.
MeLor Inc.
Laura Roppa
Laura Roppa
MeLor Inc.
Early Childhood Education, 2009
At MeLor we connect thousands of professionals in the child care profession to their dream job.
We specialize in providing on-call Registered Early Childhood Educators and Assistants to licensed child care facilities throughout Toronto and the GTA.
We have recently extended our services regarding the Covid-19 pandemic to assist families with their home schooling needs. Our Educators now provide virtual learning support from the comfort and safety of their own homes
We also offer a variety of interactive workshops for Child care centers and other childhood educational institutions.
“Get comfortable with being uncomfortable!” – Laura Roppa
Picturehausfilms
Francis Luta
Francis Luta
Picturehausfilms
Advertising Graphic Design, 2008
We are filmmakers, storytellers and image makers.
We produce documentaries, dramas, art films and corporate videos. Founded by award-winning filmmakers Francis Luta and Jeremy Benning csc.
“Know everyone’s role.”- Francis Luta
Majestic Wisdom & Eloquent Expressions
Monah Water
Monah Water
Majestic Wisdom & Eloquent Expressions
Fashion Exchange – Industrial Power Sewing, 2015
Majestic Wisdom is an African-inspired premium lifestyle brand with a creative cultural edge.
Eloquent Expressions is a dynamic professional copyrighting, design and communications company.
“Having vision to see beyond limitations, faith to believe beyond possibilities, and courage to tread beyond the familiar has helped me remain driven in entrepreneurship.” – Monah Water
AUTO
Janine Kwok
Janine Kwok
AUTO
Design Management, 2021
AUTO is a community based approach to healthcare. Addressing those living with chronic illness. Currently AUTO is a clothing and lifestyle brand raising funds and awareness around the effects of auto-immune disease. Funds raised from sales are donated to charities such as; Lupus Ontario, Diabetes Canada and more.
AUTO is currently in production of becoming a socially charged app that addresses isolation when dealing with chronic illness. AUTO reaches those dealing with similar symptoms and connects them to share information and create lasting relationships.
“Don’t Give Up Kid!” – Janine Kwok
Mobile Arts Programming
Wes Grove
Wes Grove
Mobile Arts Programming
Child and Youth Care Practitioner, 2018
Mobile Arts Programming (MAP) brings the recording experience to you. Within the comfort of your own community setting, experienced facilitators run music workshops that explore various aspects of songwriting as a way to expand creative capacity and healthy forms of self-expression. Those skills are implemented throughout the workshop resulting in the writing and recording of a song.
“A lot of time and hard work goes into starting your own business, but there is no better feeling then working for yourself while doing something you are passionate about. The result of passionate work is always success.” – Wes Grove
EarthFructifera
Katherine Cabrera Velasquez
Katherine Cabrera Velasquez
Earthfructifera
Business Management, 2022
Earthfructifera is a company engaged in the export and import business. We began in 2010 in the country of Ecuador where we owned banana, red dragon fruit, and baby banana farms. Our main goal is to commercialize fresh, premium quality products grown in Ecuador and other countries of the region. We also strive to provide the best-personalized customer service there is. Our headquarters are located in the city of Guayaquil, and we have offices in Lima and Miami.
“The most demanding tasks bring the greatest satisfaction.” – Katherine Cabrera Velasquez
Reed
Adam Bartman
Adam Bartman
Reed
Plumbing Techniques Program, 2012
Co-founded by a 2nd generation plumber, reed is a start-up based in Toronto, ON that controls and monitors water systems in commercial properties with IoT technology. Devices and fixtures are inputted into building plumbing systems that detect, conserve, track and shut off
water, all remotely on an intuitive cloud dashboard. Operators can shut down riser valves remotely, properly sub-meter their properties and access real-time confirmation of hardware functionality.
“I have always loved technology. When I looked at a building, I saw that both HVAC and fire systems were connected but the plumbing systems were not. As an entrepreneur, I had a recurring problem with water leaks and had many clients calling me to bring in a plumber + find the source of the leak. Since I had this problem more often than not, I wanted to find a solution for it. As an entrepreneur, it is very important that you are working with a viable problem in a niche market in order to build working solutions to fix it. This way, you can help people find a solution who are in need. For the plumbing sector, I decided to attempt to fix the problem of catastrophic water leaks my clients were experiencing by building hardware and software to smarten the system up and help with things like high water consumption, leaks, floods, and more.”- Adam Bartman
eFreshmeals
Daniel Janetos
Daniel Janetos
eFreshmeals
Cereal Entrepreneur.
I have successfully failed at a number of concepts within the hospitality industry to understand business models, market share, cash flow, and each of the segments of a successful business including forming a business, raising money, recruitment, operations, marketing, sales, procedural development and all things culinary.
Having extensive experience on national television, personal branding and building a lifestyle business is also relevant to my experience.
“Fail fast, work hard and be persistent.” – Daniel Janetos
GDG Cloud Toronto
Vimal
Vimal
GDG Cloud Toronto
Information System Business Analysis, 2019
GDG Cloud Toronto is an Official Chapter of Google. It is a group of Cloud enthusiasts that foster the learning of Google’s Cloud technologies. It started as a local community-ran meetup for cloud aspirants interested in resources and technology from Google.
After scaling up from 2 individuals to 2000 community members in inception year – 2019, GDG Cloud Toronto is now expanding its horizons towards broader IT Training, Services, and Consulting. This organization was featured in the official Youtube handle for its unmatched success in conducting study jams. Watch it here.
“It is our passion and endurance which makes all the difference. Business knowledge can be learned and Skills can be developed.” – Vimal
hEr VOLUTION
Doina Oncel
Doina Oncel
hEr VOLUTION
Assaulted Women and Children’s Advocate Program – 2002
Based in Toronto, Canada, hEr VOLUTION is the go-to place for youth, particularly young women from underserved communities to come to in order to advance in 21st Century Skills. We exist to create opportunities for the next generation of women in STEM connecting them with leaders in the industry for career support. We listen to the needs of the community and that of the STEM industry to better help the next generation of underserved youth, with a focus on young women to enter STEM. “Inspiring girls to embrace STEM careers”
“You can do any thing you put your mind to.” – Doina Oncel
Marble Meals & HAVEN Nutrition Inc
Karen Barbalat
Karen Barbalat
Marble Meals & HAVEN
Culinary Management 2010,
Food and Nutrition Management (Post Grad) 2015
Marble Meals is a health-conscious meal delivery company that services Toronto & the GTA. Marble Meals provides a variety of gourmet offerings prepared with attention and care. Clients enjoy expertly prepared food that helps them live an active and healthy lifestyle.
Haven Nutrition, Inc. where the focus is on creating organic superfood bars, with sustainable packaging and fairtrade practises with unique ingredients.
“The greatest gift you can give to your community is to live up to your full potential. You’ll often find it in entrepreneurship.” – Karen Barbalat
Justine Apple Photography
Justine Apple
Justine Apple
Justine Apple Photography
Digital Photography Certification, 2017
Toronto-based photograph services specialized in corporate and social events, family photography, and professional head-shots.
“Don’t underestimate the power of connections. When you’re starting out, it’s not only about what you do that’s important, it’s also about who you know and the relationships you build.” – Justine Apple
Cedar and Vine
Jo Stewart
Jo Stewart
Founder, cedar and vine
Apparel Technical Design, Fashion/Apparel, 2018
Cedar and Vine was created with a specific goal in view: inspiring women everywhere to be confident while standing out from the crowd.
Each of our products are locally made in Saskatoon, SK. If instead you choose to go for a custom design, you can make sure everything you desire in a piece is added along the way. Not to mention, all of our products are being constructed, from scratch, with all-natural fibers.
Hair Granted Beauty Supply
Zhorrah Grant
Zhorrah Grant
Founder & CEO
Hair Granted Beauty Supply
Diploma in Child and Youth Care – 2019 Graduate
Established in 2020, Hair Granted Beauty Supply is the largest black-owned store of its kind. Stocking a vast inventory of hair products, raw hair, wigs and cosmetics, Hair Granted Beauty Supply is resetting the benchmark in customer service and satisfaction.
My one piece of advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is PLAN! PLAN! PLAN! Always write down EVERYTHING! Every idea, every thought, everything you want to accomplish. WRITE IT DOWN!! By starting a journal or a book where you can just write down your thoughts. You are doing two things, 1. You are starting to work towards your dream. 2. You are manifesting your dream. The power of the pen is a weapon like no other. Writing down your thoughts and plans can make you see things so much clearer.
Roselle Desserts
Stephanie Duong
Stephanie Duong
Roselle Desserts
Baking & Pastry Arts, 2011
Roselle Desserts is a French-inspired dessert shop operating in Toronto since 2015. We specialize in cakes, cookies, croissants, and confections.
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.” – Stephanie Duong
Toronto Cider Festival
Chris Palivan
Chris Palivan
Toronto Cider Festival
Special Events Planning Diploma, 2014
Established in 2015, the Toronto Cider Festival is an award winning annual festival and the largest of its kind in Canada. The festival celebrates cider through a fun, interactive and unique experience, while supporting the Ontario cider industry.
“There is no greater service you can do the world than living a life of purpose, creativity and contribution, driven by your most inner passions. Entrepreneurship has given me the opportunity to shine my brightest light by means of expressing my ideas and passion in the realm of hospitality.”- Chris Palivan
Level 12
Dan Perdue
Dan Purdue
Level 12
Business – Accounting, 1986
LEVEL 12 is a world leader in engaging and developing high performing people, with a proven track record for success. Our clients include Facebook, Google, Pepsico and The Home Depot. You will learn leading-edge strategies for achieving outstanding success by transforming human behavior. We will show you how to build strength physically, mentally and emotionally, so you can take the action necessary to achieve the results you must have.
“Being an entrepreneur is not something you do, it’s who you are. Anyone can start a business, but it takes a special person to be an entrepreneur.” – Dan Purdue
Brazil Heels
Lilia Costa
Lilia Costa
Brazil Heels
StartGBC Summer Camp, 2019
We are Brazil Heels, your online women’s shoe store! To deliver the unique Brazilian concept of beauty, quality, and fashion, we work with established and reliable Brazilian shoe manufacturers.
“Research about the field you want to work within, study different topics (marketing, finance, sales), network with industry professionals, work hard on your business plan, get mentoring from knowledgeable professionals, avoid procrastination, and work every day to get the work done. Be kind to yourself when you fail in doing something. There will be lots of challenges along the way, so don’t give up when you face them.”- Lilia Costa
Odds And Win
Will Tennyson
Will Tennyson
Odds And Win
Small Business Entrepreneurship, 2017
Discover the most exclusive prizes and perks from your favorite or soon to be favorite restaurants, shops and businesses. The fun and intuitive game lets you zero in on offers to play odds and win instantly.
Simply get the app, and play to win real prizes from local restaurants, shops and businesses. The Odds mobile APP was released in October 2018 on both iOS and Android. Odds is expanding rapidly throughout Markham and Toronto and over the coming months Odds plans are to quickly expand throughout the GTA and beyond, offering Odds players real prizes and offers from 1000s of local restaurants, shops and businesses.
Megan Ernst Photography
Megan Ernst
Megan Ernst
Megan Ernst Photography
Behavioural Science Technology, 2014
“I am a Wedding, Elopement and Engagement photographer specializing in capturing the real, the raw, the playful, the intimate. I want to give my clients the opportunity and space to be vulnerable and free together because my best work comes from the freedom of you being yourselves. I am to capture the little touches, they way you play together and the moments of humility that make you fall even deeper in love with your person. Wandering, authentic, sentimental souls are my people.”
“Always keep hustling. A business is not built overnight.”- Megan Ernst
Nothing Fancy Bar
Alberto Richards
Alberto Richards
Nothing Fancy Bar
Small Business and Entrepreneurship, 2018
Nothing Fancy is an established Bar that aims to build community by providing drinks that bring people together and an atmosphere that is a hub for local entertainment. Our approach to delivering only the finest service to our customers starts and ends with our constant desire to exceed expectations. Come join us to see what we’re all about.
“It’s difficult to go alone. Support can make or break any enterprise big or small. Look to surround yourself with the best team you can.” – Alberto Richards
Rock-A-Toy
Idil Asik
Idil Asik
Rock-A-Toy
Digital Media Marketing
Rock-A-Toy: A Mum Owned-Montessori Inspired Boutique Toy Shop
Everything started with becoming a mum, I realized the importance of a toy on child development. Rock-A-Toy sells unique and educational toys. I want to make kids and families happy and fall in love with my products.
“If I can start a business by myself with a small newborn baby during the lockdown, everyone can do it! Trust yourself, whatever the conditions are.” – Idil Asik
eRenovate
Tom Cordeiro
Tom Cordeiro
eRenovate
eRenovate is a home-grown Canadian company, founded by homeowners who’ve experienced real ‘renovation let-downs’. For that very reason, we’re thrilled to provide peace of mind to those improving their cherished homes, with the eRenovate Guarantee.
FACT: Only eRenovate stands behind our Pros, so you’re Protected. Every Pro must pass our strict vetting process to be Bonded by eRenovate™ and only they can offer you the eRenovate Guarantee; $25,000 Deposit Protection, and 88 Day Workmanship Guarantee!
You want to hire trustworthy Pros, and they want to be trusted. Today eRenovate proudly connects you in a most trustworthy environment.
Made by Moi
Lolita Richards
Lolita Richards
Made by Moi
Commercial Baking and Pastry Arts, 2015
“Made by Moi, Desserts has served up delicious cakes for special occasions all across Toronto, telling stories through unique, and edible custom designs.
In July of 2017 Lolita founded the “Wee-Bake Program”, a free program for youth aged 14-17. Wee Bake runs for 8 weeks every summer and is designed to motivate and teach youth basic baking as well as Financial Literacy skills.“ It feels great to know that I can provide a space for youth to fulfill their passion for baking, while emphasizing the importance of financial literacy.” – Lolita Richards.
The “Made By Moi” Pop Up Dessert bar is a place where you can create your dream dessert and eat it too!-A Summer Pop up shop that serves up fresh waffle cones and ice-cream with over 10 different toppings to choose from, Creating a delicious dessert suited to your unique taste.
“Believe in your unique abilities. Start from where you are with what you have!”- Lolita Richards
Ground Up Constructing
Ryan Bornstein
Ryan Bornsetin
Ground Up Constructing
Building Renovation Technology Program, 2008
Ground Up Constructing is a full service contracting firm with a diverse portfolio of residential and commercial projects in Toronto and the GTA. As a full-service renovation company we offer our clients expertise at every phase of the building process from the initial meeting through the designs and plans, specifications and permits, all the way to completion.
“I would strongly recommend working for a company to learn all the subtleties of operating a business.” – Ryan Bornstein
SafePod
Stephanie Cole
SafePod
Social Service Worker, 2018
SafePod is a social enterprise that tackles the issue of sexual and gender-based violence in the Toronto workforce.
“Entrepreneurship is a path I will never regret taking. I learned more and achieved more then I ever imagined.” – Stephanie Cole
NovoMasks
Darren Sampson
Darren Sampson
NovoMasks
Design & Advertising
We love coming up with creative solutions for custom masks. Unique creations for business, parties, weddings, bar mitzvahs, teams, costumes, special gifts and more!
We use a variety of fabrication methods to make each mask truly unique.
- Textile printing
- Embroidery
- Unique creations and fabric sourcing
- Photo realistic fabric printing
From 1 to 5000 or more – anything is possible!
HRS Photography & Productions in the 6ix
Halley Requena-Silva
Halley Requena-Silva
HRS Photography, Productions in the 6ix
Business Administration 2010, Digital Photography 2016
We are a Media based company in Toronto, Canada. We love to capture milestone moments & tell your story. The love we have for our home city inspires our work. We have also travelled internationally, capturing daily life, milestone moments, events & new born photography & videography.
“Sky is the limit” – Halley Requena-Silva
Email Productions in the 6ix:CEO@productionsinthe6ix.com
Caitlin Legere Design
Caitlin Legere
Caitlin Legere
Caitlin Legere Design
Graphic Design Program, 2017
Caitlin Legere Design acts as an ally to inspired minds. It is our goal to help driven entrepreneurs create the brand of their dreams, giving them the design bones they need to bring their vision to life through brand strategy, development, digital and social marketing. We want them to feel empowered with their business, confident in their brand and passionate about the future ahead.
“Don’t limit yourself before you start. It’s admirable to research into your ideas before taking the entrepreneurial plunge, but let’s face it, there is never going to come a time where you feel 100% ready to follow your dream. Comparing your journey to someone else’s or getting wrapped up in the details will dull the passion you had in the first place and prevent you from taking the first step. Find out your “why” for doing what you do and use that as your guiding light when things get murky or unclear, then take action!” – Caitlin Legere
Flux + form
Suzanne Crudden
Suzanne Crudden
flux + form
Flux + form is three intuitive designers working in a warm, inviting space and creating jewelry that shares our art and celebrates our client’s stories.
“My quote about entrepreneurship is to always do it your way. It’s good to take advice of course but there’s no magic path to success. Anyone who tells you there is a magic plan is trying to sell you something. Everyone will succeed in their own way”- Suzanne Crudden
Unika Swimwear
Betsy Campos
Betsy Campos
Unika Swimwear
Fashion Techniques and Design, 2016
ŪNIKA comes from the Latin word “Unica” meaning – only one, one of a kind & unique. ŪNIKA was created with a clear vision in mind: to provide body-specific swimwear for all women – regardless of age, shape, or size. We aim to empower every woman in recognizing and appreciating her own individuality – the end goal is to make you feel confident in a swimsuit.
“Trust yourself, and go against the grain. Everyone will make comments – then ask you how you got there.” – Betsy Campos
MOOSE MOONRace
Salma Nadaf
Salma Nadaf
MOOSE MOONRace
Post Graduate Certificate Program in International Fashion Management – 2020
MOOSE MOONRace is an online apparel brand offering cool, casual, sustainable, and gentle clothing for aficionados of pets and woods. The prints of pets, woods, and nature on casual clothing help customers to express their personality and to express love for pets & woods. These clothing are suitable for different occasions like hiking in the woods, workouts, aerobics, and daily life.
“Entrepreneurship is an exciting journey that allows you to follow your passion and to serve society. Be unique, ethical, optimistic, and realistic!“
INLAND
Sarah Power
Sarah Power
INLAND
Fashion Design and Techniques, 2007
INLAND is a shopping community for Canadian designers and for those who celebrate them. A curated marketplace, INLAND showcases slow fashion, accessory, and jewelry brands that are thoughtfully designed and ethically produced. Founded in 2014 by Sarah Power, INLAND has created space – originally through pop-ups, and now virtually – to access and shop Canada’s most exciting new designers.
“Chose courage over comfort and be true to the change you want to provoke.” – Sarah Power
BriConnect
Caylan McMullan
Caylan McMullan
BriConnect
Community Worker, 2015
BriConnect organizes learning opportunities for front-line workers to better service the Deaf community. We provide immersive multi-day workshops which are adaptable to your working environments. This is a unique opportunity to learn while immersed in a Deaf environment and to utilize your skills as you are learning them in the workshops. Our workshops also give the chance to work closely with interpreters and familiarize yourself with the process of communication with a Deaf person while an interpreter is present.
“Accessibility for your staff and clients/customers is an asset and benefit to you, not hindrance.”- Caylan McMullan
Flux + form
Carey Pearson
Carey Pearson
Flux + form
Business, 1997
Flux + form is three intuitive designers working in a warm, inviting space and creating jewelry that shares our art and celebrates our client’s stories.
“Being an entrepreneur has allowed me to see so much more possibility with my career. I don’t feel the limits that I did working in a corporate nine to five job.”- Carey Pearson
ouimatcha
Charisse Mendoza
Charisse Mendoza
ouimatcha
Fashion Management, 2019
Switch your morning routine by avoiding jitters, crash and heightening your emotions. Oui Matcha will help you indulge in healthy options at the best way possible. It doesn’t only provide a healthy option, it allows you to start a different conversation.
“No time is the best the time to follow your dreams.” – Charisse Mendoza
Are you an alumni of George Brown College?
Do you operate your own business? Apply to join the showcase below.