The Master of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology (MBET) program at the University of Waterloo has been a transformative experience, blending my corporate and entrepreneurial background into a launchpad for growth. As someone with a Degree in Business Administration and a Graduate Diploma in Business Analytics, MBET has allowed me to build on these foundations and explore new avenues for growth and innovation.
My journey began with 9 years in the international airline industry, where I honed my leadership skills and strategic mindset as a Corporate Manager. Transitioning to entrepreneurship, I co-founded an eCommerce startup that grew to a $10M valuation in just four years and later launched Ross Hill Art, promoting Canadian art to global audiences.
One of the things that stands out about MBET is its unique ecosystem. In just two months, I’ve had the privilege to connect with and learn from organizations like Google, EY, Velocity, TechTO, Accelerator Centre, Communitech, Startup Canada, and many more. These opportunities have been eye-opening, offering not just insights into how companies operate but also tangible connections with people who are driving innovation.
A personal highlight has been carrying my notebook to these events, where I’ve asked inspiring speakers and mentors to sign and leave a message.
This notebook has become my treasure trove of encouragement, wisdom, and lessons learned—something I’ll always cherish. Remarkably, I’ve met more inspiring individuals in these three months than in the last three years combined!
On the entrepreneurial front, the MBET program has supercharged my startups. My venture, Ross Hill Art, was invited to showcase at the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce Event. At the same time, my EdTech startup, Majormatch, co-founded with my talented MBET peer James White, is beginning to take shape. It’s an AI-powered platform designed to help high school students align their university choices with long-term career goals.
But MBET is much more than just academic rigour or venture building—it’s about the people. The faculty, staff and peers have created an environment that’s collaborative, energizing, and endlessly motivating. Every single day, I look forward to stepping into class and being part of this dynamic community.
For anyone considering MBET, know that it’s not just about the technicalities of building a startup—it’s about building yourself, meeting people who challenge your thinking, and immersing yourself in an ecosystem where growth happens every day. It’s taught me to ask better questions (thank you - The Mom Test). Whether through lessons in resilience, networking opportunities, or filling the pages of my notebook with wisdom, MBET has already been a life-changing journey—and I can’t wait to see where it leads next.
