Blog

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.

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.

I began my career in Advertising and Marketing Communications, drawing on a foundation in Visual Arts and Graphic Design. Thirteen years ago, I founded Bedouin, a design consultancy dedicated to creatively addressing the evolving needs of clients across startups, enterprises, and government. This path led me into the tech ecosystem, where I launched two startups. While they showed early signs of traction, they ultimately didn’t succeed because I lacked the foundational knowledge needed to build a successful startup.

The Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) program provides students with the opportunity to gain invaluable hands-on training in venture capital investing through the University of Waterloo's Student Venture Fund (SVF).

Not only do students gain real-world experience sourcing deals, conducting due diligence, and pitching investments, but they also have the opportunity to participate in a prestigious venture capital competition.

This year, full-time MBET student Hisham Ismail had the honour of representing the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business at the annual Venture Capital Investment Competition (VCIC) hosted by UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School. This marked the first time an MBET student had attended the competition, which draws top MBA talent from around the world!

Part two is here!

Explore some of the top tips from entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial academics who have decades of experience in Waterloo's renowned innovation ecosystem.

Check out part one if you haven't already.