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The Problem Lab’s Problem Pitch Competition Finals, hosted and sponsored by the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business, is set to showcase innovative student-driven solutions to pressing global challenges. 

The competition, which focuses on solving significant issues through research and entrepreneurial efforts, offers a grand prize of $7,500 to the team that demonstrates the most in-depth understanding and creative solution of their selected, impactful problem.

Meet Eugenia Dadzie, an Entrepreneurial PhD Fellow and MBET student in the part-time Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology program.

"Entrepreneurship wasn’t originally part of my plan, but as I immersed myself in Waterloo’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, the opportunity to start a company with colleagues emerged. It wasn’t a single defining moment that led me down this path but rather a series of doors opening, each offering new opportunities.

As a Black entrepreneur and academic, I place significant value on representation. Mentoring others who can relate to my journey is something I find deeply rewarding, and I take the responsibility to heart. I’m mindful of the added pressures that often come with being one of the few in a field, where the need to validate one's presence can feel constant. These challenges are real, and I’m interested in supporting others in navigating them, helping them recognize their worth and build confidence in their abilities."

Meet Chinazom Uwaoma, a part-time student in the Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology program.

"The entrepreneurial journey is long and challenging, but my cultural background has instilled in me the principles of tenacity and grit. My leadership style is deeply influenced by a saying from my Igbo heritage: "Igwe bu ike," which translates to "Community is strength."

I believe that we are strengthened by the differences we bring, not by our commonalities; our commonalities are the tools by which we harness our differences for the greater good. Predicated on the premise that everyone has something to offer, anchored on the core values of respect, mutual trust, and integrity.

Representation is crucial in keeping the vision alive. Seeing successful individuals who look like me reminds me that my goals are attainable. If I can see it, I can pursue it. Representation fosters belief, determination, and inspiration for future generations".

Meet Kwaku Owusu Twum, a PhD Candidate in Sustainability Management and an Entrepreneurial PhD fellow in the Master of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology (MBET) program at the University of Waterloo.

"It is vital to ensure that Black communities are not just participants but leaders in shaping sustainable futures. Representation matters—it creates pathways for others to believe in their potential and amplify their contributions to a global stage.

To aspiring Black entrepreneurs and academics: Your voice, ideas, and contributions are needed now more than ever. Stay resilient, seek mentorship, and never underestimate the power of your vision to drive change. Black history is a story of innovation and strength—let’s honour it by building a future where we all thrive."

Ibukunoluwa Elebute (Ibukun), a part-time student in the Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) program, has been making waves in the health tech industry with startup CELLECT.

Ibukun, who brings nearly a decade of experience in healthcare technology and holds a background in biomedical engineering (BEng and MSc), has long been committed to driving innovation in underserved communities. Before joining the MBET program, she founded the STEMite Zone Fair, which has grown to become Africa’s largest science fair aimed at nurturing young innovators across the continent.

But it’s not just about past accomplishments. Since partnering with fellow University of Waterloo student CT Murphy in September, Ibukun has co-founded CELLECT, a ground-breaking startup focused on transforming diagnostics through menstrual blood collection. The startup is tackling an important challenge in healthcare, offering an innovative approach that could change the way diagnostic testing is conducted.

Black students from the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business share their experiences and insights on what it means to be a Black entrepreneur in honour of Black History Month.

Meet Hope Pembe: Founder Associate at HeadCoach, which is a platform dedicated to building emotional intelligence in athletes to enhance their well-being and performance in both sport and life as well as a full-time student in the Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) program.

"The MBET program has been a game-changer for me. It’s given me the tools to think critically, approach problems strategically, and turn my creative vision into actionable solutions. Beyond the education, it has provided a space to test and refine my ideas while collaborating with peers and mentors who inspire me to think bigger and execute better. That kind of support has been invaluable.