Emmanuelle (Manue) is passionate about new technologies and the ability of startups to improve society. She mentors and sits on the advisory boards of different early-stage startups. Manue is also a community leader. She built the Canadian chapter and has been the Ambassador for Canada of Women in AI (WAI), a non-profit do-tank whose mission is to increase female representation and participation in AI. She spent the last 2+ years at Next AI Montreal as the Director of Ventures, mainly in charge of co-building the program from scratch, startups recruitment, portfolio management, and founders growth. Before that, she founded a travel accessories brand that she ran for 8 years and a non-profit to help promote blood platelets donation towards students. Manue holds an MBA from ESSEC Business School (Paris) and started her career in auditing in France, followed by 3 years in investment banking in Australia. As Managing Director of Front Row Ventures, she will practice her demonstrated passion for mentoring, community building, and venture investments. Manue’s vision for FRV is to make it THE foundational platform to build the next generation of Canadian tech talent. When she’s not pitching to investors or mentoring Canada’s next generation of entrepreneurs and investors, Manue loves to spend some time with her friends & family, travel, cook, and build DIY furniture.

Gabriel is the Operations Lead at Front Row Ventures. He joined FRV in 2020 as part of the investment team. The following year was the Director of Investments for the Quebec chapter and was hired full time by FRV after finishing his degree in software engineering at Polytechnique, Montréal.

Gabriel is passionate about technology, innovation and helping student entrepreneurs get the support and funding they need to grow their businesses from conception into thriving companies.

Prior to FRV, while still in CEGEP, Gabriel started his own marketing agency where he created websites and managed social media sites for SMEs. More recently, Gabriel has invested his time as the President of Poly Entrepreneuriat, a student committee at Polytechnique, where he has had the opportunity to build a passionate team committed to providing student entrepreneurs with invaluable resources and experiences.

In his spare time, you can find Gabriel enjoying nature in all its forms. He loves skiing, hiking and camping.

Marc is a finance professional with private equity and go-to-market experience. He started his career in the TMT group at Novacap and later joined the sales team in venture capital-backed Unito to help execute on their GTM strategy. Now, with complementary skills in finance, business development, and operations, he joins Front Row Ventures as their Chief of Staff to help accelerate their next stage of growth.

Aislinn has spent her career in the tech ecosystem, with experience in digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and venture capital platform roles. She has a Masters of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology, and has previously worked for Archangel Network of Funds and Information Venture Partners. At Front Row Ventures, Aislinn is focused on building up the FRV communities and connection to the wider ecosystem.

As a Business & Computer Science student, I’m passionate about the intersection of the two and bringing impactful products to life. I have worked as a software developer, startup advisor, and most recently as an Investment Analyst at Nimbus Synergies. After a year of activity with the BC Investment Team, I’m excited to now be leading the BC chapter as Director of Investments and strengthening FRV’s foothold in western Canada. Outside of work you’ll find me playing soccer or basketball, training in Taekwondo and Kickboxing, or watching movies that try to tell you something.

Christian Levan is entering his final year at McGill University, where he is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Computer Science & Entrepreneurship. He has been with FRV for nearly three years currently serving as the Director of Portoflio Support, previously holding roles in Business Operations and as Quebec Director of investment. His experience includes business operations roles at fintech startups such as Optionality AI (backed by Inovia) and venture capital roles at Inovia Capital, Entrepreneur First & White Star Capital.

Eunice is an incoming 3rd year student studying Applied Mathematics and Computer Engineering at Queen’s University. At Queen’s, she is the Managing Director of a student consultancy firm that specializes in providing tailored services to startups and leads a research team that explores the use of AI in Hyperloop transportation systems.

Eunice is interested in the intersection of technology and business and strives to find environments that promote growth and learning. In her spare time, she can often be found running, reading, or booking her next travel adventure.

Martin is a Computer Science student at the Université de Montréal. He is passionate about emerging technologies that improve quality of life as well as various applications of artificial intelligence.

Martin grew up in the Silicon Valley and was surrounded by entrepreneurs who were constantly creating new companies. This background gave him the entrepreneurial spark. In secondary school, he created a business geared towards teaching tennis to people in his community. He grew his business throughout secondary school, hired many other tennis instructors and taught tennis to hundreds of people. Since going to college, he has been looking for his next opportunity to make a difference in his environment.

With FRV, Martin hopes to guide students in transforming their amazing ideas into large-scale and successful companies.

In his free time, Martin can be found in a climbing gym or in various cafes developing his next video game project.

I am a 4th year Industrial Engineering at UofT. I have completed a 4-month internship at Capital one as a Business analyst as well as a 12-month internship at Kijiji, as a data analyst. I am currently leading the BizOps team at FRV, focusing on expanding our GP Club, our course sales and delivering on our partnerships.

I am very interested in the startup ecosystem, and hope to join a startup as an operator or a VC.

Owen is a third year computer science student at Western University. Entering his second year into Frontrow Ventures it has been a valuable experience despite the difference from his program.

Owen is very curious and dedicated student who is currently also working at Newmont Corporation as in Intern helping process control systems and instrumentation on site.

Samy Bouzinab is entering his second year at the University of Montreal, where he is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Law. He previously obtained a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University, majoring in Information Systems with a Concentration in Finance.

He currently serves as Front Row’s Legal Director. Past work experiences include a role as a legal intern at Inovia Capital, as a fund intern at Innovobot, as well as various roles in real estate and sales.

Helenna is the Director of Content & Marketing at Front Row Ventures and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at UBC’s Sauder School of Business, specializing in Marketing with a minor in Law & Society. She is deeply passionate about leveraging marketing as a catalyst for positive social change, focusing on areas such as women’s empowerment, LGBTQ+ initiatives, and supporting underrepresented groups.

In addition to her role at Front Row Ventures, Helenna serves as an Associate Vice-President of Marketing & Communications for UBC’s Commerce Undergraduate Society, one of Canada’s largest business school organizations. She has also previously held the position of Vice-President of Events for the Pride Division of UBC’s Commerce Undergraduate Society.

Helenna’s diverse work and non-profit experiences span several sectors, including healthcare, animal welfare, youth services, hospitality, and retail. Outside of her professional endeavours, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, listening to music, volunteering, travelling, and embracing new experiences that bring excitement to her life.

In short, Helenna likes to create, connect, and collaborate!

Alice is an Investment Associate in the QC Investment Team at FRV currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering (B.Eng.) at McGill University in a Co-Op program. Before doing so, she completed a DEC in Arts and Sciences, reflecting her diverse interests. She has had different internship experience in QA and product management in startup, technology consulting, and business intelligence.

Driven by curiosity, a passion for technology, and a strong interest for entrepreneurship, she would love to leverage this opportunity to combine her technical background with the business perspective learned through FRV’s training and experiences. She aims support ambitious entrepreneurs and impactful innovation.

I am a graduate research trainee at McGill University in the department of Microbiology & Immunology. Under the supervision of Dr. Irah King and Dr. Corinne Maurice, my project aims to explore the immunological and metabolic implications of early life parasite infections in malnourished conditions. Before starting my graduate studies, I received my Bachelor of Health Sciences in Biomedical Discovery & Commercialization from McMaster University where I got the opportunity to explore the biomedical commercialization space. Now, having joined FRV on the QC Investment Team, I get the opportunity to blend my passions for research and commercialization to help student founders achieve their goals.

Outside of the lab and FRV, I enjoy fermenting a wide variety of food and drinks, exploring Montreal cafes, and hiking.

Antoine is a Ph.D candidate in biology at Université du Québec à Montréal. His research focuses on acylation, a novel type of posttranslational modification linking proteins to fatty acids and its implication in the regulation of fat accumulation in the liver. He started his academic journey in computer science and is passionate about the intersection of biology and technology. He is using AI tools such as Alphafold and cutting-edge -omic techniques to progress through his research. He also loves to share his scientific knowledge. He has published several research articles in leading scientific journals, presented his work at international conferences, and served as a lecturer and teaching assistant for several courses. Antoine finds joy in helping others understand complex scientific concepts and is always eager to mentor and guide curious minds and individuals who are passionate about learning.
In addition to his research, Antoine enrolled in the Quebec Scientific Entrepreneurship Program and Researchers In Entrepreneurship Network to help transform his academic research into real world-changing tech company. Antoine’s ultimate goal is to use his scientific knowledge to build innovative solutions to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems.
In his free time, Antoine loves to cook, especially BBQ and healthy food. He is also an avid sports enthusiast and enjoys bodybuilding, cycling, calisthenics, and going on outdoor adventures. Antoine is also fascinated by the emerging field of web3 and decentralized technologies, and he enjoys keeping up with the latest developments in the blockchain space.
As a driven and passionate individual, Antoine is always looking for opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals in the startup, VC, and finance communities. If you share similar interests and want to connect, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Hello, my name is Christian Munteanu, I am a second year student at Concordia University majoring in Finance with a minor in accounting. My background is primarily tied to marketing, entrepreneurship and finance.

Elise is an investment associate at Front Row Ventures, Canada’s first student-led venture capital fund. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Université de Montréal and she is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Microbiology and immunology at the same University. With a keen interest in the convergence of science, entrepreneurship and investment, Elise is particularly drawn to nascent technologies.

In her free time, Elise enjoys exploring diverse cultures through travel, building connections with individuals from various backgrounds, and pursuing interests such as surfing and playing the ukulele.

Now, as a member of Front Row Ventures, Elise is deeply committed to create a meaningful impact through strategic decisions within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. She is strongly determined to contribute actively to the FRV community and its mission, fostering the success of startups through her work at Front Row Ventures.

Hamza is a driven third-year finance student deeply involved in the on-campus startup ecosystem. He’s been heavily involved in student life during his time at JMSB, having joined Enactus Concordia in his first year, going on to lead Project Eduquo within the organization. He’s passionate about making financial knowledge accessible to everyone.

PhD candidate specializing in translational oncology, dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and entrepreneurship. Passionate about venture capital and investing in a future that brings positive impacts, particularly within biotech and medtech sectors.

Jackson is a second-year student at McGill University, pursuing a major in Finance and a minor in Computer Science.

Passionate about supporting innovative tech and the VC ecosystem, he has experience interning at an early-stage SaaS startup, participating in multiple case competitions, and being involved with student organizations on campus.

Outside of academic and professional interests, Jackson is a head coach for soccer/football, an avid hiker, and enjoys running.

Hello! I’m Nathan Rothschild, a U0 undergraduate student at McGill studying Biochemistry. Outside of McGill, I previously worked in the automotive industry, and I am now the co-founder and CEO of Zyrka, an innovative patent-pending inventory management solution for automotive dealerships. Additionally, I am currently working as a Manufacturing Sciences Intern at Takeda. Please feel free to reach out via email, phone, LinkedIn, or any other method!

I’m Omar and I’m currently pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering at Polytechnique Montreal, where I’m deeply immersed in the fascinating world of medtech. I’m also intrigued by the dynamics of the venture capital space, especially how it fuels innovation in the tech and healthcare industries. Outside of my academic and professional interests, I’m a fitness enthusiast; I love hitting the gym and going for runs to keep myself energized. Additionally, I enjoy diving into the world of blockchain technology, constantly exploring its evolving landscape and potential applications. Combining these interests, I’m always looking to engage in conversations and projects that sit at the intersection of technology, health, and innovation!

Quinn is a trainee on the Quebec Investment Team. He joined FRV in March of 2024 and is super keen on making long-lasting changes in this niche sector of Venture Capital.

Quinn Rice Hui is an emerging professional in the business sector, combining industry exposure with a strong work ethic and adaptability. He possesses a creative and analytical mindset, excelling in leadership and team management, along with proficient event coordination. Quinn exemplifies exceptional communication skills, which have fostered strong relationships. He is interested in Venture Capital or Consulting as a career path down the line.

In his spare time, you can find Quinn hiking, skiing, biking, camping, and enjoying nature in general.

Hello! I’m Sofia Mandri, a second-year Finance student at McGill University with a concentration in Information Systems. Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to excellence, I actively seek growth opportunities that will build my confidence and knowledge base needed to one day become an entrepreneur.

In addition to my career goals, I bring genuine positivity and a passion for uplifting others. I have participated in 4 case competitions where I have won prizes in all of them, including the title of Best Speaker twice and first place. I thrive in social settings and excel when presenting to judges, classmates, teammates, or audiences. I am also involved in multiple clubs at McGill such as DMCC. As a natural leader, I recognize when to step back and let others lead, especially in areas where I lack experience.

Thomas-Jacques is an Investment Associate in the QC Investment Team at Front Row Ventures and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance at HEC Montréal. He’s passionate about Private Equity, Venture Capital and Investment Banking, with a particular interest in the energy, technology and manufacturing sectors.

Before joining Front Row Ventures, Thomas-Jacques completed two internships at Investissement Québec. He initially worked with the Fund Investments team, where he actively contributed to their investment in Inovia’s Growth Fund III. He then transitioned to the Private Equity team in the agri-foods sector. Prior to joining Investissement Québec, he worked as a Wealth Management intern at Manulife Securities.

Starting in January 2025, Thomas will also take part in a Private Equity internship at BDG & Partners, a Quebec-based buyout firm specializing in the manufacturing, distribution, and packaging sectors.

Coming from a technical financial background working in larger institutions, Thomas-Jacques joined FRV to acquire hands-on experience in deal sourcing, networking, earlier-stage investing and to strengthen his soft skills. He also wishes to support ambitious student entrepreneurs in building meaningful companies and to learn about their innovative technologies.
In addition to Front Row Ventures, Thomas participated in the establishment of the first business review of HEC Montréal, called Global Markets HEC, as a writer for the Equity Research section. On weekends, he teaches tennis at Midtown Athletic Club, which keeps him connected to the sport he played competitively for around ten years.

During his free time, Thomas-Jacques consistently pursues self-development. He completed multiple certificates in financial modeling and accounting from Wall Street Prep, Wharton Online, The Marquee Group and Bloomberg. He also developed a passion for weightlifting during COVID-19 lockdowns.

Véronique is a PhD candidate in molecular medicine at Université Laval. Her research at Institut universitaire de cardiologie et pneumologie de Québec focuses on the development of a genetic risk score for lung cancer. She is a recipient of the prestigious Vanier Fellowship from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Driven by her passion for innovative technologies, she is determined to use her entrepreneurial talent and experience to identify and invest in start-ups with at least one student founder.
Véronique works constantly to publish results that will contribute to the development of scientific knowledge. However, her professionalism does not restrain her from hiking, and playing tennis or basketball in her off hours. Her mission is to contribute to the growth of the Front Row venture community at Université Laval.

Andrew is currently a third-year commerce student at Queen’s University. As part of the Ontario Investment Team at Front Row Ventures, he has found a passion in venture capital and startups. From creating a small business in high school to interning in accounting, Andrew hopes to one day utilize his broad skillset in a future career.

Outside of school, Andrew’s passion lies in sports. As a former provincial volleyball player, he thoroughly enjoys competing and staying active. Andrew is also an avid Raptors, Leafs, and FC Porto fan.

Ani is joining the Front Row Ventures team as an Ontario Investment Trainee/Associate. Having completed her undergraduate studies at McGill University with a double major, Ani now embarks on her next academic journey, pursuing a Master’s degree in Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo. Her interdisciplinary background in Mathematics, Psychology, and Neuroscience research underscores her multifaceted strengths, allowing her to approach challenges with a holistic perspective.

Ani’s passion for innovation and entrepreneurship has been further fueled by her experiences as an operator at a biotech startup. Through her roles, she gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of building and scaling ventures, solidifying her commitment to driving impactful change in the startup ecosystem. Her journey has reinforced her belief in the power of collaboration and creativity, shaping her into a strategic thinker who thrives in dynamic environments.

Hi, my name is Bora and I am in my fourth year at U of T studying Molecular Biology and Immunology. I have a deep interest in early stage investing and am passionate about new and upcoming technologies.

David Li is currently a Ph.D. student in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Toronto, where he transitioned into tissue engineering from a civil engineering background. His research focuses on developing injectable hydrogels for delivering stem cells and therapeutic compounds to the human central nervous system for stroke and spinal cord injury treatment. He has also worked at the National University of Singapore, where he helped develop materials for medical pump devices. As an aspiring founder in the biotech space, David hopes to interact closely with other founders and learn about their journeys.

Outside of school and work, David loves playing sports and trying out new outdoor activities. His favourite sports so far are volleyball, squash, and rock climbing.

Hello! My name is Geoff. I’m a Family Medicine/Emergency Medicine resident physician with a background in health economics and clinical trials. I also do work in palliative care. I’m really excited to help out and build further on my knowledge of VC – and to give back where I can!

Jeanin is a member of the Ontario Investment Team at Front Row Ventures. Currently, she is pursuing an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree with a specialization in Accounting at the University of Ottawa. With a diverse range of experiences in ESG financial reporting, consulting, financial analysis and auditing, Jeanin brings a wealth of expertise to her role.

Prior to joining Front Row Ventures, Jeanin held a leadership role at Project Tech Conferences, a non-profit organization that provides tech education to middle and high school students. There, she led the hackathons portfolio and supported students in developing innovative solutions to address current world problems. She is also actively involved in Enactus, a student organization dedicated to running entrepreneurship projects.

Jeanin is committed to supporting student entrepreneurs and gaining further insights into the Canadian VC and startup ecosystem. In her free time, she enjoys going to the gym, rock climbing, swimming, skiing, and playing sports.

I am a Masters student interested in leveraging computational approaches to address complex challenges in the field of biomedicine. Specifically, my interests lie in computational methods and technologies to accelerate drug discovery. I also hold a keen interest in the commercialization of biological research and the process of translating a laboratory idea into innovative new ventures.

Karolina is a MSc Student studying chemical immunology with a passion in innovation and entrepreneuriship specifically within biotech and medtech. Her interests in venture capital stem from wanting to improve patients’ lives through supporting groundbreaking and innovative technologies that emerge from startups. She is joining Front Row Ventures as an Ontario Investment Trainee/Associate with an interdisciplinary background in Chemistry, Biology, Forensic Science and Immuno-oncology.

PhD student studying neuro-oncology at UofT.

I am a current fourth year Business and Computer Science student with a passion for scaling software businesses at the venture and growth stages. Living and working in Canada, Singapore, and the US has exposed me to an array of founders that fuels my drive to help fund and scale disruptive ideas. My experience spans across Framework Ventures, RBCx (Formerly RBC Ventures), and Klass Capital as I look to build out my investor toolkit in the hope of closing a world class portfolio of deals throughout my career!

Molly is currently an economics student at Western University, specializing in global economics. Her passion for entrepreneurship began by interning at a femtech startup during high school where she worked alongside the founder to build the company. This experience led Molly to join W5 Entrepreneurship Association at Western University as a director where she got to advise student entrepreneurs through the club’s startup accelerator program. Afterward, Molly realized her love for the venture capital world and helping startups grow, ultimately leading her to join Front Row Ventures as an investment associate on the Ontario investments team.

Outside of school and work, Molly enjoys reading books, watching Formula 1 races and spending quality time with family and friends.

Queen’s University Commerce – 2027

Vedant is joining FRV as an Investment Associate. He recently completed his second year of Software Engineering at the University of Guelph and has a keen interest in Venture Capital and early-stage investments, specifically in tech. Vedant brings experience working with several tech startups, and in his free time, he can be found on the soccer field, playing the guitar, or learning how to cook.

Yirui is an undergraduate student studying Finance and Economics, as well as Public Policy, at the University of Toronto. Her interests at where entrepreneurship, investment, and social impact intersect have developed from her own experience opening a small business; Yirui is passionate in supporting industry-disrupting ideas and contributing to building the infrastructure necessary for a thriving startup and venture capital scene. She is excited to continue pursuing this passion as an investment associate with Front Row Ventures.

In her free time, Yirui can be found baking (usually another loaf of banana bread), discovering a new favourite book, or crocheting.

Ashkan Gharahgozli is a third-year Manufacturing Engineering student at the University of British Columbia, passionate about developing software and manufacturing hardware electronic products. He has acquired valuable experience as a Software and R&D Engineer at Leftindust and CanDry Technologies, where he has been researching and developing cutting-edge proprietary software and hardware products over the past two years. Last summer, he contributed to assisting early-stage startups with strategy go-to-market advising alongside senior consultants at GetFresh Ventures.

Driven to help student entrepreneurs reach their full potential, Ashkan combines his love for new technologies with his student community. At UBC’s Google Developer’s Student Club, he shares his expertise and teaches students how to write better software and full-stack applications. While working at FRV, Ashkan seeks to establish valuable connections with team members and student entrepreneurs. He plans to leverage his experience in delivering and strategizing business needs to help startups grow while supporting and empowering student entrepreneurs.

In his spare time, Ashkan engages in creative pursuits such as 3D modelling, reading books, and playing music. He also enjoys playing chess and hiking to stay active.

Benjamin is a third-year commerce student specializing in finance. Through Front Row Ventures, he hopes to explore his avid interest in venture capital by learning more about financial modeling, business valuation, and startups. This past summer, Benjamin completed an internship with Jarislowsky Fraser’s equity research team in Toronto, where he explored the capital markets!

Outside of school, Benjamin can be found playing soccer, trying local restaurants, reading new books, and talking to his family and friends. He is a die-hard Arsenal fan and loves Thai food.

Daisy is a 4th-year undergraduate student at Simon Fraser University. She is focusing on Sustainable Energy Engineering and minoring in Business and Commerce. Daisy is passionate about smart cities technology and green neighborhood development.

She values all the learning and growing opportunities and always strikes to make a meaningful impact on her own life and the world she lives in.

As a Business and Computer Science student, I’m passionate about merging technology and business to create impactful solutions. With experience as a Founder, I’m eager to explore the VC space. Proficient in programming languages like Python, and skilled in data management systems such as MS Excel and Tableau, I excel in leading teams and driving digital transformations. Let’s connect if you’re seeking a results-driven professional to propel your organization forward.

Hi this is Hriday! I’m a third year undergraduate at UBC interested in ventures in the healthcare space.

A University of Victoria Business Commerce student experienced in startups, finance, and venture capital, passionate about technology-driven innovation and fostering positive change.

Max is a third-year student at UBC’s Sauder School of Business specializing in finance. Originally from Hong Kong, he moved to Vancouver, Canada, for University. He is entering his second year at Front Row.

With a passion for entrepreneurship and finance, he founded and exited three startups during his time in Hong Kong. He also has experience in finance with roles at KPMG, OMERS, and tech unicorn GeoComply.

At FRV, he is excited to return to his entrepreneurial roots and work closely with founders and investors to support the VC ecosystem in Canada. Outside of work, you can find him in the gym, playing poker, and having a good time with friends.

Third year student at UBC studying Cognitive Systems.

Nikita is a PhD Candidate in Medical Genetics at The University of British Columbia, working at the British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the BC Cancer Research Centre.

Nikita’s research projects have spanned across several scientific disciplines and have involved deep experimental optimization and computational data analysis to develop a translational understanding of genomics and its applications towards human health. Entrepreneurially driven, she has initiated and led the growth of several organizations: establishing and leading a student biotech organization in Vancouver and pan-Canada, expanding the BC Children’s Hospital bioinformatics support group throughout UBC and its Institutes, ideating a MedTech venture, opening her science-themed merchandise business (to name a few) – and joining Front Row Ventures has been a natural progression of her journey. Her research and social undertakings have led to forging strong ties within her community, and have won her several accolades.

She completed her Bachelors in Biomedical Genetics from Newcastle University, and her Masters in Human Genetics from University College London (UCL), both in the UK.

Shinjini is completing a degree in Bachelor of Commerce at UBC. She is passionate about building communities and entrepreneurship. She started her journey at Creative Destruction Lab as an Apprentice and later as a Host. She was a marketing intern for a FinTech Startup called ‘My Salt App’ and hosted a LinkedIn series called ‘Female Psychology of Money’ to encourage women to become financially independent. She also founded an initiative called ‘Vocal for Local’ to help local businesses ride the pandemic wave through digital marketing.

Hello!

My name is Ved, I am an engineering student with a minor in commerce at UBC in Vancouver. With a technical background in engineering and working in startups, I am well-poised to understand the technical and non-technical workings of a company. In my free time, I love to do anything with water – most notably I have swam to and touched an iceberg!

Feel free to reach out to me to chat about anything! 🙂

Hi! I’m Yik Khai, an International Economics undergraduate who is passionate about business strategy, entrepreneurship and street food! Having grown up in Malaysia and studying abroad in Canada and Italy, I love learning about different cultures and politics. Always open to chat!

Growing up, puzzles were a big deal in my family – from sudoku races with my mom and brother to any new challenge my mom could find. It wasn’t just about fun; it taught me to love solving complex problems. That love steered me towards consulting, and for the past 2 years, I’ve been with 180 Degrees Consulting tackling projects for social impact organizations while diving deep into Psychology and Commerce at UBC, which has been an incredible journey.

Joining Front Row Ventures as a Portfolio Support Associate, I’m excited to support the portfolios and help contribute to our strategic goals. FRV blends everything I’m passionate about: solving complex problems, working with people who want to make a difference, and contributing to a mission that’s all about growth and impact.

When I am not immersed in work, I enjoy my time with friends playing games – card games, board games, you name it. You can also find me keeping myself active through dancing and boxing classes!

Alec is completing his MBA at Dalhousie’s Rowe School of Business (Spring ’25) after obtaining an undergraduate degree in Medical Sciences from Western’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry where he was also a provincial champion student athlete. He is currently interning as a Business Analyst for a CleanTech startup and is managing three MedTech companies in FRV’s portfolio, providing unrivalled insights into startup operations from alternative perspectives.

Alec seeks to integrate his foundational science background with his MBA degree and FRV-trained VC skills to support the growth of innovative companies in Canada and beyond. He is interested in both the investment side and the startup operations side of the VC ecosystem, with a personal passion for impact companies tailored towards healthy living for humans and the planet.

Camille is an associate with the Quebec team supporting the portfolio companies of Front Row Ventures. Currently studying finance at the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University, she combines her passion for business with a strong understanding of the healthcare sector.

Before turning to finance, Camille studied health sciences and pursued two years of physiotherapy at Université Laval in Quebec. This training provided her with extensive expertise in anatomy, biomechanics, and neuroscience, enabling her to understand the challenges and specific needs of MedTech startups. Her ability to blend technical knowledge with financial skills makes her particularly well-suited to support and advise innovative companies in the medical field.

In addition to her academic skills, Camille is known for her dynamism, analytical mindset, and commitment to helping startups achieve their goals, having worked with two startups in the past. She is passionate about innovation, technological development, and companies that make a real difference. Camille is determined to use her expertise to contribute to the success of the portfolio companies of Front Row Ventures.

Derek is a Portfolio Support Associate at Front Row Ventures. He is currently a fourth-year student at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, pursuing a Business Administration degree with a Finance concentration. He has previous experience working in M&A, Corporate Development, Early-Stage Venture Capital, and Impact Advisory.

Growing up in a mom-and-pop shop, Derek had been exposed to entrepreneurship and was taught the nature of the business from a young age. After moving away from home and transitioning to university, he became actively involved with major clubs (finance and entrepreneurship) on campus and a pre-seed tech startup. Inspired by his experiences, Derek aims to continue to bridge the gap between finance and entrepreneurship for students at FRV. Outside of school and work, you can find him at the gym, producing and DJing EDM and hip-hop music, cheering on the Leafs, and hanging out with family and friends.

Jason is a fourth-year biomedical engineering student at the University of Toronto. He has experience working in the start-up ecosystem and is currently on the business development team at a biotech startup. He is excited by all the ways new technologies are changing the world for the better. Jason’s current bucket list include: becoming a better chef, learning sign language, cocktail mixing, and becoming a DJ.

Manorama Joshi is a 3rd year UBC Mechanical Engineering Student specializing in Biomechanics and Medical Devices. A UBC Schulich Leader Scholar (valued at $100,000) and recipient of the prestigious Alberta Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, she is involved with UBC’s Development and Alumni Engagement team, UBC Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, and Calgary based nonprofit Western Mechatronics. Manorama is also the winner of the 2024 Mechanical Engineering Communication Prize and Co-VP for UBC’s Women in Science and Engineering committee. She is a senior FRV Portfolio Support Associate and is passionate about applying her technical knowledge to support FRV portfolio companies within the VC landscape.

In her free time, you can find her outdoors enjoying nature or in the dance studio choreographing and dancing.

Max was previously a QC Investment Team Associate and is now a Portfolio Support Associate. He is an undergraduate student at HEC Montréal studying Finance and Economics.

He has previous experience working in Startups based in Paris and Helsinki in FinTech and HealthTech. Currently, he is a Startup Analyst at Mila Quebec and a Venture Analyst at CDL.

Max enjoys playing Chess, Soccer, and going Swimming in his free time.

I’m Pauline, an enthusiastic and driven individual with a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. I thrive in dynamic environments where creativity meets problem-solving. I’m on a mission to make a meaningful impact in the world of startups and venture capital, leveraging my skills and experience to support the next generation of innovators and change-makers. When I’m not immersed in the world of startups, you can find me playing ultimate or cooking.

Software Engineering @ McGill.

Fluent in French, English and Russian, Nic is an entrepreneurial-minded student focusing on solutions applicable to pressing needs.

Nicolas worked in AWL-Electricity’s team for 1.5 years before joining FRV.

Sina is a philosophy student at York University. He planned to pursue law after his bachelors, but quickly developed a deep appreciation for the impact possible through venture capital as he began to learn more about the startup ecosystem. He recognized he had a particular affinity for climate-tech as an industry, and naturally sought to gain first hand experience.

He began working with a startup that is primarily doing work in advanced manufacturing for solar panels. The startup works on automating custom solar panel manufacturing, attempting to make custom-solar both viable and desirable within the VIPV and BIVP industries, at a scale they predict only advanced custom manufacturing will enable.

Sina is currently developing their fundraising strategy for their Seed round, and leads all initiatives within that vertical of the business. Outside of fundraising, he also wears a few other hats as is typical in an early stage startup, working on marketing, brand strategy, business strategy, and wherever else he can contribute!

School and work aside, Sina enjoys living an active lifestyle as a regular gym goer, frequent hiker, and lover of all things fitness. He enjoys spending time with friends and family, and building new relationships as he is genuinely passionate about understanding the human experience (something that led him to study philosophy)!

Sina’s curious nature and habit of lateral thinking leaves him often engaged in friendly debates that reveal insight in even the most seemingly mundane topics. Through FRV he hopes to have many more conversations that leave all parties smarter for having engaged in them, growing together as agents of our shared future.

Vivian is a PhD student at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Her research utilizes functional genomics to identify mediators of intrinsic and acquired resistance to decitabine in TP53-mutated acute myeloid leukemia. She aspires to make a true impact on patients by translating her findings into the clinic and work in the biotech/biotech VC space.

Humza is a Master’s student at McGill University in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology, specializing in developing novel drug regimens for mycobacterial infections. Currently at FRV, he’s part of the Portfolio Support Team. Humza moved to Dubai for high school as a student-athlete completing the International Baccalaureate program in a vibrant, multicultural setting. Outside of his professional endeavours, Humza is a dedicated athlete, avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, and tech enthusiast. He also enjoys hiking, playing video/board games, and reading in his spare time.

Luis joined FRV’s Data & Product Team in 2024. He is currently studying computer science at the University of Toronto. Having previously worked for Thermo Fisher Scientific, where he honed his skills in programming and data analysis, Luis is eager to explore the startup ecosystem and leverage his experiences to support and grow student-led ventures across Canada.

Sanchit Jain is an aspiring software developer and data analyst currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computing Science at Simon Fraser University. Sanchit is proficient in a variety of programming languages, including C/C++, Python, SQL, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS, and is well-versed in software such as Visual Studio Code, Arduino, PyCharm, and MS Office. His expertise extends to frameworks and packages like Python Flask, scikit-learn, React.js, Bootstrap, and Tailwind CSS.

Sanchit’s project experience is diverse and demonstrates his commitment to leveraging technology for practical solutions. He is currently involved in a research project analyzing the stay of patients in ICUs using various machine-learning models to examine physiological parameters. His projects include the development of a terminal application for exploring data structures and programming an air purification system to combat air pollution. Notably, Sanchit was part of a hackathon project that developed a prototype for accurate weather prediction, which was aimed at aiding farmers and other stakeholders in remote areas.

As a Peer Educator at Fraser International College, Sanchit has been instrumental in tutoring students in programming fundamentals and discrete mathematics, thereby enhancing their understanding and performance in computer science courses. His volunteer work also includes serving as a Career Fair Ambassador & Peer Tutor at Simon Fraser University, where he successfully managed logistics during a career fair attended by a significant number of employers and students.

Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, Sanchit enjoys engaging with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, roller skating, participating in hackathons, and watching reviews of tech products.

Ayra is a second year student studying bachelor of commerce at Sauder School of Business. Ayra is passionate about entrepreneurship and understanding the Canadian Start-up world from the start to finish process.

Despite being in my final year of engineering studies at Polytechnique Montréal, I’ve always been drawn to finance, business, and sales. I’ve actively participated in multiple student clubs like PolyFinances (PolyMTL’s finance club), CCGP (PolyMTL’s consulting club), and various engineering clubs, which introduced me to VC and Front Row Ventures. With a passion for both technology and business, joining FRV offers a natural progression and an exciting transition into the workforce.

Beyond academics, I enjoy soccer, biking, bodybuilding, cooking, reading, and strategy games. Dedicated to personal growth, I am committed to excellence in every endeavour.

Claire studies Management & Organizational Studies at Western University. She is currently a Sales Data Specialist for a technology startup in Toronto. In her role, she works to expand the organization’s reach by streamlining client data organization and sourcing leads.

Her passion for entrepreneurship ignited during high school when she embarked on her first internship at a startup. This experience fuelled her interest in venture capital, and now she eagerly anticipates collaborating with portfolio companies to help them scale their operations.

In her spare time, Claire enjoys reading, crocheting, and exploring the city.

Hi everyone! My name is Jessica and I am a first-year studying BMOS at Western University. In my spare time, you can probably find me cafe hopping or playing video games with my friends. I love anything food related and my favourite drink is peach soda or peach tea. I also love anything dystopian or thriller-related when it comes to movies!

Valeria is a student of psychology and political science at the University of Toronto. She is passionate about environmentalism and technology innovation that is driven by a mission to serve underserved communities.

Hello!

My name is Mohammed, I’m a 3rd-year business student at Western University. With experience in start-ups and the non-profit sector, I have a deep passion for entrepreneurship and social impact.

Outside of school and work I’m a football fanatic, I love to read and enjoy travelling.

I’m always excited to learn new things and meet new people!

I am a third-year student at McGill University, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Environment: Earth Sciences & Economics with a minor in Entrepreneurship, and I am currently serving as a Junior Impact Analyst at Clear Skies Investment Management. I am passionate about sustainability and the economics of climate change, actively engaging in integrating ESG practices into the economy. My leadership skills were sharpened when I led a team of firefighters during the COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore. In my spare time, I like to keep fit in the gym and have recently taken up indoor bouldering. I also co-lead the Malaysian & Singaporean Association at McGill.

Jason Adounvo-Joseph is a student at HEC Montreal, where he is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Information Technology. He has been with Front Row Ventures for over a year, currently serving as a Partnership Associate, where he plays a key role in establishing strategic partnerships with incubators and accelerators to drive enterprise value and support the ecosystem of early-stage investments. His experience includes credit analysis, sales, marketing and customer relationship management. Jason is particularly passionate about public and early-stage investing, where he aims to leverage his expertise in finance and technology to identify and support high-potential opportunities. As he continues to build his career, he remains committed to making a meaningful impact in the finance and technology industry, with a focus on innovation and growth.

I’m Jonathan Besna, a fourth-year PhD candidate in biochemistry at Université de Montréal. My research is focused around biotechnology and enzyme engineering. My journey through academia is driven by a passion for unraveling the complexities of molecular biology and harnessing its potential for real-world applications.

I’ve found myself drawn to the intersection of science and entrepreneurship. The thrill of innovation and the prospect of turning groundbreaking ideas into thriving ventures captivate my imagination. It’s this dual fascination that has led me to explore the realm of venture capital.

Through venture capital, I aspire to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and commercialization, paving the way for transformative breakthroughs to reach the market. As part of the Partnerships team, I aim to meet with ecosystem partners to build relationships and drive collaborations forward.

In both academia and entrepreneurship, my mission remains the same: to make a meaningful impact on the world by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Hi, I’m Sanya, a fourth year student at UBC Sauder, studying Finance an Economics, interested in learning more about the entrepreneurship landscape in Canada. I’m a huge coffee enthusiast and love to explore different cafés in my free time!

My name is Victoria and I’m currently a student at Western University studying business. I’m interested in all things finance and entrepreneurship and I’m looking forward to learning more about the VC ecosystem. When I’m not studying, you can find me watching horror movies with my friends or reading the newest sci-fi book!

Allyson is a current student at Osgoode Hall Law School, working towards her Juris Doctor and is a graduate from the Rowe School of Business at Dalhousie University. She received her Bachelor’s of Commerce, majoring in finance and minoring in political science, in 2023. Allyson has experience working in a start-up environment and with a multinational bank through her experiences with Ontopical and Scotiabank. Within these companies she held different roles to help achieve project goals for her team and built new skills to become an effective asset.

Allyson is excited to be a trainee with the FRV legal team to expand her knowledge of the VC environment and learn more about the legal side of investing in growing companies. She hopes to bring her previous experiences to the team and contribute in a way that streamlines deal flow.

Félix Antoine currently pursues a combined program at Université de Sherbrooke, working towards a Bachelor’s in Law and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). He is a legal student at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt, gaining experience in law with emerging high-growth companies.

Excited to be an associate with the FRV legal team, Felix Antoine aims to expand his knowledge of the venture capital environment to further understand the business rationale behind investments in growing companies. He hopes to leverage his past experiences to streamline deal flow and make valuable contributions to the team.

Hannah attends the Schulich School of Law, where she will graduate in 2025 with her Juris Doctor. Hannah is a graduate from Dalhousie University, where she received her Bachelor of Science (Honours in Neuroscience) in 2021. Hannah has experience working with the in-house legal team at a large private company and has held numerous research roles across a variety of sectors. Hannah currently works at a full-service law firm where she has completed rotations through litigation and business law practice groups.

Enthusiastic, Smart, Resilient

Hi! My name is Sanvi Khanna and I am a second-year commerce student at McMaster University. I am passionate about fostering innovation and helping and supporting others.

With a keen interest in technology, finance, and human relations. At FRV I hope to gain a greater understanding of Venture Capital and hone the essential skills and knowledge.

Furthermore, it allows me to learn about ambitious entrepreneurs and provides the opportunity to practice my values in supporting businesses and bringing their innovative ideas to life!

Hi! My name is Emily, and I am a first-year Management and Organizational Studies student at Western University. I am a highly curious and enthusiastic individual. In my free time, you can find me working on my latest design project, playing badminton or discovering new tunes. I am especially excited to immerse myself in VC, meet founders and fellow investors, and witness how VC can benefit society.

Hi! I’m Ethan, and I study at McGill in the Honours in Investment Management program. I’ve been investing since I was 14, and over time, I’ve developed a knack for entrepreneurship, having kickstarted several projects, including building a large following in the investing niche on Instagram, which evolved into a marketing business. I’m also involved with McGill Ventures and have taken on other investment- and marketing/growth-oriented roles. Given my experiences in content creation, investing, and entrepreneurship, contributing to the Marketing team at Front Row Ventures felt like a natural fit!

Helenna is the Director of Content & Marketing at Front Row Ventures and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at UBC’s Sauder School of Business, specializing in Marketing with a minor in Law & Society. She is deeply passionate about leveraging marketing as a catalyst for positive social change, focusing on areas such as women’s empowerment, LGBTQ+ initiatives, and supporting underrepresented groups.

In addition to her role at Front Row Ventures, Helenna serves as an Associate Vice-President of Marketing & Communications for UBC’s Commerce Undergraduate Society, one of Canada’s largest business school organizations. She has also previously held the position of Vice-President of Events for the Pride Division of UBC’s Commerce Undergraduate Society.

Helenna’s diverse work and non-profit experiences span several sectors, including healthcare, animal welfare, youth services, hospitality, and retail. Outside of her professional endeavours, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, listening to music, volunteering, travelling, and embracing new experiences that bring excitement to her life.

In short, Helenna likes to create, connect, and collaborate!

My name is Ishi, and I’m going into my 3rd year of the BBA Program at the Schulich School of Business, York University, where I’m hoping to specialize in Marketing and Operations Management. Fun fact about me: I love to play the piano, and I’m also interested in photography. I currently serve as the Content & Marketing Associate at FRV. As a business student, I have been interested in learning more about Venture Capital, and I’m excited to be part of a fantastic team!