About us
YSpace is York University’s pan-university entrepreneurship and innovation hub supporting startups and entrepreneurs from a variety of sectors and communities. Our programming spans across scaling innovative technologies through customer and investor capital to scaling agri-food businesses into mass retail to diversity-focused initiatives like ELLA powered by Desjardins for women-led businesses and Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) for Black-led businesses. Additionally with our Start-Up Visa program, we are building a robust ecosystem, driving positive change and empowering entrepreneurs to shape the future. We are also home to two physical hubs in the City of Markham and the Town of Georgina.
Our team
Leadership
David Kwok
Director, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
David Kwok
Director, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What is your role at YSpace?
Associate Director of Entrepreneurship. I oversee all of YSpace's programming and operations with a focus of providing the ultimate service and support for entrepreneurs across multiple sectors and stages of the product life cycle.
Favorite Quote
"I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Sounds cliche, but everything! From the first day of opening our doors to all the socials, events, and connecting with the community.
What is your theme song?
"Lose Yourself" - Eminem
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pho Ga. Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup.
Never have I ever…
Gone waterfall jumping.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Learning Myself"
Emma Yuen
Operations Manager
Emma Yuen
Operations Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Operations Manager. I manage all operational aspects of YSpace, ranging from finance, HR, space and beyond!
Favorite Quote
“All your dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” – Walt Disney
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Sushi and karaoke at the 2023 summer social
What is your theme song?
Stand by Me – Ben E. King
What is your guilty pleasure?
Senior dogs
Never have I ever…
Been to Disneyworld
What would the title of your autobiography be?
“Unbreakable”
Marlina Ramchandran
Special Projects Manager
Marlina Ramchandran
Special Projects Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
I oversee the planning and launch of startup support projects and partnerships.
Favorite Quote
"The way to get started is to quit talking, and begin doing." - Walt Disney
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
ELLA Altitude 2022 Showcase and The YSpace team gathering (Xmas 2022).
What is your theme song?
"Stuck on You" by Lionel Richie
What is your guilty pleasure?
'Sunday mom's special' goat meat curry with soft rotis, white fluffy rice, and yogurt dip...ooh so yummy (followed by an afternoon siesta).
Never have I ever…
Slept for less than 7 hours.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Tommorow is Another Day".
Nafis Ahmed
Associate Director of Entrepreneurship
Nafis Ahmed
Associate Director of Entrepreneurship
What is your role at YSpace?
Entrepreneurship Manager. I oversee the technology portfolio, supporting founders across our lifecycle of programs. I also manage the YSpace Markham hub.
Favorite Quote
"He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life." - Muhammad Ali
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Every YSpace social and showcase event where we get to hangout with our amazing community!
What is your theme song?
"C.R.E.A.M" - Wu-Tang Klan
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chicken wings and a cold beer
Never have I ever…
Gone skydiving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Against All Odds - The Legacy
Nicole Troster
ELLA Entrepreneurship Manager
Nicole Troster
ELLA Entrepreneurship Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Entrepreneurship Manager, ELLA (on parental leave): I developed and oversee YSpace's suite of programs to accelerate the growth of women-led businesses
Favorite Quote
"Ideas without action are useless" by Helen Keller
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Pivoting ELLA programs at the start of the COVID-19 programs. We made it work in such a short period of time!
What is your theme song?
"Fighter" by Christina Aguilera
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate!
Never have I ever…
Done rally racing and had podium finishes every time
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Driven Woman
Olusegun Villasa
BEA Entrepreneurship Manager
Olusegun Villasa
BEA Entrepreneurship Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Black Entrepreneurship Alliance Manager. I oversee all of BEA programming which is designed to support Black founders at all stages to scale their companies.
Favorite Quote
"In the midst of chaos, there is always opportunity" - Sun Tzu
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Black Entrepreneurship Alliance 2022 Kick-Off celeberation – Good close for our first full year in operation.
What is your theme song?
"Worth the Weight" by Jidenna (ft. Seun Kuti)
What is your guilty pleasure?
Cheeseburger, large fries, and a large banana milkshake
Never have I ever…
Purchased a pair of Jordans.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Son of the Soil and the Diaspora"
Team
Alina Ali
Technology Program Officer
Alina Ali
Technology Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
Program Officer. I assist with YSpace's technology portfolio & educational programs to develope community led initiatives that provide support to our students & entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
"The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise" - Maya Angelou
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The community coming together at the 2023 New Year Social
What is your theme song?
"Happy" - Pharrell Williams
What is your guilty pleasure?
Biryani - South Asian chicken & rice
Never have I ever…
Gone bungee jumping
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Rigging Life in Your Favor"
Apoorva Shastry
ELLA Program Coordinator
Apoorva Shastry
ELLA Program Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
I coordinate the logistics for programming, workshops and events as well as provide administrative support to accelerate growth for the participating companies.
Favorite Quote
"Your focus determines your reality" - Obi-Wan Kenobi
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting my fantastic teammates! Anticipating countless more incredible moments together as we embark on this exciting journey!
What is your theme song?
"Flight of the Bumblebee" by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov
What is your guilty pleasure?
Japanese Ramen
Never have I ever…
Watched any sports
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Unfinished Sculpture: From Yesterday's Clay to Tomorrow's Character"
Bahar Amini Zadeh
Special Projects Assistant
Bahar Amini Zadeh
Special Projects Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I work through different projects at YSpace and Innovation York as a Special Projects Assistant.
Favorite Quote
"It always seems impossible until it’s done." – Nelson Mandela
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My first team meeting and how welcoming everyone were.
What is your theme song?
"Hope" - NF
What is your guilty pleasure?
Fries with nacho cheese, sour cream, and bacon.
Never have I ever…
Driven a car.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Catharsis"
Bukola Adekanye
Agrifood Program Officer
Bukola Adekanye
Agrifood Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I provide support for BEA/YSpace Food and Beverage founders, and help them connect with the right resources and opportunities to actualize their business dreams "
Favorite Quote
“On n’est jamais seul quand on est avec soi-meme” - Anonymous. Translation: "One is never alone when one is with oneself"
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The BEA Launch - Meeting everyone in person after having year's worth of virtual programming sessions.
What is your theme song?
"Cock Crow at Dawn" by Bongos Ikwe
What is your guilty pleasure?
Checking food posts online.
Never have I ever…
Gone mountain hiking
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"The Untold story"
Ellen (Yeji) Kim
Startup Visa Program Officer
Ellen (Yeji) Kim
Startup Visa Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I develop and coordinate YSpace's entrepreneurship programs, primary focus on empowering and nurturing the growth of women-led businesses.
Favorite Quote
"Just as a solid rock is not shaken by the storm, even so the wise are not affected by praise or blame” - Gautama Buddha.
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
YSpace 5 Year Anniversary Celebration
What is your theme song?
"Move To The Music" WWE Raw Theme
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pretzel
Never have I ever…
Watched The Lord of the Rings
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Transplanted: Resilience & the Beauty of Bouncing Back
Galen Udell
Investment Program Advisor
Galen Udell
Investment Program Advisor
What is your role at YSpace?
Investment Program Advisor - I help startup founders through the fundraising process. Assessing their KPI's and business model to ensure it matches financial ask.
Favorite Quote
"I always cook with wine. Sometimes I even put it in my food" - W.C. Fields
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The electric buzz anytime you were there pre-Covid
What is your theme song?
"The Beat Goes On" by The Kings
What is your guilty pleasure?
Any carb, but especially chips
Never have I ever…
Been early
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Pulling up the Bootstraps: Lessons Learned from Hardtimes
Gurmehar Kaur
Special Projects Assistant
Gurmehar Kaur
Special Projects Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I work to assist teams in helping plan and execute "special projects," events and support the process of putting together these events.
Favorite Quote
"This too shall pass."
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Working with the amazing team and see events that we've been planning come to life!
What is your theme song?
Barbie: Life in the Dreamhouse Theme Song
What is your guilty pleasure?
Ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Never have I ever…
Been in one country for more than 4 years.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Whispers of the Journey"
Harshit Gwalani
Special Programs Assistant
Harshit Gwalani
Special Programs Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I assist with the setup, planning, and coordination of different projects at YSpace as the Special Programs Assistant. I engage in event organisation using our online softwares - DISCO, Luma, Canva and many others!
Favorite Quote
"Everything happens for a reason"
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Weekly team check-ins where the entire team meets up to discuss updates as well as catch up on how everyone has been doing and address any concerns all together as a team!
What is your theme song?
Forever by Chris Brown
What is your guilty pleasure?
Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Never have I ever…
Gone cliff diving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Happy Accidents
Jason Muloongo
Startup Visa Program Advisor
Jason Muloongo
Startup Visa Program Advisor
What is your role at YSpace?
Favorite Quote
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
What is your theme song?
What is your guilty pleasure?
Never have I ever…
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Jaynain Panchal
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Jaynain Panchal
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
I’m a Marketing Coordinator, working with our team to create and execute digital marketing and communication efforts for our entrepreneurship initiatives and events. I manage content for our social media channels and website, draft press releases and stories, and help develop marketing strategies to promote our programs and brand. In short, I'm here to make sure our message reaches the right audience!
Favorite Quote
For it is easy to criticize and break down the spirit of others, but to know yourself takes a lifetime.
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Prior to joining the team, I had the privilege of coordinating a tour for international delegates at the YSpace Markham Hub. More memories to come!
What is your theme song?
Right on Time by Rob Riccardo
What is your guilty pleasure?
CHOCOLATE, I sometimes eat a whole 24 piece bar in one sitting
Never have I ever…
Bungee jumped. However, despite being afraid of heights, this is something I am definitely GOING to do.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
A Glimpse Into The Life Of A 21st Century Nomad.
Jessica Gedge
ELLA Senior Program Officer
Jessica Gedge
ELLA Senior Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I'm the Senior Program Officer for ELLA and will be working on the planning and implementation of programs to accelerate growth for participating companies.
Favorite Quote
"If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." - African Proverb
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Getting the chance to meet such a warm, welcoming and diverse group. I'm looking forward to working together and making a big impact together!
What is your theme song?
"It was a good day" - Ice Cube
What is your guilty pleasure?
Anything salty, especially chips.
Never have I ever…
Skydived, nor would I want to!!
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"From Inspiration to Creation - Chronicles of a Dreamer"
Jiho Bak
Senior Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Jiho Bak
Senior Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
From planning to execution, I am responsible for YSpace's marketing strategy to build a empowering and welcoming community for entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
"The greatest risk one can take is to take no risks at all."
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Dancing with the team for content LOL
What is your theme song?
4'33'' - John Cage
What is your guilty pleasure?
I LOVE Skor McFlurry with caramel sauce
Never have I ever…
passed a driving test... born to be a passenger princes
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Untitled
Judy Wong
CPG Program Advisor & Leadership Coach
Judy Wong
CPG Program Advisor & Leadership Coach
What is your role at YSpace?
Food & ELLA Program Advisor. I help founders navigate the wonderful world of entrepeneurship and the Consumer Packaged Goods industry
Favorite Quote
"Start the day with a grateful heart" - Anonymous
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
All the amazing events where we got to meet founders from multiple cohorts over the last 3 years (Food, ELLA, BEA Launch!)
What is your theme song?
Mo-eh-yo (Ignite) - Fujii Kaze
What is your guilty pleasure?
Ramen and pretty much anything with noodles and broth.
Never have I ever…
Played never have I ever (until now)
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"WIP"
Kanishia Mensah
BEA Programs & Events Coordinator
Kanishia Mensah
BEA Programs & Events Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Programs and Events Coordinator. I assist the BEA team in planning, implementing, and delivering entrepreneurial programming for Black entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
Know your worth, then add tax. - American Proverb
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting the YSpace team and BEA manager for the first time during the Christmas Social 2021. It's incredible to see how the team has expanded since.
What is your theme song?
Build My Life by Housefires
What is your guilty pleasure?
All things sweet, specifically Plantain and Cinnabons.
Never have I ever…
Gotten a tattoo
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Elevated Kay: Redefining Her Life"
Karina Scott
YSpace Northern York Region Associate
Karina Scott
YSpace Northern York Region Associate
What is your role at YSpace?
As a Business Entrepreneur Assistant at Yspace Georgina, I will collaborate with the Town of Georgina, Town of East Gwillimbury, and YSpace staff to facilitate entrepreneurship programs both in-person and virtually, while also supporting the establishment and logistical operations of a new incubator/accelerator space in Sutton.
Favorite Quote
“There is nothing more beautiful than when you prove to yourself just how strong you are” - Unknown
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My memorable moment at YSpace would have to be the first week I started this position. Everyone was so welcoming and excited for me to become a part of the team!
What is your theme song?
“The Way I Talk” - Morgan Wallen
What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure would have to be anything sweet, sushi or poutine.
Never have I ever…
Gone zip lining face first (called the superman) down a mountain over 100ft in the air, going over 100 km/hr in Costa Rica. Fun fact, I did do this at the beginning of 2020 and it was the FIRST TIME I ever went ziplining.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
“Footprints in the Sand” - The Waves of my life
Mary Olabanwo
BEA Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Mary Olabanwo
BEA Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Marketing and Communications Coordinator - I manage the content for our social media and website, and help develop marketing strategies to increase engagement in the community.
Favorite Quote
"Your attitude determines your altitude" - Zig Ziglar
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
2021 Christmas Social: Meeting the whole team for the first time.
What is your theme song?
"Pamilayo" Zizibo
What is your guilty pleasure?
Daily Bubble Tea
Never have I ever…
Used someone else's netflix account
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Nandika Kumar
Website and Social Media Assistant
Nandika Kumar
Website and Social Media Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I work as the Website and Social Media Assistant. My role is to support the marketing team to create engaging content to promote YSpace and the incredible opportunities it brings for entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
"Happiness is not by chance, but by choice"
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Working on the Ella Ascend Showcase and getting to meet all the amazing entrepreneurs
What is your theme song?
Friends- "I’ll be there for you "
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pizza Everyday!
Never have I ever…
Been Scubadiving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
“Case Closed"
Negin Khorasani
YSpace Northern York Region Coordinator
Negin Khorasani
YSpace Northern York Region Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
I oversee entrepreneurship programming and operation of YSpace Georgina-East Gwillimbury. Our focus is to address the unique needs of the local entrepreneurs in these rural communities and to provide support and resources to them.
Favorite Quote
"You are not a drop in the ocean, you are the entire ocean in a drop!" - Rumi
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
When a client shared how she had lost all hopes and had gone through a lonely and at times depressed journey and her encounter with us through one of our workshops has brought her hope and has opened a door to new possibilities for her.
What is your theme song?
"See Me Beautiful" - Red Grammer
What is your guilty pleasure?
Potato chips.
Never have I ever…
Broken a bone, not because I was a very careful kid, but because I was literally very flexible. When you are flexible you don't break 🙂
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"In Search of Truth and Meaning"
Nunu Francisco
BEA Program Officer
Nunu Francisco
BEA Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I am the BEA Program Officer for the tech industry. As a tech enthusiast, my passions lie in entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. In my role, I help entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of technology and business, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Whether it’s helping them refine their pitch, connect with investors, or build a strong team, I’m there every step of the way.
Favorite Quote
“The distance between your dreams and reality is called action” - unknown
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My most memorable moment in YSpace was the pitch contest and mixer.
What is your theme song?
I love music, so my theme music changes often. But for this season, my theme song is THIS YEAR (Blessings) [feat. Ehis’ D’ Greatest]
What is your guilty pleasure?
I have an insatiable appetite for cheesecake.
Never have I ever…
Gone paragliding.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Love, Chaos & Triumph
Snehal Phatak
ELLA Program Coordinator
Snehal Phatak
ELLA Program Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Program Coordinator, ELLA. I coordinate the logistics for programming, workshops and events as well as provide administrative support to accelerate growth for the participating companies.
Favorite Quote
Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why we call it ‘The Present’ – Eleanor Roosevelt
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting my wonderful teammates! Waiting for many more to come!
What is your theme song?
“Happy” - Pharrell Williams
What is your guilty pleasure?
Eating home baked cakes
Never have I ever…
Gone for Skydiving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Me, Myself & Happiness
Stephanie Simpson
YSpace Northern York Region Coordinator (Maternity Leave)
Stephanie Simpson
YSpace Northern York Region Coordinator (Maternity Leave)
What is your role at YSpace?
Program and Operations Lead for YSpace Georgina and East Gwillimbury, I provide support and resources for the unique needs of rural communities.
Favorite Quote
“The greatest gift you can ever give another person is your own happiness.” - Abraham Hicks
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Heartfelt peer-to-peer sessions and hugs from grateful business owners.
What is your theme song?
"Dreams" Fleetwood Mac
What is your guilty pleasure?
Sushi, 100%
Never have I ever…
Had meat in 7 years
What would the title of your autobiography be?
How to Live Your Bliss
Valentina Dinh
Website and Social Media Assistant
Valentina Dinh
Website and Social Media Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
As a Website and Social Media Assistant I support YSpace's digital presence by creating engaging content for social media and optimizing the website for user experience. I also support the marketing and communication efforts by curating posts that highlight our programs, events, and community success stories.
Favorite Quote
“A wise bear always keeps a marmalade sandwich in his hat, in case of emergency.” - Sir Michael Gambon (Uncle Pastuzo) Paddington (2014)
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting the YSpace team for the first time. Everyone is so sweet and welcoming. It felt like warm beams of sunlight was hitting against my face.
What is your theme song?
“Toyota Corolla 2010” - 2003 Toyota Corolla
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate covered strawberries
Never have I ever…
Broke a bone
What would the title of your autobiography be?
A Series of Unfortunate Sleep Schedules
Youngmi Lee
YSpace Markham Coordinator (Maternity Leave)
Youngmi Lee
YSpace Markham Coordinator (Maternity Leave)
What is your role at YSpace?
Assist work-integrated learning programs for students as a Program Assistant and support YSpace operation.
Favorite Quote
"Happiness depends upon ourselves." - Aristotle
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
YSpace holiday and Summer social
What is your theme song?
Lucky" by Jason Mraz
What is your guilty pleasure?
Instant packed Tteok-bokki (korean rice cake)
Never have I ever…
Driven on the highway by myself.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Dreams becoming reality.
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YSpace is committed to working with emerging technology, agrifood, products and services. Get in touch today to find out how you can become a part of our community.
Contact us
For more information, please contact us at
yspace@yorku.ca
416-736-2100 ext. 44940
