Forty Under 40 2021

2021 PLATINUM SPONSOR

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 1

GOLD SPONSOR

2021-12-02 11:48 AM

— FAST-TRACK INTO BUSINESS. If you want distinction early in your business career, you need the skills and connections to make it happen. BCIT Business + Media has over 100 programs taught by innovative industry leaders and linked with breakthrough businesses in BC and around the world. From Artificial Intelligence to Business Analytics, Enterprise Systems to Technical Arts, learn by experience through real-world education— and expedite your achievements.

Start your hands-on learning at bcit.ca/business-media

BUSINESS + MEDIA FOR A COMPLEX WORLD.

—— BRITISH COLUMBIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 2

2021-12-01 3:24 PM

Raising Our Hands to All Top 40 Under 40 Honourees

Back left: Couns. Deanna George, Kevin O’Neill, Liana Martin, Charlene Aleck, Front left: Curtis Thomas, Chief Jen Thomas, Dennis Thomas

C

ongratulations to this year’s honourees of the Top 40 Under 40 Award. Our Tsleil-Waututh Nation Council raises our hands to those that have been recognized . The leadership many of you are showing will continue to be called on as we plan for future generations.

We raise our hands to Dennis Thomas-Whonoak and thank him for the good work he continues to do for our Tsleil-Waututh Nation Community. As the Senior Business Development Manager for our Nation, Dennis oversees many important projects that contribute to Tsleil-Waututh’s economic well-being and self-determination for generations to come.

Dennis, not only do you work hard for our community, but you are setting an excellent example for our future generations.

Our youth look to you as an outstanding leader and someone they can model themselves after as they look to do work in the business community in years to come.

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners.

Tsleil-Waututh Nation Council

www.twnation.ca 40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 3

2021-12-01 3:24 PM

4 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

Recognizing this year’s exceptional Forty under 40 cohort

2021 WINNERS Mark Adams | 10

Jeffrey Golby | 30

Tom Rossiter | 45

Humaira Ahmed | 12

Kevin Hatch | 31

Adam Segal | 46

Maryam Antikchi | 14

Rajveer Hundal | 32

Muneesh Sharma | 48

Tara Ataya | 16

Crystal Hung | 33

Michael Tan | 49

Rattan Bagga | 18

Kendra Johnston | 34

Amy Tanner | 50

Ziad Boustany | 19

Jason Kiselbach | 35

Mike Thiessen | 51

Joel Bradley | 20

Ben Lightburn | 36

Dennis Thomas-Whonoak | 52

Dani Bryant | 21

Taylor MacDonald | 37

Jessica Verhagen | 53

Joseph Cooke | 22

Shannon Malovec | 38

Vikramaditya Yadav | 54

Alan Cosgrave | 24

Mitchell Miller | 39

Alexa Young | 55

Darcie Crowe | 25

Drew Munro | 40

Laura Cundari | 26

Christopher Naismith | 41

Rhogene Dadashzadeh | 27

Jeanne-Marie Owens | 42

Ty Duperron | 28

Sophia Park | 43

Sam Gharegozlou | 29

Jessica Prince | 44

2021 PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

PRESIDENT: Alvin Brouwer EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHER, BIV; VICE-PRESIDENT, GLACIER MEDIA: Kirk LaPointe EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Hayley Woodin DESIGN: Petra Kaksonen PRODUCTION: Rob Benac SALES MANAGER: Laura Torrance ADVERTISING SALES: Blair Johnston, Corinne Tkachuk, Chris Wilson ADMINISTRATOR: Katherine Butler Forty under 40 is published by BIV Magazines, a division of BIV Media Group, 303 Fifth Avenue West, Vancouver, B.C. V5Y 1J6, 604-688-2398, fax 604-688-1963, biv.com.

Copyright 2021 Business in Vancouver Magazines. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or incorporated into any information retrieval system without permission of BIV Magazines. The publishers are not responsible in whole or in part for any errors or omissions in this publication.

ISSN 1205-5662 Publications Mail Agreement No.: 40069240.

Registration No.: 8876.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Circulation Department: 303 Fifth Avenue West, Vancouver, B.C. V5Y 1J6 Email: subscribe@biv.com

PRODUCED BY

PLATINUM SPONSOR

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 4

GOLD SPONSOR

2021-12-02 11:49 AM

Top 40 in B.C. for outstanding business leadership.

RHOGENE DADASHZADEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, BUSINESS BANKING MARKET DEVELOPMENT, B.C.

Congratulations, Rhogene Dadashzadeh, on being named one of BIV’s Forty under 40.

We’d like to thank and congratulate Rhogene for her leadership in supporting our deep connections with the business community and for being a champion of the Scotiabank Women Initiative,® empowering women-owned and women-led businesses in B.C. The Scotiabank team is very proud of your achievement.

® Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under license.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 5

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

6 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

HONOURING THIS YEAR’S OUTSTANDING GROUP OF YOUNG BUSINESS LEADERS KUDOS | 2021 award recipients represent the resiliency and resourcefulness of B.C.’s economy

BY FORTY UNDER 40 MAGAZINE STAFF

T

his year’s cohort of Forty under 40 award winners have shown leadership, resiliency and resourcefulness in the face of unprecedented upheaval and uncertainty. They have also seen continued success — in business and in their lives — despite the tumultuous past two years. Their leadership in crisis, and over the past couple of decades, is inspiring, and demonstrates

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 6

how putting people and communities first makes for good business, in every sense.

More than 100 nominations were received for this year’s awards program, which recognizes British Columbia’s most accomplished business leaders under the age of 40 working in the province’s private, public and non-profit sectors.

Four judges, comprised of two representatives from Business in Vancouver and two former Forty under 40 award recipients, reviewed this year’s submissions to select the top 40 nominees.

This year’s winners hold leadership positions across a wide range of industries. Some are entrepreneurs, while others have worked their way up the corporate ladder. All of them have demonstrated

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

| 7

THE 2021 JUDGING PANEL KIRK LAPOINTE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER; VICE-PRESIDENT, EDITORIAL, GLACIER MEDIA

ANNA STUKAS VICE-PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, CARBON ENGINEERING LTD.

JON CONLIN PARTNER, FASKEN

HAYLEY WOODIN EXECUTIVE EDITOR, BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

exceptional achievement in leadership, business, innovation and community involvement.

This year’s judging panel included: Kirk LaPointe, BIV’s editorin-chief and publisher, and the vice-president, editorial, at Glacier Media; Anna Stukas, vice-president of business development at Carbon Engineering Ltd.; Jon Conlin, partner at Fasken; and Hayley Woodin, BIV’s executive editor. Both Stukas and Conlin were Forty under 40 recipients in 2020.

All judges agreed that there were many successful and noteworthy business leaders who were put forward for consideration this year. It was a challenging judging process, with many individuals deserving recognition.

Every year, Business in Vancouver asks B.C.’s business community to nominate leaders who have risen through the ranks of their company or organization, or who have successfully charted their own path in business, and have done so at a relatively young age.

Recipients not only demonstrate individual and professional success, but they showcase a true commitment to giving back to their community and profession. Many of this year’s recipients are board or committee members, advisors, donors and mentors; they are generous with their time, skills and resources outside of regular working hours, and they contribute to the strength and inclusivity of their respective communities.

Traditionally, award winners are celebrated at an annual awards gala in Vancouver. Last year, 2020 Forty under 40 recipients were recognized at a virtual event due to COVID-19 restrictions. É

Congratulations to Royal Columbian Hospital laboratory physician Dr. Sophia Park on being recognized as a BIV Forty Under 40.

rchfoundation.com

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 7

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

8 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

2020 FORTY UNDER 40 EVENT Award recipients reflect and celebrate in virtual event In a typical year, Business in Vancouver would recognize Forty under 40 award recipients with a gala celebration thrown in their honour. But the past year has been far from typical.

In March 2021, the 2020 Forty under 40 winners shared revelations and reflections in a rapid-fire virtual event presented by BIV. These influential and remarkable business leaders were given one minute to share their most important takeaway from a year of unprecedented disruption and challenge. T he virtual event was sponsored

by Fasken, BCIT and EO Vancouver, and co-hosted by BIV executive editor Hayley Woodin and reporter Tyler Orton.

Some highlights of the event follow. In some cases, they have been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

The full event can be viewed at biv.com/video.

“Resilience is often portrayed as a singular act of heroism, whereas perseverance actually requires a supportive community. The world has changed, but people haven’t.”

Solon Bucholtz,

“People are watching, and how we show up, what we say, how we respond as leaders in the community becomes a barometer for those around us.”

Joshua Meyers BC Centre for Ability

LBC Studios

“I’ve learned how lowering my expectations can lead to a far more pleasant life.”

Ramin Estifaie CSN Pharma

“My greatest learning this year has been digging into the words and stereotypes we use to define leadership to find what resonates with me, and to discard what doesn’t.”

Corinne Caldwell BC Real Estate Association

“We are more vulnerable to psychological injuries, such as stress, anxiety, burnouts, you name it. The solution: selfcare. Self-care is not selfish.

Self-care is non-negotiable.

Self-care is a lifestyle.”

Cecilia Yeung PTSD Support for Nurses

“I think COVID provided that opportunity, that little bit of space, for me really to come in and look at my values and choose a path forward.”

Anna Sainsbury

“Why does it take a crisis to break the accessibility ground?

Every one of us has a role to make communication more accessible, and also more inclusive.”

Braam Jordaan Convo Communications

GeoComply

“It’s really through experimentation that we’re going to learn how we can adapt into this new environment and test our new hypotheses.”

Dustin Johnson Save-On-Food

WINNERS OF THE 202O FORTY UNDER 40 AWARDS, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:

Solon Bucholtz, LBC

Studios; Jennifer Hollinshead, Peak Resilience; Joe Deobald, Full Frame Marketing; Cecilia Yeung, PTSD Support for Nurses.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 8

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

| 9

“The more you help other people, the more you’ll receive in return.”

“The power of collaboration was something that shouldn’t take a crisis to bring to the fore. The issues we had in common are so much greater than the issues that we have separately.”

Jon Conlin Fasken

“We all have to aim high. We need to be open minded.”

“Something I’ve been looking at is setting goals by getting clear about how you want to feel, and then designing your to-do list and setting goals based on how you want to feel in the future.”

Emilie de Rosenroll

Carling Dick

South Island Prosperity Partnership

Earnscliffe Strategy Group

Vahid Shababi Shad Victory Square Technologies

“It was in a webinar that I heard the concept of being a PIP leader: prioritize, facilitate improvisation and be present.”

“It’d be crazy to do what everyone else does and expect different results.

If you want different results, you need to do things differently.”

Mitchell Demeter

“Take a moment to consider the successes that your teams have had over the last year and recognize the all stars on your teams that have done such a great job.”

Troy Abromaitis

Matthew May

Netcoins

Bucci Developments

Coast 2000 Terminals

“The broad embrace of flexible work policies has, in many cases, driven unexpected levels of productivity.

But to me, nothing can replace that human in-person interaction.”

Zac Cohen Trulioo

“You can still do great things in the midst of a crisis if you have the right team committed to your mission, vision and values.”

Joshua Davis

“Regardless of how good you think things are going in your business, it can change – just like that – with very little warning.”

Kosi Stobbs Property Owl Group of Companies

“My takeaway from this last intense year is gratitude, and looking at how the inequities in our society actually impact people, and I think COVID-19 has really had a magnifying effect on all of those things.”

Jennifer Hollinshead

“The pandemic has obviously been challenging for all of us but it has allowed us to take the time to learn. People come up with ideas, online businesses and started their passion projects. It’s allowed us to be able to achieve those.”

Joe Deobald

Peak Resilience

“This last year was a complete stress test of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Needless to say, it’s been a real humdinger.”

Chris van Dyck Crafty Apes VFX

Full Frame Marketing

JL Davis Enterprises

2020 FORTY UNDER 40 WINNERS Troy Abromaitis Solon Bucholtz Corinne Caldwell Natalie Chan Zac Cohen Jonathan Conlin Joshua Davis Emile de Rosenroll Mitchell Demeter Joe Deobald Carling Dick Ramin Estifaie Sarah Gulbrandsen Christian Hamm Kevin Heyries Jennifer Hollinshead Harj Johal Dustin Johnson Braam Jordaan Matthew May

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 9

Aliya Mohamed Joshua Myers Nima Nabavi Ryan O’Shea Kathleen Reid Dylan Rekert Jason Robertson Anna Sainsbury Reza Sanaie Vahid Shababi Shad Amir Sharif Kosi Stobbs Anna Stukas Rogayeh Tabrizi Christian Thomson Sean Tyson Chris Van Dyck Kevin Westell Cecilia Yeung Russell Zishiri

— CONGRATULATIONS! BCIT Business + Media congratulates all recipients of the Business in Vancouver Forty under 40 distinction, as well as BCIT graduate Kevin Hatch of Twin Lions Contracting.

We are proud of all our alumni who have received this distinction, fast-tracking into their business careers with the skills, hands-on experience, and industry connections they gained at BCIT. Find stories about our inspiring alumni at bcit.ca/news

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

10 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

MARK ADAMS Vice-president, studies and technology and global mining sector lead, SNC-Lavalin

AGE

37

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? T he i ncred ible leaders I’ve had the chance to learn from in my work as a mining engineer, my time in the Canadian military and my service on nonprofit boards.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Movie theatre nachos and reality TV. WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? What Got You Here Won’t Get You There

by Marshall Goldsmith.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? My life goal has always been leaving the world better than I found it and a defining part of that is what we do about climate change. Contributing to a more sustainable future through my work in engineering will continue to be on my mind for years to come.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? SUBMITTED

Treasure hunter or police officer.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Having great food and wine with family and friends on vacation.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Deciding to take on varied industry roles as opposed to specializing. It was not the most common path, but I saw the value of diverse experience in the industry leaders I admired most.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? You don’t need to solve every problem alone. The courage to ask for help is a strength.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Seeing through the noise and thinking three steps ahead.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 10

MY LIFE GOAL HAS ALWAYS BEEN LEAVING THE WORLD BETTER THAN I FOUND IT AND A DEFINING PART OF THAT IS WHAT WE DO ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. My now 100-year-old Polish grandmother taught me to make perogies by hand, which I do in batches of a few hundred several times per year.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? It’s not enough to do good work, you must be seen doing good work.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

The importance of spending time inperson with family, friends, colleagues and clients.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Service is a value instilled in me by my parents and, over the last decade, I’ve volunteered nearly 2,000 hours on a dozen non-profit boards. The opportunity to give back amid a successful career in mining is definitely what I am most proud of.

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

Today’s excellence is tomorrow’s baseline You’ve worked hard to build a successful enterprise and deserve an advisor who will work just as hard to protect your future. Find your competitive advantage with tailored strategies and guidance from one of Canada’s most experienced accounting, consulting, and advisory teams.

Congratulations to all winners and nominees of this year’s Business in Vancouver (BIV) Top Forty Under 40 Awards.

BIV B.C. 500 Business Leader, 2021

BIV Top Forty Under 40, 2021

Peter Guo Partner, B.C. Leader, Enterprise Risk Services 604.637.1513 peter.guo@mnp.ca

Alan Cosgrave Partner, Enterprise Risk Services 604.637.1521 alan.cosgrave@mnp.ca

MNP.ca

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 11

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

12 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

HUMAIRA AHMED CEO, Locelle Digital Inc.

AGE

36

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? We are solving a huge problem in a big market and I have had to learn to be laserfocused on milestones. It is especially important for me as a working mother of two young kids to ensure I have space for quality work and time with family.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Netflix with my husband and bakery dates with my daughters.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? For work: Pitch Anything by Oren Klaff, Good to Great by Jim Collins. For life: The Help by Kathryn Stockett and The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? My goals are very different now than they were before entering my thirties. I now aim to be: happy, fulfilled, making progress, learning, growing and helping to move the needle for women at work in big ways and small ways.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I wanted to be a heart surgeon and chartered accountant — always went back and forth between the two.

I NOW AIM TO BE: HAPPY, FULFILLED, MAKING PROGRESS, LEARNING, GROWING AND HELPING TO MOVE THE NEEDLE FOR WOMEN AT WORK IN BIG WAYS AND SMALL WAYS

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Tofino with my family.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? To pivot in the middle of the pandemic — but it worked out! Sometimes, as entrepreneurs, we fall so deeply in love with our ideas that we end up with blinders.

The pandemic forced me to focus on finding product-market fit.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? You are enough. You can and will do amazing things — you don’t have to try to fit in — it is simply not worth it. You bring something different to the table and it’s a strength, not a weakness. I

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 12

follow this advice with my company too — dare to be different!

proving the naysayers wrong. Motivations matter.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Follow up and follow through! I make sure to follow up with mentors, clients, advisors, friends and family and follow through on my commitments.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I was engaged to be married, twice — at the age of 15 and 17, respectively. If I can navigate that, I can literally do anything.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Focus on proving the people who champion you right, instead of focusing on

Sometimes we need a global pandemic to figure things out. Whether that means to focus on the right key areas of life or business. In the end, what matters most is that we have loved, lived and built something meaningful together.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Building a bootstrapped tech company from the ground up, hiring great people and achieving profitability.

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 13

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

14 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

MARYAM ANTIKCHI Founder and CTO, Ecoation Innovative Solutions Inc.

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My parents. They took a lot of joy and pride in their work. My dad has his own business and I watched him build that business from the ground up. His work was one of the sources of his happiness, identity and true pleasure.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Pastries.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? This is a hard question, I have many favourite books, but the all-time favourite I would recommend is The Grand Design, by Leonard Mlodinow and Stephen Hawking, and The Greatest Show on Earth by Richard Dawkins.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? My goa l i s to se e a d ay where t he Ecoation platform becomes the norm of the industry and the food that we all eat is grown without any pesticides.

The prospect of this legacy is what inspires me.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? To be part of the team that builds spaceships and launches them to outer space .

CHUNG SUBMITTED CHOW

SUBMITTED

MY HAPPY PLACE IS WHEN I SPEND TIME WITH MY TWO VERY YOUNG NEPHEWS AND TEACH THEM ABOUT THE WORLD

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. My happy place is when I spend time with my two very young nephews and teach them about the world.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Making ground-breaking technical or product decisions without having full visibility into the future.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Don’t worry too much, everything is going to be alright.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Starting my day early to get a head start, spending focused time organizing and writing visions and decisions that I can go back to. During conversations, writing down checklists for others to make their lives easier.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I love poetry and literature. I have a private collection of my poems.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

instead of nagging, give clear instructions and demand results.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Work can be done remotely and successfully if you just focus on results.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Successfully deploying our platform at an international customer site in Europe during the pandemic.

A very w ise ma n once told me that

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 14

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 15

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

16 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

TARA ATAYA Chief people and diversity officer, Hootsuite

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My parents. They have always been my inspiration. They worked so hard for our family and yet were able to ensure that my brother and I always knew how loved and important we are to them.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? My guilty pleasure is... dare I say it, (because it’s so cliché), reality TV. WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? It’s a tie between Daring Greatly by Brené Brown and Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek. They are both so rich with leadership learnings and have greatly impacted my perspective.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To live life to the fullest and enjoy all of the moments that matter and not sweat the small stuff that I won’t think about a decade from now. Professionally, to do great work through the lens of impact and outcome — in order to help realize a lasting change within the workforce and society.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I had a few. Growing up my parents taught us to dream big and to imagine the power of possibility. I alternated between being a marine biologist, an actor and prime minister — so my prospects were quite varied, to say the least!

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. With my family. They are the light in my life and the people who inspire me to be better every day.

RACHEL PICK

THE PANDEMIC HAS SHED LIGHT ON THE FACT THAT CHANGE AND NEED CAN LEAD TO REMARKABLE INNOVATION AND RESILIENCE

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Gratitude. I am habitual about being thankful and recognizing the things that I have to be grateful for. This includes both the things I have to feel fortunate for and for the lessons I have learned from challenging situations.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION?

I am an introvert and terrified of public speaking!

Letting people go is always incredibly difficult.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Don’t worry so much. You are right where you are meant to be.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 16

Be you. Don’t try to be who anyone else wants you to be.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE

PANDEMIC? Change and need can lead to remarkable innovation and resilience. It reinforced my belief that organizational culture isn’t about workplace perks — it is about the matrix of relationships you have within your organization and the foundations of those relationships (care, empathy, trust).

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? The relationships I’ve developed with people along the way — that’s what it’s all about. The highlights are the small moments where I feel I’ve made an impact on somebody or bettered my community.

Specific to Hootsuite, it’s been reaching pay equity, company-wide, and hearing that our people feel that they belong.

2021-12-02 11:51 AM

Congratulatations to this year’s Forty under 40 cohort

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 17

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

18 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

RATTAN BAGGA CEO, Jiva Organics

AGE

36

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My father. I watched him leave his homeland behind at the age of 45 and start from scratch in Vancouver, working tirelessly to build a business with his brothers and a wonderful life for his family.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Hot chocolate and a vegan very berry muffin from JJ Bean.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? My favourite new book is Catapult, written by a great friend of mine, Punit Dhillon. It’s a fascinating take on bridging sports and business.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To raise my daughters to be virtuous, and serve as their role model through my personal and professional life. I want them to be proud of the businesses and philanthropic organizations their father helped build.

CHUNG SUBMITTED CHOW

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Professional cricket player.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Anywhere my wife and daughters are.

ANYTHING YOU CAN BUY WITH MONEY IS CHEAP. WHILE NOT MEANT TO BE TAKEN LITERALLY, I HAVE FOUND THE ADAGE TO RING TRUER AS I GET OLDER AND CHERISH MY RELATIONSHIPS AND EXPERIENCES MORE THAN ANYTHING IN MY LIFE

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Spearheading the rebranding for our two flagship brands, keeping in mind the history and the consumer connection they had while reintroducing them to attract newer demographics.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Travel, read and invest.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Meditation.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 18

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I make the best vegan pancakes in the world!

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Anything you can buy with money is cheap. While not meant to be taken literally, I have found the adage to ring truer as I get older and cherish my relationships and experiences more than anything in my life.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? On the business front — the resiliency and ability of people to work together to fight adversity. On the personal front — it’s the smallest moments with those closest to you that make life worth living.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being able to provide food during the pandemic reaffirmed the importance of our industry and the privileged role we have in serving others.

2021-12-01 3:25 PM

| 19

2021

ZIAD BOUSTANY CEO, RAM Group of Companies

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My father. Having lived during tougher times in Lebanon and having to raise five children, he was always busy making sure he provided us the opportunities he never had.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? I like to enjoy a good cigar and whiskey from time to time.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Good to Great by Jim Collins has some great takeaways for managers in any organization.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Expand the RAM Group services geographically across Canada. We build amazing infrastructure in B.C. and Alberta and my dream is to see us contributing to the eastern provinces.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I wanted to be a mechanical engineer and design cars.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. My happiest place is spending time with my family at our cabin on Green Lake.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? In 2016, we had to make the tough decision on whether to remain a small, efficient consulting firm or make the leap to re-invest in ourselves and make acquisitions to grow exponentially.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Spend time finding the right mentor who has walked the path you wish to embark on.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I have a habit of catching up with a colleague or friend daily, whether over a text, call or in person. It has helped me stay connected with people since my

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 19

SUBMITTED

WE HAD TO MAKE THE TOUGH DECISION ON WHETHER TO REMAIN A SMALL, EFFICIENT CONSULTING FIRM OR MAKE THE LEAP TO RE-INVEST IN OURSELVES AND MAKE ACQUISITIONS TO GROW EXPONENTIALLY

childhood and all over the world.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. Although I enjoy the city life, I am most happy when I am in a remote place, hunting or fishing and cooking on an open fire.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? The harder you work, the luckier you get. Opportunities always present themselves in life but you have to be prepared and ready to capture them in the first place.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? To find the opportunity in every situation. Those who pivoted and catered to new demand in the market did very well.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Growing businesses aside, and as a civil engineer at heart, I am most proud to have been a part of the teams that built infrastructure in B.C., such as the Canada Line subway and Highway 17. Something about driving down a highway you spent years building is very satisfying.

2021-12-02 12:11 PM

20 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

JOEL BRADLEY Head of production, Atomic Cartoons

AGE

36

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My family. Everyone in my family has an amazing work ethic and works hard in everything they do. Growing up it was instilled in me to always give it your all — whether that’s in sports, dishwashing or school. I was taught that trying your best matters.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? I am a sucker for the Bestie Bowl at Vancouver’s Juice Truck.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential. This book resonated with me on the human experience. It really demonstrated the value of getting out of your comfort zone — and choosing experiences over comfort.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Honestly, I have not been much of a longterm goal setter. My goals have always been to continue to learn and grow, be present in the hard moments and celebrate the good ones.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I wanted to play in the National Basketball Association.

SUBMITTED

GROWING UP IT WAS INSTILLED IN ME TO ALWAYS GIVE IT YOUR ALL — WHETHER THAT’S IN SPORTS, DISHWASHING OR SCHOOL. I WAS TAUGHT THAT TRYING YOUR BEST MATTERS

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Snuggling on the couch with my daughter and wife and watching animation (preferably work created by Atomic Cartoons).

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? I started a T-shirt printing company with a friend a few years ago. It was a great experience on running my own business — and learning new skills.

However, I needed to shift to a more stable career and it was a hard choice to move on.

Travel more… There is a pandemic coming.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? You wouldn’t believe how often I get a new toothbrush.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I’m a terrible typer. It wasn’t a skill I fully picked up, and I find this embarrassing as it isn’t 1995.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? To listen first.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF?

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 20

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? The importance of communication. I also feel the pandemic has really brought to the forefront how important it is to be kind to one another, personally and professionally.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Working in cartoons is very rewarding. I am proud of so many of our shows, and the teams behind them. I love the experience of watching the families of team members watching the work for the first time — there is always so much excitement in the room.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 21

2021

DANI BRYANT Partner, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My parents. My mom works tirelessly when faced with a difficult task. My dad taught me how to focus and practice and that working hard can still be fun.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Coffee and Céline Dion.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Other than The Paper Bag Princess? A more recent read that comes to mind is Thanks for the Feedback by Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Professionally: hone my craft as a lawyer and grow as a leader. Personally: the list is long but includes spending more time with family and friends, learning to sail and developing a new creative outlet.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Professional dancer/actor, psychologist and math teacher.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Outdoors on a mountain, in the woods or on the water.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Deciding to become a lawyer. Originally, it wasn’t something that I had contemplated for myself but it worked out well.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Take the scary path.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I try to get into the office early each morning (despite not being a morning person). I find that it allows me time to organize my thoughts before the buzz of the day starts.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 21

SUBMITTED

I TRY TO GET INTO THE OFFICE EARLY EACH MORNING (DESPITE NOT BEING A MORNING PERSON). I FIND THAT IT ALLOWS ME TIME TO ORGANIZE MY THOUGHTS BEFORE THE BUZZ OF THE DAY STARTS

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. In my creative life, I used to write and direct plays.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Be yourself, don’t worry what others think of you and enjoy a good laugh.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? The importance of cultivating close connections with colleagues and friends, particularly when you aren’t together in person on a consistent basis.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Making partner at Fasken and being able to work with and learn from some of the top lawyers in the country.

2021-12-02 12:12 PM

22 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

JOSEPH COOKE President and co-founder, WPIC Marketing + Technologies

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My parents, my teachers, my colleagues and all my former bosses — both the good ones and the bad ones.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? A greasy burger (vegetarian).

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? The Metronome Effect by Shannon Byrne Susko.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Professionally, continuing to grow WPIC to bigger and better heights. Personally, to savour every moment with my family, and to be more involved in our community.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? To be an astronaut.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Tough to pick one, but either: a) anywhere in the world with my family; b) trail running on Bowen; c) on a surfboard in any ocean.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Walking away from an excellent career trajectory in a corporate setting with a one-month-old daughter and deciding to step out on my own.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Think bigger and take more risks.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Waking up at 4 a.m. every day.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 22

SUBMITTED

EMPOWER AND RELY ON THE TEAM AROUND YOU — THEY WILL CARRY YOU THROUGH THE CHALLENGING TIMES

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. My brother and I had a sibling rivalry that ended the day we went into business together. Close to 20 years later, he’s still my most trusted partner.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? The days are long, and the years are short.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Empower and rely on the team around you — they will carry you through the challenging times.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? This year, we hired our 300th global team member, while at the same time awarding our first-ever employee with recognition of her 10 years of service and tenure.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

BC

500 2021

1 LJ Lj ť Lj Lj

Lj + Lj Lj ( LJ Lj To take part in the next edition of

BC500, contact ads@biv.com

VIEW THIS YEAR’S PROFILES AT BC500.BIV.COM

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 23

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

24 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

ALAN COSGRAVE Partner, enterprise risk services, MNP LLP

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? Definitely my family. My parents instilled a strong work ethic in myself and my brother and sister at an early age and that has always stayed with me.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Reality T V. I won’t name the shows I watch because they are so bad, but because they don’t involve too much effort, it’s an easy way for me to relax and switch off.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? I really enjoy sporting biographies and Andre Agassi’s was excellent.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? I tend to take life day-by-day with my main goal to continue to grow and develop both professionally and personally.

I believe if I continue to work hard, good things will happen.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I actually always wanted to be an accountant and partner at a firm. My dad is an accountant and managing partner of his own firm back home in Ireland. I always looked up to him growing up and wanted to follow in his footsteps.

SUBMITTED

I TEND TO TAKE LIFE DAY-BY-DAY WITH MY MAIN GOAL TO CONTINUE TO GROW AND DEVELOP BOTH PROFESSIONALLY AND PERSONALLY. I BELIEVE IF I CONTINUE TO WORK HARD, GOOD THINGS WILL HAPPEN

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. New York with my wife.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Leaving Ireland to further my career.

In 2009, I made the decision to move to Bermuda and it was the best decision I ever made both professionally and personally. I met my wonderful wife there and we made many wonderful friendships.

ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? That would be a good conversion and a long one. I would probably tell my 20-year-old self to enjoy the early

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 24

years of working life. Work hard and good things will follow.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? It’s probably a tie between my work ethic and being an extrovert.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. During university I worked in a men’s department store selling suits for three years, and I believe this was where I started to develop my sales and interpersonal skills.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? I think the pandemic has taught us all an important lesson about work-life balance and mental health. I’ve learned that I need to take more time to switch off and accept that sometimes things don’t always go as planned, and that’s OK. WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Making partner at MNP is definitely my career highlight to date. It’s always been a goal of mine to be a partner at a firm and I am proud that every day I get to work at a firm that I am proud to be part of.

Work hard, be fair and try your best to lead by example.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 25

2021

DARCIE CROWE Senior investment advisor and portfolio manager, Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My family. I hope to set an example for my children just as my parents did for me.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? A good romance novel.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham and Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Continue to invest in myself and my business, commit to learning something new each day and step outside of my comfort zone as much as possible.

The feeling of discomfort often results in the greatest growth.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I always dreamed of being a veterinarian because I have such a love of animals. A summer internship made me realize I wasn’t cut out for the heartbreak that comes along with it!

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Beach, flip-flops and sunshine with my family.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Moving to Vancouver from Toronto five years ago and transitioning from investment banking to wealth management. Change always comes with risk and uncertainty, but often the greatest reward as well.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Prioritize your health. Peak performance in all aspects of life requires a healthy body and mindset.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 25

SUBMITTED

CHANGE ALWAYS COMES WITH RISK AND UNCERTAINTY, BUT OFTEN THE GREATEST REWARD AS WELL

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Setti ng bou nda ries, ma i nta i n i ng a schedule and ensuring I create time for rest.

day and never in a straight line.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

People are incredibly adaptable, and you can find glimmers of beauty in worst-case scenarios.

I competed at the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations in triple jump and hurdles.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Be patient and persistent. Success happens with tiny incremental efforts each

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being the pillar for clients working through life transitions and challenging times. That’s the greatest reward in our business.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

26 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

LAURA CUNDARI Partner, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? There were times in the past, particularly during my undergraduate degree, that I struggled with work ethic. Once I established clear career goals that I was excited about, the work ethic followed naturally. Now I have to remind myself to slow down from time to time.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Napping — I feel guilty even giving that answer!

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? I recommend reading biographies of individuals who have achieved great things. It is inspiring and provides an understanding of the roles that luck, resilience and perseverance play in life.

Deirdre Bair’s biography of Simone de Beauvoir was the first book to impact me in this way.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? I want to make sure that I am sponsoring associates on my team and others that I mentor to achieve their goals. I am also continually working on being present, at home and at work.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM?

SUBMITTED

YOU WILL REGRET NOT TRYING MORE THAN YOU WILL REGRET FAILING. THIS ADVICE HAS ALLOWED ME TO BE FEARLESS AT TIMES WHEN IT WAS NOT MY NATURAL INCLINATION

Writer/director.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Hawaii with my family.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? When I was pregnant with our second child, our first child was undergoing intensive medical treatment. My partners suggested I take an early leave of absence.

I was anxious about how it would be perceived, but the support I received allowed me to make the right decision.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Have confidence in who you are and do not allow others to define your self-image.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 26

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? When something is stressful or upsetting, I ask myself: “Will I care about this in five years?” Usually the answer is “No” and it helps me to put things in perspective and move forward.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I am a reality TV expert.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? You will regret not trying more than you will regret failing. This advice has allowed me to be fearless at times when it was not my natural inclination. Also, the advice to date my now husband — he

has made my life better in so many ways.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? The most effective way to lead is with empathy.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? When I realized that clients have started to view me as a trusted adviser. Those collaborative relationships are one of the most satisfying aspects of the job.

2021-12-02 12:14 PM

| 27

2021

RHOGENE DADASHZADEH Associate director, business banking market development, commercial banking, Scotiabank

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My family, especially my mum, dad and sister.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Romantic comedies. I am a sucker for a predictable happily ever after.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Anything by Simon Sinek, but especially The Infinite Game. Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink was everything I needed to hear in my mid-twenties to trust my gut and to take the path less travelled.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? So many goals left to achieve, and right at the top is learning to be more present in the moment.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Pilot — as a little kid I thought they brought the world together and that, to me, was just perfection.

SUBMITTED

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Near a body of water (beach, lake, river, hot spring).

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Working up the courage to jump from one career and industry to another. It has really helped my professional breadth, depth and network, but it has been a tough decision every time.

ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Build a diverse network! Ask for and listen to their advice, let their perspectives inform you, take the time to understand what truly matters to you, then always go with your gut.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I try to call my mum every day regardless of where we both are, usually on my drive home.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 27

WORKING UP THE COURAGE TO JUMP FROM ONE CAREER AND INDUSTRY TO ANOTHER. IT HAS REALLY HELPED MY PROFESSIONAL BREADTH, DEPTH AND NETWORK, BUT IT HAS BEEN A TOUGH DECISION EVERY TIME

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I am an introvert (I know, shocking!). As Simon Sinek describes it: extroverts gain energy from social interactions, where introverts need to recharge afterwards.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? From my dad, when I got my first job: “Never ever compromise your values or ethics; no deal, promotion, gain or job is worth that. Even if it means resigning on the spot, do the right thing — then come home and we will figure it out.”

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? A reminder of how interconnected we all are and the importance of being kind, understanding and generous with your time, talent, resources, and care.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I will forever look back at my time at Telus with incredible pride and gratitude. I am very excited for my current mandates and grateful to my leadership at Scotiabank for their trust.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

28 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

TY DUPERRON COO, Tafi & Daz 3D

AGE

37

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? When I was little my dad and grandpa ran their own businesses and I learned a lot watching them.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? I don’t really feel guilty about it, but probably the fact that I still watch a ton of cartoons. I also have a pretty over-thetop sweet tooth.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? I’ll cheat here and recommend the two books that had the most impact on me: Rebel Talent and Turn This Ship Around.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? The next big goal for us is to start our family. My partner and I are in the later stages of the adoption process, so pretty soon here we’ll be welcoming home our first child. I’m excited and terrified for that project.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? My career dream was to be an artist. I wanted to draw comic books or do key frames for traditional animation.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Being on the side of a mountain with my partner and our dog. No cell signal, nothing to distract. Just whatever you can carry in your bag and 10-plus kilometres away from anything. Nothing better.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION?

SUBMITTED

I HAVE ADHD, WHICH MAKES A TOP-LEVEL OPERATIONS JOB CHALLENGING, BUT IT’S ALSO KIND OF MY SUPER POWER WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I take ridiculously detailed notes, basically transcribing a conversation.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

Leaving Hellbent Games. Christopher Mair (a friend and mentor) was the CEO and I loved the team and our dynamic, but I got a little ahead of myself and deciding to move on from there was really tough.

I have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), which makes a toplevel operations job challenging, but it’s also kind of my super power. Part of the ADHD package is a state of hyper focus where you don’t think about food, get tired, etc. until the task is complete and I take full advantage of that.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF?

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

Relax. Early in my career if something felt like a roadblock, I would fixate until it wasn’t in the way. Everything was life or death.

My dad told me that being an artist was cute, but I should get a real job, like business. That, more than anything, drove me.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 28

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? I think it showed a new way of doing business, but I also think people are a bit naïve about remote work. I find video calls very transactional.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? First film, first video game, running my own business, seeing people on my team become leaders and run their own teams when they moved on. Opening Tafi Canada is the big one for me though, I’m super proud of that.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 29

2021

SAM GHAREGOZLOU Co-founder and president, Axiom Zen

AGE

33

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? The credit goes to my brother and my parents. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my parents. Likewise, my brother’s experience in the tech space meant I had a lot to learn from him when we started the company together.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? My guilty pleasure is a cheat night of junk food (specifically Pizza Hut stuffed crust and McDonald’s).

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull. Probably one of the most inspirational books on building a healthy organizational culture.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? I want to continue to support our portfolio companies and repeat the success we have achieved with Dapper Labs to other projects. We’re not going to be slowing down anytime soon.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I dreamed of becoming a pilot because I love flying. Plus, wasn’t it the coolest job when you were a child?

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. It is pretty simple: spending time inperson with my team and enjoying those little moments that we have. COVID definitely made me realize the importance of face-to-face communication.

SUBMITTED

BEST HABIT: SMILING EVEN THROUGH THE TOUGHEST DAYS. IT’S GREAT THERAPY TO LET MYSELF AND EVERYONE AROUND ME KNOW IT WILL GET BETTER WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Smiling even through the toughest days.

It’s great therapy to let myself and everyone around me know it will get better.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION?

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

Every time we had to sacrifice great ideas at Axiom Zen because of timing or just the lack of opportunity or even other priorities and focus. It is always tough to decide what takes precedence.

I graduated with a degree in political science and history with little knowledge of the tech startup landscape, but went on to build Axiom Zen and five independent companies/products.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF?

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

Make time for yourself to stay healthy, no matter how busy it gets.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 29

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Enjoy the little moments because life is short — the concerts, the people, the travelling, the interactions. You never know when that can come to a halt.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Launching multiple companies that have established their presence in their own rights, and becoming one of the few venture capital unicorn companies in Vancouver.

My parents ingrained this into me: “Treat others how you would want to be treated yourself.”

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

30 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

JEFFREY GOLBY CEO, Acts for Water

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? A desire to make as much of an impact with the time and privilege I’ve been given. There’s probably just a hint of an unhealthy need to overachieve and please too many people in the process, too.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Great wine — except I don’t feel guilty about it.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up by Jerry Colonna.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? I hope to continue to own my story more.

There are insecurities that come with the not-for-profit sector — defining your work as what you are ‘not’ versus what you are ‘for.’ I hope I can better own my reckless thoughts, my loud mouth, my actions and ambitions.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM?

SUBMITTED

Pop star — it still is.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Good food, wine, friends and family around my table enjoying a slow meal together, where the dishes disappear at the end, as the scotch appears to start the second act.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? At the start of becoming CEO, we had almost no money and there were significant operational challenges, which I felt inept at solving. I had to look at our books and our operations and make some painful gut-level decisions and cuts to make this organization viable.

WHAT ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Fight the expectations others have on how you should be using this time in your life; use it for non-linear career moves, explore lots, buy the plane ticket, take the random gig.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 30

FIGHT THE EXPECTATIONS OTHERS HAVE ON HOW YOU SHOULD BE USING THIS TIME IN YOUR LIFE; USE IT FOR NON-LINEAR CAREER MOVES, EXPLORE LOTS, BUY THE PLANE TICKET, TAKE THE RANDOM GIG WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT?

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

I am all over the place, and so as a result I religiously use Todoist to write down everything, and then follow a fairly structured morning ritual that allows me to stay on top of my most pressing priorities.

The value of investing in people and trusting them to lead when the time comes.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I’ve worked as everything, from a blueberry picker and telemarketer, through to a tour guide in Japan for members of the New York Police Department.

We’re about to complete a three-year project, where 17,000 people will receive clean water.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? The best leaders create the sandbox for others to succeed.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 31

2021

KEVIN HATCH President and founder, Twin Lions Contracting Ltd.

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? I’ve always been driven to succeed for people and not let them down. I have an amazing team that inspires me to always push forward. My mom’s work ethic has also always been a huge motivation for me.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Sports have always been a huge outlet for me. Sneaking out for a round of golf every now and then is definitely a guilty pleasure these days.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Lately anything escapism is what I’m into to help shut the mind down after a crazy day. I’m currently reading Wheel of Time.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? I would love to drop 40 pounds of pandemic and new baby weight by 40. I would also love to see our second company Millwerks progress to the stage Twin Lions is at.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? It rotated between being a professional athlete in football, hockey or baseball.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Maui with my wife and my daughters is my happy place. Can’t wait to get back there!

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Hiring a business consultant, and hiring a controller. Both came at times where we didn’t necessarily have the capacity for it, however both became the best things I ever did for the business.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Don’t be afraid to hold your hand up when you are wrong, and don’t be afraid to look dumb. We are all wrong sometimes and we are all dumb sometimes.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 31

SUBMITTED

WE ARE ALL WRONG SOMETIMES AND WE ARE ALL DUMB SOMETIMES. ACCEPTING AND LEARNING FROM THESE INSTANCES IS HOW WE GROW

Accepting and learning from these instances is how we grow.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? To-do lists and my schedule are my gospel.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I absolutely love Lego. Loved it as a kid and now love building it with my daughter. I find it therapeutic.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Bend over backwards for your clients and early adopters. They will be your biggest

advocates later down the road.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Supporting your community personally and professionally. Social and corporate responsibility should be a cornerstone of any business.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I had an epiphany while sitting in a meeting that my management was leading: that Twin Lions could run independently and drive its own company culture without my direct input. That was a great day!

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

32 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

RAJVEER HUNDAL Partner, PwC Canada

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? I am a proud first-generation Indo-Canadian. My parents emigrated from India in search of a better life for themselves and their family and had to work hard to establish themselves. This strong work ethic, which has been key to my journey, was instilled in me from a young age.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Reality TV! WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime. A quote that resonated: “People love to say, ‘Give a man a fish, and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he’ll eat for a lifetime.’

What they don’t say is, ‘And it would be nice if you gave him a fishing rod.’ That’s the part of the analogy that’s missing.”

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Continue to make a positive impact on the business community and mentor young professionals with diverse backgrounds to pursue their career aspirations.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Not quite a childhood dream, but in Grade 11, I took accounting and I loved it and knew I wanted to be an accountant. That was a pivotal moment for me.

SUBMITTED

VIEW EACH LEARNING OPPORTUNITY AND EXPERIENCE AS AN INVESTMENT IN YOURSELF AS A PROFESSIONAL AND YOUR CAREER. IT’S CRITICAL TO FACE CHALLENGES HEAD ON

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. My home. “A house is made out of wood and stone but only love is what makes a home.” That quote exemplifies what my home means to me and the strength I feel within it.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Deciding whether to continue on my path to partnership.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? View each learning opportunity and experience as an investment in yourself as a professional and your career. It’s critical

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 32

to face challenges head on.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Solving problems… all different types!

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. When I was growing up my sisters and I loved dancing and singing.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? The importance of taking ownership of my career and being proactive about seeking new opportunities to further develop my skills as a professional and business leader.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? We are all agile and resilient and adapt quickly to challenging situations. It is important to take the opportunity to reflect during these challenging times on how you live and work differently to achieve a better way of life and balance.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being the first female Indo-Canadian partner in the B.C. region at PwC Canada.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 33

2021

CRYSTAL HUNG Founder and CEO, Icon Marketing

AGE

36

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My customers. They are the reason why my work matters. They often become lifelong friends and mentors whom I respect greatly. They inspire me to reach greatness and find better ways to offer value every day.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Poshmark-ing.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy — the backbone of my fearless attitude in executing innovative customer-centric ideas and turning them into practical solutions. Rich Dad Poor Dad — a must-read for anyone and should be a part of our education system.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? I have been working to earn a living since I was 14 years old. My goal entering my forties is to work smarter, lead more and exercise everyday while continuing to help those in need — particularly under-privileged children — through my network and influence.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? A dance choreographer of a giant concert; own a chain of grocery stores; start a robot-run dishwashing factory for busy professionals (not a laundromat but a “dishwashmat”).

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. I am happiest when I am spending time with family and childhood friends, and travelling to culturally enriching places like Japan, where I am inspired by all of its technology, efficiency and crazy ideas.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Self-funding my real estate services company when I was 23 years old with only $800 cash in my pocket and an old caravan.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 33

SUBMITTED

I HAVE BEEN WORKING TO EARN A LIVING SINCE I WAS 14 YEARS OLD. MY GOAL ENTERING MY FORTIES IS TO WORK SMARTER, LEAD MORE AND EXERCISE EVERYDAY WHILE CONTINUING TO HELP THOSE IN NEED

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Be teachable, you’re not always right.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I usually take the road less travelled, it’s less crowded.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. My wedding dress was ordered online for less than $200 (shipping and importing taxes included!).

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

Market yourself. You are what you do, not what you say you will do. It’s good to learn from mistakes — it’s better to learn from other people’s mistakes.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? An extremely creative and resilient team can turn crisis into opportunities together. Strong mental health is the ultimate wealth. Grew a pandemic victory garden to have access to healthy food every day.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being a part of the Forty under 40 club!

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

34 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

KENDRA JOHNSTON President and CEO, Association for Mineral Exploration BC

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My parents for always seeing my potential and encouraging me to reach my goals, my brother for always challenging me and my skating coaches for teaching me to try again.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Sugar... in all forms.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Gold Diggers: Striking It Rich in the Klondike by Charlotte Gray. .

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To keep learning from those around me, to create and run my own company, to leave a positive legacy on the mineral exploration industry. One more university degree, and to stay fit, active and healthy.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? There were a few — teacher, architect, radio broadcaster — but looking back there was always ‘scientist’ lurking in the background.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. In the woods, beside a babbling brook, surrounded by the quiet.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Knowing when the time was right for me to change jobs. When you enjoy what you do and the people you work with, it’s difficult to walk away and trust that a new opportunity will arise or trust yourself to create that new opportunity.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Slow down, you don’t have to do everything all at the same time.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Asking questions about everything.

SUBMITTED SUBMITTED

MOST PROUD OF: CREATING AN OPEN SPACE TO HAVE DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS ON SOCIALLY WEIGHTED TOPICS THAT LED TO INDUSTRY-WIDE SHIFTS IN PERSPECTIVES AND A TREND TOWARD MORE INCLUSIVITY

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I had an alter ego as a roller blading apple mascot.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? You don’t know what’s happening in other people’s lives. Read the room before jumping in.

in the same space, and the added importance of being able to shut off at the end of the day and walk away.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Creating an open space to have difficult conversations on socially weighted topics that led to industry-wide shifts in perspectives and a trend toward more inclusivity.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? The importance of finding balance between work and life when they take place

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 34

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 35

2021

JASON KISELBACH Managing director, CBRE Limited

AGE

35

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My family, the boarding school I attended for high school (Athol Murray College of Notre Dame) and the people in my life now who constantly push me to be my best self.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? 90s music.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Getting Things Done by David Allen.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Personally, I would like to be in a financial position that allows my family to pursue whatever interests them. Professionally, I would like to make positive impacts in the commercial real estate industry, the communities in which we live and work and help others achieve their goals.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? SUBMITTED

International spy.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. So far, Vietnam.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Making the transition from commercial real estate brokerage to management of a business and people.

ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Surround yourself with good people, set goals and reflect on them often; automate as many things in your life as possible and don’t avoid the tough decisions or conversations.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Focusing on the task at hand.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 35

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GOOD PEOPLE, SET GOALS AND REFLECT ON THEM OFTEN; AUTOMATE AS MANY THINGS IN YOUR LIFE AS POSSIBLE AND DON’T AVOID THE TOUGH DECISIONS OR CONVERSATIONS TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I’ve never been to a National Football League game.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? If you take care of the people, they will take care of the business.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

In life, everyone has different circumstances, which lead to their perspective and choices, you have to be compassionate to that fact. In business, no matter how challenging the situation or problem is, there is a solution — you just may have to make some tough decisions to get to it.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being given the opportunity to lead the B.C. region for CBRE.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

36 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

BEN LIGHTBURN CEO, Filament Health Corp.

AGE

36

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? The desire to fix inefficiencies in daily life and society.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? 20-centimetre-rule days.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To be the best father I can possibly be.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? To be a movie score composer.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Top of Khybers on a day with 20 centimetres and my friends, my family waiting for me at Dusty’s.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Whether to sell my last company. I knew that it would bring lots of opportunities but perhaps at the cost of destroying the precious culture we had built.

SUBMITTED

THE PANDEMIC MADE IT EVEN MORE ABUNDANTLY CLEAR THAT OPPORTUNITY AWAITS THOSE WILLING TO CREATE IT

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Study harder... but not too much harder.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I am in the habit of remembering small details, which can serve to be useful later on.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I can speak Dutch.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 36

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

Nobody will ever look at the grades you got on your transcript in pursuit of your degree.

Leading the team that created the firstever natural psychedelic drug candidates.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? The pandemic made it even more abundantly clear that opportunity awaits those willing to create it.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 37

2021

TAYLOR MACDONALD President, Caerus Capital Partners Inc.

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? It primarily revolves around the importance of the companies we advise and invest in — this is important work for people and the planet and we don’t want to let them down.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Binge watching a streaming series with a bowl of ramen (‘Succession,’ ‘Yellowstone’ and ‘Peaky Blinders’ of late).

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Be Here Now by Ram Dass.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Think bigger. Affect more lives. Do it faster. Start a foundation and a retreat centre along the way.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Marine biologist.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. At home on Bowen with my partner Taryn.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION?

SUBMITTED

THE PATH TO GET TO WHERE YOU WANT IS FAR MORE CONVOLUTED (AND INTERESTING) THAN YOU THINK. TRUST THE JOURNEY, TRUST THE COMPANY, TRUST YOUR GUIDANCE

Working as an entrepreneur since 2013.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? The path to get to where you want is far more convoluted (and interesting) than you think. Trust the journey, trust the company, trust your guidance.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I can be doggedly persistent and can see connections between things that others often miss.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 37

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. “I Am That, I Am.” BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Being gifted the view of money/capital as concentrated energy with its own consciousness.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Everything is flexible and the world is (figuratively) flat.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Acting as lead financial advisor to Verses Technologies Inc., the creator of the spatial web (think metaverse).

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

38 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

SHANNON MALOVEC Chief digital innovation officer, Provincial Health Services Authority

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My mom. She has always been such an inspiration with her optimism and bountiful energy.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Dark chocolate at the end of the day.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? I read Only One You by Linda Kranz nearly every night to my two small children. I love the encouragement it provides both them and me. Professionally, I’ve enjoyed Shannon Byrne Susko’s The Metronome Effect: The Journey To Predictable Profit which offers input from great business leaders.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To keep learning and challenging myself professionally, while enjoying time with my family and living life in the moment.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? To run a hospital for people. After visiting the hospital when I was about five years old and finding it fascinating, I’d tell my parents frequently that I’d like to run the hospital.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE.

SUBMITTED

I LEARNED HOW TO MASTER THE BALANCE OF NEW MOTHERHOOD WITH WORK AT THE SAME TIME.… THE BEST LEARNING WAS HOW TO REALIGN MY TOP PRIORITIES AND VALUES TO WHAT WAS MOST IMPORTANT

My home.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? To leave my comfort zone in B.C. and join a new company out east. It was one of the toughest yet best career decisions I made.

I gained incredible experience working out east and in other countries, which I’ve applied now being back in beautiful B.C. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? To do it all again.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT?

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I learned how to master the balance of new motherhood with work at the same time. I chose to enjoy time with a newborn while contributing to my work environment (twice). The best learning was how to realign my top priorities and values to what was most important.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Collaboration around a common purpose can achieve incredible results.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? P r o v i d i n g l e a d e r s h i p t o o u r B .C .

COV ID-19 provincial digital health response.

Your career is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.

My work ethic, taught to me by my figure skating coach in my school years.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 38

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 39

2021

MITCHELL MILLER CEO, founder and director, Atlas Power Technologies Inc.

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? I grew up in an entrepreneurial family, my parents having built many different businesses throughout my childhood, some successful and some that for one reason or another were not.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Coffee, lots of coffee.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Build APT into a global company that makes a significant impact in our collective clean technology transition, in order to leave my children with a healthier world than the one that I have occupied.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Become a chef and travel the world.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE.

SUBMITTED

Disneyland with my wife and children.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION?

I HAVE BUILT MULTIPLE BUSINESSES, WORKED INCREDIBLY LONG HOURS AND HAVE BEEN MARRIED TO THE SAME WONDERFUL WOMAN FOR 19 YEARS

Having to fire people I personally care about because of the inappropriate decisions they make.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Aim higher, focus only on businesses with the core structure to scale and value genuine friendships and partnerships as they are the ones that last and truly matter.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Always thinking about my business, which also happens to be my worst habit.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

incredibly long hours and have been married to the same wonderful woman for 19 years.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Always negotiate everything up front, own your own property and improve everything you own.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Making a breakthrough with state-ofthe-art technology, which has the global mining infrastructure and technical capabilities to give our civilization a clear path to reaching a 100% renewable electrical grid in your and my lifetime.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Even during a global pandemic the right businesses will grow and thrive.

I have built multiple businesses, worked

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 39

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

40 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

DREW MUNRO Co-founder and CEO, UpMeals

AGE

36

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? Spending my early career as a professional chef in busy kitchens. The intensity of the environment instilled in me a sense of urgency and hustle that has always stuck with me.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Ballpark hotdogs. The fake nacho cheese you get at sporting events. Taylor Swift.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? How to Win Friends and Influence People

by Dale Carnegie. This book changed the entire trajectory of my life.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? For UpMeals to join the growing class of Vancouver tech unicorns! Dedicate more time to helping young entrepreneurs and chefs in their business pursuits. Road trip to every major Major League Baseball stadium.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? As a child, I wanted to be a professional baseball player. But there was a moment at age 12 where I distinctly remember deciding that food would be my life and I never changed my focus.

SUBMITTED

IF YOU WANTED TO ACHIEVE EVERYTHING YOU WANT TO ACCOMPLISH IN THE NEXT 10 YEARS, BUT IN SIX MONTHS, HOW WOULD YOU APPROACH IT?

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Cooking local ingredients over a campfire, deep in the B.C. wilderness, surrounded by people I love with a great bottle of wine.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Being forced to lay off 40-plus amazing employees from my events business during COVID, and deciding to risk everything I had left by going all-in on UpMeals, then a small upstart platform.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Don’t worry about having all the answers.

It’s okay to be terrible at certain things.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 40

Be laser-focused on surrounding yourself with the best possible people to fill your blind spots. Stop wearing so much hair gel.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Waking up early. I love the calmness of the early morning hours and find this is when I do my best work.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. In my formative years I was part of a breakdancing crew, and my younger brother and I once won a local contest for Best Duo Breakdancing Performance.

Yes, we still practice ‘the routine.’

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? “Unti l we ca n ma nage ti me, we ca n manage nothing else.” If you wanted to achieve everything you want to accomplish in the next 10 years, but in six months, how would you approach it?

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? You are always capable of way more than you think you are.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Establishing our partnership with Vancouver Food Runners to automate repurposing surplus food to local charities.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 41

2021

CHRISTOPHER NAISMITH CEO, Audette

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My parents, who built an amazing life for us after immigrating to Canada.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? I love ‘The Great British Bake Off.’ WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? The Vorrh by Brian Catling.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Grow a game-changing business that has a significant impact on global carbon emissions. Start angel investing.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I wanted to be a marine biologist, but was much better at math and physics than biology.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. The patio of my grandmother’s house in Greece.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Leaving the comfort of a 9-to-5 to pursue entrepreneurship.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Keep it up! And invest in Bitcoin.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? G etti ng to ‘i nbox zero’ as of ten as possible.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. Pre-pandemic, I loved to throw large electronic music dance parties. I will likely do it again soon.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 41

SUBMITTED

THE WORK-FROM-HOME ZOOM CALL EXPOSED US ALL AS THE HUMANS THAT WE ARE. LEAN INTO THAT

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

A startup is not a business, it’s a search for a business model.

Launching Audette and recruiting an amazing team that feels like a family.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? The work-from-home Zoom call exposed us all as the humans that we are.

Lean into that.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

42 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

JEANNE-MARIE OWENS Vice-president, operations, Phoenix Labs

AGE

35

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My parents. They were dedicated to supporting the people around them.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? In general, I try not to feel guilty about aspects of my life that bring me joy.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? The Hard Thing About Hard Things. If you’re looking for fiction, The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is an engaging and trippy read.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? My goals for the last many years have been and continue to be: support and nurture my children to become positive, confident, thriving adults and members of society, and support and nurture my company.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I went through many phases of interests — astronaut, marine biologist, ballerina, lawyer. I’ve always known I wanted to have an enduring positive effect on the world.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE.

SUBMITTED

EVERYTHING I HAVE LEARNED HAS BEEN THROUGH A COMBINATION OF HANDS-ON DOING, READING CONSTANTLY AND EXTENSIVE GOOGLE RESEARCH

Second-hand bookstores!

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Early in our startup days we ran into significant cash flow challenges. To get through, I had to ask our leadership team to forego payroll for multiple months. I also had to tell vendors we cared aboutthat we were not going to pay them on time.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? I’m proud of the choices 20-year-old me made. She was not working under ideal conditions and she made some big brave jumps outside her comfort zone to try to better her future.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 42

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I wear the same outfit to work everyday.

Knowing that I will be comfortable all day, and spending zero morning minutes towards thinking about it, has been a huge mental health improvement.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I don’t have a post-secondary degree.

Everything I have learned has been through a combination of hands-on doing, reading constantly and extensive Google research.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

without telling your team.” Best parenting advice was: “It won’t get better. But it will get different.”

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, there is a minimum amount of in-person social interaction we all need.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? The day I realized more than 50% of the team were not ‘cis straight white dudes,’ which is a remarkably high ratio for our industry.

Best career advice was: “Don’t drop a ball

2021-12-02 12:18 PM

| 43

2021

SOPHIA PARK Board chair, Doctors of BC, Physician, Fraser Health Authority

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? When I was young, my mother worked tirelessly in hopes of a better future for her daughters. Nowadays, I am inspired by my clinical and laboratory staff and colleagues who remain committed to providing quality patient care despite tremendous pressures in the system.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Chips and wine.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? For organizational transformation, I really enjoyed Brave New Work: Are You Ready to Reinvent Your Organization by Aaron Dignan. For personal development/reflections, Lessons in Stoicism

by John Sellars was a good read.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Set aside more time to read and think.

Bounce back from difficult experiences faster. Have better conversations.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM?

In Japan with my husband.

I AM INSPIRED BY MY CLINICAL AND LABORATORY STAFF AND COLLEAGUES WHO REMAIN COMMITTED TO PROVIDING QUALITY PATIENT CARE DESPITE TREMENDOUS PRESSURES IN THE SYSTEM

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION?

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

I wanted to be a doctor when I grew up.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE.

There have been a few, but they all have the same theme: speaking up/doing the right thing even though there are professional repercussions.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? The Spanish saying poco a poco, se va lejos (“little by little, one goes far”) and don’t take yourself too seriously.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I sleep and wake up early, and get a few hours to reflect/do deep work before the workday officially begins.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 43

I am unable to do a somersault even if my life depends on it.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Rather than setting my goals on things outside of my control, I focus on goals over which I truly have agency. In recent years, it has been defining and staying true to my values. Success to me means being a better “me” compared to who I was five years ago.

The pandemic magnified what was already there. The good got better, and the bad got worse.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I feel very fortunate to serve my profession as the Doctors of BC board chair. I want to send a clear message to physicians with similar backgrounds as mine that they belong at the leadership table.

I am also tremendously grateful to work with Allan Seckel, our brilliant, principled and courageous CEO.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

44 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

JESSICA PRINCE Executive director, strategy, intelligence, marketing and industry, B.C. Ministry of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation

AGE

37

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? I think my parents often wondered this when I was a nerdy little kid! Today, I’m motivated by a strong sense of public purpose. The mandate of the work that I do — seeking to improve life for all British Columbians — drives me.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Reality television.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? I recently read Five Little Indians by Michelle Good, and I can’t stop thinking about it. Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein was another fascinating read.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? As a career-driven parent of a young child (with another on the way), I want to continue having a challenging and rewarding job that creates a positive impact, while also having the ability to be present for my family and loved ones.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? I think I wanted to be either a poet or a basketball player. Needless to say, my dreams didn’t pan out.

I WANT TO CONTINUE HAVING A CHALLENGING AND REWARDING JOB THAT CREATES A POSITIVE IMPACT, WHILE ALSO HAVING THE ABILITY TO BE PRESENT FOR MY FAMILY AND LOVED ONES

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. The Lofoten Islands in Norway. My partner and I did a round-the-world trip in 2017 and fell in love with this remote place.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Deciding to leave my career as a lawyer on Bay Street — with its clear career trajectory and generous compensation — to go work as a political staffer in Ottawa with zero job security.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Don’t take yourself so seriously, younger Jess, and stop trying to plan everything out. The universe will unfold as it should.

Trust your gut and enjoy the ride.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 44

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Snacking (did I mention that I’m in my third trimester?!).

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. In my twenties, I taught debating and public speaking to kids and university students in the Middle East, Sri Lanka and China.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? While we were all impacted by the pandemic, we weren’t impacted equally.

Some individuals, businesses and sectors were much harder hit than others.

It’s been incredibly rewarding working collaboratively with them to try and address that inequity.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

To always maintain a sense of justice and a sense of humour.

Being the chief of staff to Canada’s first Indigenous minister of justice and attorney general, Jody Wilson-Raybould, and helping to deliver some transformative public policy changes during our threeplus years working together.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 45

2021

TOM ROSSITER CEO, Resaas Services Inc.

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? I learned pretty early in my career that working smart goes a long way. It’s also very clear how many successful people start earlier in their day than most, and are never late.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Wine.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Reading is so important. It’s something I encourage my kids to do as much as possible. Where else can you absorb so much knowledge from others? For business books, I’m a fan of Jim Collins — his books have findings we should all apply in the workplace.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Last year’s pandemic made many of us evaluate how we spend our time. Entrepreneurs’ forties are prime time for business growth and accomplishments, but it’s also a time where it’s important to be there for your young family. Continuing the theme above about working smart, balance is so important.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM?

SUBMITTED

ENTREPRENEURS’ FORTIES ARE PRIME TIME FOR BUSINESS GROWTH AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS, BUT IT’S ALSO A TIME WHERE IT’S IMPORTANT TO BE THERE FOR YOUR YOUNG FAMILY

A career in motorsport. I tell myself it’s still on hold.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. The mountains.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? I place a lot of importance on people, so anything that affects others negatively is challenging. Success in business feels great and is more widely shared, but what often isn’t seen are all the tough times.

The life of an entrepreneur is inherently up and down.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Be more focused on fewer things; you will achieve so much more.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 45

I’m pretty good at remembering to hold the door open for others.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I have this incredible ability to tell if people are left-handed by the way they walk.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? People have two ears and one mouth for a reason. Listen more.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

The pandemic made us all realize how much we took travel for granted before, whether it be for last-minute business trips or the ability to go and visit loved ones. We should value travel more than we did.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Resaas, the public company we started here in Vancouver, has accomplished so much. People told us we couldn’t possibly unite an industry as competitive and fragmented as real estate. Well, our team pulled it off! Today we have over 500,000 real estate agents in 160 countries using our platform.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

46 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

ADAM SEGAL President and CEO, Stork Craft Manufacturing Inc.

AGE

36

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My motivation to succeed. My family, most notably my father, grandfather and wife, have been incredible role models for me and lead by example.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Anything that has caffeine or protein in it. Coffee, pre-workout drinks, protein shakes, protein bars. Bad reality T V. It used to be ‘The Bachelor,’ but now that I have kids, I’m ashamed to say it’s ‘Cocomelon.’ I have every song memorized. I am also obsessed with Pomeranians.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? I really enjoyed The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? We are planning aggressive growth in the business and to enter into new categories and markets. Personally, I’d like to play more tennis and take more time away from work to vacation with the family as my kids are growing up so fast.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Anything to do with professional sports — either becoming a player agent or something in sports management.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Maui to relax or Paris to explore.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? When I took over as CEO in 2017, times were tough in all aspects of the business.

The most difficult decision was to stick with it and see it through. Big ships turn slowly.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Things are never quite as bad or as good as they seem. There are always highs and lows and sometimes life throws you curve balls. Success takes time, patience and belief.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 46

SUBMITTED

THE MOST DIFFICULT DECISION WAS TO STICK WITH IT AND SEE IT THROUGH, KNOWING THAT MAJOR CHANGES CAN OFTEN TAKE LONGER THAN ONE WOULD LIKE. BIG SHIPS TURN SLOWLY

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Discipline. From eating to exercising, to waking up early and being productive, I have always been disciplined from an early age.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I’m quite, quite musical; I play the piano and I’ve been told I have a good singing voice, although my four-year-old daughter tends to disagree and tells me quite regularly to “stop singing.”

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Family, friends and health are everything.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Outside of this honour and also being named Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, I’m most proud of the diverse, multinational and progressive team we have here at Stork Craft.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Ask questions and actively listen. Also, when things are outside of your control, try not to beat yourself up too much.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

The New Equation is a community of solvers coming together in unexpected ways.

We’ve all been told what one plus one adds up to.

But if you bring together the right combinations of people and technology in unexpected ways then it can be something greater.

At PwC, it all adds up to The New Equation.

pwc.com/ca/TheNewEquation ©2021 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership. All rights reserved. 1113733 1126

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 47

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

48 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

MUNEESH SHARMA Executive director, Robson Street Business Association

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? I have been very fortunate to have been mentored by many high-calibre individuals, but my real work ethic comes from my parents.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Beer.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? My newest goals are to be a good dad and to spend more time with my family.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? DJ. NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. On a beach, playing my music.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? I decided not to move overseas to open up a hotel, and instead chose to stay here and start my business.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Enjoy life every day and keep working on your goals.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT?

SUBMITTED

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO FOLLOW YOUR AMBITIONS. I WILL HAVE COMPLETED MY EXECUTIVE MASTER’S DEGREE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ALL DURING THIS PANDEMIC BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED?

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

Life is short. Do what makes you happy.

And think about how you want to be remembered.

I am proud of all of the agreements with Indigenous Nations, but a highlight was the official naming of the Salish Sea.

Running.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I took up running during the pandemic, and ended up doing the equivalent of 50 marathons in the first year.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 48

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? It’s never too late to follow your ambitions. I will have completed my executive master’s degree in business administration all during this pandemic.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 49

2021

MICHAEL TAN Vice-president, finance, Damon Motors

AGE

37

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My immigrant parents, working 14 hour days, 365 days a year, running a corner grocer! Also my 20-plus years of training and teaching Choy Lee Fut kung fu.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? A traditional, hot, Hong Kong milk tea, filtered 12 times, paired with a fresh, warm, pineapple bun with a pat of butter.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? The Long Tail by Chris Anderson.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? I hope to better encourage the next generation of leaders to use their education and expertise to serve and better the communities they are a part of.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? My dream career as a child was to own a corner store, as I saw how my parents’ work would put smiles on so many people’s faces.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. The pond at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden in Chinatown.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Choosing to confront a more senior executive about their decision to take a conference pass meant for an underrepresented group and giving it to a white male colleague. It is always difficult to take a stand but I don’t regret doing so.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Be gracious, be humble, but never sell yourself short. Your work can change the world and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Make the most of every opportunity, and sometimes, you need to make your own luck. Go for it!

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT?

SUBMITTED

BE GRACIOUS, BE HUMBLE, BUT NEVER SELL YOURSELF SHORT. YOUR WORK CAN CHANGE THE WORLD AND DON’T LET ANYONE TELL YOU OTHERWISE

shoes. Empathy is critical to relationship building.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. In university, the student association organized a food-eating contest. I thought it would be hot dogs but it turned out to be cold spaghetti and chocolate pudding.

Out of a dozen eaters I’m proud to have come in as runner-up!

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? To not fret the naysayers, however do heed those you trust, especially when they challenge your views.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Systemic inequality is pervasive in our society. We need to be vigilant in working together towards better outcomes for everyone.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Building out the finance teams of not one, but three of Vancouver’s most prominent tech companies. But what I’m most proud of is during the pandemic, leading the charge to get 1,500 vaccinations administered to low-income seniors in Chinatown facing systemic barriers to access.

I habitually put myself in someone else’s

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 49

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

50 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

AMY TANNER Co-founder and CEO, Ace and Riley

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? Being a competitive athlete during childhood and adolescence taught me how to set big goals and work hard to achieve them.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Dog videos on Instagram and TikTok (I consume hundreds per week) and a good dad joke.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To have Ace and Riley featured in Wired magazine as a key contributor to closing the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) gender gap by levelling up girls’ toys and bringing more attention and education to the negative social messaging and cognitive conditioning that girls’ toys have instilled for decades.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? As a child, I never had a strong pull towards any particular career, however I always knew without a doubt that I would work for myself and run my own company.

I just didn’t know what type of company it would be.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Paris. The first time I visited Paris (and every time since) it has felt like home.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Walking away from a comfortable corporate job (twice) in order to pursue an autonomous life and career, which was far more aligned with the life I had always imagined living.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? To journal more often and more in-depth.

To write down all the big and small things that happened in my week, my thoughts

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 50

I ALWAYS KNEW WITHOUT A DOUBT THAT I WOULD WORK FOR MYSELF AND RUN MY OWN COMPANY. I JUST DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TYPE OF COMPANY IT WOULD BE about it and the impact it had on my life.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Goal setting. I completely geek out on goal setting and make my friends goal workbooks.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I really hate being cold and I always feel cold, but I also love doing dips in frozen glacier lakes all year round.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? “The magic happens in the pursuit. You become who you’re meant to be in the pursuit of something.” — Rachel Hollis.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? Adversity brings great opportunity.

Those who were committed to their vision but flexible were in the best position to capitalize on this massive global disruption and come out ahead. Invest in your relationships. Strong connections are built in turbulent times.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I am most proud of presenting research at conferences all around the world, in Kyoto, Athens, Paris, Sicily, Stockholm, the U.K. and more.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 51

2021

MIKE THIESSEN Partner and chief sustainability officer, Genus Capital

AGE

37

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? A deep desire to make a large-scale positive impact on the world WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Late night peanut butter straight out of the jar.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Principles — Ray Dalio.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Move more of the world’s assets from destructive activities to ones that are improving the world, helping those in need and building a better future.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? Professional soccer player.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Snowboarding down a mountain with family/friends.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? One of the most difficult, but best moves, was leaving consulting in London, U.K., to do sustainable and impact investing in Vancouver with Genus Capital.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Focus on your strengths and find partners or experts to do the rest. You will better serve yourself and the world if you double down on your natural abilities rather than trying to figure everything out.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Hugging my kids and wife every morning.

It sets the day off right and reminds me of my top priorities.

YOU WILL BETTER SERVE YOURSELF AND THE WORLD IF YOU DOUBLE DOWN ON YOUR NATURAL ABILITIES RATHER THAN TRYING TO FIGURE EVERYTHING OUT

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

Survived hitting several trees in a hot air balloon.

Being a part of the massive growth in impact investing at Genus Capital. Our impact assets have grown rapidly in the last four years and have helped clients make positive impact in many key areas, such as climate action and healthcare.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? You can be exceptional at anything if you work extremely hard.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? I learned to be more grateful for my family, health and work.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 51

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

52 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

DENNIS THOMAS-WHONOAK Senior business development manager, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My wife.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Mini Oh Henry! bars.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Rebuilding Native Nations by Miriam Jorgensen.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To try and do hikes with my family. And play more golf.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? National Football League player.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Paddling in a Coast Salish ocean-going canoe.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Getting my master of business administration at age 39.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? To build self-reflection into your day to ensure you are bringing your best for yourself and for others. Embed my Indigenous values into everything I do.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Always putting my kids first.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I ended up in an Argentinian hospital after bailing on the TV show ‘Wipeout.’

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? My Indigenous identity and culture are inherent to my success. Being true to

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 52

SUBMITTED

MY INDIGENOUS IDENTITY AND CULTURE ARE INHERENT TO MY SUCCESS. BEING TRUE TO MYSELF — INDIGENOUS HISTORY, CULTURE, TRADITIONS AND WAYS OF KNOWING — BREEDS HAPPINESS

myself — Indigenous history, culture, traditions and ways of knowing — breeds happiness.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? You can accomplish a lot from an upstairs bedroom in your house.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Representing my Nation (Tsleil-Waututh) in welcoming the world to our shared traditional territory for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Building the largest ground-mount solar array in Metro Vancouver for our Nation’s new administration office. Sharing our culture with thousands of locals/visitors through Takaya Tours. Being elected to my Nation’s council.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 53

2021

JESSICA VERHAGEN CEO, Hydra Energy

AGE

38

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? A strong connection to purpose: I work to contribute to our planet being more sustainable.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Croissants.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Immunity to Change: How to Overcome It and Unlock the Potential in Yourself and Your Organization by Lisa Laskow Lahey and Robert Kegan.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? At work, I focus on empowering others and scaling with value-aligned partners to have the greatest positive impact on sustainability. Generally, I want to be more fluid with uncertainty, lead more with my heart, make time for being in nature and continue building and serving my community, friends and family.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? My mom thought I’d be a good lawyer as I was always picking things apart to understand them from different angles, but I just wanted to have a career that resulted in improvements for people and nature. It was less about what function I had and more about the outcome.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. Being in nature on a nice day with friends.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Taking on the CEO position of Hydra Energy.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Benevolence towards others has to begin with self-acceptance.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? Journaling — it helps me gain clarity, selfreflect, challenge and ultimately improve myself.

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 53

SUBMITTED

I JUST WANTED TO HAVE A CAREER THAT RESULTED IN IMPROVEMENTS FOR PEOPLE AND NATURE. IT WAS LESS ABOUT WHAT FUNCTION I HAD AND MORE ABOUT THE OUTCOME

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I briefly worked in Tanzania.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Reaching one’s full potential means relinquishing the illusion that we are separate.

I feel this applies not only to our teams hitting milestones together, but also that we as people aren’t separate from nature, we’re part of it; nor are we separate from the economy, we made it.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? We can choose to not let fear get the best of us. I underestimated how resilient people can be.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Connecting environmental outcomes with financial structures into templates to scale more sustainable business models, like the first ‘hydrogen-as-a-service’ contract I did that brings low carbon hydrogen to heavy duty truck fleets for less than the price of diesel.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

54 | FORTY UNDER 40 2021 PUBLISHED BY BUSINESS IN VANCOUVER

2021

VIKRAMADITYA YADAV Professor, University of British Columbia

AGE

37

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? Coffee… and unsolved problems!

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Few things are as satisfying as spending countless hours unearthing random tidbits of information on Wikipedia.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? Philip Ball’s Critical Mass: How One Thing Leads to Another will change the way you look at the world.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? Establishing a technology incubator that is singularly focused on decarbonization and environmental stewardship. I am also keen to contribute to the fight against homelessness and addiction in Vancouver.

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? When I was in the Grade 9, I authored an essay about my career aspirations that was published in the local newspaper. I have a framed copy of the essay in my house. I aspired — and still aspire — to be the chief scientific advisor to the prime minister.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE.

SUBMITTED

I AM MOST PROUD OF THE INCREDIBLE STORY OF MY VERY FIRST STARTUP COMPANY, METABOLIK TECHNOLOGIES.

When I am working in my front yard with my two kids. Gardening is joyful. Gardening with great company is blissful!

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? I opted to extend my studentship and defer commencing my faculty job in favour of a postdoctoral research fellowship at Harvard. Best decision ever!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Success is not a product of moments, but is the consequence of constant effort. It requires a lot of hard work, which requires stamina and good health.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? I am an eternal optimist who believes

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 54

that anything is possible if one is patient, disciplined, focused and consistent. I am also infinitely curious about the world.

These maxims dictate my work philosophy, which is my best habit.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I have played field hockey at the highest level. Growing up in India, I represented my home city and was in consideration to play for the junior national team.

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Everyone struggles to attain work-life balance. When I asked my father for advice, he said, “Once you leave an

organization, sooner or later, you are lost to history. Your children will remember all the moments you were not there for them.”

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC? We think too highly of our careers and our time, and that we are horrible time managers.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? The incredible story of my very first startup company, Metabolik Technologies.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

| 55

2021

ALEXA YOUNG Vice-president, government and public affairs, BC Council of Forest Industries

AGE

39

WHO OR WHAT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WORK ETHIC? My mom, dad, memere and pepere. They instilled in me the value of working hard and with purpose, but most importantly they taught me that having integrity matters, and the importance of respect for maintaining trusted relationships, for people from all walks of life and for one’s community.

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? A pint at an old-fashioned British pub.

WHAT IS THE BEST BOOK YOU WOULD RECOMMEND? 21 Lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari.

NOW THAT YOU ARE (OR ARE CLOSE TO) ENTERING YOUR FORTIES, WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF? To pay it forward. I’ve been fortunate in my life and career to have had people in my corner — family, friends, teachers and mentors. Not everyone’s had the same opportunities and I have a duty to give back as I continue to grow in my career.

SUBMITTED

WHAT WAS YOUR CHILDHOOD CAREER DREAM? “To own Disney.” I loved and wrote a report on Walt Disney and believed this to be an entirely reasonable goal.

NAME YOUR HAPPIEST PLACE. This one’s easy — my hometown, Bathurst, New Brunswick. Once a Maritimer, always a Maritimer.

WHAT WAS YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL DECISION? Choosing to leave an organization I adored and colleagues that were like family to accept a new challenge and opportunity to grow.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR 20-YEAR-OLD SELF? Don’t doubt yourself. Be as confident as what you’re already bringing to the table.

I’VE BEEN FORTUNATE IN MY LIFE AND CAREER TO HAVE HAD PEOPLE IN MY CORNER — FAMILY, FRIENDS, TEACHERS AND MENTORS. NOT EVERYONE’S HAD THE SAME OPPORTUNITIES AND I HAVE A DUTY TO GIVE BACK WHAT IS YOUR BEST HABIT? G et t i n g up e a rly d a i ly to re ad t he newspaper.

TELL US ONE IMPROBABLE FACT ABOUT YOURSELF. I still love to play the piano — anything and everything from Beethoven to Billy Joel and Elton John.’

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE EVER RECEIVED? Listen.

BIGGEST LEARNING (ABOUT LIFE OR BUSINESS) DURING THE PANDEMIC?

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 55

The pandemic reinforced my belief that business leaders are playing, and will continue to play, an outsized role in supporting people’s wellbeing.

WHAT CAREER HIGHLIGHT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? From leading Canada’s resource sector’s involvement in the Carbon Pricing Leadership Coalition, to advancing a provincial initiative to bring cell service to B.C.’s Highway of Tears — I’m most proud of bringing people together in partnership to deliver value not only for businesses I’ve worked for, but for people and communities.

2021-12-01 3:26 PM

40 Under Forty 2021_56_FINALR.indd 56

2021-12-01 3:26 PM