About us
YSpace is York University’s pan-university entrepreneurship and innovation hub, supporting startups, scaleups, students, researchers, and founders across diverse sectors and communities.
Our programs support founders at every stage from scaling innovative technologies through customer and investor capital, to helping agri-food businesses break into mass retail. We also deliver sector-focused initiatives such as SmartTO for mobility and automotive innovation, alongside equity-driven programs including ELLA, powered by Desjardins, for women-led ventures and the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) for Black-led businesses.
Through global partnerships and a growing international network, YSpace connects entrepreneurs to opportunities beyond borders. We operate three physical hubs across the City of Toronto, the City of Markham, and the Town of Georgina, anchoring innovation locally while building impact globally.
Our team
Leadership
Alina Ali
Entrepreneurship Manager
Alina Ali
Entrepreneurship Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Entrepreneurship Manager. I oversee the Technology & Mobility Portfolio, supporting founders in advancing their innovative solutions through our lifecycle of programs.
Favorite Quote
"The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise" - Maya Angelou
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The community coming together at the 2023 New Year Social
What is your theme song?
"Happy" - Pharrell Williams
What is your guilty pleasure?
Biryani - South Asian chicken & rice
Never have I ever...
Gone bungee jumping
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Rigging Life in Your Favor"
David Kwok
Director, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
David Kwok
Director, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What is your role at YSpace?
Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation. I oversee all of YSpace's programming and operations with a focus of providing the ultimate service and support for entrepreneurs across multiple sectors and stages of the product life cycle.
Favorite Quote
"I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Sounds cliche, but everything! From the first day of opening our doors to all the socials, events, and connecting with the community.
What is your theme song?
"Lose Yourself" - Eminem
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pho Ga. Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup.
Never have I ever...
Gone waterfall jumping.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Learning Myself"
Emma Yuen
Operations Manager
Emma Yuen
Operations Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Operations Manager. I manage all operational aspects of YSpace, ranging from finance, HR, space and beyond!
Favorite Quote
“All your dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” – Walt Disney
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Sushi and karaoke at the 2023 summer social
What is your theme song?
Stand by Me – Ben E. King
What is your guilty pleasure?
Senior dogs
Never have I ever...
Been to Disneyworld
What would the title of your autobiography be?
“Unbreakable”
Jason Muloongo
Global Partnerships Manager
Jason Muloongo
Global Partnerships Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
As Global Partnerships Manager, I build and nurture strategic international partnerships that open doors for founders to scale beyond borders. My work connects ecosystems, institutions, and innovators to create tangible global pathways for startups growing through YSpace.
Favorite Quote
“My interest is in the future because I am going to spend the rest of my life there" Charles Kettering
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Being 14,000 km away from home at a global conference in Hong Kong with over 25,000 attendees — and being recognized simply for wearing a YSpace shirt. That moment made it clear: what we’re building travels. The brand, the mission, the impact, it resonates worldwide.
What is your theme song?
“Ebasini” – Tyler ICU
What is your guilty pleasure?
Rewatching The Last Dance and shifting into game mode whenever I’m facing something that feels insurmountable.
Never have I ever...
gotten a speeding ticket.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
No Borders, Just Bridges
Marlina Ramchandran
ELLA Manager
Marlina Ramchandran
ELLA Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
I oversee YSpace's suite of programs to accelerate the growth of women-led businesses
Favorite Quote
"The way to get started is to quit talking, and begin doing." - Walt Disney
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
ELLA Altitude 2022 Showcase and The YSpace team gathering (Xmas 2022).
What is your theme song?
"Stuck on You" by Lionel Richie
What is your guilty pleasure?
'Sunday mom's special' goat meat curry with soft rotis, white fluffy rice, and yogurt dip...ooh so yummy (followed by an afternoon siesta).
Never have I ever...
Slept for less than 7 hours.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Tommorow is Another Day".
Nafis Ahmed
Associate Director of Entrepreneurship
Nafis Ahmed
Associate Director of Entrepreneurship
What is your role at YSpace?
Associate Director of Entrepreneurship. I oversee all of YSpace's programming and operations with a focus of providing the ultimate service and support for entrepreneurs across multiple sectors and stages of the product life cycle.
Favorite Quote
"He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life." - Muhammad Ali
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Every YSpace social and showcase event where we get to hangout with our amazing community!
What is your theme song?
"C.R.E.A.M" - Wu-Tang Klan
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chicken wings and a cold beer
Never have I ever...
Gone skydiving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Against All Odds - The Legacy
Olusegun Villasa
BEA Manager
Olusegun Villasa
BEA Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Black Entrepreneurship Alliance Manager. I oversee all of BEA programming which is designed to support Black founders at all stages to scale their companies.
Favorite Quote
"In the midst of chaos, there is always opportunity" - Sun Tzu
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Black Entrepreneurship Alliance 2022 Kick-Off celeberation – Good close for our first full year in operation.
What is your theme song?
"Worth the Weight" by Jidenna (ft. Seun Kuti)
What is your guilty pleasure?
Cheeseburger, large fries, and a large banana milkshake
Never have I ever...
Purchased a pair of Jordans.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Son of the Soil and the Diaspora"
Paulina Karwowska-Desaulniers
SmartTO Executive Director
Paulina Karwowska-Desaulniers
SmartTO Executive Director
What is your role at YSpace?
I lead the SmartTO OVIN project which means working with startups in the mobility sector, advancing their technology and solving transportation challenges!
Favorite Quote
"Someone's sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago."
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
SmartTO Demo Day 2025 and really most events hosted by YSpace so far! Such awesome collaboration!
What is your theme song?
Fireball by Pitbull or Africa by TOTO depending on my mood.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Fostering rescue animals, eating ramen, getting off the grid… the list goes on.
Never have I ever...
Been to Disneyland nor do I want to go.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
So many questions, so many miles
Team
Apoorva Shastry
ELLA Program Officer
Apoorva Shastry
ELLA Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I support the planning, coordination, and implementation of women-centered programs under ELLA.
Favorite Quote
"Your focus determines your reality" - Obi-Wan Kenobi
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting my fantastic teammates! Anticipating countless more incredible moments together as we embark on this exciting journey!
What is your theme song?
"Flight of the Bumblebee" by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov
What is your guilty pleasure?
Japanese Ramen
Never have I ever...
Watched any sports
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Unfinished Sculpture: From Yesterday's Clay to Tomorrow's Character"
Bukola Adekanye
Agrifood Program Officer
Bukola Adekanye
Agrifood Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I provide support for BEA/YSpace Food and Beverage founders, and help them connect with the right resources and opportunities to actualize their business dreams "
Favorite Quote
“On n’est jamais seul quand on est avec soi-meme” - Anonymous. Translation: "One is never alone when one is with oneself"
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The BEA Launch - Meeting everyone in person after having year's worth of virtual programming sessions.
What is your theme song?
"Cock Crow at Dawn" by Bongos Ikwe
What is your guilty pleasure?
Checking food posts online.
Never have I ever...
Gone mountain hiking
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"The Untold story"
David Kebede
BEA Program Coordinator
David Kebede
BEA Program Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
I oversee and organize all activities within a program, handling scheduling, communication, event coordination, and participant support.
Favorite Quote
Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery but today is a gift, that's why its called the present- Master Oogway
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Working with the team at BFUTR
What is your theme song?
Arthur theme song
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate chip banana bread
Never have I ever...
Listened to a Taylor Swift Album
What would the title of your autobiography be?
How to eliminate hurry
Gurmehar Kaur
Special Projects Assistant
Gurmehar Kaur
Special Projects Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I work to assist teams in helping plan and execute "special projects," events and support the process of putting together these events.
Favorite Quote
"This too shall pass."
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Working with the amazing team and see events that we've been planning come to life!
What is your theme song?
Barbie: Life in the Dreamhouse Theme Song
What is your guilty pleasure?
Ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Never have I ever...
Been in one country for more than 4 years.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Whispers of the Journey"
Helen Kontozopoulos
YSpace Lassonde Advisor
Helen Kontozopoulos
YSpace Lassonde Advisor
What is your role at YSpace?
EIR (Entrepreneur in Residence) mentoring and supporting founders as they build early-stage startups.
Favorite Quote
Fata viam invenient ~ Virgil, the Aeneid
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Being lucky enough to mentor the right founders, whose hard work led to Top 3 Demo Day finishes four years in a row.
What is your theme song?
Boys Wanna Be Her - Peaches
What is your guilty pleasure?
I don’t do guilt. Only pleasures
Never have I ever...
Are we talking about Vegas?
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Take Courage!
Jaynain Panchal
Technology Program Coordinator
Jaynain Panchal
Technology Program Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
As the Tech Program Coordinator, I support YSpace's technology portfolio and community initiatives, including event planning, workshop coordination, and community engagement.
Favorite Quote
For it is easy to criticize and break down the spirit of others, but to know yourself takes a lifetime.
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Prior to joining the team, I had the privilege of coordinating a tour for international delegates at the YSpace Markham Hub. More memories to come!
What is your theme song?
Right on Time by Rob Riccardo
What is your guilty pleasure?
CHOCOLATE, I sometimes eat a whole 24 piece bar in one sitting
Never have I ever...
Bungee jumped. However, despite being afraid of heights, this is something I am definitely GOING to do.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
A Glimpse Into The Life Of A 21st Century Nomad.
Jiho Bak
Senior Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Jiho Bak
Senior Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
From planning to execution, I am responsible for YSpace's marketing strategy to build a empowering and welcoming community for entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
"The greatest risk one can take is to take no risks at all."
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Dancing with the team for content LOL
What is your theme song?
4'33'' - John Cage
What is your guilty pleasure?
I LOVE Skor McFlurry with caramel sauce
Never have I ever...
passed a driving test... born to be a passenger princes
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Untitled
Judy Wong
CPG Program Advisor & Leadership Coach
Judy Wong
CPG Program Advisor & Leadership Coach
What is your role at YSpace?
Food & ELLA Program Advisor. I help founders navigate the wonderful world of entrepeneurship and the Consumer Packaged Goods industry
Favorite Quote
"Start the day with a grateful heart" - Anonymous
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
All the amazing events where we got to meet founders from multiple cohorts over the last 3 years (Food, ELLA, BEA Launch!)
What is your theme song?
Mo-eh-yo (Ignite) - Fujii Kaze
What is your guilty pleasure?
Ramen and pretty much anything with noodles and broth.
Never have I ever...
Played never have I ever (until now)
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"WIP"
Kanishia Mensah
BEA Program Officer, Intrapreneurship
Kanishia Mensah
BEA Program Officer, Intrapreneurship
What is your role at YSpace?
Programs and Events Coordinator. I assist the BEA team in planning, implementing, and delivering entrepreneurial programming for Black entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
Know your worth, then add tax. - American Proverb
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting the YSpace team and BEA manager for the first time during the Christmas Social 2021. It's incredible to see how the team has expanded since.
What is your theme song?
Build My Life by Housefires
What is your guilty pleasure?
All things sweet, specifically Plantain and Cinnabons.
Never have I ever...
Gotten a tattoo
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Elevated Kay: Redefining Her Life"
Karina Scott
YSpace Northern York Region Associate
Karina Scott
YSpace Northern York Region Associate
What is your role at YSpace?
As a Business Entrepreneur Assistant at Yspace Georgina, I will collaborate with the Town of Georgina, Town of East Gwillimbury, and YSpace staff to facilitate entrepreneurship programs both in-person and virtually, while also supporting the establishment and logistical operations of a new incubator/accelerator space in Sutton.
Favorite Quote
“There is nothing more beautiful than when you prove to yourself just how strong you are” - Unknown
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My memorable moment at YSpace would have to be the first week I started this position. Everyone was so welcoming and excited for me to become a part of the team!
What is your theme song?
“The Way I Talk” - Morgan Wallen
What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure would have to be anything sweet, sushi or poutine.
Never have I ever...
Gone zip lining face first (called the superman) down a mountain over 100ft in the air, going over 100 km/hr in Costa Rica. Fun fact, I did do this at the beginning of 2020 and it was the FIRST TIME I ever went ziplining.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
“Footprints in the Sand” - The Waves of my life
Mary Olabanwo
BEA Senior Marketing & Creative Lead
Mary Olabanwo
BEA Senior Marketing & Creative Lead
What is your role at YSpace?
Marketing and Communications Coordinator - I manage the content for our social media and website, and help develop marketing strategies to increase engagement in the community.
Favorite Quote
"Your attitude determines your altitude" - Zig Ziglar
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
2021 Christmas Social: Meeting the whole team for the first time.
What is your theme song?
"Pamilayo" Zizibo
What is your guilty pleasure?
Daily Bubble Tea
Never have I ever...
Used someone else's netflix account
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Nandika Kumar
Website and Social Media Assistant
Nandika Kumar
Website and Social Media Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I work as the Website and Social Media Assistant. My role is to support the marketing team to create engaging content to promote YSpace and the incredible opportunities it brings for entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
"Happiness is not by chance, but by choice"
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Working on the Ella Ascend Showcase and getting to meet all the amazing entrepreneurs
What is your theme song?
Friends- "I’ll be there for you "
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pizza Everyday!
Never have I ever...
Been Scubadiving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
“Case Closed"
Noor Al-Azzawi
Special Project Assistant
Noor Al-Azzawi
Special Project Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I support YSpace Lassonde initiatives by helping plan events, coordinate programs, and ensure students have a smooth, welcoming experience when engaging with our community.
Favorite Quote
“People who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” - Rob Siltanen
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Help plan out all the great initiatives that could support Lassonde students and seeing how our ideas could positively impact their experience.
What is your theme song?
Passionfruit
What is your guilty pleasure?
Cookies (especially chocolate chunk)
Never have I ever...
Pulled an all nighter
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Somewhere Between Engineering and Business
Nunu Francisco
BEA Program Officer, Startups & Technology
Nunu Francisco
BEA Program Officer, Startups & Technology
What is your role at YSpace?
I am the BEA Program Officer for the tech industry. As a tech enthusiast, my passions lie in entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. In my role, I help entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of technology and business, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Whether it’s helping them refine their pitch, connect with investors, or build a strong team, I’m there every step of the way.
Favorite Quote
“The distance between your dreams and reality is called action” - unknown
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My most memorable moment in YSpace was the pitch contest and mixer.
What is your theme song?
I love music, so my theme music changes often. But for this season, my theme song is THIS YEAR (Blessings) [feat. Ehis’ D’ Greatest]
What is your guilty pleasure?
I have an insatiable appetite for cheesecake.
Never have I ever...
Gone paragliding.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Love, Chaos & Triumph
Prerna Sangoi
ELLA Program Coordinator
Prerna Sangoi
ELLA Program Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
As a Program Coordinator, I oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of programs to ensure they meet strategic goals and deliver impact. I manage logistics, stakeholder communications, and continuous improvement across all program activities.
Favorite Quote
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” — Peter Drucker
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting the team and how welcoming everyone was.
What is your theme song?
Unstoppable by Sia.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Binge watching with pizza.
Never have I ever...
Sung karaoke in public.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Inner Roar
Saba Seyed Medghalchi
Finance and Operations Coordinator
Saba Seyed Medghalchi
Finance and Operations Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Finance and Operations Coordinator
Favorite Quote
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Helping out with the 7th-year anniversary event during my first week—it was a fast-paced intro and definitely a memorable one!
What is your theme song?
“Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson 🎶
What is your guilty pleasure?
Rewatching comfort sitcoms I’ve seen way too many times.
Never have I ever...
Tried bungee jumping or ziplining (but I’m open to it… maybe!)
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Organized Chaos: Numbers, Notebooks, and Navigating Life
Stephanie Simpson
YSpace Northern York Region Coordinator
Stephanie Simpson
YSpace Northern York Region Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Program and Operations Lead for YSpace Georgina and East Gwillimbury, I provide support and resources for the unique needs of rural communities.
Favorite Quote
“The greatest gift you can ever give another person is your own happiness.” - Abraham Hicks
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Heartfelt peer-to-peer sessions and hugs from grateful business owners.
What is your theme song?
"Dreams" Fleetwood Mac
What is your guilty pleasure?
Sushi, 100%
Never have I ever...
Had meat in 7 years
What would the title of your autobiography be?
How to Live Your Bliss
Valentina Dinh
Marketing Associate
Valentina Dinh
Marketing Associate
What is your role at YSpace?
As a Marketing Associate I support YSpace's digital presence by creating engaging content for social media and optimizing the website for user experience. I also support the marketing and communication efforts by curating posts that highlight our programs, events, and community success stories.
Favorite Quote
“A wise bear always keeps a marmalade sandwich in his hat, in case of emergency.” - Sir Michael Gambon (Uncle Pastuzo) Paddington (2014)
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Making stickers of the YSpace Team! 🙂
What is your theme song?
“Toyota Corolla 2010” - 2003 Toyota Corolla
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate covered strawberries
Never have I ever...
Broke a bone
What would the title of your autobiography be?
A Series of Unfortunate Sleep Schedules
Vardhan Shah
Special Projects Assistant
Vardhan Shah
Special Projects Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I orchestrate the planning and execution of special projects and events, ensuring teams have the support they need to succeed.
Favorite Quote
"Everything Happens For A Reason"
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The breathwork session, it was the perfect way to hit pause, de-stress, and recharge
What is your theme song?
"Burn the House Down" - AJR
What is your guilty pleasure?
Double Chocolate Milk
Never have I ever...
Went Sky Diving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Roots In Motion
Wing Ho Xu
Program Admin Assistant
Wing Ho Xu
Program Admin Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I provides day-to-day administrative and operational support to ensure the smooth running of our programs.
Favorite Quote
"Walking among three people, I find my teacher among them." - Confucius
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Friday Team Events
What is your theme song?
Wii Shop Channel Main Theme
What is your guilty pleasure?
Office Ketchup Chips
Never have I ever...
Won a Hackathon
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Rebooting Wing Ho
Yeji Hofferber
Global Program Officer
Yeji Hofferber
Global Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I develop and coordinate YSpace's entrepreneurship programs, primary focus on empowering and nurturing the growth of women-led businesses.
Favorite Quote
"Just as a solid rock is not shaken by the storm, even so the wise are not affected by praise or blame” - Gautama Buddha.
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
YSpace 5 Year Anniversary Celebration
What is your theme song?
"Move To The Music" WWE Raw Theme
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pretzel
Never have I ever...
Watched The Lord of the Rings
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Transplanted: Resilience & the Beauty of Bouncing Back
Youngmi Lee
YSpace Markham Coordinator
Youngmi Lee
YSpace Markham Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Assist work-integrated learning programs for students as a Program Assistant and support YSpace operation.
Favorite Quote
"Happiness depends upon ourselves." - Aristotle
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
YSpace holiday and Summer social
What is your theme song?
Lucky" by Jason Mraz
What is your guilty pleasure?
Instant packed Tteok-bokki (korean rice cake)
Never have I ever...
Driven on the highway by myself.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Dreams becoming reality.
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YSpace is committed to working with emerging technology, agrifood, products and services. Get in touch today to find out how you can become a part of our community.
Contact us
For more information, please contact us at
yspace@yorku.ca
416-736-2100 ext. 44940
