About us
YSpace is York University’s pan-university entrepreneurship and innovation hub supporting startups and entrepreneurs from a variety of sectors and communities. Our programming spans across scaling innovative technologies through customer and investor capital to scaling agri-food businesses into mass retail to diversity-focused initiatives like ELLA for women-led businesses and Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) for Black-led businesses. We are also home to two physical hubs in the City of Markham and the Town of Georgina.
Our team
Leadership
David Kwok
Director, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
David Kwok
Director, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What is your role at YSpace?
Associate Director of Entrepreneurship. I oversee all of YSpace's programming and operations with a focus of providing the ultimate service and support for entrepreneurs across multiple sectors and stages of the product life cycle.
Favorite Quote
"I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Sounds cliche, but everything! From the first day of opening our doors to all the socials, events, and connecting with the community.
What is your theme song?
"Lose Yourself" - Eminem
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pho Ga. Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup.
Never have I ever...
Gone waterfall jumping.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Learning Myself"
Nafis Ahmed
YSpace Entrepreneurship Manager
Nafis Ahmed
YSpace Entrepreneurship Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Entrepreneurship Manager. I oversee the technology portfolio, supporting founders across our lifecycle of programs. I also manage the YSpace Markham hub.
Favorite Quote
"He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life." - Muhammad Ali
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Every YSpace social and showcase event where we get to hangout with our amazing community!
What is your theme song?
"C.R.E.A.M" - Wu-Tang Klan
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chicken wings and a cold beer
Never have I ever...
Gone skydiving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Against All Odds - The Legacy
Nicole Troster
ELLA Entrepreneurship Manager
Nicole Troster
ELLA Entrepreneurship Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Entrepreneurship Manager, ELLA (on parental leave): I developed and oversee YSpace's suite of programs to accelerate the growth of women-led businesses
Favorite Quote
"Ideas without action are useless" by Helen Keller
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Pivoting ELLA programs at the start of the COVID-19 programs. We made it work in such a short period of time!
What is your theme song?
"Fighter" by Christina Aguilera
What is your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate!
Never have I ever...
Done rally racing and had podium finishes every time
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Driven Woman
Olusegun Villasa
BEA Entrepreneurship Manager
Olusegun Villasa
BEA Entrepreneurship Manager
What is your role at YSpace?
Black Entrepreneurship Alliance Manager. I oversee all of BEA programming which is designed to support Black founders at all stages to scale their companies.
Favorite Quote
"In the midst of chaos, there is always opportunity" - Sun Tzu
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Black Entrepreneurship Alliance 2022 Kick-Off celeberation – Good close for our first full year in operation.
What is your theme song?
"Worth the Weight" by Jidenna (ft. Seun Kuti)
What is your guilty pleasure?
Cheeseburger, large fries, and a large banana milkshake
Never have I ever...
Purchased a pair of Jordans.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Son of the Soil and the Diaspora"
Team
Aarif Senthil
Program Associate
Aarif Senthil
Program Associate
What is your role at YSpace?
As a Programs Associate at YSpace, I play a pivotal role in facilitating and supporting our diverse range of entrepreneurship programs, including. My responsibilities involve ensuring entrepreneurs receive the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance to foster their business growth at various while also contributing to our mission of promoting inclusivity and innovation within the entrepreneurial community.
Favorite Quote
"Discipline is doing what you hate to do but doing it like you love it." - Mike Tyson
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Joining YSpace's innovation hub introduced me to an exciting world of collaboration and support with amazing people. This memorable experience fuels my enthusiasm to create more lasting memories in the future.
What is your theme song?
"Started from the Bottom" by Drake / “Can’t Tell me nothing” by Kanye West
What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure is savoring a variety of foods; I'm a true food enthusiast. I have a deep love for dishes like ramen, Indian cuisine, Pho, Samyang, Roti, and everything that goes beyond.
Never have I ever...
Hiked up Machu Picchu, but one day, I aspire to conquer this majestic mountain.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Pixels of Progress"
Alina Ali
Student & Community Engagement Coordinator
Alina Ali
Student & Community Engagement Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Student & Community Engagement Coodinator. I assist with YSpace's technology portfolio & educational programs to develope community led initiatives that provide support to our students & entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
"The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise" - Maya Angelou
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The community coming together at the 2023 New Year Social
What is your theme song?
"Happy" - Pharrell Williams
What is your guilty pleasure?
Biryani - South Asian chicken & rice
Never have I ever...
Gone bungee jumping
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Rigging Life in Your Favor"
Bukola Adekanye
BEA Food Program Officer
Bukola Adekanye
BEA Food 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"
Diana Senwasane
Student & Community Engagement Coordinator
Diana Senwasane
Student & Community Engagement Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
I keep York University students and our surrounding community engaged with YSpace programming and events.
Favorite Quote
“She believed she could, so she did.” - R.S. Grey
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Walking into YSpace Markham when it just opened. I loved how bright and welcoming it was when I first walked in and that’s the same feeling I get every time I visit.
What is your theme song?
Stronger – Kelly Clarkson
What is your guilty pleasure?
I’m a chocolate lover and I have a weakness for chocolate cake!
Never have I ever...
Eaten fish.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Behind Those Brown Eyes
Ellen (Yeji) Kim
ELLA Program Officer
Ellen (Yeji) Kim
ELLA Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I develop and coordinate YSpace's entrepreneurship programs, primary focus on empowering and nurturing the growth of women-led businesses.
Favorite Quote
"Just as a solid rock is not shaken by the storm, even so the wise are not affected by praise or blame” - Gautama Buddha.
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
YSpace 5 Year Anniversary Celebration
What is your theme song?
"Move To The Music" WWE Raw Theme
What is your guilty pleasure?
Pretzel
Never have I ever...
Watched The Lord of the Rings
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Transplanted: Resilience & the Beauty of Bouncing Back
Galen Udell
Investment Program Advisor
Galen Udell
Investment Program Advisor
What is your role at YSpace?
Investment Program Advisor - I help startup founders through the fundraising process. Assessing their KPI's and business model to ensure it matches financial ask.
Favorite Quote
"I always cook with wine. Sometimes I even put it in my food" - W.C. Fields
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The electric buzz anytime you were there pre-Covid
What is your theme song?
"The Beat Goes On" by The Kings
What is your guilty pleasure?
Any carb, but especially chips
Never have I ever...
Been early
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Pulling up the Bootstraps: Lessons Learned from Hardtimes
Jigar Rana
Special Projects Associate
Jigar Rana
Special Projects Associate
What is your role at YSpace?
I provide strategic operations and programming support for projects and participate in the organization and execution of entrepreneurial focused programming and special events.
Favorite Quote
“Work like there is someone working 24 hours a day to take it all away from you.” - Mark Cuban
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
YSpace 5 year Anniversary
What is your theme song?
"Started From the Bottom" by Drake
What is your guilty pleasure?
Butter chicken and butter garlic naan
Never have I ever...
Cheated on a test
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Unlocking Potential, Unraveling Thoughts
Judy Chang
CPG Program Advisor & Leadership Coach
Judy Chang
CPG Program Advisor & Leadership Coach
What is your role at YSpace?
Food & ELLA Program Advisor. I help founders navigate the wonderful world of entrepeneurship and the Consumer Packaged Goods industry
Favorite Quote
"Start the day with a grateful heart" - Anonymous
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
All the amazing events where we got to meet founders from multiple cohorts over the last 3 years (Food, ELLA, BEA Launch!)
What is your theme song?
Mo-eh-yo (Ignite) - Fujii Kaze
What is your guilty pleasure?
Ramen and pretty much anything with noodles and broth.
Never have I ever...
Played never have I ever (until now)
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"WIP"
Kanishia Mensah
BEA Programs & Events Coordinator
Kanishia Mensah
BEA Programs & Events Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Programs and Events Coordinator. I assist the BEA team in planning, implementing, and delivering entrepreneurial programming for Black entrepreneurs.
Favorite Quote
Know your worth, then add tax. - American Proverb
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting the YSpace team and BEA manager for the first time during the Christmas Social 2021. It's incredible to see how the team has expanded since.
What is your theme song?
Build My Life by Housefires
What is your guilty pleasure?
All things sweet, specifically Plantain and Cinnabons.
Never have I ever...
Gotten a tattoo
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Elevated Kay: Redefining Her Life"
Karina Scott
YSpace Northern York Region Associate
Karina Scott
YSpace Northern York Region Associate
What is your role at YSpace?
As a Business Entrepreneur Assistant at Yspace Georgina, I will collaborate with the Town of Georgina, Town of East Gwillimbury, and YSpace staff to facilitate entrepreneurship programs both in-person and virtually, while also supporting the establishment and logistical operations of a new incubator/accelerator space in Sutton.
Favorite Quote
“There is nothing more beautiful than when you prove to yourself just how strong you are” - Unknown
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My memorable moment at YSpace would have to be the first week I started this position. Everyone was so welcoming and excited for me to become a part of the team!
What is your theme song?
“The Way I Talk” - Morgan Wallen
What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure would have to be anything sweet, sushi or poutine.
Never have I ever...
Gone zip lining face first (called the superman) down a mountain over 100ft in the air, going over 100 km/hr in Costa Rica. Fun fact, I did do this at the beginning of 2020 and it was the FIRST TIME I ever went ziplining.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
“Footprints in the Sand” - The Waves of my life
Lamisaa Mahmud
Senior Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Lamisaa Mahmud
Senior Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
I am in charge of leading YSpace's overall digital marketing strategy to maintain a cohesive brand identity and build a community online through partnerships within & outside of York University
Favorite Quote
“Believe in what you want so much that it has no choice but to materialize.” - Abraham Hicks
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
During our holiday social, we did an "egg race", was super odd but hilarious.
What is your theme song?
Remember the Name by Fort Minor
What is your guilty pleasure?
They say sushi every week keeps the docs away
Never have I ever...
Skipped my workout session.. and you shouldn't either.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Better than the day before
Marlina Ramchandran
ELLA Program Officer
Marlina Ramchandran
ELLA Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
Program Officer, ELLA: I design and execute programs to support women entrepreneurs to help them succeed in the entreprneurial world.
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".
Mary Olabanwo
BEA Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Mary Olabanwo
BEA Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Marketing and Communications Coordinator - I manage the content for our social media and website, and help develop marketing strategies to increase engagement in the community.
Favorite Quote
"Your attitude determines your altitude" - Zig Ziglar
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
2021 Christmas Social: Meeting the whole team for the first time.
What is your theme song?
"Pamilayo" Zizibo
What is your guilty pleasure?
Daily Bubble Tea
Never have I ever...
Used someone else's netflix account
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Muhammad Abdulhafiz
Website and Social Media Assistant
Muhammad Abdulhafiz
Website and Social Media Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
My role at YSpace is the Website and Social Media Assistant. I create content for our social media channels, capture events, and support the YSpace team in creating marketing materials for our programs.
Favorite Quote
“Make every day activities fun and watch your life be fun. It’s all in your head” - Unknown
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Going out and interviewing students has been extremely enjoyable and something I greatly enjoy doing.
What is your theme song?
I don’t really have one lol
What is your guilty pleasure?
Brownies...if I didn’t have to be health conscious, I would literally eat that ALL day.
Never have I ever...
Been on a jetski.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"The Journey of a Lifetime"
Nasteexo Muse
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Nasteexo Muse
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
My role at YSpace is to coordinate marketing materials surrounding the entrepreneurial culture at YSpace as well as marketing all of the awesome programs and events we host for the community.
Favorite Quote
“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does”
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My first introduction to YSpace was the 5 year anniversary event and it was amazing to witness how YSpace brings a community of driven people together to create new possibilities and solutions to the world.
What is your theme song?
The theme song from One Tree Hill.
What is your guilty pleasure?
A rotation of chocolate, ice cream and cake.
Never have I ever...
Owned a pet
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Becoming my own Muse
Nunu Francisco
BEA Program Officer
Nunu Francisco
BEA Program Officer
What is your role at YSpace?
I am the BEA Program Officer for the tech industry. As a tech enthusiast, my passions lie in entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. In my role, I help entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of technology and business, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Whether it’s helping them refine their pitch, connect with investors, or build a strong team, I’m there every step of the way.
Favorite Quote
“The distance between your dreams and reality is called action” - unknown
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
My most memorable moment in YSpace was the pitch contest and mixer.
What is your theme song?
I love music, so my theme music changes often. But for this season, my theme song is THIS YEAR (Blessings) [feat. Ehis’ D’ Greatest]
What is your guilty pleasure?
I have an insatiable appetite for cheesecake.
Never have I ever...
Gone paragliding.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Love, Chaos & Triumph
Shiphrah Muwanguzi
Special Projects Assistant
Shiphrah Muwanguzi
Special Projects Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
As a project assistant, I assist in reviewing startup pitches and coordinating scheduling meetings with my supervisors, while monitoring work and planning execution.
Favorite Quote
“Growth and comfort don’t spend time in the same room” - Joshua Fields Millburn
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The demo day was so inspirational listening to the speakers and networking with different people
What is your theme song?
"Things I know" - Runtown
What is your guilty pleasure?
Lemonade
Never have I ever...
Hiked up a mountain
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Constantly Evolving
Snehal Phatak
ELLA Program Coordinator
Snehal Phatak
ELLA Program Coordinator
What is your role at YSpace?
Program Coordinator, ELLA. I coordinate the logistics for programming, workshops and events as well as provide administrative support to accelerate growth for the participating companies.
Favorite Quote
Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why we call it ‘The Present’ – Eleanor Roosevelt
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Meeting my wonderful teammates! Waiting for many more to come!
What is your theme song?
“Happy” - Pharrell Williams
What is your guilty pleasure?
Eating home baked cakes
Never have I ever...
Gone for Skydiving
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Me, Myself & Happiness
Stephanie Simpson
YSpace Northern York Region Coordinator
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
Vadim Bazulev
Website and Social Media Assistant
Vadim Bazulev
Website and Social Media Assistant
What is your role at YSpace?
I am responsible for creating engaging content, monitoring analytics for reporting insights, and maintaining the online presence.
Favorite Quote
"I won't run away anymore... I won't go back on my word... that is my ninja way!" - Naruto Uzumaki
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Cupcakes with the cute anniversary design from the YSpace 5 Year Anniversary Celebration
What is your theme song?
"Mystery of Love" by Sufjan Stevens
What is your guilty pleasure?
Matcha Cheesecakes
Never have I ever...
Lost a wallet
What would the title of your autobiography be?
My Ninja Way
Vaishnavii Shivakumar
Lead Website & Social Media Associate
Vaishnavii Shivakumar
Lead Website & Social Media Associate
What is your role at YSpace?
I assist in curating YSpace's social media presence, compiling research, and the promotion of community events.
Favorite Quote
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." - Wayne Gretzky
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
Making funny videos for our social media
What is your theme song?
"Be Honest" by Jorja Smith
What is your guilty pleasure?
Strawberry cheesecake blizzards never disappoint!
Never have I ever...
Broken a bone
What would the title of your autobiography be?
"Exceeding Your Expectaions"
Yanky Li
Tech Program Advisor
Yanky Li
Tech Program Advisor
What is your role at YSpace?
Tech Program Advisor. I help entrepreneurs to change the world in their own way.
Favorite Quote
"I'm not a smart man, but I know what love is." - Forest Gump
Most memorable moment at YSpace?
The YSpace team gathering (Xmas 2022)
What is your theme song?
"One day more" - Les Miserables
What is your guilty pleasure?
Cold milk tea
Never have I ever...
Learned to play a musical instrument
What would the title of your autobiography be?
The path less traveled
Youngmi Lee
YSpace Markham & Programs Coordinator
Youngmi Lee
YSpace Markham & Programs 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
