Say Hi to the Future

On this episode of Ingenious Thinkers, we're joined by Nouhaila Chekouli, an inspiring leader and the founder of Scale Without Borders. Nouhaila's work has become a lifeline for immigrant and international student entrepreneurs who want to build careers and companies in Canada's fast-moving startup and tech space.Her journey is one of resilience, determination, and vision. Coming to Canada as an international student herself, Nouhaila experienced firsthand the barriers that newcomers often face, from limited access to networks and funding to navigating cultural and professional differences. Instead of letting those challenges hold her back, she transformed them into motivation to help others. Today, her platform, Scale Without Borders, connects thousands of immigrants and students with the tools, mentors, and opportunities they need to succeed.In our conversation, Nouhaila talks about:The lessons she learned while transitioning from student to entrepreneur.The gaps in the startup ecosystem and how she's working to close them.The role of diversity and inclusion in building stronger, more innovative companies.How immigrants can transform obstacles into stepping stones for growth.This episode is about more than entrepreneurship — it's about breaking barriers, building communities, and believing in the power of fresh perspectives. If you're looking for inspiration, practical advice, and a reminder that borders don't have to define your potential, this is the episode for you.Follow Ingenious Thinkers for more conversations with leaders who are shaping the future of business, technology, and society.

In this episode of Ingenious Thinkers, host Ken Tencer sits down with Jason Finucan, founder of StigmaZero, to explore how we can move beyond outdated stereotypes and reshape the way society approaches mental health. Jason shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind his work, and why breaking down stigma is essential for building healthier workplaces and communities. Together, they discuss practical strategies for fostering open conversations, creating inclusive cultures, and redefining mental health as a source of strength rather than silence.

Looking back on this year, we're grateful for every inspiring conversation, every story shared, and every guest who brought their unique perspective to the table. Your voices have shaped Ingenious Thinkers into what it is today. Thank you for being part of this community — we can't wait to bring you even more brilliant minds and game-changing ideas in 2026.

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Mario Simon, consumer expert and growth-oriented leader, recognized for developing talent and highly engaged teams. In this episode, we discuss his professional journey and personal philosophy. Simon shares his academic background in behavioral economics and his career in consulting and brand valuation. He emphasizes his life's purpose: to create spaces where people are their best, which he achieves through coaching and leadership. He also introduces his upcoming book, "Free You From You," which explores shedding self-limiting programs to realize one's full potential, using his own experience overcoming a stutter as an example.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Alieu Jallow, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Specialist at the City of Mississauga. In this episode, we talk about his experiences founding Gambia's first business incubator, supporting numerous startups and small businesses, and his current role in Mississauga's economic development office. He highlights the various programs and initiatives offered by Mississauga to support businesses at different stages, from initial ideas to scaling, including unique approaches like "reverse pitches" where investors explain their criteria to entrepreneurs.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Lisett Luik, Co-Founder of Arbonics, a company that aims to create high-quality carbon credits by using a data-driven approach combined with traditional forest knowledge, incentivizing landowners to plant and maintain forests. This episode highlights Luik's background and then expands on how Arbonics bridges the gap between landowners and large corporations, such as Microsoft, that seek to offset their carbon footprint. The company utilizes digital twin technology to assess land suitability for reforestation and project carbon sequestration, ultimately working towards a goal of one gigaton of total carbon removals to combat the climate crisis.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Julie Smithson, Co-Founder of Metavrse, an open-source 3D creation platform for the spatial web. In this episode, we discuss her journey from hotel management to being recognized as a Top Woman of the Future, highlighting the evolution of her company from creating the world's first touchscreen DJ controller to developing immersive training solutions. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, community engagement, and adopting innovative mindsets to navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape, including the impact of AI and blockchain on industries and daily life.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Sarah Lambert, Co-Founder of Ora Medical. In this episode, we discuss the development and purpose of their innovative walking aid for pediatric rehabilitation, highlighting its portability and body weight support system. Lambert also explains their new AI-powered application for remote physical therapy and the company's global expansion, sharing a powerful story of a child who made significant progress using their device.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Jennifer Cote, Co-Founder and CEO of Opalia Foods. In this episode, we talk about Opalia's technology which involves growing mammary cells in a lab to produce milk, and highlights the environmental benefits and potential of this approach compared to traditional dairy farming. It also touches upon the entrepreneurial journey of starting such a disruptive company, including fundraising and overcoming challenges. We talk about Jennifer's passion for sustainability and her belief that this technology offers a viable solution to meet the growing demand for dairy products in a more sustainable way.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Jason Elate, Founder of InsectFlux. In this episode, we discuss his mantra of creating the future through reverse engineering and how this philosophy led him to address global issues like the food waste crisis and population growth by focusing on the insect industry. Elate explains that InsectFlux is building a global B2B2C marketplace to connect the agri-food industry, which has organic waste, with the insect farming industry, which needs insect feed, thereby creating a circular economy and new revenue streams. We also touch upon the challenges and opportunities in this emerging market, the company's business model based on transaction fees and promotions, and their long-term vision for the future of insect-based products and waste utilization.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Aki Temiseva, President and CEO of United Nations Association Canada. In this episode, we explore his background, journey into the non-profit sector, and current role. Temiseva highlights UNA-Canada's mission to strengthen Canada by promoting UN values and programs domestically, focusing on gender equity, inequality, climate change, peace, and innovative partnerships, often acting as a bridge-builder to unite different groups. A key focus is empowering youth through various programs and initiatives, including international internships and supporting young leaders addressing issues like climate change and political engagement, showcasing their intelligence and drive for positive change. We also talk about UNA-Canada's work with Indigenous communities in Canada, emphasizing building relationships and supporting youth-led initiatives to address local issues.Listen on

Joining us on Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Jesse Sharratt, Co-Founder and COO of LAUFT, the most flexible on-demand network of space designed for people with the freedom to work from anywhere. Sharratt discusses his background, the founding vision of LAUFT as a revenue-generating amenity for various property types beyond traditional offices, and their focus on creating experiences and fostering community. He highlights LAUFT's innovative projects, including workspaces in self-storage facilities and a government contract, emphasizing the evolving landscape of work towards greater flexibility and distributed models. Sharratt also shares his travel experiences and how they shaped his perspective on connecting people and optimizing their work-life balance.Listen on

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Alan McLaren, Co-Founder of STRATA Originals an organization that helps CEO's, entrepreneurs, founders and executive teams build authority and influence with clarity, conviction and authenticity.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Caitlin Begg, Founder of Authentic Social, an applied research lab at the intersection of sociology and technology.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Phnam Bagley, industrial designer, futurist and aerospace architect creating cutting-edge hardware and experiences in Wearables, Healthcare and Wellness, Education, Robotics, Transportation, and Aerospace.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Jahnavi Mange. Jahnavi is a transformational catalyst with a passion to create leadership and compassion for climate solutions and social innovation.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Dr. Amanda Cheromiah, Executive Director at Center for the Futures of Native Peoples, Dickinson College.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Dr. Russell J. Ledet, Physician-Scientist, Tillman Scholar, and Health Disparities Advocate.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Peter M. Krask, President and Founder of The Creative Guide, a platform that helps professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators unleash the full power of their creativity, move beyond their limits, and achieve their goals.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Achille Ettorre, a seasoned AI and analytics executive, TEDx speaker, and author of The Digital Advantage.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Qiana Mickie, a New York City based food systems leader and speaker that uses food as a driver of enterprise, innovation, and equity....Audio Edited by Matt Miller

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Yannick Benjamin, Director of Wine and Beverage at The University Club and Founder of Wine On Wheels. ....Audio Production by Matt Miller

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Hoby Wedler, Blind scientist, entrepreneur, CEO, and educator of the blind and low vision community.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Marty Parker, CEO and Founder of Waterstone Human Capital.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Jessica Mshama, appointed East African Community Youth Ambassador & Youngest Board Member of National Art Council of Tanzania, she advocates for inclusive economic policies across the region, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and financial education for women and youth.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Rocco Rossi, Transformational Leader, Board member, Trade and Investment Promoter, Investor, Storyteller, Coach, Keynote Speaker and Pilgrim.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Sarah Kalmeta, entrepreneur, speaker, poet, and Founder of Pivot Point.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Yael Benarroch, President at MOMforce and Elevate Recruitment Network.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Dr. Georgette Zinaty, Founder of Women Helping Empower Women and Chief of Staff at Myant.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Urooj Faisal, VP Commercial Financial Services Health Care Professionals at RBC.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Andrea Lown, a creative product developer and marketer currently working at PayPal.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Ann Arnott, Executive Vice President, CEO at PTDA, the leading trade association for the industrial power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) distribution channel.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Alisa Mick, she is the founder of MiXi, a transformative ecosystem, connecting startups, investors, cities, and organizations to drive circular innovation.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Andrew Reydman, Partner at Torinit, a digital transformation consulting powerhouse on a mission to create human-centric experiences that enable digital led growth for enterprises.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have James Kemble, Managing Partner at fishRecruit

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Andre Smith, Founder & CEO of Flip & Floss, a revolutionary money app for families designed to help kids learn, save, invest and break generational cycles.

In this episode of Leadership Forum, we've got a live episode featuring Saquib Vali, Kundan Joshi, Noureen Syed, and Mary Ann Wenzler. This footage comes from our recent event at the Living Arts Centre, Better Thinking Better Outcomes.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Parveen Dhupar, a seasoned brand strategist, serial entrepreneur, public speaker, author and founder of BTI Brand Innovations.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Kena Paranjape, Founder of All You Are and podcast host of the Be All You Are podcast.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Esther Benzie, A Senior Marketing Executive who beyond all else is known for building and leading the most inspired Marketing Teams. She is curious especially on what drives consumers, how they think, their habits & practices, their purchase intent and the insights from those intersections that shape products, innovations, brands, and campaigns.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Her Braids and Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Penelope Fridman, Co-Founder and President of L'Institut Idee, a thinking company, solving business problems through a proprietary method that harnesses Connected Intelligence; delighting in the moment our clients feel clarity, certainty and consensus begin to emerge.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Perry Knoppert, Founder of The Octopus Movement and Brain Forest Alliance, two groundbreaking initiatives that aim to drive acceptance and awareness of the awesome abilities of atypical thinkers and empower them to tackle the trickiest challenges of today and tomorrow.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Teresa Palandra, President of Mercer Canada. She leads more than 1,000 professionals who share an unwavering commitment to helping Canadians achieve healthier, more financially secure and professionally rewarding futures. As part of this role, Teresa is a member of Mercer's Global Operating Committee, where she contributes to developing and advancing Mercer's global strategy and priorities across all regions and practices.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Izzy Fenwick, environmentalist, entrepreneur, public speaker, and Founder of Futureful, a SaaS platform that combines employ value propositions with environment social and governance commitments.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Jed Schneiderman, Marketing, Media and Tech. Head of Advertising at Kijiji Canada. He is the Co-Founder of M2TCollective and Investor at CleverHire.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Peter M. Krask, President and Founder of The Creative Guide, a platform that helps professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators unleash the full power of their creativity, move beyond their limits, and achieve their goals.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Paul Hogan, General Manager at Conagra Brands International. A broad and well balanced executive with experience leading large organizations with global Fortune 500 companies, Paul has a proven track record building high performing teams who deliver profitable growth with purpose from clear strategies.

Joining us on Say Hi to the Future: Ingenious Thinkers hosted by Ken Tencer today is Dr. Chris McGrath, Vice-President, Students, at Niagara College. He is also the Principal and Founder at Koru Coaching, a team of coaches, educators, and consultants dedicated to cultivating authentic and sustainable leadership capacity for social change.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Erin O'Toole, President and Managing Director at ADIT North America.

This week on Leadership Forum with host Saquib Vali, we have Sean Martin, General Manager at Numerator, a marketing intelligence firm that brings together omnichannel marketing, merchandising and sales data to make pursuing new possibilities simple for brand, retail and agency clients.