Catalyst that inspires and empowers our next generation of innovative change makers.

 
 

Cultivating a spirit of innovation

 

Our Mission

Our mission is to build a community of experts, influencers, entrepreneurs and advisors to fuel innovative change and put more Canadian ventures on the map. That’s why we focus on cultivating top talent. We believe the creativity and diversity that’s within the walls at Ontario Tech University can accelerate the success of ventures in our community. From aggressive deadlines to the need to pivot and be agile, we understand the challenges organizations face and can help you overcome them.

We create one-of-a-kind learning experiences to help the Ontario Tech community not just learn but truly thrive. Our space was specifically designed to facilitate idea generation, collaboration and new partnerships - it’s an innovation and experiential learning hub. Learn more about the resources at our space or visit us to experience it for yourself.

 

Osman Hamid

 
 

Director, Creativity & Entrepreneurship

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 
  • Dr. Osman Hamid is the Director of Creativity and Entrepreneurship at Ontario Tech University. Osman is passionate about the entrepreneurial mindset and the experiential learning potential that can come from it. He made his mark as a builder and a leader through innovative student and community engagement initiatives for a decade at Toronto Metropolitan University (previous known as Ryerson University).

    Osman continues to leverage that passion to lead the Brilliant Catalyst, Durham Region’s university-based incubator, which propels “tech with a conscience” innovation changemakers and supports them through their entrepreneurial journey.

    Osman completed his Doctor of Education at Western University, a Masters of Business of Administration and Bachelor of Commerce from Ryerson University and an Advanced Diploma in Accounting and Finance from Seneca College.

 

Connor Loughlean

 

Manager, Programs and Operations

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 
 
  • Connor Loughlean is the Manager, Creativity with the Brilliant Catalyst at Ontario Tech University.

    Connor started working with the Brilliant Catalyst in 2018, and has had the opportunity to work with over 200 start-up companies during his tenure with the Brilliant Catalyst.

    Connor leads the multi-talent Brilliant Catalyst team and provides oversight and support to the various experiential learning and entrepreneurship programs offered through the Brilliant Catalyst.

    Connor has a Bachelor’s degree in History from Trent University, and a graduate certificate in Human Resources from Durham College. Connor got his start in entrepreneurship by working for two start-ups shortly after graduating from University, called “ShirtPunch” and “NerdBlock”.

    Connor has since grown his passion for entrepreneurship and is dedicated to supporting the next generation of innovative thinkers coming out of Ontario Tech University and the Brilliant Catalyst.

 
 

Leen Jaber

 

Program Officer

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 
  • Leen Jaber is a skilled communication specialist focused on achieving results through captivating narratives across various media channels.

    She excels in internal company communications, using bulletins and events to keep stakeholders informed and organized. With experience in coordinating technology-driven projects, Leen is also adept at creating and delivering programs, initiatives, workshops, and events. She has a talent for managing relationships and collaborating effectively with diverse stakeholders.

    Leen's creativity and self-driven motivation are reflected in her history of providing mentorship and entrepreneurial assistance to start-up companies. Currently serving as Program Officer at Ontario Tech University's Brilliant Catalyst, she has led the design and implementation of the hybrid incubator program, meeting projected deadlines collaboratively with the lead Program Coordinator. Leen previously worked as a Communications Specialist at ECE HUB, where she produced engaging, error-free content using exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills.

    Leen holds a Master of Arts in English Literature and Cultural Studies from McMaster University, where she also earned her Bachelor of Arts with Honours in English and Cultural Studies, graduating with Distinction (Summa Cum Laude) and a minor in Sociology.

 

Maryam Akhtar

 

Program Officer

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 
  • Maryam is an accomplished Program Officer for Experience Ventures at the Brilliant Catalyst, a university-based incubator at Ontario Tech University.

    With experience working with start-ups and organizations across various industries, including Hospitality & Tourism, Telecommunications, and Healthcare, Maryam brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. She has a proven track record in delivering entrepreneurship programming, including hackathons, challenges, work-integrated learning opportunities, and more. Maryam is a dedicated mentor to start-ups and students and has served as a judge at various pitch competitions, showcasing her ability to inspire and empower the next generation of innovative change makers.

    Maryam holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce in Healthcare Management from the Humber Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, where she was recognized with the Academic Award of Excellence for her outstanding academic achievements.

 

Lina Hamouda

 
 

Program Coordinator

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 
  • Lina Hamouda (she/her) serves as the Program Coordinator for Brilliant Catalyst, the start-up incubator at Ontario Tech University. Her expertise in entrepreneurship, innovative ideas, and unique solutions is evident in her leadership of the Start-Up Visa Program in Brilliant Catalyst, which fosters a community of international changemakers.

    She is known for her exceptional leadership skills, unique solutions, and dedication to creating unparalleled opportunities for growth. At the heart of her work is a passion for innovation, mentorship, creativity, and program coordination. Her commitment to driving meaningful change is evident in her successful coordination of programs that connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. Lina is dedicated to providing a platform for growth and learning, and she finds it exciting to work with talented founders from diverse backgrounds.

    Her experience in creating innovative and dynamic environments for trailblazers, entrepreneurs, and leaders has earned her a reputation as a visionary leader who is constantly seeking new and innovative ways to bring people and ideas together.

 

Marissa George

 

Program Coordinator

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 
 
  • Marissa George is a Program Coordinator at the Brilliant Catalyst. Her experience in various departments at Ontario Tech has given her a diverse skill set that she brings to her role as Program Coordinator for the Incubator Program. In addition to her expertise in communications, student development, and outreach, she also has valuable knowledge in areas such as project management, event planning, and community engagement.

    Marissa's experience has allowed her to understand the needs of students, and she is passionate about creating programs and initiatives that support their success. She is skilled at identifying opportunities for growth and development and her creative approach to problem-solving makes her a valuable asset to the team.

    Marissa's experience and expertise make her a well-rounded Program Coordinator who is equipped to handle the unique challenges of student-facing programming. Her dedication to helping students succeed is evident in everything she does and she is committed to making a positive impact on their lives.

 

Denzel

Sheppard-Thompson

 

Program Coordinator

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 
 
  • Denzel is the program coordinator for the Black Entrepreneurship & Skilled Trades program with the Brilliant Catalyst at Ontario Tech University. He has a passion for ideation, and building on new ideas which he uses to engage participants and facilitate programming for a diverse community within the Durham Region.

    Denzel employs a diverse set of skills and attention to detail in contributing to his team's efforts in delivering Brilliant Catalyst material. He draws from his institutional and self-gained experience in e-commerce, web development, and graphic design to tackle small to large scale problems with identifiable and unique solutions.

    Graduating from both Juno College of Technology, and Durham College, with Diplomas in Web Development and Paralegal Studies respectively, Denzel utilizes discipline, comprehensive problem-solving, and his technical capabilities to achieve consistent results in his fields of pursuit.

 

Keanu Barrage

 
 

Startups Lead

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 

 

Alizah Zaidi

 
 

Engagement Lead

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation

 

 

Muhammad Chaudhry

 

Social Media Lead

Office of the Vice-President

Research & Innovation