Business: E-commerce
Born: Iran
Biggest business achievement: Grew the Shopify data team from a handful of people to hundreds. The Shopify data team has implemented and scaled the company’s machine learning portfolio from one product to hundreds, empowering ambitious entrepreneurs with powerful tools typically reserved for enterprise-level businesses.
OBJ360 (Sponsored)
How the uOttawa faculty of engineering instills an ‘entrepreneurial mindset’ in students
A decade ago, Terrafixing chief operating officer Vida Gabriel was a chemistry-loving student in high school with little to no interest in business or entrepreneurship. “I didn’t like the sales
The value of an Algonquin College degree: Experiential learning, taught by industry experts
Zaahra Mehsen was three years into a biology degree at a local university when she realized she wanted to take a different path. “I realized that it’s not my thing,”
Biggest obstacle overcome: As a woman leader in tech, who is also an immigrant, I’ve had to overcome a lot of barriers to entry and growth, working hard to create space for myself and others.
Biggest influences: Too many to name, but top of the list would be my parents for instilling the value of hard work and believing in me from day one.
Biggest lesson learned during COVID-19: The power of communities coming together. From Shopify’s millions of merchants thriving during a pandemic to the scientific community creating vaccines in less than 12 months, we are all more powerful when we come together.
First job: Math tutor
Advice I’d give the younger me: Believe in your capabilities and focus your energy on what matters the most. True impact always wins the long game.
Favourite pastime: Hiking, swimming and reading.
