WHO Tara Akhavan, 34, founder and chief
technology officer, IRYStec
MY HQ Montreal
MY BUSINESS IRYStec makes displays
(screens, dashboards, etc.) smarter by using
all environmental information such as light-
ing conditions and characteristics of the
viewer to provide the best and healthiest
viewing experience. IRYStec builds the first
software technology for screen applications
that considers the physiology of the eye.
MY BIGGEST ASSET I never give up until
I achieve a goal.
ON BEING A LEADER IN STEM Working
in a male-dominated field has its own chal-
lenges, but there are also benefits. For exam-
ple, since there are fewer women in the
automotive industry there are fewer women
at the meetings, so I become more memora-
ble for the attendees. I'm at the sweet spot
of being young, an immigrant and a woman.
The constant battle of proving myself has
made me stronger.WHO Bonnie Foley-Wong, 45, CEO, Pique Ventures
MY HQ Vancouver
MY BUSINESS Pique Ventures is an impact investment firm. We
create venture capital funds and invest in a diverse community of
entrepreneurs building companies that care, connect and protect.
We help people make more compassionate decisions by integrating
analysis, emotion, body and intuition.
MY BIGGEST ASSET Focus.
ON BEING A LEADER IN STEM I love the opportunities available
in the fields of science and technology. I did a math degree and I can’t
help but notice the interesting and creative applications of math in the
world. Working in STEM is richest when it’s collaborative rather than
competitive and adversarial. I feel the most energized when I’m shin-
ing the spotlight on the CEOs that Pique has invested in.62 | CANADIAN LIVING OCTOBER 2019
WHO Nadia Hamilton, 32, founder and
president, Magnusmode
MY HQ Toronto
MY BUSINESS Magnusmode leverages
mobile technology to help people with autism
and other cognitive special needs live with
greater independence. Companies use our
app, MagnusCards, to provide step-by-step
visual, text and audio how-tos for navigating
their products and services. People with
special needs download and follow along.
MY BIGGEST ASSET A powerful vision and
a mission to create a more accessible world.
ON BEING A LEADER IN STEM Just
today someone visiting our office thought I
was the receptionist. I guess I stand out, as a
black woman in STEM. I’ve learned (and I am
still learning) that to be a great leader you
have to be a skilled listener. Having strong
mentors in my life—along with my willing-
ness to engage and learn with humility and
enthusiasm—has made all the difference.