Canada is emerging as a hub for innovation and diversity, with a growing number of Black tech entrepreneurs leading transformative ventures that are reshaping industries and creating lasting impact. These visionaries are not only breaking barriers but also redefining what it means to innovate in fields like fintech, agritech, AI, edtech, and beyond. Their work addresses global challenges, drives economic growth, and empowers communities through technology.
This list highlights the Top 20 Black Tech Entrepreneurs to Watch in Canada, showcasing individuals whose groundbreaking solutions and leadership have set them apart in the competitive tech ecosystem. These trailblazers are inspiring the next generation of innovators while proving that diversity is a key driver of creativity and progress in technology.
1. Onyeka Akumah
Onyeka Akumah, the visionary entrepreneur and founder of Treepz Inc., has carved a remarkable path in leveraging technology to address real-life challenges in sectors like transportation, agriculture, and real estate across Africa. With over 12 years of leadership in fast-growing startups, Onyeka has spearheaded impactful businesses that have reached over 6 million customers and scaled operations to serve diverse communities.
Onyeka Akumah’s entrepreneurial journey began with a solid foundation in technology and innovation. A graduate of Sikkim Manipal University, India, where he earned a first-class degree in Applied Information Technology, Onyeka built startups even as a university student, honing his skills and gaining valuable insights.
Starting his professional career with organizations like British Council, Deloitte, and Wakanow, Onyeka’s expertise in online marketing and e-commerce paved the way for his leadership roles in companies such as Jumia, Konga, and Travelbeta. His experience includes launching the SME Market Hub for GTBank and driving growth in multiple tech ecosystems.
Onyeka is best known for founding and scaling several successful startups, including:
- Farmcrowdy: Founded in 2016, this digital platform connected small-scale farmers to investors, revolutionizing agricultural funding and productivity in Nigeria.
- RentSmallSmall: Addressing housing challenges in Nigeria by providing flexible rent payment solutions.
- Treepz Inc.: Formerly known as Plentywaka, Treepz is redefining shared mobility across Africa with operations in Nigeria, Ghana, and Uganda, offering solutions that prioritize safety, comfort, and convenience for daily commutes.
Onyeka’s influence extends beyond startups. He serves on the advisory boards of When Women Win and LeaderX, contributing to women’s empowerment and leadership development across Africa. His commitment to social and economic advancement is evident in partnerships like the collaboration between Treepz and CMS Taxi to digitize transportation in Lagos and Farmcrowdy’s impactful initiatives in boosting food production.
Onyeka Akumah’s entrepreneurial excellence has earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Top 10 Nigerian CEOs Under 40 (2020)
- Tech Entrepreneur of the Year (2018)
- African Agricultural Champion of the Year (2020)
- Quartz List of Africa’s 30 Innovators (2018)
- JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria (2019)
Onyeka Akumah’s work is driven by a passion for creating sustainable solutions that improve lives and empower communities. Through his ventures and mentorship, he continues to inspire the next generation of African entrepreneurs, leaving a legacy of innovation, resilience, and impact.
2. Mo’ Ekujumi
Mo’ Ekujumi is the Founder and CEO of SkillHat, a global tech company dedicated to launching people of color, women, and newcomers to North America into fulfilling tech careers. Through e-learning, career coaching, and staffing services, SkillHat addresses gaps in tech education and employment opportunities.
Since its founding in June 2021, SkillHat has trained over 500 individuals in areas such as product management, software development, business analysis, project management, scrum, and UX design. Within 19 months, the company generated over $7M in new job income, with graduates experiencing an average income increase of $45,000. Under Mo’s leadership, the company has achieved a valuation of $1.5M through bootstrapping efforts and maintains a student body where over 80% are Black professionals, with more than half being women.
Mo’ spearheaded the launch of four new courses in 2022, tailored to the demands of a dynamic job market. This initiative has led to 75% of graduates securing internships, full-time roles, or contract positions. Through the Tech Career Accelerator Program, he empowers alumni to apply their skills by building tech products and startups, fostering career transitions to companies like Spotify and Microsoft.
With over a decade of experience as a seasoned tech executive, Mo’ has led global teams in developing new products, driving incremental revenue, and streamlining operations. His expertise spans e-learning, insurance, e-health, and government sectors, with significant contributions at organizations such as the City of Toronto, Andela, and Marsh Canada.
Mo’ holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Information Technology from the University of Toronto. He is also a Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), credentials that underscore his leadership and expertise in the tech industry.
3. Lianne Hannaway
Lianne Hannaway is a Chartered Professional Accountant, finance executive, investor, and the founder of Wealthnuvo, a financial education and coaching platform dedicated to helping women, especially Black women, build generational wealth. Driven by a mission to empower women to achieve financial independence, Lianne aims to alleviate money stress and its far-reaching impacts, enabling women to live better, secure their futures, and create lasting change for their families, communities, and the broader economy.
With a Bachelor of Mathematics and a Master of Accountancy from the University of Waterloo, Lianne earned her Chartered Accounting designation and brings over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. She has held leadership roles at organizations such as the Toronto Stock Exchange, Shorcan Brokers, TSX Trust, KPMG Canada, and KPMG France. She also served as COO for the Black Professionals in Tech Network. Currently pursuing her Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, Lianne combines her technical expertise with a passion for financial empowerment to guide women in reaching their goals.
Lianne’s commitment to social impact extends to her role as a Board Member and Treasurer for the Equality Fund, supporting global gender equality, and Kids Help Phone, Canada’s leading 24/7 youth counselling service. Her past board roles include Humber College and Vice-President of the Canadian Association of Urban Financial Professionals. Through her work and advocacy, Lianne continues to inspire women to take control of their finances and unlock new possibilities for themselves and future generations.
4. Tamar Huggins
Tamar Huggins is a Toronto-based Canadian tech entrepreneur, author, and educator renowned for championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in tech education. A trailblazer in the Black tech ecosystem, Tamar has made significant contributions to advancing opportunities for underrepresented communities in technology. Inspired by her father’s ability to build computers without formal training, Tamar developed a passion for innovation early in life and has consistently pushed boundaries in her career.
In 2012, Tamar founded DRIVEN, Canada’s first tech accelerator for BIPOC leaders. Through DRIVEN, she raised $1.1 million for Black, Brown, and women-led startups, with alumni collectively securing over $20 million in funding. In 2015, Tamar established Tech Spark, the first Canadian company dedicated to advancing students of color, women, and girls in tech education. Tech Spark’s innovative programs, including the development of Ontario’s first tech entrepreneurship course, have empowered thousands of students across Canada and the United States.
As an advocate for the transformative power of AI in education, Tamar created Spark Plug, a platform that simplifies complex subjects using language tailored to Gen Z learners. In 2022, she became the first woman to raise over $1 million to develop a personalized AI-driven learning platform designed to reflect student culture, data, and individual needs. Under Tamar’s leadership, the company has earned recognition for its cutting-edge curriculum and products, positioning it as a leader in education technology.
Beyond her professional ventures, Tamar is a dedicated advocate for inclusion, AI ethics, and responsible AI practices. She actively mentors aspiring technologists from underrepresented groups, encouraging them to explore STEM careers and helping break down barriers within the industry.
Tamar’s vision for a more inclusive tech landscape continues to inspire and create opportunities for future generations of innovators.
5. Samuel Olarewaju
Samuel Olarewaju is a passionate innovator, researcher, and community builder dedicated to creating global impact in health, research, leadership, and innovation.
Beyond academia, Samuel is a serial innovator and social impact advocate. As the founder of the Food and Genes Initiative, he promotes health awareness and well-being, impacting over 1 million lives globally. He also co-founded Shaping Women in STEM Africa, a platform celebrating and empowering young African women in STEM through storytelling and mentorship. Additionally, he launched Impact Leaders Connect, a global community fostering learning, growth, and networking among 800+ young leaders in over 20 countries.
Recognized for his contributions, Samuel is a recipient of the Vanier Canada Scholarship, the New England Biolabs Passion in Science Mentorship and Advocacy Award, and the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Scholarship. His research has been featured in prestigious journals like Science and Nucleic Acids Research, and he has shared insights on global platforms such as the RNA 2021 Conference, World Economic Forum, and Newcomers Collision in Toronto.
Driven by a vision to use science and technology to address global health challenges, Samuel is committed to mentoring the next generation of STEM leaders, fostering collaboration, and delivering transformative solutions in health and biotechnology.
6. Charles Shima
Charles Shima is a visionary entrepreneur transforming the travel-tech industry with his innovative approach. He is the founder and CEO of Tourifique, an AI-powered platform that curates immersive experiences and events. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, Mr. Shima honed his expertise through various roles in Canada’s federal and provincial governments, equipping him with a versatile skill set that has fueled his business success.
Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Mr. Shima is a passionate advocate for redefining Africa’s global image. He believes that travel and content creation can dismantle negative stereotypes, revealing the continent’s rich culture and beauty. His dedication to this mission has earned him recognition from prestigious platforms, including Forbes Africa, VOA Upfront Africa, Vancouver Digital Tech, and NBC Africa.
7. Bryan Duarte
Bryan Duarte is a seasoned entrepreneur, impact investor, and licensed Professional Engineer with over 30 years of experience in the energy industry. As the Founder and Managing Partner of BlackTech Capital and the Founder & CEO of Enliten, Bryan is dedicated to driving innovation in the cleantech and sustainability sectors, with a special focus on supporting underrepresented founders.
At BlackTech Capital, Bryan leads an investment fund recognized by the World Economic Forum as one of the most innovative funds supporting planet- and people-focused entrepreneurs. He is passionate about empowering underrepresented founders, emphasizing their unique advantages shaped by resilience and diverse perspectives. Bryan often cites a Morgan Stanley report highlighting the $4 trillion in potential missed by venture capitalists who fail to invest in diverse founders, underscoring his commitment to bridging this gap.
In addition to his leadership roles, Bryan serves as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Altitude Accelerator and provides mentorship and guidance through several organizations, including Foresight Canada, Toronto Metropolitan University, TechStars, the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce, and the University of Toronto’s Black Founders Network. His efforts focus on nurturing early-stage companies and guiding entrepreneurs in creating innovative cleantech solutions that address global sustainability challenges.
For Bryan, energy is more than just a resource for heating and transportation, it is the force that propels people and organizations forward. He believes the key to a sustainable future lies not only in overcoming technological challenges but also in identifying and supporting the people and companies developing groundbreaking solutions.
Guided by his core values of love, integrity, and transparency, Bryan is committed to ensuring Black and other underrepresented founders receive the funding and strategic guidance they need to succeed. His work is a testament to his dedication to fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future by empowering innovators to turn their visions into impactful realities.
8. Zeze Peters
Zeze Peters is the Founder and CEO of Beam.city, an all-in-one ad automation and AI optimization platform designed to simplify digital advertising for businesses. With Beam.city’s flagship platform, DNA, Peters empowers companies to plan, automate, and optimize their digital ad campaigns across multiple channels, achieving personalized, scalable results in days or weeks.
A Cornell-educated aerospace engineer, Peters has over 20 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur, innovator, and leader in software, robotics, and applied AI. His expertise spans building cutting-edge platforms for Fortune 1000 companies, solving complex problems in e-commerce, consumer goods, and big data systems. He has consistently led diverse teams across continents, developing multi-million-dollar solutions.
Beam.city DNA platform unifies ad management, enabling advertisers to control all their campaigns from one place, while its proactive AI engine optimizes performance 24/7. By introducing multi-location intelligence and personalization at scale, Beam.city aims to revolutionize digital advertising, driving businesses toward preemptive advertising and measurable success.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Zeze Peters is a dedicated father of three with a passion for innovation, gardening, and sharing knowledge. Peters combines his visionary approach with a deep commitment to making technology accessible and impactful. His journey from aerospace engineering to AI-powered advertising exemplifies his ability to transform industries and inspire change.
9. Lekan Olawoye
Lekan Olawoye is the Founder and CEO of the Black Professionals in Tech Network (BPTN), the largest Black tech and business community in North America. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 in 2021, Olawoye is a thought leader and advocate for bridging the network gap facing Black professionals in the tech industry.
BPTN connects Black tech professionals across Canada and the U.S., providing them with access to executive sponsorship, industry training, and a robust peer network to support career growth. In addition, BPTN helps leading tech companies access top Black talent and retain diverse professionals through tailored engagement and inclusion initiatives. To further expand opportunities, Olawoye spearheaded the launch of Obsidi by BPTN in 2022, an all-in-one networking platform empowering Black professionals to level up their careers and BFUTR, North America’s largest Black professional summit.
Before founding BPTN, Olawoye served as Lead Executive of Talent Development at MaRS Discovery District, where he helped professionals thrive in fast-growing companies. Previously, he was Executive Director of For Youth Initiative, focusing on policy and strategic development, and chaired the Ontario government’s Premier’s Council on Youth Opportunities.
With a Bachelor of Social Work from Ryerson University and a Master’s in Social Work specializing in non-profit management from the University of Toronto, Olawoye has dedicated his career to fostering transformational change. His work has been featured in major outlets, including The Globe and Mail, TechCrunch, and Toronto Star.
Olawoye’s passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in his initiatives and volunteer efforts with organizations such as the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI) and the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services. Through BPTN, he continues to create lasting impact by empowering underrepresented professionals and redefining the future of tech.
10. Bryan Johnson
Bryan Johnson is the founder and CEO of Black Boys Code, a Canadian-based organization dedicated to empowering young Black boys by introducing them to STEM disciplines, with a focus on computer programming and technology. Since its inception in 2016, Black Boys Code has expanded to include 11 chapters across Canada, including cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax, as well as a U.S. chapter in Atlanta. Additionally, Johnson has launched three Black Kids Code chapters for girls in Western Canada, reinforcing his commitment to increasing diversity in STEM fields.
Guided by a vision to foster digital literacy and inspire the next generation of Black tech innovators, Johnson has made significant strides in bridging the gap for underrepresented communities in technology. Black Boys Code equips young Black men with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue education pathways and careers in the digital economy.
Before founding Black Boys Code, Johnson spent over 20 years working in sales and technology roles for organizations such as the Bank of Montreal, United Parcel Service Canada, Aeroplan, and the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia. His professional experiences, combined with his lived reality of often being the only Black person in the room, fueled his passion for creating opportunities that reshape diversity in the tech industry.
11. Claudette McGowan
Claudette McGowan is a renowned global information technology leader with over 20 years of expertise in driving digital transformations, optimizing infrastructure, and enhancing cybersecurity experiences. She has held key roles in leading organizations, including Deloitte, Metropolitan Police Services, North York General Hospital, Bank of Montreal (BMO) as the Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Technology Employee Experience, and TD Bank as Global Executive Officer for Protect Fusion & Cyber Experience.
Currently, she is the Chief Executive Officer of Protexxa, a Canadian-based cybersecurity software and services company, where she continues to lead innovative approaches to cybersecurity.
Claudette is a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion within the innovation ecosystem. She is the Chair of the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism (CILAR) and the Founder of the Black Arts & Innovation Expo, initiatives that tackle systemic barriers within the innovation economy. She also co-led the launch of Phoenix Fire & The Firehood, a multimillion-dollar angel fund and network aimed at empowering women in technology.
Her commitment to community and innovation is evident through her board and council roles with organizations such as SickKids Hospital Foundation, Elevate Technology Festival, Women in the Economy Task Force, and the U.S. Consulate General of Toronto U.S. & Canada Innovation Council.
Claudette earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lakehead University and a Master of Business Administration from Athabasca University. She has also received three honorary Doctor of Laws degrees: one from Carleton University in 2022 for her distinguished career, and two in 2024 from McMaster University and the University of Waterloo in recognition of her leadership, innovation, and service to communities.
A trailblazer in IT and cybersecurity, Claudette McGowan’s visionary leadership continues to inspire and shape the future of technology and innovation.
12. Dr. Cheryl Thompson
Dr. Cheryl Thompson is an associate Professor of Performance at Toronto Metropolitan University, and the Director of Black Creative Lab. As a creative lead and innovator, she is dedicated to reshaping the realm of Black cultural expression in Canada through her entrepreneurial ventures. She is also the Creative Lead of MobaProjects, a digital mapping initiative focused on cataloging Black archival collections in Ontario. This work supports her broader mission of using storytelling and digital tools to preserve and showcase the history of Black communities in Canada.
In 2021, Dr. Thompson’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to receive an Ontario Early Researcher Award (2021-2026) for her project Mapping Ontario’s Black Archives Through Storytelling. This initiative aims to build a comprehensive catalogue of Black archival collections across Ontario, collecting stories from the creative community through ethnographic interviews, with plans for a public exhibition curated by Dr. Thompson and her team.
Through her entrepreneurial work, Dr. Thompson also co-produces and collaborates on innovative projects such as a documentary film on Canadian Blackface, released in 2024. Her creative and entrepreneurial endeavors are supported by multiple Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) grants, enabling her to bring new ideas and methodologies to the cultural and academic spaces she inhabits.
Dr. Thompson is also the co-editor of Creative Industries in Canada (2022), a collection that examines the intersection of creativity and industry in Canada. She has been a prominent voice in shaping the future of Black cultural entrepreneurship, advocating for greater representation and access to resources for underrepresented communities in the arts.
Dr. Thompson holds a Ph.D. in Communication Studies from McGill University and has held a Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Toronto.
13. Isaac Adejuwon
Isaac Adejuwon is the founder and CEO of Metricsflow, a Newfoundland-based tech company established in 2016 that addresses data attribution challenges for digital marketers. Metricsflow’s advanced analytics platform operates without web cookies, offering a privacy-first approach to tracking online activity. The company’s mission is to create a more secure and user-friendly web experience by prioritizing transparency and privacy.
A graduate of Genesis, the business incubator at Memorial University, Metricsflow has also secured funding from GoAhead, a leading Silicon Valley venture capital firm.
14. Dr. Eugenia Addy Duodu
Dr. Eugenia Addy is the CEO of Visions of Science, where she leads transformative change through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) access. With over 20 years of experience, she has developed youth initiatives across more than 50 low-income communities in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, making a profound impact on community development and education.
A scientist, communicator, and social entrepreneur, Eugenia holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Toronto, as well as an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Biology. Her expertise and leadership have made her a sought-after public speaker, with appearances on over 100 platforms, including TEDx. Her work has been prominently featured in major publications such as Toronto Life, The Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail, and CBC.
Eugenia’s influence extends beyond her role as CEO. She serves as a trustee and director on several boards, including the Ontario Science Centre, the Toronto Foundation, and the Counselling Foundation of Canada. She also contributes as an educational consultant and STEM-focused media personality, working with organizations like TVOkids and CBC.
Her exceptional contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Desmond Parker Outstanding Young Alumni Award from the University of Toronto (UTM) and the Life Sciences Ontario Community Service Award. When not advancing STEM education and equity, Eugenia enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and exploring the outdoors.
15. Ehi Agbonlahor
Ehi Agbonlahor is the Founder and CEO of Anutio, a visionary platform that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to decentralize access to career growth opportunities. With over a decade of experience leading design-focused projects in financial services, agribusiness, and eCommerce, Ehi is a social innovator driven by a deep passion for addressing life’s challenges and enhancing individual and community well-being.
Her journey into innovation began with her participation in the IBM Design Thinking Lab, where she honed her problem-solving skills and explored creative solutions. As a semi-finalist in the 2019 Amazon-sponsored Kellogg Design Challenge, Ehi demonstrated her ability to propose practical solutions to complex problems.
Ehi’s academic accomplishments include a BSc and MSc in agriculture, as well as an MBA from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. While at Rotman, she co-founded Rotman Students Against Anti-Black Racism (Rotman SABR) and helped establish two scholarships to support Black students, showcasing her dedication to social equity and inclusion.
Through Anutio, Ehi’s mission is to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to discover their strengths, build fulfilling careers, and pursue their passions. Her leadership combines creativity, practicality, and a commitment to inclusivity, making a significant impact on career development and community well-being.
16. Paschal Okwundu
Paschal Okwundu is the Co-Founder of Binta Financial, a forward-thinking platform reimagining how newcomers and citizens experience financial services. Driven by a passion for using technology to address pressing challenges, Paschal leads a team of visionaries focused on financial inclusion, accessibility, and innovation.
With a diverse background spanning private equity, banking, technology, and management consulting, Paschal combines expertise in cash management, corporate finance, portfolio management, and financial modeling to shape the future of finance in North America and beyond.
Based in Vancouver, BC, Paschal is committed to leveraging technology as a catalyst for financial empowerment and well-being. His dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration continues to drive impactful change in the financial services industry.
17. Tefari Bailey
Tefari Bailey is the visionary CEO and founder of Hutsy, a fintech platform dedicated to empowering underserved individuals with accessible, AI-driven financial guidance. Hutsy bridges the gap for those who don’t qualify for traditional financial planning by providing tailored insights on spending, saving, credit building, and investing all at an affordable price.
Tefari’s journey began at TD Canada Trust, where he rose from an entry-level teller to a financial and investment advisor. This hands-on experience gave him deep insight into the challenges faced by everyday financial consumers and inspired him to launch Hutsy to address these needs. His entrepreneurial vision gained national recognition on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, where he secured a $500K investment, underscoring Hutsy’s potential and impact.
Tefari’s achievements extend beyond Hutsy. He has been honoured with several prestigious awards, including the Black Entrepreneur Prize and the Audience Choice Award at the Canadian Startup Fest, the Canadian Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Award from the League of Innovators, and the Distinguished Graduate Award from Brock University. These accolades highlight his leadership, innovation, and dedication to creating meaningful change in the fintech sector. Through Hutsy, Tefari continues to champion financial inclusion and empower individuals to build brighter futures.
18. Rochelle Grayson
Rochelle Grayson is a seasoned digital executive and strategist with over 30 years of expertise in business, technology, finance, and education. As the Founder of Mosaic Accelerator, Co-Founder of Circles of AI, and Board Advisor to the Sustainable Media Center, Rochelle has built a career at the intersection of innovation and impact.
She has led and launched numerous innovative digital media initiatives, working across startups and large organizations.
She is a keynote speaker on AI, data analytics, entrepreneurship, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as an investor, educator, and entrepreneur committed to driving transformative change in the digital landscape.
As Co-Founder of ArtSites, she created an online platform enabling visual artists to market their work effectively. Her work has earned her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, one of Vancouver’s Top 10 Technology Women, and one of Vancouver’s Top Forty Under 40. She is also a recipient of the Canadian Women in Communications’ Trailblazer Award and UBC’s John K. Friesen Excellence in Teaching Award.
With an MBA in Finance and Business Strategy from the University of Chicago and Master Certifications in Product Development Management and Business Facilitation, Rochelle’s career has taken her from New York to Chicago, Silicon Valley, and Vancouver, building strategies and solutions for the digital age. Growing up in Germany with an African-American father and Puerto Rican mother instilled in her a global perspective, resilience, and a passion for diversity. Whether leading AI initiatives, driving business transformation, or nurturing talent, Rochelle is committed to creating impactful, sustainable solutions that foster innovation and growth worldwide.
19. Randy Osei
Randy Osei is a visionary social entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of Rozaay Management and Athlete Technology Group (ATG). Known for his dedication to empowering athletes and underserved communities, Randy focuses on creating meaningful impact and fostering economic mobility. With over 12 years of experience as a Brand and Business Manager for professional athletes, he has harnessed his expertise at the intersection of sports, entertainment, and marketing to drive innovation and change.
Randy’s latest venture, the Athlete Technology Group, was named the 2023 Canadian EdTech Startup of the Year. ATG serves as a digital marketplace that bridges events, education, and entrepreneurship, connecting athletes and tech entrepreneurs. Central to ATG’s mission is the Training Ground app, a platform designed to upskill athletes for life beyond sports.
With a strong commitment to empowering the BIPOC community and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth, Randy’s work blends technology, education, and authenticity to deliver transformative experiences that resonate far beyond the playing field. Through his ventures, he continues to redefine the intersection of sports, technology, and social impact.
20. Farnel Fleurant
Farnel Fleurant is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader with over 15 years of experience in marketing and communications, having worked at top-tier organizations like Cossette, Yellow Pages, and National Bank. A graduate of the University of Ottawa, Farnel leveraged her extensive corporate experience to address a common challenge in the workplace creating meaningful employee engagement.
Driven by her vision, she founded Workind, a WellTech solution designed to transform employee engagement and lifestyle benefits management. Workind provides companies with a flexible, user-friendly, e-commerce-style platform that offers tailored products and services to employees, helping organizations attract, retain, and engage talent in impactful ways. Farnel’s innovative approach simplifies the management of lifestyle benefits, fostering more caring and supportive workplace environments.
Committed to promoting inclusivity, Farnel is one of the first 33 signatories of Mouvement Ensemble Inc., a Quebec-based initiative advocating for diversity in all its forms within the business world. Guided by her mission to create the most compassionate employee experiences, Farnel continues to lead Workind in redefining how organizations support and engage their teams.
Moving Forward
The contributions of these Black tech entrepreneurs underscore the importance of diversity, innovation, and inclusivity in driving progress. Their leadership is helping to dismantle barriers, create new opportunities, and pave the way for the next generation of innovators.
These entrepreneurs are not only shaping the tech space in Canada but also inspiring a global movement of change. The impact of their work will continue to resonate, fueling the growth of a more inclusive, forward-thinking tech ecosystem.
