Paola Murillo (Host)
Shapes the impact of the Latino community in Canada as the Executive Director of the non-profit organization Latincouver. With over 18 years of global experience, she spearheads initiatives like Carnaval del Sol, as well as advocating for entrepreneurs and empowering Latinos to reach their potential.
Luis Brasdefer (Moderator)
Lawyer and MBA with 25+ years’ experience, including 20 in executive roles across government, private sector, and ventures. Expert in business analysis, cross-cultural negotiation, and international markets. Fluent in English/Spanish, he’s known as a trusted leader driving partnerships, growth, and sustainable strategies
Heather Bell
Experienced Immigration Consultant with a demonstrated history of working with different industries seeking to hire and retain foreign talent and with families temporarily or permanently settling in Canada.
George Moen
George Moen is a lifelong entrepreneur who started his first business while studying at UBC. He left school to pursue entrepreneurship full-time, achieving success with Sandwich Tree, which grew to nearly 100 franchises before the 1980s recession. He later helped expand Blenz Coffee to over 100 locations worldwide as President.
Praveen K. Varshney
Praveen Varshney is a Canadian investor and principal at Varshney Capital Corporation, focusing on venture capital and social impact ventures. He has received multiple accolades, including Business in Vancouver’s 40 Under 40 Award and recognition among BIV’s Top 500 Influential Business Leaders in BC.
Cassandra Dorrington
Cassandra Dorrington is President and CEO of CAMSC, leading efforts to expand opportunities for Indigenous and minority-owned suppliers in Canada. Under her leadership, CAMSC supports over 500 suppliers and 130+ corporate partners, contributing to $8 billion in diverse procurement. She is recognized as one of Diversity Canada’s Influential Women in Diversity and HR.
Neelam Sahota
Neelam Sahota, FCPA, FCGA, is CEO of DIVERSEcity, leading its growth since 2013. With over 25 years of experience in inclusive growth and community impact, she is recognized for building cross-sector partnerships. Neelam has received several honors, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal and the BC Business Women of the Year Award.
Karina Brino
Experienced General Manager Administration with a demonstrated history of working in the mining & metals industry. Skilled in Corporate Social Responsibility, Environmental Awareness, Minerals, Community Engagement, and Risk Management. Strong legal professional graduated from The University of British Columbia.
Andrea Reimer
Former Vancouver City Councillor and Loeb Fellow at Harvard, now leading Tawaw Strategies and teaching at UBC and SFU, advising on transformative public policy.
Amanda Collett
Canadian Deputy Country Manager at Web Summit and Strategic Growth Consultant, recognized for connecting technology, entrepreneurship, and investment to drive innovation and shape Canada’s tech ecosystem.
