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Top 40
Under 40 —
By Avenue Magazine.
connectFirst is helping build a brighter future for all Albertans and we love celebrating when we see people doing awesome things in their communities. That’s why we’re excited to be Platinum Sponsor of Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 Awards in Calgary. As part of this special content series, “5 Questions With”, we’ll be talking to some of the outstanding Top 40 recipients from past and present years to learn more about what gets them excited about Alberta’s bright future.
Alex Kingcott
President and Founder of Shareworthy
PR & Communications
Read more ➜
Sean Crump
Head Chair and CEO of Included by Design
Read more ➜
Robert Price
Founder and CEO of Bōde
Read more ➜
Connor Curran & Dustin Paisley
Co-founders of Local Laundry
Read more ➜
Vicki Chau
Filmmaker and artist
Read more ➜
Toyin Oladele
Executive Director, Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation
Read more ➜
Julie Rubin
Executive Director and Founder,
Canadian Centre for Development
Read more ➜
Daniel Monzon
CEO, Catapult Startups
Read more ➜
Maxim Olshevsky
CEO and Managing Director,
Astra Group/Peoplefirst Developments
Read more ➜
Devin Cooper
Alex Kingcott is the Founder and President of Shareworthy Communications. She helps major cultural organizations tell their unique stories while building authentic relationships with their audiences.
You can learn more about Alex in her Top 40 Under 40 2022 feature.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
I’m excited about the new voices at the table. The generation coming up doesn’t consider ‘making room’ for diversity a checkbox or challenge, it is an expectation, and it comes naturally. That means diversity of thought, of experience, of background - all of it. I find that exciting. I’m never more excited about the future than when I’m participating in conversations that have moved on from ‘making space’ to just having everyone included and getting to work.
Why are you proud to be Albertan and/or Calgarian?
I don’t think I’d have been able to start a business in my 20’s (or in fact be celebrating 10 years of business) if I’d started in any other place. I tell everyone that if you work hard and be nice to people, you can do anything in Calgary. The people here are eager to support, connect, and celebrate entrepreneurs. It’s the easiest place to make friends and ask for introductions. I’m proud to be a part of that kind of community - a really positive, encouraging, and optimistic environment. Also: The Ship & Anchor patio.
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you or your business?
Being recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 by Avenue Magazine was sincerely an honour. The best part was hearing from so many people in my community that they saw it and wished me well. After so many years of not seeing people out at events, having that kind of flood of outreach was overwhelming and really touching, because I truly owe all of my success to the network that supported me. I know it will have a big impact on my business moving forward, but I’m more grateful for the personal lift it gave me, having an excuse to reconnect with so many people.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
My company will celebrate its tenth anniversary this fall, and I’m very excited. In between now and then, we’ll be working on the big return of Cirque du Soleil to Calgary, a few Broadway tours, launching the new Village Brewery Taproom and some other really special projects. I’m so happy doing the work I do right now, so my goal is to enjoy this celebratory year and the joys of what we do.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you? Your business? Or your industry?
I think in general, dropping the barriers and inviting more people to feel seen by financial institutions. In my industry, I interact with a lot of artists who are spectacular at what they do (Making art! Building community! Engaging and innovating!) but you’re not necessarily taught financial acumen at art school, or how to handle investors and non-profit applications or how to demonstrate financial reports for grants etc. at theatre school. I just see huge potential for welcoming the creative industry into the financial industry - the arts and culture workers in our province are massively contributing to our economy. I think that’s what connectFirst is known for - making those who otherwise may not feel comfortable or included feel empowered and elevated.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
The last few years have been incredible here in Calgary, and in a broader sense, in Alberta as a whole. A very strong support structure for the tech ecosystem has been developing, and it’s filled with a community of amazing people! Everyone I’ve had the privilege of connecting with has been super helpful and willing to provide support in anyway they can. We have become far more diversified in our economy, and I think that it will only continue to grow and we’ll further realize the good that’s coming from it. For myself and my company, starting out as a social enterprise without much technology integrated, I’ve been able to see an incredible immersion of technology and social commitment as we’ve transitioned into more of a technology-focused company. I think there’s an amazing connection between the two industries and as technology continues to become more prominent in daily life, it will truly be the catalyst to realizing social outcomes and expediting the rate at which we can shrink the gap between inequities that exist today. It’s amazing to see how quickly we’ve adopted and grown in this space!
Why are you proud to be Albertan and/or Calgarian?
Alberta offers a unique blend of opportunity and support as a province. There are several factors, both environmental and economic, creating the ideal place to grow up and flourish regardless of your chosen path or profession. I’m proud of the resilience Alberta shows in the face of adversity as we move through ebbs and flows economically. We have a culture that, at its best, often creates environments of support, safety, and adventure. There are amazing natural resources to explore and enjoy, while still offering “big city” ecosystems. As I kick off my journey into fatherhood and growing my family, I couldn’t think of a better place to raise my children than Alberta. Being a dad with a disability has its own unique challenges and I’m thankful to live in a province where a lot of those are mitigated in some way. I also see Alberta continuing to become a province where all individuals and families can find a place of support and community. I’m optimistic about where we’re headed as a province and I’m eager to help contribute to that growth!
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you or your business?
It was an amazing honour to receive that recognition, especially amongst my cohort last year and seeing previous recipients’ contributions. It certainly humbles you very quickly! It’s almost like a pre-qualifier for credibility in Calgary, a great amplification platform. It’s helped me share the work that I’m doing and the reason why I’m doing it. Not just professionally but as a volunteer also, which I think is often understated when considering somebody’s CV or resume. It’s helped connect us to a network of alumni and supporters that otherwise would have been, not impossible, but certainly more challenging to get in front of. It has been an incredible experience to be one of the recipients and one of the most impactful recognitions I’ve received to date.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
Global domination of course! Kidding aside, I’m busy working on expanding my business to create a greater impact and hopefully create something truly meaningful. We’re working with some amazing partners and participating in a few accelerators who are supporting us in our digital transformation and growth. I’m focused on expanding our platform and normalizing disability inclusion - having better representation for people living with disabilities within our community, creating more equality of opportunities, and impacting the equity regarding the quality of life one can have, regardless of “ability”. I’m enjoying the journey and also loving fatherhood as my wife and I eagerly await the arrival of our second little boy (as I write this my wife and I haven’t yet revealed the sex, but once this blog is published we will so it’s exciting to share that little tidbit!).
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you? Your business? Or your industry?
From a personal perspective I’d like to see you continuing to share information around RDSP’s (Registered Disability Savings Plans) and the opportunity it provides for those living with disabilities. It’s been an amazing program and one I’m so excited to know you guys are supporting. connectFirst does some amazing things and I enjoyed getting to learn more about you and your community work.
I think for early-stage businesses, the biggest support would be access to funding opportunities, whether that’s through the credit union or grant opportunities that exist through both provincial and federal government. Helping identify what’s available and having support in pursuing them would be an amazing asset that not many (if any), large banks offer. Resources are finite in the early stages of a business and having any kind of outlet, guidance, or support would be hugely impactful.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
It is truly motivating to be part of leading a diversification of our economy to build on our commodity strengths with amazing tech companies serving our traditional industries, unlocking our ability to deliver globally competitive export services. Alberta is full of passionate, straight shooting, bold entrepreneurs- we have amazing talent to become a global epicentre for a modern economy.
Why are you proud to be Albertan and/or Calgarian?
From the indomitable spirit of our people to the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies, this province holds a special place in my heart. We embody resilience, innovation, and a sense of community that is unmatched. Whether it's our rich history, diverse culture, or unwavering determination, being an Albertan fills me with immense pride and I know we are only scratching the surface of our potential.
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you or your business?
To me, as the leader of a kick ass team with three co-founders the Top40 is truly a company award. We are so passionate about modernizing real estate that it is a great validation of our early success and instills further confidence towards our bold, international plans.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
Having true, sustainable, positive impact on home affordability for North American homeowners through thoughtful application of technology. We are very proud to have done this with over 700 home transactions in Canada to date. Bōde is my full focus at this point and I want to build on my participation in the non-profit sector in a profound way in the future.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you? Your business? Or your industry?
Continue to build autonomous, easy, transparent online tools. The modern user wants to be able to take action directly knowing that there is a responsible, knowledgeable team available at any point for guidance. Credit Unions have the advantage of a more competitive structure and culture than the traditional banks, I encourage you to apply that advantage in speed and high value pricing of services.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
We feel privileged to be Calgarian. There's something special about the roll up your sleeves entrepreneurial attitude that makes Calgary so great. It doesn't matter where you came from, or what school you attended, being a self-starter gets rewarded. That entrepreneurial spirit spills into the business community which is incredibly supportive of one another and always willing to lend a hand, make an introduction, or find ways to support one another. Combine this with the incredibly livability we enjoy with the great outdoors and we're poised for a great future.
Why are you proud to be Albertan and/or Calgarian?
We've always viewed Alberta as a place you can come to make a name for yourself. Both of our parents moved to Alberta with no connections or roots and have built a beautiful life for themselves and for their children. It's a place full of opportunity. Albertans are hospitable, kind, and see the bigger picture. We make/farm/produce stuff here that gets consumed and enjoyed by people all over the world.
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you or your business?
It means the world to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. It's truly surreal. It means that our impact and the work we've done to build a mission driven brand hasn't gone unnoticed. It's a recognition for all of the hard work that we've put in and for the community that we've built. More than anything, it's a feeling of gratitude. Not just for the award, but for the community that we've built along the way and for everyone that has supported us. We wouldn't be where we are today if it wasn't for the incredibly supportive community in Calgary. For us, it's business as usual. We're on a mission to raise $1,000,000 for local charities and we've still got a long way to go. This certainly helps to shine a spotlight on that mission and propels us forward.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
We're really excited to keep growing. We've learned a lot about the retail space we operate in and see so much opportunity for improvement. The industry is terrible for it's waste, harmful operations, and overall emissions. We're keen to continue to grow a brand that stands to challenge that. We've built an incredible community around the brand and we'd like to continue building community around other value driven brands. We're looking to purchase our first company this year, which will accelerate our growth and impact targets.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you? Your business? or your industry?
Credit unions are unique in that they have a local perspective on what's going on in the local industry and economy around us. While this may mean more risk exposure in concentrated industries, it also provides an opportunity to promote and encourage diversification and growth. You know the market, and you know what it takes to a grow a business here in Alberta. As a credit union, you're uniquely positioned to be that champion for growth and advocate for local. You can provide that support and capital to help ambitious companies like ours succeed and contribute back to a prosperous local economy.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
I was born and raised in Calgary so I’ve seen it grow and evolve over the years to become the city I know and love today. There is just so much potential for someone to come to this city and province and actually make a difference. There’s some really great talent here with more starting to move here every day. They are going to create some amazing co!
Why are you proud to be an Albertan?
Not only do we have some really gorgeous landscapes between the prairies and the Rockies, we have a really resilient and optimistic community. When I have people visiting, they always tell me how the community here, especially in the arts, is so welcoming and warm. Everyone is so open to collaborating, sharing ideas and resources, and just supporting each other. It’s so amazing to hear of all the success stories coming out of Alberta and you just can’t help but be proud.
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you / your business?
It was such an amazing feeling to love a city that loves you back! I owe it all to the community that has supported me throughout my career. It’s so great to see more people in the arts being recognized as Top 40 Under 40, as it really shows the importance and impact that arts and culture has in this city. I'm able to reach out to communities beyond my own with more opportunities for collaboration, mentorship and outreach.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
I'm looking forward to supporting more artists in this city and helping them bring their projects to fruition, while having the opportunity to tell my own stories through my work as an independent producer, director and curator. I'm currently working on producing a few projects in film, art and theatre, and I want to continue advocating for the arts and culture in Alberta. I’ve also been fortunate to have the opportunity to support the Asian community, specifically through my work with CanAsian Arts Network and the Chinatown Pop Up Movie Club, as a way to strengthen my relationship with my own community, and to reconnect with my roots and identity.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you or your industry?
There is a need for more financial literacy within the arts and as a credit union that is focussed on local communities, it’s easier to be more approachable for artists and arts organizations who normally find these institutions intimidating. Hosting events, workshops and grant opportunities would help to connect with the community on a personable level. ConnectFirst has already done an amazing job supporting local art festivals like Sled Island and Calgary International Film Festival, it would be great to see them supporting individual artists and producers as well!
Toyin Lafenwa Oladele is the founder and Executive Director of the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation. She provides immigrant and newcomer arts and culture professionals an entryway into paid work in Canada.
You can more about Toyin in her Top 40 Under 40 feature in Avenue Magazine.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
Calgary is an amazing city with so many interesting things happening. I am mostly excited by the quality of people and the community around me, it almost feels like I have known everyone all my life, meanwhile I just got here. That gets me excited, it feels unreal and tells me the future for my loved ones is bright.
Why are you proud to be an Albertan?
I am very proud of the growth happening here. Albertans are explorers, open to change and that is a good sign.
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you / your business?
Being recognized as Top 40 is surreal, it means someone appreciates what I am doing and it means I am not alone. I was even more thrilled to see my cohort, amazing groups of humans.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
I will continue to do all the amazing work I am already doing, open myself up for more opportunities and continue to thrive.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you or your industry?
Look inwards to break more barriers, invest in people and ideas, just as you are doing now, and continue to support community connections.
Julie Rubin is the Founder and Executive Director of the Canadian Centre for Development. This innovative centre fills a gap in treating kids with disabilities due to genetic issues and trauma.
You can read Julie more about Julie and her work in her profile in the Top 40 Under 40 feature on Avenue’s website.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
I'm excited that accessibility and inclusion being more and more at the forefront of businesses and public spaces. It is important that we are inclusive in our actions, and not just our words. People with disabilities should feel welcome to take up space and be present in their communities.
Why are you proud to be an Albertan?
I moved to Alberta 14 years ago and now proudly call it home. It is not only welcoming, innovative and beautiful, but surprisingly it also has a stellar food scene. What else could you want in a province?!
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you / your business?
The current and past Top 40 classes are filled with such incredible people that I do feel quite honoured to belong to this inspiring community. Being a 'Top 40' is certainly an identity that I will wear proudly and I am immensely humbled by all the support that has been given to us by Connect First and Avenue Magazine to bring awareness to the important work that we've been doing.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
Our goal will continue to serve even more children and do so in even more effective ways. There are 40,000 children with disabiltiies in Alberta alone, and currently, many are underserved and are slipping through the cracks of our system. As part of being a service provider in this community, we will also continue to advocate for it and the needs of families with children with disabilities.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you or your industry?
I think that I speak on behalf of all small businesses when I say that gaining access to affordable credit is immensely challenging, and requires that business owner to personally gurantee all the business credit that it does take on. If there was a way to lessen entreprenurs' barriers, risk and cost in this stressful but necessary process, it would certainly only grow the credit union's relationship with the businesses in its community.
Daniel Monzon is the CEO of Catapult Startups. He helps immigrant, newcomer and refugee entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and start businesses in Canada.
You can learn more about Daniel in his full Top 40 under 40 profile feature in Avenue Magazine.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
The entrepreneurial spirit and innovation in Calgary and Alberta are inspiring. The region's supportive ecosystem, diverse talent, and investment in technology and sustainability promise a bright future for new ventures.
Why are you proud to be an Albertan?
Alberta’s culture of hard work, innovation, and resilience is remarkable. The strong sense of community and support for entrepreneurs and new Canadians make me proud to be part of this dynamic province.
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you / your business?
How has it impacted you / your business? Being recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 is a significant honor. It has raised Catapult Startups' profile, allowing us to connect with more entrepreneurs, investors, and partners, and advocate for startup support.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
Our goal is to launch 200 startups by 2032, creating 5,000 jobs and generating $3 billion in economic impact. We plan to expand mentorship programs, support new Canadians, and build stronger partnerships.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you or your industry?
Credit unions can support by offering tailored financial products for startups, enhancing financial literacy programs for new Canadians, and collaborating on business development initiatives. The most impactful action would be helping entrepreneurs build their credit history and finding ways to consider their financial history from their home country. This approach would help them overcome financial barriers and achieve sustainable growth.
Maxim is the CEO and Managing Director of the Astra Group/Peoplefirst Developments, a leader in office-to-residential conversions. As an immigrant entrepreneur, he is helping revitalize Calgary’s downtown core.
You can learn more about Maxim and his work in his full Top 40 under 40 profile feature in Avenue Magazine.
What gets you excited about Alberta’s and/or Calgary’s future?
Calgary's future inspires me because of the tangible growth and innovation happening right now. We're seeing a wave of new businesses, community projects, and technological advancements that are transforming the city. The resilience of Calgarians, combined with a supportive environment for entrepreneurship, means there are real opportunities for both personal and economic development. It's a place where practical solutions meet bold ideas, making it a remarkable time to be part of this community.
Why are you proud to be an Albertan?
I am proud to be Albertan because of the spirit of resilience and innovation that defines our community. Alberta’s rich history of overcoming challenges and embracing new opportunities resonates with my own journey as an entrepreneur. Our commitment to community, combined with a forward-thinking approach to development, makes Alberta a place where anyone can achieve their dreams and contribute to positive change.
What does it mean to you to be recognized as a Top 40 Under 40? How has it impacted you / your business?
Being recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 is a tremendous honor that highlights the hard work and dedication of our entire team. This recognition has brought increased visibility to our mission of revitalizing Calgary, while attracting new partnerships and opportunities. It helps validate our efforts and inspires us to continue pushing boundaries and driving positive change in our community.
It’s an exciting accomplishment to be recognized as Top 40 Under 40. What’s next for you?
Building on the current momentum, our next goal is to focus on the many opportunities here in Calgary. We plan to scale up our office-to-residential conversion projects, creating more affordable housing and vibrant communities within the city. Additionally, we aim to deepen our community engagement initiatives, ensuring our developments continue to provide lasting benefits to local residents and businesses. There’s a lot more work to be done right here at home, and we’re excited to be a part of Calgary’s ongoing transformation.
As a credit union, what could we be doing to better support you or your industry?
Your support has been invaluable, and to continue this momentum, more financing for our ambitious projects would make a significant impact. With your help, we can undertake even larger initiatives that drive Calgary’s growth and innovation. Think of it as investing in Calgary’s future while ensuring we keep giving you plenty to brag about!
