As a designer, educator, and business collaborator, I combine my passion for creativity with a commitment to addressing sustainability and mentoring future leaders. My work is driven by authenticity and purpose.
With a foundation in Art, Architecture, and Industrial Design, my career began at Irwin Toy - Irwin Sports before establishing SZID Inc., a consultancy serving clients like Spin Master Toys, Cervelo Cycles, CBC, and Toyota.
In 2007, I co-founded Effbë, launching a line of sustainability-focused products promoting composting and recycling. An exciting pitch on CBC’s Dragon’s Den led to a partnership with Arlene Dickinson and Jim Treliving, propelling sales into over 4,500 retail stores, including Home Depot, Loblaws, and Walmart Canada. In 2018, SZID Inc evolved into a collaborative Design & Research studio, focusing on Life-Centric Design to drive meaningful innovation and impactful collaborations.
As an educator, I inspire students at OCAD University, Humber College, Seneca, and Loyalist College, teaching across design, business strategy, innovation, sustainability, and foresight. Through these roles, I strive to contribute to global challenges, nurture future leaders, and advocate for purposeful, sustainable design practices.