Alumni in the News 2025

Culinary Arts, 2003

Chef Adrian Forte is a trailblazing Afro-Caribbean chef and Top Chef Canada alum. A cookbook author and culinary innovator, Adrian blends heritage and modern flair — most recently launching Lucia, his bold new restaurant in L.A.'s Fairfax District spotlighting Caribbean flavours and culture.

Early Childhood Education, 2022

Alexa De Jesus graduated from George Brown Polytechnic with a diploma in early childhood education in 2022. Since then, Alexa went on to complete a degree in a bachelor of science from the University of Guelph-Humber, began attending teacher’s college, and became a children’s author! Her children’s story is designed to help children and adults find their calm. 

Food and Nutrition Management, 2012

Culinary Management, 2011

Ali Kabiri Rahni, a graduate of George Brown’s Culinary Management and Food & Nutrition Management programs, recently served as Event & Logistics Manager for the Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences—one of Canada’s largest academic events. He continues to shape Toronto’s dynamic event scene with passion and expertise.

Project Management (Postgraduate), 2024

Anita Ihonre is a multidisciplinary artist whose work explores themes of culture, identity, and storytelling. In summer 2025, her artwork was showcased at two Toronto exhibitions, including DMYC’s Through Her Eyes show and the Caribana Emancipation Art Exhibition, where she was featured as an artist.

Computer Programming and Analysis, 2025

Ans and his team founded AI Store, which offers a secure runtime environment where AI agents can safely perform tasks, interact with business systems, and streamline operations. ​

Fashion Techniques and Design, 2023

Anton is a rising star in the fashion world, celebrated for his innovative designs and storytelling. His aviation-inspired collection, "Litak", debuted at Fashion Art Toronto, blending Edwardian tailoring with modern aesthetics. Anton’s showcase also featured eveningwear from his graduation collection, "Ostbahnhof", highlighting his mastery of elegance and detail.

Electrical Techniques, 2024

Beatrice credits the Schulich Builders Scholarship for enabling her career transition. Now a full-time Apprentice Electrician at Haynes Electrical, she values the hands-on learning, networking, and support that shaped her journey.

Sport and Event Marketing, 1993

Brian, a graduate of the GBC Sport and Event Marketing program, turned his personal challenges into a mission to empower others. Diagnosed with a degenerative eye condition and hearing impairment, Brian founded Achilles Canada, a non-profit that enables Canadians with disabilities to return to athletics and outdoor activities. His passion for sports and commitment to inclusivity have created lasting opportunities for physically impaired individuals to stay active and engaged in their communities.

Theatre Arts, 2010

Carys Lewis is a graduate of School of Media & Performing Arts and an award-winning director. She received a BAFTA Award for directing The Jury on Channel 4 in the UK. Her work combines character-driven narratives with strong visual storytelling, and she draws inspiration from her experiences in both Canada and the UK.

Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Culinary Management), 2022

Cherry is the founder of Sans Rival Toronto, her business specializes in traditional Filipino desserts such as SansRival Cake and Silvanas, as well as Ube, Mango, and Chocolate donuts and customized cakes.

Sport and Event Marketing, 2016

Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships for the PWHL. She was honored as a 2025 "5 to Watch" award recipient for demonstrating exceptional leadership and achievement in the Canadian sports business industry.

Construction Engineering Technician, 2017

Construction Engineering Technology, 2020

Dalmar Ali is the LIU Director of Basketball Operations. The Toronto native previously served as a graduate assistant at Florida State and coached at Tallahassee Community College and the Toronto Basketball Academy.

Tool & Die Designer, 1986

Doug Hietkamp graduated as a Tool and Die Designer and this education gave Doug his first employment at Husky Injection Molding Systems as a designer of molds, advancing himself to a senior design position, responsible for industry leading-edge molds, and obtaining two patents.

For many years he served as Teknion’s Director of Sustainable Development Programs and was responsible for the development of business strategies, as well as the outreach and support of Teknion’s environmental initiatives. In 2024 he created a scholarship to support students at his alma mater.

Culinary Skills-Chef Training, 2015

Culinary Management, 2016

Faiz Shaikh is the passionate co-founder of The Kettle, a vibrant Canadian-Indian fusion restaurant. With over 8 years of culinary and operations experience, Faiz brings bold flavours and creative leadership to Toronto’s dynamic food scene.

Screenwriting & Narrative Design, 2021

In 2023 Fateema was one of the two GBC alumni among 18 storytellers selected for the prestigious Canadian Film Centre Norman Jewison Film Program.

Personal Support Worker, 2018

Geraldine Browne returned to school to study in the Personal Support Worker program at George Brown Polytechnic at age 54. Since graduating, Geraldine has been working as a Personal Support Worker, applying her education to support individuals in her community.

Gonzalo Martinez Jr, now Principal at Reich&Petch, brings over 20 years of architectural innovation, creativity, and leadership to experience design, shaping impactful environments across Toronto, New York, and beyond.

Assaulted Women's and Children's Counsellor/Advocate, 2024

Harmony Roche, a graduate of George Brown Polytechnic’s Assaulted Women’s and Children’s Counsellor/Advocate (ACCWA) program, is the founder of Roots to Healing. She offers trauma-informed counselling rooted in both ancestral knowledge and modern science, empowering individuals and communities through accessible, holistic mental health support, healing, and cultural reconnection.

Human Resources Management, 2025

Jess Chung is passionate about community-building and meaningful connection. Whether through volunteering or professional pursuits, she finds purpose in creating experiences that bring people together, foster belonging, and highlight the stories that shape our shared spaces and lives.

Business - Finance, 2025

Jhon came to Canada as an international student to pursue his dream of building a career in finance. Alongside his studies, he embraced the challenges of adapting to a new culture, balancing part-time work, and growing through every lesson along the way.  Jhon also gave back to the community by volunteering at the Mabuhay Festival 2025 with the Philippine Independence Day Council, supporting cultural celebration and community engagement.

Welding Techniques, 2024

John discovered his passion through GBC’s dual-credit program. Thanks to the Schulich Builders Scholarship, he pursued his dream and now works as a field welder at Metro Compactor Service Inc., applying his refined skills daily.

Restorative Dental Hygiene, 2014

With over 25 years in the dental profession, José Moreno has combined his passion for holistic healthcare with an innovative approach to accessibility. In 2023, he founded Universal Dental Center, a fully-equipped mobile dental hygiene clinic bringing quality care directly to clients. By prioritizing relationships, integrity, and high standards of practice, José is redefining how oral healthcare is delivered—one smile at a time.

Fashion Techniques and Design, 2018

GBC Fashion alum and founder of Form Era Studio—a Toronto-based slow fashion brand creating premium, hourglass-fit jeans with purpose, passion, and Made-in-Canada craftsmanship.

Cook Apprentice Program, 1988

Chef Apprentice program alumnus Keith Maa, Class of 1988, returned to George Brown Polytechnic to reconnect with his alma mater from Alberta.

Sport and Event Marketing, 2004

President and General Manager of Sait XC, Leanne received the Alumni Achievement Award at the 2025 ceremony. This honour recognizes her lasting impact and exemplary success in the sports business.

Industrial Millwright Mechanic, 2022

Lisa is the do-it-all kind of woman. She studied creative visual arts in university and followed that with studies at GBC in both carpentry and millwrighting. Her workshops and initiatives have led to her co-operative winning both the 2022 and 2023 Living in Diversity awards from the Co-operative Housing Federation of Toronto. She aspires in her daily life to be an agent for change and to make the world a better place for all I interact with.

Theatre Arts, 2007

Theatre Arts alumna Lise Maher brings creativity to campus and stage — supporting students at George Brown Polytechnic by day and a highland dancer outside of work.

Electrical Programming, 1976

In 1974, Lorne completed his secondary school diploma and began his career as an apprentice electrician in Toronto through the Joint Apprenticeship Council (JAC). He gained practical training on the job and completed technical electrical courses at George Brown Polytechnic. After earning his electrical license, Lorne started a successful electrical contracting business in Haliburton, where he encountered challenges with freezing water pipes. Using his skills and expertise from the National Research Council and CSA, he invented freeze protection systems and founded Heat-Line, creating products now sold worldwide.

Read Lorne's Story

Culinary Management Program, 1988

Maria Ligaya Cana is a pioneering figure in fresh seafood merchandising in Ontario. From humble beginnings in a fishing village in the Philippines, she has educated Canadians on healthy seafood consumption, trained staff across Loblaws stores, and championed immigrant contributions to Canada’s culinary landscape. Her career highlights include serving as Dietary Director at Nisbet Lodge Retirement Home and preparing a meal for Pope John Paul II during World Youth Day 2002.

Culinary Management, 2022

Maria founded Just Goodies Toronto, offering made-to-order Filipino and fusion sweet & savory treats

Culinary Management, 1979

Chef Mark McEwan is one of Canada’s most celebrated culinary leaders, known for his distinctive style that blends classical technique with contemporary flavours. From his early career as Executive Chef at Toronto’s Sutton Place to founding iconic restaurants such as North 44, Bymark, ONE Restaurant, and the Fabbrica group, Chef McEwan has played a defining role in shaping Canada’s dining scene. Beyond his restaurants, he brings his passion for food to a wider audience as head judge on Food Network’s Top Chef, through bestselling cookbooks, and by operating gourmet grocery markets inspired by cuisines from around the world. Committed to a purpose beyond the plate, Chef McEwan actively supports organizations such as Second Harvest, Sunnybrook, and the George Brown Scholarship Foundation, helping to mentor future culinary leaders and strengthen communities.

Mechanical Technician – CNC and Precision Machining, 2022

Mechanical Engineering Technology – Design, 2024

Martin Portman, graduate of the Mechanical Technician – CNC and Precision Machining and Mechanical Engineering Technology – Design programs at George Brown Polytechnic, is the founder of Portman Leather Toronto, producing handcrafted leather goods using skills from his engineering and machining background.

Construction Engineering Technician, 2025

Screenwriting & Narrative Design, 2017

Mitchell is a screenwriter, narrative designer, director, actor and part-time professor at GBC and a Resident at the at CFC’s Norman Jewison Film Program in 2023.

Sport and Event Marketing, 1991

Nathalie Cook is the Chair of the Commercial Women Sport Advisory Group and former VP at TSN and Bell Media. A leader in sports and media, she champions gender equity, women’s leadership, and the growth of professional women’s sports in Canada.

Civil Engineering Technology, 2015

Honours Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management), 2017

Neil Chauhan is the Director of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) Services at EllisDon, where he leads a team of professionals delivering innovative and efficient solutions for the construction industry. With over ten years of experience in reality capture and VDC, he has a proven record in developing custom workflow solutions, managing software development teams, deploying construction technology, and providing technical training and client support. Neil is committed to leveraging technology to optimize construction processes and enhance project outcomes, continuing to drive innovation and excellence within the industry through his work at EllisDon Corporation.

Construction Engineering Techician, 2023

GBC alumna and Huskies coach Nicole Carvalho made soccer history as assistant coach for Canada’s inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup team. She also founded the Ontario Women’s Futsal League.

Civil Engineering Technology, 2024

As a Field Coordinator at PCL Construction, alumna Nirmala Cesario helps bring major projects like Limberlost Place to life. Passionate about building a better city, she combines technical expertise with purpose, inspiring future leaders in construction and sustainable design.

Construction Engineering Technology, 1991

Pat Lamanna is the President of Juel Group.

Pat oversees the overall direction and management of the organization, which includes Brock Aggregates, Earthco Soil Mixtures, Draglam Salt, Draglam Waste & Recycling and Less Mess.

As a leading aggregates supplier, Pat brings a bold and disruptive vision to the industry. His big-picture thinking and strategic planning drive the company’s success.

Prior to founding Juel Group, Pat served as Senior Vice President of G&L Group, a family business founded by his parents as young Italian immigrants in Canada. With over five decades of experience, in a variety of roles across the company, construction has been ingrained in Pat’s DNA. 

Today, Pat is stewarding his family legacy at Juel Group, expanding the organization into new verticals in Toronto’s prospering development economy.

International Fashion Development & Management, 2011

Pricila Gomes Neal is a Brazilian-born, Toronto-based fashion designer with 25 years of global apparel experience. She is the Senior Director of Design and Product at COBMEX® Apparel Inc., where she is recognized as a knitwear expert with a strong technical foundation. With over eight years in performance apparel for the uniform industry, Pricila is known for blending creativity with precision while championing sustainable, responsible design.

Culinary Management, 2025

Da Costa Teixeira, a Culinary Management grad blending Brazilian flavours with healthy living. Through her business, Foodie Real Fresh, she delivers nutritious, culture-rich meals inspired by love, heritage, and her George Brown experience.

Information Systems Business Analysis, 2021

Sagar Atul Varia has come full circle as an instructor. Passionate about hands-on learning, he helps students gain the real-world skills needed to succeed in today’s tech industry.

Hospitality Operations Management, 2012

Samantha Mele is the Founder and Chief Experience Officer of The Creative Connoisseur, a boutique agency specializing in corporate event strategy and creative direction. A recognized industry disruptor, Samantha has been named one of Eventex’s Top 50 Most Influential People in Events and Canadian Special Event Magazine’s Top 25 Most Fascinating People in Events.

Construction Management, 2024

Sampada won the TRACCS Rail New Graduate Achievement Award. She successfully transitioned from a design background to the transit/construction sector.

Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure, 2016

Sana Lakdawala is the co-founder of The Kettle, a Canadian-Indian fusion restaurant in Toronto. With a strong background in hospitality and restaurant management, she brings over a decade of experience in creating exceptional dining experiences.

After earning his degree in Construction Management and advanced diploma in Architectural Technology, Sergei Plehhanov put his knowledge into action at his alma mater, serving as a capital project manager for upcoming school projects.

Building Information Modelling, 2024

Shalini is a proud graduate of George Brown Polytechnic’s Building Information Modeling Management program, Class of 2024. With a background in design and a passion for digital construction, she pursued the program to expand her knowledge of BIM technologies and their role in driving innovation and efficiency in the AEC industry.

During her time at GBC, Shalini embraced both the technical and collaborative aspects of BIM, developing hands-on experience with industry tools while building strong connections within a multidisciplinary learning environment. She credits the program with helping her grow not only as a professional but also as a person—sharpening her problem-solving skills, broadening her perspective, and preparing her to contribute meaningfully to the future of construction and design. 

With resilience and curiosity at the core of her approach, Shalini is ready to make her mark in the digital construction world.

Early Childhood Education, 2025

Sheryl brings over a decade of international teaching experience to her studies. Originally from the Philippines, Sheryl spent more than 10 years teaching English in China with Shanghai New Oriental School and later continued as an online instructor with Aplus Training. She also volunteered at the 2025 Mabuhay Festival with the Philippine Independence Day Council, giving back to the community while celebrating her culture.

Information Systems Business Analysis, 2019

Shweta Shukla: A passionate IT professional, Shweta retrained through GBC’s Information Systems Business Analysis program, leveraging her expertise to build a new career in Canada. She now thrives as a Senior Cloud Operations and Systems Analyst at TD, showcasing resilience and adaptability in the tech industry.

Video Design & Production, 2024

Video Design & Production alum Siddharth Mehta transforms movement into story as a Videographer/Editor at Canada’s National Ballet School. Blending creativity with technical skill, he captures the emotion of live performance, bringing dance to life one powerful frame at a time.

Human Resources Management, 2018

Following his graduation Szabolcs founded his company UpScale, a firm that has distinguished itself in the AI solutions market by offering enterprise-compatible solutions that meet high regulatory requirements to its clients. He continues delivering highly successful presentations at global conferences and works diligently to serve clients and partners with top solutions in today’s competitive market.

Social Service Worker, 2009

Talena Jackson, Social Service Worker alumna, was honoured with the Ontario Volunteer Service Award for her dedication to social impact and community wellbeing. From Peer Leader at GBC to founder of a regional consortium, she continues to lead with purpose and passion.

Marketing Management – Financial Services, 2025

Vraj is an Assistant Strategist at OMD Canada, part of Omnicom Media, one of the Big 6 global media networks. As a George Brown Polytechnic graduate, he describes starting this role as a major milestone in his professional journey. Focused, driven, and committed to growth, Vraj is building his career in media strategy, contributing to innovative campaigns while developing his expertise in a dynamic, collaborative environment. Beyond his professional achievements, he also captained his team to victory in the George Brown 2025 Indoor Cricket Tournament, earning the Best Player of the Series award for the highest runs scored — a high point in his co-curricular record at George Brown Polytechnic.

Digital Media Marketing, 2023

Wangechi Mwaura works with George Brown Polytechnic’s Black Student Success Network, delivering community programs and connecting students with resources to support their educational journeys. She is also the owner of The Sweet Safari, a dessert business specializing in authentic African desserts inspired by South African traditions.

Acting for Media, 2024

Wes Malik is an actor and voice artist with a dynamic career spanning radio, television, and film. A familiar voice in Pakistan through his 25 years at CityFM89 and PTV, Wes transitioned into acting after graduating from George Brown Polytechnic. He has upcoming television premieres in Charles TM Charles and The Unstoppable Jenny Garcia, as well as projects like The Last Breath of Barter Sorrow produced at GBC.

Construction Engineering Technology, 2016

Xavier Watson, Founder & CEO of X-posed Contracting, a Black-owned business built on trust, craftsmanship, and community impact. A George Brown Polytechnic alum, Xavier turned his passion for construction into a thriving company, setting new standards in the industry while giving back to those around him.

Graphic Design, 2025

Graphic Design alumna Yalda Mohammadghezelayagh created the vibrant, diverse, and playful 2025 convocation mural, capturing student life and city spirit—blending bold creativity with meaningful storytelling.