George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Alumni in the News page highlights the remarkable achievements of George Brown Polytechnic graduates who are making an impact in their industries and communities. Explore stories that showcase the creativity, leadership, and innovation of our alumni as they continue to shape the world beyond the classroom. If you have been featured in an article and would like to be featured on the page, feel free to reach out to alumni@georgebrown.ca with your story.
Benjamin Abebe
Sport and Event Marketing, 2017
Benjamin Abebe is currently shaping student recruitment at George Brown. A dedicated mentor and community leader, he focuses on representation and building momentum for future learners.
Cameron Bennett-Stewart
Dance Performance Preparation, 2020
Commercial Dance, 2021
Freelance choreographer Cameron Bennett-Stewart is a testament to the power of continuous growth, turning every challenge into a rhythmic step forward. By embracing the learning curve and "owning" his artistic evolution, he has transitioned from a passionate student into a purposeful professional.
Duygu Tasdan
Strategic Relationship Marketing, 2021
Alumna Duygu Tasdan recently inspired 200 students at İstanbul Gelişim Üniversitesi with a masterclass on Personal Branding and LinkedIn Networking. By sharing her international expertise, Duygu is a perfect example of how our graduates continue to "own their tomorrow" while empowering the next generation of global leaders.
Erica Aversa
Fashion Techniques and Design, 2025
Erica Aversa is the creative force behind the 2026 International Women’s Day scarf. Produced with the Fashion Exchange using sustainable methods, Erica’s "Give to Gain" design celebrates collaboration and growth.
Georgia Zimbel
Culinary Management, 2017
Chef Georgia Zimbel celebrates International Women’s Day by reimagining the classic Mars Bar with professional finesse. Her spotlight features essential wisdom for aspiring chefs, highlighting commitment to creative innovation and her influential role in mentoring the next generation of women in the culinary industry.
Hubert Bao
Arts and Design Foundation, 2015
Jewellery Arts, 2018
Hubert co-founded Temino Jewellery and launched Bao Jwlry. He blends craftsmanship with mentorship, leading customer communication and sketching for his international brand.
Marvin Palomo
Culinary Management, 2013
Culinary Arts – Italian (Postgraduate), 2014
Chef School alumnus Marvin Palomo is the visionary behind Liliana, a celebrated Italian-Asian fusion restaurant on Queen West. Following his success at Vela, Marvin’s resilience and innovative culinary perspective—blending Filipino heritage with Italian techniques—have made him a leader in Toronto’s food scene and an inspiring example of alumni excellence.
Nicole Pisarenko
Culinary Management, 2015
Culinary Arts – Italian (Postgraduate), 2016
Alumna Nicole Pisarenko is the co-founder of Revé, an intimate Niagara-on-the-Lake restaurant already making waves as a potential Michelin contender. Featuring a live wood-fire kitchen and French-Sicilian influences, Nicole’s venture exemplifies the entrepreneurial drive and culinary excellence fostered within the George Brown community.
Sehun (Eric) Choi
Architectural Technology 2023
Eric Choi was named to the 2026 Forbes Korea 30 Under 30 in the Art/Style category. As a visionary artist exploring the intersection of AI and creativity, Eric continues to "own his tomorrow" by pushing the boundaries of modern art.
Sophie Kaftal
Culinary Skills-Chef Training, 2010
Sophie Kaftal turned her Culinary Skills training into sweet success, founding Toronto’s beloved Kitten and the Bear. From professional foundations to a thriving local business, Sophie is truly "owning her tomorrow" as a standout GBP entrepreneur.
Sydney Bergevin
Culinary Management, 2025
Alumna Sydney Bergevin is the entrepreneur behind Sydney Bergevin Catering, a luxury in-home private chef service. Featured as a startGBC #WhyNotMe spotlight for International Women’s Day, Sydney combines her professional kitchen expertise with lifelong entrepreneurial passion, reminding the George Brown community that having fun is vital for success.
Taylor Mai
General Arts and Science, 2018
General Arts and Science alumnus Taylor Mai returns to St. James Campus as the entrepreneur behind Banh Oui. Located in the Student Association space, Taylor’s Vietnamese coffee and banh mi shop showcases the successful, diverse paths George Brown graduates take.
Vivian Zhang
Jewellery Arts, 2018
Vivian transitioned from interior design to master intricate enamel work. As a co-founder of Temino Jewellery, she focuses on refining technical, balanced designs.
Wendy Mah
Culinary Skills-Chef Training, 2010
Culinary Arts – Italian (Postgraduate), 2011
Chef Wendy Mah of The Chef School celebrates International Women’s Day by sharing her signature Sancocho Raviolo and poignant career advice. Her spotlight emphasizes the power of culinary storytelling and the importance of mentorship for the next generation of women leaders.
Zhaofeng Huang
Baking and Pastry Arts Management, 2024
Zhaofeng founded Tangssant Viennoiserie. He moved from physics to pastry, blending French tradition with Chinese flavors to create unique, community-focused baked goods.