Moderated by Karen Unland of Taproot Edmonton, the panel will feature seasoned VMS mentors and entrepreneurs sharing:

• ​Why growing the entrepreneur is just as important as growing the venture

• ​Why mentors choose to give their time and expertise through VMS

• ​How growing as a leader ultimately fuels venture growth

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​Panelist Bios:

​Justine Barber is the co-founder of Poppy Barley, a certified B Corporation and trailblazing footwear company committed to ethical manufacturing and sustainable practices. Since launching in 2012, Justine and her sister Kendall have grown Poppy Barley into a nationally recognized brand known for its stylish, responsibly made shoes and accessories. Justine joined ThresholdImpact VMS as an entrepreneur in 2019, and transitioned into a mentor role in 2023.

​Blaine LaBonte is a seasoned business leader with more than two decades of experience in international business, corporate growth, and executive leadership. Blaine is the former President and CEO of Cougar Drilling Solutions which was sold to international investors in 2019. Blaine spends his time on family, community projects, startups and angel investing including serving on the Board of Directors for Edmonton Unlimited the VMS Board of Advisors. Blaine has been a mentor in ThresholdImpact VMS since 2016.

​Mike Yasinski is a serial entrepreneur best known as the former President, CEO and founder of the hospitality group Gateway Entertainment. Notable brands included Club Malibu, The Armoury, Century Grill, The Standard, The Ranch, Union Hall and Hudsons Canada's pub, where he grew a single location into a national brand. Today having sold all his interests, Mike spends his time running marathons around the world and helping his son, Max, grow his first venture, Max Yardcare. Mike has been a mentor with ThresholdImpact VMS since 2020.

​Brandon Blanck is the President and CEO of Microquest. Starting as a Healthquest developer in 2005, Brandon has grown within the company, becoming the Development Manager, Vice President/COO, and now the CEO. Healthquest was acquired by WELLSTAR in late 2024. Brandon has been an entrepreneur in ThresholdImpact VMS since 2022.

​Karen Unland is the co-founder of Taproot Publishing Inc. and the Alberta Podcast Network. She previously worked as a reporter and editor for 14 years at the Edmonton Journal before leaving the newsroom in 2011 to start a consulting business and teach journalism. Karen joined ThresholdImpact VMS as an entrepreneur in 2020.

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