Sameera Ismail. Legal mind, innovative heart.

Sameera Ismail, a passionate advocate for innovation in Canada, co-founded Portage Innovations, leveraging her expertise from her immigration law practice. With a background in law and a love for boxing, Sameera is driven by the vision of helping new businesses excel in Canada. Her approach to success emphasizes flexibility, open-mindedness, and the ability to engage with diverse perspectives. Sameera's dedication to work-life balance and her strategy of visualizing positive outcomes keep her motivated during challenging projects.

What inspired you to pursue creating an incubator/accelerator in Canada?

I wanted to help bridge the gap for people to bring new, exciting, and innovative ideas and businesses to Canada. I am excited to see the potential of new businesses excel in Canada.

What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend?

I enjoy having a workout session, having lunch with friends or family, visiting the art gallery when there's an interesting exhibit, and otherwise relaxing at home. 

How do you stay motivated during challenging projects?

I am always motivated by seeing the end goal in the most positive, exciting, best-case scenario possibility. High hopes for everything. All the time.

How do you handle stress or pressure at work?

I try to talk myself through it, nothing is as serious or stressful as you think it might be. You will always come out the other side, for better or for worse, the other side of the stress exists. 

What are some of your favorite reads?

The best books I've read are 'A Fine Balance', and 'Kite Runner.’ They are so well written, I find myself reading them again and again.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

A really lawyer answer, but probably Ruth Bater Ginsberg. Her journey from law school to judge was not a straight line, and the way she strategized her cases to change law on a macro level just takes thinking ahead to a different level.