Wondering how to make an impact with your social science degree or curious about what lies ahead? You’re in the right place! This article is part of an 8-part series, supported by RBC Future Launch, that delves into the entrepreneurial journeys of students and recent graduates just like you. 

To get some real advice, we sat down with two of our 2024 RBC Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award Winners from our Fellowship Program. These social science graduates, recognized for their inclusive leadership and entrepreneurial innovation, shared their personal stories, growth journeys, and practical advice, all tailored just for you.

Meet the Fellows

Braiden Pergis 

Braiden received his Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from the University of Manitoba along with his Graduate Diploma in Business from the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University (where the Fellowship Training Camp takes place). Braiden has been exposed to entrepreneurship early on, working at his family’s bakery at a young age and learning the importance of integrity and trust. Braiden is based in Winnipeg, Manitoba and a 2024 Fellow at Venture for Canada. 

After finishing school, Braiden realized that he wanted to see a direct impact from his work, so he did a quick search to see what Canada’s startup landscape looked like. He felt that Venture for Canada’s Fellowship Program was the best fit for him. Its community-approach to entrepreneurship combined with expert learning was what he was looking for since he learns best in social environments. “VFC has given me the chance to explore new ideas with those who might turn them into reality, while also giving me the guidance to help me create a strong, professional career in the startup space,” says Braiden.  

“My advice to future Fellows is to stay open-minded to new ideas, people and experiences. Don’t be afraid to try something new or put yourself in a place that you’ve never been before. As an English literature and business graduate, others would probably expect me to be quieter, but that’s not who I am. Ground yourself in who you are, while learning from the experiences of others,” Braiden explains. 

Here’s what Braiden has had to say about the impact the Fellowship Program has had for him: “The Fellowship Program has given me access to a community of supportive, like-minded, and growth-focused individuals. Personally, they have already given me the courage to chase my goals and let go of the things holding me back. Though we’ve returned home, I know that there’s always going to be someone I can reach out to. Professionally, these Fellows are some of the most resilient and innovative people I’ve ever met. Even now, we’re still connecting and thinking of the projects we could do together. I’ve never been more excited about the future and the positive impact that we’ll make.” 🥳

Sergio Plazas

Sergio Plazas graduated with a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree and is currently enrolled at the University of Calgary for his Doctor of Law, with an interest in business and technology law. Sergio is based in Calgary, Alberta and is a 2024 Fellow at Venture for Canada. 

Before becoming a Fellow, Sergio was well-acquainted with Venture for Canada through his participating in the Intrapreneurship and Internship Programs. These experiences significantly contributed to his career development, offering him job opportunities he might not have otherwise encountered. Pursuing Fellowship was a natural progression for him, allowing him to engage with the community and further his career. Sergio’s expectations for the Fellowship Program included expanding his network, strengthening connections with Canadian entrepreneurs, and meeting like-minded Fellows. 

Being in the legal field can make you feel like your options are limited, but that’s not the case. Sergio’s advice? Don’t be afraid to take risks because there’s a lot of room for growth. As a lawyer, securing your own clients is crucial, yet that’s a massive pitfall for most folks in the industry who haven’t learned about business development. It’s essential to learn networking skills and self-promotion. The entrepreneurial side is a great starting point, even for junior lawyers, who can work for startups. The Fellowship Program offers the best experience in this area. If you want to establish your own firm then these skills become even more critical. 

“I thought I would attend sessions at Training Camp then go back to my room and work on my projects during my downtime. However, I soon realized the importance of building connections with Fellows.” By engaging with them, he learned about their hopes and dreams, the projects they’re working on, and what skills they possess. This experience was invaluable for him by identifying potential collaborators not just in Calgary but across the country, to create something new and innovative. He was also inspired by Venture for Canada’s CEO, Scott Stirrett, to build a non-profit with national reach. Overall, the Fellowship Program helped Sergio get out of his comfort zone, take risks, and try new things. He has more drive to do build something innovative with his skills and has renewed confidence to pursue his ideas. Meeting other Fellows has made him feel less alone and supported, while learning that he can lean on others and ask for help. One of his proudest moments after Training Camp was giving a talk at Platform Calgary where he discussed AI regulations that the province of Alberta should adopt. 🙌🏼

Inspired by Sergio and Braiden’s stories? 

You can be next! Become one of the top 65 entrepreneurial graduates across Canada by applying for Venture for Canada’s Fellowship Program. Connect with a vibrant community and leverage your unique social science background to carve a distinct path in the entrepreneurial world. Engage with like-minded individuals, redefine entrepreneurship, and build a future where your skills set you apart. 

Apply to Venture for Canada’s 2025 Fellowship Cohort