Grounded Hustlers: Real-World, Real Impact

Wondering how to find your place in the startup world without having it all mapped out, or curious how hands-on experience can help you uncover your lane? You’re in the right place! This article is part of an 8-part series supported by RBC Foundation, spotlighting Fellows who are shaping their careers by diving in, experimenting, and thriving in fast-paced environments.

To get some advice, we spoke with Waaiz Beyg, a 2025 Venture for Canada Fellow whose story shows how trying different things, building through action, and following curiosity can lead to clarity and growth.

Meet the Fellow

Waaiz Beyg

Meet Waaiz, a startup ecosystem explorer who found his lane in operations after trying everything—from fellowships to startup sprints.

“I applied to the Fellowship without a specific goal in mind. I just wanted to meet like-minded people, build my network, and learn more about the entrepreneurship space, and the in-person training camp delivered on that. Doing sprints across different startup functions was my favourite part. It confirmed what I’ve been feeling for a while: ops is my thing. I genuinely enjoy it, and I’m excited to keep growing in that space moving forward.”

For Waaiz, the Fellowship offered more than connections—it gave him momentum. “The program will have a positive impact on my professional growth by providing a valuable learning experience early in my career. It complements the work I’m currently doing and aligns well with the field I want to build my future in. I’m confident that the skills and connections I gain through the program will help me grow and succeed.”

His interest in startups began earlier, during another fellowship at a startup incubation centre. “Spending four months there, learning about the ecosystem, connecting with founders, and hearing their ideas shared with so much passion really sparked my interest in entrepreneurship. That experience ignited the fire for me, and it’s been my career path ever since.”

His advice? “Try out different things you enjoy. Look for problems in your own life and try solving them. One of those ideas might just click and take off, and even if it doesn’t right away, you’ll learn a ton along the way.”

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