Belonging Through Entrepreneurship

Starting a business is never just business.

It’s personal. It’s shaped by who you are, where you come from, and who’s supporting you.

At Belonging Through Entrepreneurship, we’re opening the floor to conversations on what it’s like to build a business right here in Newfoundland and Labrador.

We’ll begin with highlights from NLOWE’s research on gender bias in entrepreneurship, setting the stage for a deeper conversation. From there, we’ll move into a fireside chat with local entrepreneurs who will share how culture, identity, collaboration and community have shaped their journeys.

Panelists include:
• Mia Francis – Owner & Operator, Chic Celebrations NL / Chic Socials NL

Launched two sister brands in 2024 to foster connection, creativity, and community in Newfoundland and Labrador. As an immigrant, Black, female entrepreneur, she is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces where people can build friendships and feel a sense of belonging.
Through Chic Socials, Mia curates wellness-centered events that help people connect through shared experiences and creative gatherings.
With Chic Celebrations NL, she expands that vision into event planning and décor, offering elevated, community-focused experiences across the province.

• Tammy Snook – Founder, Rising Tide Consulting

Tammy Snook is a proud Newfoundlander whose story begins in the outport community of Harbour Breton, Newfoundland and Labrador. Raised in a family where creativity, grit, and entrepreneurial spirit were part of everyday life, Tammy developed a deep appreciation for her roots, her community, and the rugged beauty of the land around her. She is the founder of Rising Tide Consulting, a values-driven business that helps entrepreneurs, organizations, and community leaders navigate the waves of growth.

• Ramy Abdulzaher – Co-Founder, Bonocle

An entrepreneur, engineer, husband, and father. Originally from Egypt and has lived his entire life in Qatar. Ramy moved to NL, Canada in the Fall of 2022 to pursue his education with a master’s degree at MUN in general management with a research focus on entrepreneurship. He is the co-founder of Bonocle, an award winning and globally recognized assistive technology startup that has raised over 1.5M USD since its inception. He remains passionate about equal access and is continuing his mission with Bonocle in North America and beyond. He enjoys being with his family, gaming, cooking, and going out for a hike in nature.

• Nikitha Kendyala, PhD – CEO & Co-Founder, Nucliq Biologics Inc.

With over 12 years of experience in cellular and molecular cancer biology, Dr. Kendyala’s scientific journey evolved toward the microbiome space. In 2022, alongside co-founder Dr. Purvikalyan Pallegar, she launched GutcheckTM, Canada’s first consumer-focused microbiome test. The test delivers personalized insights into gut health and offers food-based strategies to restore microbial balance. Her work is dedicated to developing microbiome-based diagnostics and therapeutics, particularly in the gut-brain axis, to improve chronic disorder management and support long-term health.

• Purvikalyan Pallegar, PhD – Co-Founder, Nucliq Biologics Inc.

During his doctoral studies, Dr. Pallegar was captivated by the vibrant local entrepreneurial ecosystem, inspiring him to establish Nucliq Biologics Inc. (NBI). NBI was founded with a primary focus on revolutionizing chronic disease management using precision microbiome science. Within a short span, NBI established a remarkable global testing platform catering to individuals grappling with gastrointestinal issues. With a relentless focus on research and development, both in Canada and other parts of the world, NBI is poised to transition towards a therapeutic platform, furthering its commitment to enhancing global healthcare.

Whether you’ve been running your own thing for years, are just starting to think about an idea, or simply want to hear what others have learned along the way — you’re welcome to join us!

We’ll end the afternoon with coffee, snacks, and a chance to keep the conversation going, meet the speakers or chat with others in the room.

Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Time: 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Location: Amal Unite & Empower, 7 Ricketts Road, St. John’s NL

🚗 Parking Reminder:

Please avoid the four parking spots reserved for Behavioural Health Supports clients at the front of the building. Free additional parking is available around the venue.