Startup-support to Black Entrepreneurs & Businesses of Canada Society (BEBC) Competition, Vancouver
Priviliage to witness something powerful in Canada’s innovation ecosystem, this past weekend. The #BlackPitchContest, led by the Black Entrepreneurs & Businesses of Canada Society (BEBC) in collaboration with the Black Opportunity Fund, brought together high-potential founders solving real problems with real solutions. 🚀Under the strong leadership of Craig Wellington, Jackee Kasandy, and their exceptional team, this wasn’t just another pitch event—it was a masterclass in purpose-driven entrepreneurship. The energy, clarity of vision, and traction these founders showcased was impressive.What stood out? Every pitch focused on community impact, scalable solutions, and underserved market opportunities.🚀 Top Winners:Tony Colley – #Be12Give: Tackling food insecurity and waste with a tech-enabled, same-day food rescue platform (PixelPaddle and Creatrixe mentored Startup for Tech Development)@Alleen Agada – #BeBlended: A vertical SaaS platform unlocking growth for underrepresented hairstylists.@Mohamed Ali & Omnya El Massad – MoroApp: Transforming non-verbal patient care through a caregiver-facing healthtech app. 🎯 Other founders making enchanting noise in the space:Yann-Sibril Saah – Graspr AI: EdTech meets AI for hyper-personalized student learning – Amazing use of AI for youth.Olaseni Cole – Steminai: Gamified, personalized learning experiences for kids and teens.Daniel Lewis – PEKOE: Building global tea culture while steeping social good into every cup.Evans Osei – Work and Chill: AR-powered employee engagement that redefines workplace culture.Christopher Frazer – Now Organic Farms: Driving circular economy models for local food systems.Royan Thomas – Pro Era Plumbing: Reskilling and training the next gen of trades through a startup lens. Though the ideas are early-stage, but the vision, traction, and founder-market fit were crystal clear.Grateful to the ecosystem enablers who made this event possible:Gajan Kulasingam, CFA, CPA, CA, (#BOF Capital), Hosna R. Kadary #BMO, Myriam FRANCISQUE, LLM (#EDC), #NRF, #SnowBall, #Futurpreneur, #Volition, #LeagueofInnovators, #BRKCapital, #Aires — thank you for backing innovation with purpose. And deep respect to the mentors who shaped founder journeys behind the scenes:Paul Brassard, Melanie Ewan, Michael Moll, Jackee Kasandy — your guidance & mentorship really made the difference. At #PixelPaddle, we are proud to stand behind the next generation of entrepreneurs. As a Canadian tech company, we are committed to providing meaningful technological support and strategic collaboration to help emerging founders scale locally—while equipping them to compete in global markets.Our approach is rooted in a “Canada First, Global Always” mindset: nurturing homegrown innovation while enabling global impact.
Navigating Tech Careers: From Academia to Industry and Entrepreneurship – UFV Tech Industry Panel 2025
On March 13, 2025, the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) School of Computing successfully hosted its much-anticipated annual Tech Industry Panel, bringing together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to share their experiences and insights with students and the broader tech community. The theme for this year’s panel was “Navigating Tech Careers – From Academia to Industry and Entrepreneurship,” offering participants a rich dialogue on how to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape. The initiative to organize this impactful panel was driven with support from Mr. Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle and Advisory Board Member at UFV. Recognizing the importance of bridging the gap between academia and the real-world demands of the technology sector, Mr. Anwar worked closely with UFV to constitute a diverse and dynamic panel of experts. Leveraging his industry network, he reached out to thought leaders across various domains, ensuring students and participants could benefit from a well-rounded discussion spanning entrepreneurship, corporate careers, innovation, and community-building. The Panelists: Leaders Who Inspire The 2025 Tech Industry Panel featured a distinguished lineup of voices, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives: Key Insights and Takeaways The conversation delved into critical themes that resonated with students, researchers, and aspiring founders alike: Impact on Students and the Community The event was more than just a panel—it was a learning and networking experience for UFV students and participants from the community. Attendees left with a clearer understanding of how to align their academic pursuits with industry expectations, how to prepare for diverse career pathways, and how to explore entrepreneurship with confidence. Looking Ahead The success of the 2025 Tech Industry Panel reflects UFV’s commitment to fostering innovation, mentorship, and career readiness among its students. Industry Chair Dr. Faisal Naeem added whilst thanking Board Member Mr. Meer Anwar, “With the continued support of Advisory Board members like Mr. Meer Anwar and the participation of leading industry voices, UFV is shaping a learning environment where academic knowledge seamlessly connects with industry relevance.“ This event stands as a testament to the power of collaboration—between academia, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs—to guide students on their journey from the classroom to boardrooms, startups, and beyond.
Strengthening the Startup Ecosystem: Building Local, Scaling Global
At PixelPaddle, strengthening the startup ecosystem through mentorship and job creation has always been a priority. Our commitment goes beyond building our own company, we are equally dedicated to empowering fellow entrepreneurs and contributing to the local economic development strategy. While leading PixelPaddle’s own growth journey, CEO Meer Anwar has been actively mentoring other founders, helping them refine technology frameworks, go-to-market strategies, and sustainable growth practices. This hands-on support ensures that startups not only innovate but also build resilient businesses capable of scaling globally. One such example is Recyclorobo.ai, a cleantech startup tackling critical challenges in sustainability. Under Meer’s guidance, not only that PixelPaddle was among the top 10 startups in the GITEX Vancouver event, but also he helped the Recyclorobo team enhanced their pitch deck, business model, and growth strategy, while also strengthening their pitching skills. This mentorship played a pivotal role in their success at the GITEX Vancouver Pitch Competition arrange by Canada Startup Association, where Recyclorobo.ai secured a winning spot and advanced to represent British Columbia on the international stage in Berlin. This achievement is more than just a milestone for one startup—it reflects the broader vision of “Build Local, Scale Global.” It demonstrates how local innovation, when nurtured with the right mentorship and frameworks, can shine on international platforms and open doors to global opportunities. PixelPaddle remains committed to this mission: fostering collaboration, building sustainable business pathways, and enabling Canadian startups to not only thrive at home but also make their mark on the global canvas.
Tariffs Are Here: Time to Look #BeyondBorders
With #Tarrifs implications, Canadian businesses and startups face a clear reminder: we cannot afford to depend on a single market. The global landscape is shifting rapidly, and those who fail to adapt risk being left behind. To address this challenge, the Canada Startup Association convened a high-level panel discussion on February 26, 2025, featuring delegates from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, senior officials from GITEX, stakeholders from British Columbia’s public and private sectors, and prominent industry leaders. The dialogue centered on how Canadian—particularly BC-born—startups can expand internationally for sustainable growth and long-term resilience. Among the invited speakers was Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle Solutions, who participated in the roadshow “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges”. He shared insights from PixelPaddle’s journey, highlighting the company’s inception, the vital role of Canada’s local ecosystem in its growth, and the vast potential for Canadian innovations—especially in the sports technology sector—to thrive in international markets. The session underscored an important truth: scaling globally is not only about taking Canadian startups abroad, but also about bringing international opportunities back to Canada. Through collaboration with Canadian stakeholders, the Canada Startup Association aims to position the country as a hub where international startups, investors, and partners choose to build and grow. Key Priorities Identified ✔ Diversify markets – Move beyond over-reliance on a single trading partner by building global networks.✔ Strengthen trade relationships – Expansion means not just exporting, but also attracting international investment into Canada.✔ Establish Canada as a global startup hub – To compete globally, Canada must actively attract and support world-class entrepreneurs. The message was clear: this is not about reacting—it’s about leading. Startups that seize this moment will not only weather today’s economic headwinds but will also emerge as the leaders of tomorrow.
Bridging Sports Innovation and Athletes Performance Data: PixelPaddle’s Journey
The PixelPaddle team is embarking on a unique journey to build a digital sports world while also exploring how athletes’ responses and performance variables can be captured, analyzed, and optimized for athletes. The vision is not limited to gameplay or performance analytics alone; it extends into meaningful applications where sports and health intersect. While developing new AI-driven features for its platform, PixelPaddle is equally focused on learning from local research and thought leaders. With this in mind, the team recently attended a virtual session hosted by SFU Venture Lab, which brought together insightful speakers from across healthcare and innovation: Brian Simmers (Providence Health Care), Ozge Uncu (KPMG), Sheazin Premji (Fraser Health), and was moderated by Andrew Gemino of SFU (Dail). The discussion centered on the role of AI, digital innovation, and leadership in data management; a highly relevant topic for PixelPaddle as it evaluates how to leverage AI within its platform, and besides tracking Athlete Health data, how about tracking performance and improving the players experience. Key Takeaways from the Session The event provided several crucial insights that resonated with the PixelPaddle team: For PixelPaddle, these learnings reinforce the idea that data, particularly athlete health and performance data, must go beyond tracking. It should empower athletes, coaches, and everyday users to make smarter decisions while tracking the perfomance, specially while using the PixelPaddle Quest release on META platform . During the session, Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle, actively engaged with speakers, raising important questions about how to make PixelCricket public data more productive and user-focused. His queries were more focused on data security, and how receptive market stakeholders are to use Blockchain in the sports space? and about Canadian regulations to follow to opt Blockchain technology in the Canadian Sports healthcare domain? This highlighted the team’s commitment to not only advancing technology but also creating positive value for platform users. Moving Forward PixelPaddle’s journey stands at the intersection of sports innovation and digital data transformation. By learning from leading practitioners and continuing to explore AI-driven solutions, the team aims to design a platform where digital sports experiences evolve into tools that support health, performance, and everyday well-being. As innovation continues in both sectors, PixelPaddle remains committed to a clear goal: creating digital solutions that inspire, empower, and make a real difference in people’s lives.
PixelPaddle signs MoU with NorthHillStudio at LEAP 2025, KSA
PixelPaddle Showcases Sports Metaverse at LEAP 2025, Saudi Arabia: Bridging VR, Blockchain, and Fan Engagement PixelPaddle Solutions Inc. (Canada) made a remarkable debut at LEAP 2025, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious technology conferences, by unveiling its next-generation Sports Metaverse platform. The event, held from February 9-12, 2025, provided a global stage for PixelPaddle to showcase its immersive Virtual Reality (VR) models, iOS and Android applications, and blockchain-driven fan engagement solutions aimed at revolutionizing the future of sports entertainment. Revolutionizing Fan Engagement with Instant Gratification One of the highlights of PixelPaddle’s platform is its instant gratification mechanism—a dynamic feature allowing fans to engage in interactive, gamified experiences and earn real-time digital rewards. The B2B SaaS platform not only enhances fan participation but also empowers brands, clubs, and leagues to create engaging, reward-based ecosystems that turn passive viewers into active participants. Blockchain and NFTs: Unlocking New Value for Fans PixelPaddle also demonstrated its integrated blockchain ecosystem, enabling fans to own, trade, and monetize NFTs linked to memorable sports moments, exclusive collectibles, and unique fan experiences. The NFT economy extends beyond digital assets to Phygital (physical + digital) assets, including tokenized sports gear, merchandise, and even fractional ownership of stadium spaces and real estate—ushering in a new era of tangible and tradable fan engagement tools. Introducing “Phygital” and PitchNFT: Merging Physical and Digital Realities At LEAP 2025, PixelPaddle introduced its unique “Phygital” concept, where fans can win digital twins of real-world assets — from merchandise to tokenized property shares. Additionally, the proprietary PitchNFT solution enables interactive, tradable NFTs embedded directly within in-game environments, stadium spaces, and team fan zones, creating endless branding and engagement opportunities for sports franchises, sponsors, and fans alike. Partnership with NorthHillStudios: Expanding Phygital Horizons In line with its vision for global collaboration and scalable innovation, PixelPaddle Solutions Inc. (Canada) is proud to announce that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NorthHillStudios. The partnership aims to explore joint solutions in the Phygital space, focusing on sports and real estate assets via gamification. Both companies are keen to collaborate on client engagements and co-develop innovative solutions that merge the digital and physical worlds for next-level user experiences. Notably, PixelPaddle’s solutions were showcased at LEAP 2025 in collaboration with NorthHillStudios, giving attendees an exclusive preview of how gamified Phygital assets can transform both sports entertainment and real estate visualization. Scalable Innovation for the Global Sports Ecosystem What sets PixelPaddle apart is its scalable, multi-sport adaptability, making it a versatile platform for football, cricket, ice hockey, soccer, and more. The solution offers clubs, leagues, and brands an innovative way to connect with global audiences while creating lasting, value-driven experiences. Shaping the Future of Sports and Entertainment The overwhelming response at LEAP 2025 underscores a rising demand for next-gen fan engagement tools that blend VR, blockchain, AI, and real-world rewards. PixelPaddle stands at the forefront of this movement, shaping the future of sports, gaming, and entertainment through immersive, rewarding, and interactive digital ecosystems.
Youth Engagement Session during a Community Open House
Last Sunday, the community hall in Masjid Al-Salaam Burnaby was alive with the sounds of children and young professionals attending the Youth Engagement Program. The event was special in the sense that it included an engaging session from PixelPaddle CEO, Meer Anwar, and his wife, UBC PhD alumna, Yumna Meer. The couple has been on the same journey that many of the attendees are on. Hence, they were able to relate to the participants personally. Unlike most corporate sessions, where speakers drone on while standing at the front, Meer and Yumna made their way into the audience and spoke to everyone in a much more informal and relatable manner. Their approach was much more personal, filled with anecdotes about their own life journeys, mentioning the uncertainties, the lessons learned the hard way, and the defining moments that shaped their careers. “I remember sending out job applications after graduation and all I heard was crickets. That was the moment I realized that degrees open doors, but skills and the ability to stay in the room make a difference,” Meer shared. His transparency was particularly refreshing to the youth at the event. Yumna, with her social welfare background, offered a viewpoint that appealed to many of the younger women in the audience when she said, “There will always be people that will try and convince you to pick either family or ambition. You don’t have to, but it will take some kind of a personal rhythm to be in balance, and that means breaking stereotypes.” Practical Outcomes That Seemed Like Life Advice The couple organized their pointers around three relatable topics: To highlight that careers develop through experience rather than perfect beginnings, Meer shared his early career “horror stories”, including the time he went for a tech interview unaware of Java. Yumna explained the hidden rules she’s learned with great enthusiasm: The session’s most emotional part captured their discussion around impact-driven work. Meer got emotional recalling PixelPaddle’s first sports application, It was powerful in that it helped a special kids to enjoy the cricket while experiencing Cricket Metaverse Stadium. It reinforced the idea that true success combines empathy and impact. The Magic of Real TalkAs samosas/refreshments were passed around, the formal speaker-audience barrier melted away into a family-style discussion about: More Than Just a SeminarAs the clock neared 01 PM, the non-muslim community observed the day prayers and the informal discussion continues till evening, Meer and Yumna stayed even late to review resumes and exchange LinkedIn details.
PixelPaddle Startup : A Team’s Relentless Hustle to Build a Cutting-Edge Platform
The journey of a startup is never easy, and PixelPaddle is no exception. With teams operating both in Canada and Pakistan, the company has been working tirelessly to bring its vision to life. The team’s commitment, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence have been the driving forces behind its progress, as they work to establish PixelPaddle as a leading name in sports engagement and SaaS solutions. Global Collaboration: Bridging Teams Across Borders The heart of PixelPaddle’s operations lies in its dynamic cross-border collaboration. CEO Meer Anwar, based in Canada, has been instrumental in providing the team with continuous market feedback. This insight ensures that the upcoming project iterations align with market expectations and deliver the value users anticipate. Despite the physical distance, Meer remains deeply engaged, serving as the strategic compass guiding the team’s efforts. Back in Pakistan, the leadership team works tirelessly to execute the vision. COO Muhammad Abubakar, CFO Anjum Khursheed, and CTO Syed Yasir Iqbal coordinate closely with Meer, ensuring that the operations and development pipelines remain seamless. Financial Stewardship and Operational Efficiency Under the watchful eye of CFO Anjum Khursheed, the team maintains a sharp focus on budget utilization. He ensures that funding constraints do not hamper operations or product development, making every dollar count to propel the startup forward. This financial discipline has been critical in keeping the startup’s operations on track while balancing innovation and cost-efficiency. COO Muhammad Abubakar has been pivotal in optimizing the team size and resource allocation to match market requirements. His leadership ensures that the team operates at peak efficiency, leveraging available resources to deliver tangible outcomes without compromising on quality or timelines. Technical Mastery: Innovating Across Platforms PixelPaddle’s technology stack is in the capable hands of CTO Syed Yasir Iqbal, who leads the charge on all technical fronts. The platform spans web2, mobile (iOS and Android), and VR (Quest 3) ecosystems, each with its unique challenges and opportunities. Yasir’s expertise has been instrumental in seamlessly integrating chain-based authentication and user acceptance mechanisms, ensuring a cutting-edge experience for users while addressing technical complexities. This integration is not just a technical milestone but a key differentiator for PixelPaddle, offering users the security, transparency, and engagement that modern platforms demand. Teamwork and Milestone Management PixelPaddle’s success lies in its collaborative culture, where every team member plays a vital role. Regular stand-ups and meetings ensure transparency, alignment, and momentum, helping the team anticipate challenges and meet development milestones. This proactive approach minimizes surprises and keeps the project on track, despite the demanding nature of startup life. The Road Ahead The collective efforts of PixelPaddle’s global team reflect a relentless commitment to creating a platform that redefines sports engagement and SaaS solutions. Their ability to bridge gaps between continents, navigate technical complexities, and manage resources effectively has laid a strong foundation for success. As the team continues to burn the midnight oil, their shared vision and dedication promise to transform PixelPaddle from an ambitious startup into an industry leader. With every milestone achieved, they edge closer to their goal of delivering a world-class product that resonates with sports fans, athletes, and businesses alike. PixelPaddle’s journey is a testament to the power of teamwork, innovation, and determination—a shining example of what’s possible when a team comes together with a unified purpose.
Meer Anwar CEO/President PixelPaddle Joins the External Advisory Board at UFV, BC, Canada
In a testament to his dedication and influence in bridging the gap between academia and industry, Mr. Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle, has achieved yet another milestone by being appointed to the External Advisory Board of the School of Computing at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) in Abbotsford, BC, Canada. This honor underscores his unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and the development of future-ready professionals. Since his arrival in Canada, Mr. Anwar has been a driving force in creating meaningful connections between academic institutions and industry stakeholders. From his impactful presentation on the “Simulate Your IT Career” program to various public and private sector institutions, to his efforts in establishing cross-border industry linkages and representing innovation at global forums like Collision Conference, WebSummit, PCTA, and NeurIPS, his contributions have left an indelible mark on both local and international platforms. A Legacy of Bridging Academia and Industry Mr. Anwar’s extensive experience in academia and industry is not confined to Canada. In Pakistan, he held advisory, joint chairmanship, and consulting roles with numerous universities, actively shaping programs to align with market demands. With the same passion, he has extended his expertise to Canada, collaborating with esteemed institutions such as UBC and UFV. His recent appointment at UFV highlights the recognition of his in-depth understanding of market needs and academic supply, particularly in the realm of computing and technology education. Mr. Anwar’s appointment is a significant achievement not only for himself but also for the broader academic and professional communities. It symbolizes a commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and ensuring that students are prepared to thrive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. His role as an advisor transcends traditional boundaries, as he continues to act as a bridge between academia and industry, fostering partnerships, and advocating for excellence on all fronts. During the inaugural External Advisory Board meeting at UFV, Mr. Anwar’s insights were not only welcomed but also deeply appreciated. His ability to identify and address the critical demand-supply gap in the tech and business sectors has positioned him as a key player in helping institutions tailor their programs to meet industry requirements. UFV is set to implement strategic interventions aimed at enhancing the quality of its programs and equipping graduates with skills that resonate with market needs. His vision emphasizes innovative curriculum design, real-world exposure for students, and collaborative industry-academic partnerships. The board has already started given a considerate thought on planning and execution of several of his suggested initiatives, reflecting the immediate impact of his contributions. With his rich history of contributions and leadership, Mr. Meer Anwar’s role on UFV’s External Advisory Board is yet another feather in his cap. His efforts are paving the way for transformative education and industry-ready talent, both of which are essential for the success of students, businesses, and communities. UFV’s decision to involve him in shaping its future underscores his standing as a visionary leader, whose insights and initiatives will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. This new chapter further solidifies Mr. Anwar’s reputation as a trailblazer in connecting academia with real-world opportunities, and his journey continues to inspire those around him to aim higher and achieve more.
PixelPaddle Innovates with VR and SaaS for the Future of Sports Engagement
As part of its mission to revolutionize sports engagement, PixelPaddle is scaling up its technology stack to create a seamless, immersive experience for sports fans, athletes, and business clients. The company is making significant strides in leveraging advanced technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR) and SaaS, to redefine how users interact with sports and how businesses can harness the power of its platform. Elevating Sports Engagement Through VR PixelPaddle has integrated Quest 3-based VR technology into its offerings, introducing an engaging and realistic experience for cricket enthusiasts. In the first iteration, users can immerse themselves in cricket scenarios that go beyond mere gameplay. Key features include: Wicketkeeping, Batting, and Bowling Simulations: These single- and multiplayer scenarios offer lifelike cricket gameplay, enabling users to test their skills in a virtual environment. 360-Degree Ground Views: Fans can explore a virtual cricket ground with dynamic views, creating a sense of being right in the heart of the action. Phygital Exchange in Real Play: A unique feature allowing the exchange of physical-digital (Phygital) assets, combining the tangibility of physical collectibles with the innovation of digital experiences. This VR integration is a significant step in enhancing fan engagement, enabling users to experience cricket like never before. Introducing Mini-Games and Proprietary PitchNFTs In addition to the core VR features, PixelPaddle has launched five unique mini-games, each designed to entertain and challenge users. These mini-games are powered by PitchNFTs, a proprietary data innovation exclusive to PixelPaddle. By combining gameplay with copyright-protected PitchNFT data, the company provides a distinct and secure experience that ensures authenticity and creativity. Driving SaaS Solutions for B2B Clients PixelPaddle’s vision extends beyond individual users to offer Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions for B2B clients. By integrating advanced data analytics, user engagement tools, and VR experiences, the platform enables businesses to: Enhance Customer Engagement: Utilize interactive sports scenarios to connect with audiences. Leverage Analytics: Access detailed insights from user interactions and PitchNFT data for better decision-making. Create Unique Offerings: Offer proprietary digital experiences to their customers, backed by PixelPaddle’s secure technology stack. Shaping the Future of Sports Technology PixelPaddle’s innovative use of VR, Phygitals, and SaaS showcases its commitment to staying ahead in the evolving sports technology landscape. The introduction of Quest 3 VR experiences, combined with mini-games and PitchNFTs, positions the platform as a pioneer in delivering immersive and data-driven solutions for fans and businesses alike. As PixelPaddle continues to innovate, it is setting a new benchmark for how technology can transform the way we engage with sports. Whether you’re a fan looking for a virtual cricket experience or a business seeking cutting-edge SaaS solutions, PixelPaddle is leading the way into the future of sports engagement.