ExpoPlaza Latina 2025: Connecting Ecosystems and Inspiring Cross-Border Innovation
ExpoPlaza Latina 2025 returned to the Vancouver Convention Centre on November 21, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Canada, the United States, and Latin America. The event served as a powerful platform for dialogue on the future of work, innovation, and the collaborative role interconnected economies play in shaping global progress. Representing PixelPaddle, CEO Meer Anwar attended the conference and engaged in in-depth discussions centered on AI adoption, mentorship in technology, immigrant workforce development, and the evolving economic landscape across British Columbia. ExpoPlaza Latina 2025: Strengthening Cross-Border Innovation and Workforce Readiness ExpoPlaza Latina 2025 returned to the Vancouver Convention Centre on November 21, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Canada, the United States, and Latin America. The event served as a powerful platform for dialogue on the future of work, innovation, and the collaborative role interconnected economies play in shaping global progress. Representing PixelPaddle, CEO Meer Anwar attended the conference and engaged in in-depth discussions centered on AI adoption, mentorship in technology, immigrant workforce development, and the evolving economic landscape across British Columbia. Unlocking Capital & Market Access for Emerging Entrepreneurs One of the standout sessions was “Unlocking Capital & Market Access for Emerging Entrepreneurs,” moderated by respected mentor and ecosystem leader Paul Brassard. The discussion addressed persistent challenges faced by emerging and underrepresented founders, with expert insights including: During the event, Meer Anwar had a meaningful discussion with Mina Haghighi about the critical role of mentorship in the tech sector and how ecosystem partners can accelerate economic growth by supporting early-stage founders. He also engaged with Adnan Sarwar, whose insights on BC’s labour market outlook for the next decade align closely with Canada’s long-term innovation and skills strategy. Bridging Policy and Practice for a Future-Ready Workforce Another key highlight for PixelPaddle was the session “Bridging Policy and Practice: Strategies for a Future-Ready Workforce.”The panel offered actionable perspectives for employers and entrepreneurs navigating Canada’s changing labour landscape: These conversations highlighted important themes such as AI adoption, employer needs, career mobility, newcomer integration, and efforts required to strengthen Canada’s future-ready talent ecosystem. Dual Tracks: GoExpand & SheLatina ExpoPlaza Latina offered two robust parallel tracks, GoExpand and SheLatina, each featuring thought-provoking sessions and remarkable speakers. Both tracks delivered high-impact content, providing entrepreneurs with invaluable knowledge on scaling businesses, embracing innovation, and leveraging diverse networks. An Event Driving Collective Impact From ecosystem insights to workforce strategies, this year’s ExpoPlaza Latina reinforced the importance of collaborative innovation. PixelPaddle acknowledges the organizers, sponsors, speakers, and contributors who made this gathering impactful. Events like these strengthen global networks, empower entrepreneurs, and foster inclusive economic growth across borders. PixelPaddle remains committed to contributing to these ongoing conversations and building meaningful partnerships that support AI adoption, mentorship, and innovation-driven economic development in Canada and beyond. Unlocking Capital & Market Access for Emerging Entrepreneurs One of the standout sessions was “Unlocking Capital & Market Access for Emerging Entrepreneurs,” moderated by respected mentor and ecosystem leader Paul Brassard. The discussion addressed persistent challenges faced by emerging and underrepresented founders, with expert insights including: During the event, Meer Anwar had a meaningful discussion with Mina Haghighi about the critical role of mentorship in the tech sector and how ecosystem partners can accelerate economic growth by supporting early-stage founders. He also engaged with Adnan Sarwar, whose insights on BC’s labour market outlook for the next decade align closely with Canada’s long-term innovation and skills strategy. Bridging Policy and Practice for a Future-Ready Workforce Another key highlight for PixelPaddle was the session “Bridging Policy and Practice: Strategies for a Future-Ready Workforce.”The panel offered actionable perspectives for employers and entrepreneurs navigating Canada’s changing labour landscape: Meer got the chance to had a discussion with Heather Bell, about the role of skilled immigrants and they have contributing towards economic development and what measure can be suggested to avoid the brain-drain and retention of talent within the ecosystem. These conversations highlighted important themes such as AI adoption, employer needs, career mobility, newcomer integration, and efforts required to strengthen Canada’s future-ready talent ecosystem. An Event Driving Collective Impact From ecosystem insights to workforce strategies, this year’s ExpoPlaza Latina reinforced the importance of collaborative innovation. PixelPaddle acknowledges the organizers, sponsors, speakers, and contributors who made this gathering impactful. Events like these strengthen global networks, empower entrepreneurs, and foster inclusive economic growth across borders. PixelPaddle remains committed to contributing to these ongoing conversations and building meaningful partnerships that support AI adoption, mentorship, and innovation-driven economic development in Canada and beyond.
Where Global Mentorship Meets Local Innovation: Celebrating TiE Vancouver’s Startup Pitch Fest 2025
For more than three decades, TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) has stood as a global force for entrepreneurial advancement. Founded in Silicon Valley in 1992, TiE has grown into the world’s largest network supporting entrepreneurs, with 60+ chapters across 14 countries. Its mission remains rooted in five foundational pillars: mentorship, networking, education, incubation, and access to capital. Through this model, TiE continues to ignite innovation and fuel economic growth across international ecosystems. Here in Western Canada, TiE Vancouver serves as a dynamic catalyst—connecting ambition with opportunity and empowering founders with the three essentials every entrepreneurial journey depends on: capital, community, and purpose. The chapter nurtures an ecosystem where visionary entrepreneurs, seasoned investors, and world-class mentors converge to elevate ideas from British Columbia onto the global stage. Guided by TiE’s philosophy of net giving, the community embodies a culture where knowledge sharing, strategic collaboration, and collective growth are core values. Entrepreneurs are invited to participate in a movement that champions innovation, fosters meaningful connections, and builds legacies that reach far beyond borders. Celebrating the TiE Vancouver Startup Pitch Fest 2025 This year, TiE Vancouver launched its highly anticipated Startup Pitch Fest in two categories: PixelPaddle has consistently supported initiatives that strengthen the local entrepreneurial landscape. In alignment with this mission, Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle, was invited to serve as a jury member for both the semi-finals and the in-person grand finale held in Vancouver. His involvement reflects PixelPaddle’s continued commitment to mentoring founders, uplifting small businesses, and contributing to a thriving innovation ecosystem. The semi-finals featured an impressive range of applicants, each bringing creativity, technical depth, and community-minded solutions to the table. The winners were: TiE University – Semi-Final Winners TiE Women – Semi-Final Winners Every participant demonstrated remarkable passion, domain expertise, and resilience—qualities that define future leaders. Special appreciation was extended to the esteemed panel of judges:Ragul Mohan, Angela Kate, Haer M Ed, James Dean Waryk, Meer Anwar, Prashant Agrawal (Mr. P), Bhavik Chauhan, and Shawn Goyal. And the Final Winners Are… The grand finale showcased a diverse mix of innovations on November 13, 2025 in the shape of beautiful ceremony in Vancouver, addressing real-world challenges including food contamination, AI-driven mining fault detection, clean air systems, precision welding technology, automotive operating systems, functional beverages, apparel fitting solutions, pet care, and school speaker engagement tools. TiE University – Final Winners TiE Women – Final Winners PixelPaddle’s Contribution to the Ecosystem Continuing its commitment to empowering grassroots entrepreneurship, PixelPaddle partnered with Kaprix to extend $30,000+ worth of support to finalists. This included: These offerings were provided not just to the winners, but to all participating finalists, ensuring every deserving startup gains access to resources that can meaningfully accelerate their growth. During the ceremony, Meer Anwar took the stage to present awards, congratulate the winners, and encourage every participant to continue nurturing their vision. Speaking from the lens of PixelPaddle’s innovation journey, he shared insights and inspiration with the founders. A Future Built Together The Pitch Fest was more than a competition—it was a celebration of creativity, diversity, and innovation. From student founders to women-led businesses to first-time entrepreneurs, each participant demonstrated the strength of Western Canada’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem. With platforms like TiE Vancouver and contributions from community partners like PixelPaddle, the region continues to cement its place as a hub where global mentorship and local innovation intersect. The journey for these startups has only begun—and the future looks exceptionally promising.
Empowering Communities Through Digital Literacy: PixelPaddle Collaborates With ISSofBC for AI & Metaverse Use cases
For more than five decades, the Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia (ISSofBC) has stood as one of Canada’s most respected and impactful settlement organizations. Established in 1968, ISSofBC began with a committed group of volunteers who welcomed Ismaili refugees from Uganda—an act of compassion that laid the foundation for what would become one of the province’s largest and most innovative newcomer-support institutions. Today, ISSofBC continues to help newcomers settle, learn English, pursue education, find meaningful employment, and integrate confidently into Canadian society. With its world-renowned Vancouver Welcome Centre and a legacy of community-building, ISSofBC remains a national leader in creating inclusive pathways for immigrants, seniors, families, and refugees across British Columbia. As part of its ongoing effort to strengthen digital literacy, ISSofBC recently hosted two educational workshops under the theme “Adoption of AI for Citizens and Metaverse Use Cases for Efficient Use.” These sessions were led by Meer Anwar, CEO & President of PixelPaddle, a BC-based technology company known for its work in AI, AR/VR, and immersive digital innovation. During the sessions, Meer introduced participants, primarily seniors from Persian and Mandarin speaking communities, to the fundamental concepts of Artificial Intelligence, breaking down how AI systems gather, learn, recognize patterns, adapt, and make predictions. He further provided practical demonstrations on: These hands-on demonstrations sparked lively discussions, curiosity, and thoughtful questions from attendees. Participants expressed appreciation for the clarity, accessibility, and real-world relevance of the content—leaving the sessions with a stronger understanding of not only how AI works, but how to stay safe, informed, and empowered in a rapidly evolving digital world. PixelPaddle expresses its deep appreciation to Hala Helmy, Zohreh Kondori, and the entire ISSofBC team for extending the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful community initiative. Their commitment to bringing high-value learning experiences to seniors and newcomers plays a vital role in strengthening digital inclusion across British Columbia. PixelPaddle looks forward to continued collaboration with ISSofBC and similar organizations to expand access to emerging technologies, enhance digital literacy, and support communities in navigating the future with confidence and capability.
PixelPaddle at the 8th Metropolis Identities Summit 2025 – Advancing Employer-Led Workforce Solutions
Strengthening Canada’s Workforce Through Inclusive, Employer-Led Solutions Canada continues to navigate unprecedented global challenges that are reshaping both economic conditions and social dynamics. These shifts have brought new urgency to national conversations around migration, unity, diversity, and collective identity. As economic transformations intersect with mobility and settlement patterns, the country faces important questions about how to sustain cohesion while honouring its commitments to Indigenous reconciliation and official language communities. Against this backdrop, the city of #Saskatoon hosted the 8th edition of the Metropolis Identities Summit 2025 (29 – 30 Oct, 2025) under the theme: Reaffirming Canada: Confronting Challenges to Our Unity, Diversity, and Identities. During the Summit, IEC-BC delivered an interactive session titled “Supporting Employer-Led Solutions for Attracting and Retaining Immigrant Talent in Small Centres and Rural Communities.” This session explored the realities facing employers across smaller and rural communities as they work to attract, hire, and retain newcomer talent—an essential component of Canada’s economic future. The presentation drew on insights from IEC-BC’s Employer Navigator Pilot, developed in partnership with World Education Services (WES), as well as findings from regional employer feedback forums. Discussions examined what is currently working for employers, what barriers persist, and what support is required to build sustainable and responsive newcomer workforce strategies. One participating employer summarized the value clearly:“A personalized service like Employer Navigator is incredibly helpful. There’s so much information out there, but having tailored guidance makes all the difference.” IEC-BC extended a special thank you to employer speakers Meer Anwar (CEO, PixelPaddle Solutions Inc.) and Ron Sun, MBA, CPA, CMA for sharing practical insights and lived industry experience. Appreciation was also extended to the Metropolis Institute for hosting this significant national platform for dialogue and collaboration. The insights gathered will help inform future tools and policy recommendations aimed at strengthening newcomer attraction and retention in smaller communities across Canada. The session reaffirmed the importance of innovation, community partnership, and employer involvement in creating inclusive and resilient local economies. Insights From PixelPaddle CEO, Meer Anwar Representing PixelPaddle, CEO Meer Anwar shared perspectives from the viewpoint of a local tech employer and small business leader. Speaking during a fireside conversation with Ron Sun, moderated by Elham Ershad, CPHR, CDP; Meer emphasized the importance of employer-driven workforce solutions and the growing need for equitable and accessible pathways for immigrant talent. The conversation explored several critical themes, including: • Employer-led talent strategies• AI upskilling and digital capability development• Recognition of foreign credentials and equitable hiring• Inclusive workforce participation and long-term retention Meer highlighted that emerging technology companies like PixelPaddle play a vital role in shaping Canada’s future labour market. Through innovation in technologies like AI, AR/VR, and digital engagement platforms, PixelPaddle contributes to employer readiness, industry mentorship, and practical workforce integration, as well as offering newcomers opportunities to gain cutting-edge experience in globally relevant technologies. He also stressed the importance of collaboration across organizations such as IEC-BC, WES, and national partners. These partnerships are essential for creating systems that support both employers and job seekers while strengthening the economic and social fabric of Canadian communities. PixelPaddle extends sincere gratitude to the Metropolis Institute, IEC-BC, World Education Services, and all participating partners for fostering meaningful dialogue that moves Canada closer to a more connected, inclusive, and future-ready society.
Celebrating Small Business Month – Oct 2025
Empowering Local Entrepreneurs & Strengthening Global Connections As part of his role as a Board Member (volunteer) at VAHMS, PixelPaddle CEO Meer Anwar joined the celebrations of Small Business Month 2025 across the BC Tri-Cities region – Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody. The event brought together entrepreneurs, local leaders, and community advocates committed to building a thriving business ecosystem. For Meer, the occasion carried personal meaning. As the founder of PixelPaddle, a growing technology company specializing in AR/VR, blockchain integration, and digital fan engagement, he understands firsthand the determination, challenges, and continuous innovation required to run a small business in today’s evolving landscape. Supporting Small Businesses Through Innovation & Community Engagement Small businesses are the backbone of British Columbia’s economy, and events like these provide critical opportunities for: PixelPaddle actively contributes to this mission by developing cutting-edge technology products, mentoring startups, and collaborating with innovation partners across Canada, Pakistan, the Middle East, and the United States. PixelPaddle’s Role in Strengthening the Startup Ecosystem Under Meer’s leadership, PixelPaddle has expanded its role beyond product development to support the larger entrepreneurial ecosystem through: 1. Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing Meer regularly participates in roundtables, industry discussions, and community programs, guiding new founders on market readiness, product strategy, and global expansion. 2. Global Industrial Collaboration PixelPaddle works closely with partners internationally to build bridges between ecosystems enabling cross-border opportunities for startups, tech companies, and creative businesses. 3. Advocacy for Small Business Growth Through platforms like VAHMS and collaborations with organizations such as IEC-BC, educational institutions, and trade associations, PixelPaddle supports policies and programs that uplift small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Building Local, Scaling Global Small Business Month serves as a reminder that behind every thriving local business is a story of resilience and community support. By promoting collaboration, enabling access to technology, and creating global linkages, companies like PixelPaddle play a pivotal role in ensuring local entrepreneurs stand strong — not just in British Columbia, but in the international marketplace. As Meer expressed:“Let’s continue empowering local entrepreneurs and strengthening our business community. When local businesses rise, the entire ecosystem grows stronger.”
PixelPaddle’s Role in Building a Future-Ready Workforce
Tech Innovation, Employer Engagement & Industry Alignment PixelPaddle is not only advancing the frontier of immersive digital sports and metaverse technologies—it is also actively contributing to the development of British Columbia’s local workforce ecosystem. As part of its commitment, PixelPaddle has been working closely with the Immigrant Employment Council of BC (IEC-BC), adopting their Employer Navigation Pilot Program to help identify employer challenges, streamline hiring practices, and strengthen engagement between employers and diverse talent pools. Recently, Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle, was honoured to participate in Bridging Skills and Immigration for a Future-Ready Workforce, hosted by IEC-BC. PixelPaddle took part in the Tech Roundtable, alongside other focus groups representing Healthcare, Education, Skilled Trades, and broader sectors—collectively exploring how immigration, technology adoption, and collaboration will influence Canada’s next-generation workforce. Industry Outlook: Where Technology & Digital Innovation Are Headed British Columbia’s 2025–2035 Labour Market Outlook shows that tech-oriented fields will continue to be key economic drivers: 1. Professional, Scientific & Technical Services One of the highest growth sectors in the province, generating 162,200 job openings (15% of all openings) over the next decade. B.C. Labour Market Outlook Repo…This category includes: 2. Information, Culture & Recreation Sector This broad sector—including digital entertainment, gaming, VR content, and spectator sports—will generate 44,300 job openings between 2025–2035. B.C. Labour Market Outlook Repo… Within it: This aligns directly with PixelPaddle’s Sports Metaverse ecosystem, which merges sport, fan engagement, AR/VR, NFTs, and interactive content. 3. Natural & Applied Sciences and Tech Occupations A total of 118,900 job openings (11% of all openings) will arise in engineering, software, network technologies, and related domains. B.C. Labour Market Outlook Repo… 4. A Province-Wide Demand for Skilled Talent Overall, B.C. will see 1,052,000 job openings between 2025 and 2035, with 65% arising from retirements—leaving a large skill-gap opportunity for emerging talent. B.C. Labour Market Outlook Repo… How Companies Like PixelPaddle Strengthen the Future Workforce From immersive sports technology to AI-enabled engagement platforms, PixelPaddle is well-positioned to contribute to both the Canadian and global job markets. Here’s how: 1. Addressing the Digital Skills Gap As industries rapidly digitalize—in AI, AR/VR, blockchain, and immersive media—firms like PixelPaddle help bridge skill shortages by: 2. Supporting Employer Readiness & Modern HR Practices Through IEC-BC’s Employer Navigation Pilot Program, PixelPaddle helps identify: 3. Preparing Talent for International Market Demands Given ongoing global tech shifts, companies like PixelPaddle can help workers align with international client requirements by focusing on: 4. Enhancing Local Job Creation Through Innovation PixelPaddle’s Sports Metaverse—covering VR environments, gamification, blockchain assets, and digital fan engagement—fits squarely within growth sectors projected for B.C. A thriving innovation ecosystem directly contributes to: Key Insights From the Roundtable (As Shared by PixelPaddle) 1️⃣ Build Local, Scale Global For Canada to remain competitive, local companies must think globally—leveraging immigration, diverse skills, and international collaboration. 2️⃣ Retention Is Just as Critical as Recruitment Employee growth, mentorship, and internal upskilling remain essential for long-term stability—especially in rapidly evolving tech sectors. 3️⃣ Collaboration Over Silos Cross-sector, cross-industry, and cross-border collaboration is vital. Many systems still operate in isolation, and bridging these gaps will drive transformation. 4️⃣ Developing Local Talent for Global Competitiveness Mentorship-driven models and industry-informed training remain the strongest pathways for a sustainable workforce pipeline. The labour market data confirms what innovators already know: the future belongs to agile, tech-forward ecosystems. Companies like PixelPaddle—working at the intersection of sports, technology, immersive media, and engineering—play a critical role in shaping British Columbia’s workforce of tomorrow. By innovating locally, collaborating nationally, and building solutions that meet international standards, PixelPaddle contributes directly to a more resilient provincial economy and a future-ready, globally aligned workforce.
PixelPaddle Demo during Asia Cup 2025 Final Screening: When Cricket, Community & the Metaverse Came Together in Surrey, BC
Cricket matches between Pakistan and India have long been known as the “Mother of All Games”—a title earned not just for the rivalry, but for the emotions, theatrics, and collective heart rates that come with it. And on September 28, 2025, the Asia Cup Final delivered exactly that energy… and maybe even a little more for those watching in Surrey, BC. While millions worldwide tuned in, a passionate group of cricket enthusiasts hosted a special viewing event at a local Surrey restaurant. The excitement was high, the chai was hot, and the nerves—well, let’s just say they were very real. But this time, something new joined the experience. PixelPaddle partnered with the organizers to bring a Virtual Reality cricket segment to the event, turning a simple match screening into a fully immersive celebration of sport and tech. The Pixel Cricket Stadium—vibrant, lively, and nearly indistinguishable from a real-world arena—lit up the digital screens as people swung virtual bats, hit imaginary sixes, and momentarily forgot that their actual team was… struggling a little on the field. When the Virtual Sixes Fly Higher Than the Real Ones Let’s be honest—the day wasn’t the happiest for Pakistani fans. The national team put up a fight but ultimately fell short in the final. But leave it to cricket fans to turn disappointment into entertainment. In the VR segment, Pakistanis finally got the cathartic release they needed—launching sixes so massive that even the virtual ball trackers needed a breather. One fan joked, “If only the real team could bat like I do in VR, we’d have lifted the trophy twice today.” VR therapy? Maybe. But highly effective? Absolutely. A Glimpse Into the Future: NFTs, Prizes & Play-to-Earn Cricket Beyond the cheering, laughter, and post-match banter, the event became a surprising discovery moment for many. When attendees learned about PixelPaddle’s upcoming NFT-powered rewards system, curiosity quickly turned into excitement. Fans were thrilled to hear that future updates will include: 🎖️ 1. NFT Minting for In-Game Achievements Big six? Mint it. Match-winning over? Mint it. A stylish cover drive that even Babar Azam would approve? Definitely mint it.Players will soon be able to turn iconic VR cricket moments into collectible digital assets. 🎁 2. Digital Prizes & Unlockable In-App Rewards Every play session has the potential to unlock exclusive items—limited-edition bats, stadium themes, player skins, and more. 🏆 3. Play-to-Earn Tournaments Community tournaments where performance in VR can earn real digital rewards (and bragging rights that last forever). 📱 4. Seamless Multi-Platform Integration With many attendees downloading the iOS and Android apps during the event, PixelPaddle collected valuable first-hand feedback. This input is now shaping the next major release—improving gameplay, environments, and performance. Community, Cricket & Creativity—A Win Regardless of the Score Even though the Asia Cup trophy went elsewhere that night, the event in Surrey was nothing short of a victory—for cricket lovers, technology enthusiasts, and the community that came together to celebrate the sport they adore. PixelPaddle was proud to be part of this meaningful gathering, helping fans experience cricket in a whole new dimension. As the platform evolves with new features like NFT minting and enhanced gameplay, one thing is clear: Cricket is no longer just watched. It’s experienced. It’s lived. And now, it’s collected. Stay tuned—more exciting innings are on the way.
PixelPaddle supports the vision: Building Local, Scaling Global
Pakistan Canada Trade Association envisaging to bridge the gap between local businesses and international markets The Pakistan Western Canada Trade Association has officially rebranded as the Pakistan Canada Trade Association (PCTA)—a transformation that reflects its expanded national presence and its strengthened mission to support companies across Canada. PCTA now operates with a Canada-wide mandate to help local businesses grow beyond borders through export development, technology collaboration, and bilateral engagement with Pakistan in particular and global markets in general. With a vision to “Build Local – Scale Global,” PCTA is actively empowering companies across diverse sectors including Technology, Education, Lumber, Green Tech, Financial Services, Tourism, and more. The goal is simple yet ambitious: enable Canadian companies to access Pakistan’s fast-growing market and jointly explore global export opportunities. A Collaborative Ecosystem Spanning Both Countries PCTA’s strength lies in its ecosystem of aligned partners and institutions working seamlessly across borders. Within Canada, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Vancouver and Toronto, as well as the High Commission in Ottawa, are closely engaged with PCTA’s mission. On the Pakistan side, major national bodies such as FPCCI, SIFC, and relevant ministries and sectoral departments are actively supporting this collaborative effort. Together, they have cultivated a unique sector-specific committee structure, bringing together domain experts, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovators from both countries. These committees—entirely volunteer-driven—serve as the backbone of PCTA’s work, bridging market gaps and fostering meaningful trade, investment, and technology opportunities.] Growing the Business Community—One Connection at a Time PCTA hosts monthly meetups and networking forums, creating a dynamic space where Canadian and Pakistani professionals can connect, collaborate, and cultivate new ideas. These sessions bring together stakeholders from the private and public sectors, policymakers, and members of the diaspora—all united by a shared commitment to expanding bilateral trade. Through this growing community, businesses gain exposure to new markets, learn from cross-border expertise, and develop partnerships that support long-term economic growth. PCTA and PixelPaddle at the Vancouver Web Summit 2026 As the tech world prepares for the Vancouver Web Summit 2026, PCTA, Consulate and Ambassador offices are gearing up to welcome incoming delegates from Pakistan and across the global in the Technology, AR/VR, Blockchain, and AI sectors. PixelPaddle, an active PCTA member, is excited to support this delegation by facilitating introductions, enabling B2B meetings, and creating collaboration opportunities with Canadian tech companies. From technology transfer to joint ventures and research partnerships, the goal is to foster an environment where ideas, insights, and innovations flow freely between both markets. Through the Summit—and through pre-conference B2B engagements—PCTA aims to spark meaningful discussions that translate into long-term commercial outcomes. Strengthening the Future of Canada–Pakistan Collaboration The rebranding of PCTA marks a new chapter—one focused on creating deeper, wider, and more impactful connections. With dedicated committees, strong institutional support, and an engaged community, PCTA is well-positioned to shape the future of trade, technology exchange, and economic partnership between Pakistan and Canada. Together, we build local. Together, we scale global.
BC Founders Day 2025 Spotlights Vancouver as a Rising AI Hub
The recent BC Founders Day 2025 successfully convened a curated group of founders from across British Columbia for a day of high-level discussion and connection. This annual, founders-only event is designed to foster relationships and share knowledge among the province’s most promising entrepreneurial talent. This year’s program centered on the critical theme of “AI: The Impact and Opportunities,” reflecting the technology’s transformative role across industries. The event featured an impressive lineup of serial entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders, creating a vibrant and insightful gathering. A significant highlight was the series of engaging panel discussions, fireside chats, and one-on-one mentoring sessions. Particularly for me, the event provided unparalleled access to industry experts, including: The success of the event is a testament to the dedicated efforts of Chris Neumann, a recognized community leader whose vision and execution were instrumental in creating such a impactful forum. By attracting global thought leaders, BC Founders Day has amplified Vancouver’s presence on the international AI stage, positioning the city as a vibrant and happening startup ecosystem worthy of attention from enthusiasts and investors alike. Events of this caliber are vital catalysts for regional economic growth. They not only add immense value by sharing proven strategies and lessons learned but also provide aspiring entrepreneurs with tangible role models and paths to success. The event was made possible through the generous support of key sponsors who are deeply committed to nurturing the innovation ecosystem: Fasken, Google Cloud, Boast, Launch, RBCx, and Innovate BC. Their belief in supporting founders and driving positive change is crucial for the community’s continued growth. BC Founders Day 2025 has undoubtedly left a lasting mark, reinforcing the collaborative spirit and ambitious vision that defines British Columbia’s technology sector.
PixelPaddle CEO Joins IEC-BC as “Mentor” in Strengthening Community Support for Skilled Immigrants
On August 16th, 2025, the Immigrant Employment Council of British Columbia (IEC-BC) hosted a breakout workshop at the N3 3.0 Event under the theme “Bridging Expectations: Insights from BC Employers and the Role of Mentorship and Soft Skills.” The session highlighted the importance of building newcomer confidence in navigating the Canadian job market while equipping them with essential soft skills. Programs such as #MentorConnect and #ASCEND were showcased as impactful initiatives that connect newcomers with seasoned professionals and prepare them for long-term career success. Representing the spirit of mentorship and inclusion, Mr. Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle and Mentor at IEC-BC, actively participated in the event. As a mentor, he extended his support to new skilled immigrants, sharing his professional experiences and providing guidance on integrating into the Canadian innovation and business ecosystem. His contributions emphasized how mentorship plays a pivotal role in empowering newcomers, bridging cultural and professional gaps, and creating meaningful opportunities. This engagement also reflects PixelPaddle’s broader commitment to community support and inclusive growth. Beyond developing cutting-edge immersive solutions for the Sports Metaverse, PixelPaddle remains dedicated to strengthening the startup ecosystem, supporting economic growth, and ensuring equal opportunities for all. The company aligns its values with Canada’s equal opportunity principles by contributing to initiatives that prepare newcomers for industry demands, foster collaboration, and encourage job creation. Together with IEC-BC, Back in Motion, and other ecosystem partners, PixelPaddle continues to support initiatives that break down barriers and provide pathways for newcomers to thrive in British Columbia’s workforce. This collaboration not only enhances the Canadian job market but also reinforces the collective effort of building a stronger, more inclusive economy for all.