Mentorship That Matters - Part 2: Candid Conversations
If you could have a private conversation with one of Edmonton’s most accomplished entrepreneurial minds, what would you ask? This is your chance.
You’ll join a small group of entrepreneurs for an intimate, mentor-led discussion with one of our ThresholdImpact VMS mentors — Blaine LaBonte, Mike Yasinski, or Justine Barber. No speeches, no scripts — just unfiltered stories, lessons, and insights you won’t find online.
This is a rare opportunity to connect face-to-face with experienced mentors in a meaningful, high-value format — designed to meet you where you are and help you move forward.
Each 30-minute roundtable will host 5–7 entrepreneurs* in a focused, mentor-led session. A second round may be offered based on mentor availability.
Entrepreneurs will be selected through an application process. To apply, please fill out the registration questions by September 21.
The successful entrepreneurs will be notified by October 1, 2025.
Mentor Bios:
Justine Barber is the co-founder of Poppy Barley, a certified B Corporation and trailblazing footwear company committed to ethical manufacturing and sustainable practices. Since launching in 2012, Justine and her sister Kendall have grown Poppy Barley into a nationally recognized brand known for its stylish, responsibly made shoes and accessories. Justine joined ThresholdImpact VMS as an entrepreneur in 2019, and transitioned into a mentor role in 2023.
Blaine LaBonte is a seasoned business leader with more than two decades of experience in international business, corporate growth, and executive leadership. Blaine is the former President and CEO of Cougar Drilling Solutions which was sold to international investors in 2019. Blaine spends his time on family, community projects, startups and angel investing including serving on the Board of Directors for Edmonton Unlimited the VMS Board of Advisors. Blaine has been a mentor in ThresholdImpact VMS since 2016.
Mike Yasinski is a serial entrepreneur best known as the former President, CEO and founder of the hospitality group Gateway Entertainment. Notable brands included Club Malibu, The Armoury, Century Grill, The Standard, The Ranch, Union Hall and Hudsons Canada’s pub, where he grew a single location into a national brand. Today having sold all his interests, Mike spends his time running marathons around the world and helping his son, Max, grow his first venture, Max Yardcare. Mike has been a mentor with ThresholdImpact VMS since 2020.
ThresholdImpact Venture Mentoring Service (TIVMS) is transforming Edmonton’s entrepreneurs into the next generation of world-class leaders. Fueled by the University of Alberta and based on the proven MIT model, each entrepreneur is supported by a team of mentors who take a non-directive, entrepreneur-first approach. This high-performance model helps entrepreneurs navigate the complex challenges and uncertainties that come with scaling a venture. Our mentors don’t tell entrepreneurs what to do - instead, they coach, challenge, share insights, and offer new perspectives rooted in real experience, helping entrepreneurs uncover the answers that are truly right for them. For more information visit www.thresholdimpactvms.com