Meet our team
Our team of approachable mentors build genuine connections with every client, navigating entrepreneurial journeys through business expertise and experience.
Alana Currier
Director of Operations
Alana has been with the Innovation Cluster since 2017 and continues to bring her detail-oriented, organized, and solution-driven approach to ensure that the daily operations of the Innovation Cluster’s two incubators, events, and other programming run seamlessly.
Her responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Booking meetings between clients and partners
- Planning and executing public and private workshops
- Community outreach
- Internal and external event planning
- Managing the Board of Directors
- Assisting in program planning, implementation, and management
- Managing the Startup Visa Program
- Managing AR Makerspace
Alana has a Bachelor of Arts in History from Trent University and a post-graduate certificate in Event Management from Algonquin College.
Areas of Expertise
- Event Planning, Coordination & Execution
- Event Marketing
- Client Relations
- Community Relations
- Organizational Operations
- Program Planning & Management
Zahra Shafiei
Program Lead - International and Domestic
After earning her Master’s in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Toronto Metropolitan University, Zahra became an essential pillar of support for international startup founders in Canada, drawing from her own immigrant experience. Proficient in English and Farsi, she seamlessly bridges cultures, assisting founders with business models, cash flow, and market strategies. Off-duty, she enjoys skating, biking, or skiing in the Canadian chill. She loves great coffee, so be sure to enjoy a cup when you visit her office.
Areas of Expertise
- Business model
- Financial Cash-flow
- Go-to-Market Strategies
Ann-Majella McKelvie
Program Coordinator
Ann-Majella McKelvie is a passionate advocate for gender equality and social justice. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Women’s Studies, which has informed her work in various roles. She has previously worked as the Administrative and Projects Coordinator in the Housing Department at Trent University, where she gained valuable experience in project management and administration.
In addition, Ann-Majella has experience working in the political arena as a Recruitment Supervisor for the Hamilton Centre riding in both the provincial and federal elections. Her commitment to empowering marginalized communities has also led her to volunteer with various organizations.
During her downtime, Ann-Majella enjoys cooking and baking, spending time with loved ones, watching movies and TV shows, and embarking on new adventures.
As a member of the StartUP Visa Program team, she supports the administrative and strategic aspects of the program, connecting clients with experts and advisors and fostering partnerships with potential clients. Her expertise in these areas allows her to make a valuable contribution to the program and its mission to support innovative international entrepreneurs.
Jordan Underwood
Administrative and Events Coordinator
Jordan is a Trent University graduate with a Bachelor of Sciences in Psychology who brings a wealth of experience to our team. She has worked in operational management and business growth, keeping things running smoothly at Sephora and expanding business horizons at the Sudbury East Chamber of Commerce. Jordan has also demonstrated her leadership skills in university associations and her passion for community service.
Now, Jordan is bringing her organizational and event planning skills to our doorstep, ready to make our operations smoother and our community events more engaging than ever. She is committed to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs on their journey to success.
Jordan’s life outside the office is equally vibrant. She loves spending time outdoors with her dog, Toby, practicing yoga, and planning adventures with her friends!