Their destinations may differ, but they all began at the same place. A look at alumni stories of success that started at Ivey.
My name is Taryn and I was born in Johannesburg, South Africa. We immigrated to Winnipeg, Manitoba, where I grew up until leaving to attend Western University – and eventually Ivey.
After completing an exchange program in Hong Kong, I moved to Toronto to work in advertising, where I had the opportunity to travel across the country and work with more than 60 clients. Being interested in cooking, baking, and living a well-balanced life, I studied to become a Holistic Nutritionist. I eventually left the corporate world to start a sports consultancy supporting sports organizations with strategic planning, governance, sport leadership, and financial management.
I recently moved back to Winnipeg after meeting my now husband, where we live with our daughter and dog.
What led you to your career and how has it evolved over time?
The influence of advertising and how it impacted decision-making drove me to pursue a career in the field – I was fascinated by why people decide to buy one product over another, how they build loyalty to a brand, and what communication or experience leads them to purchase (or not purchase). I interned at BBDO in Chicago after the first year of Ivey and, through connections made at Ivey, I got a job at MacLaren McCann.
After working in the industry for more than 10 years, I decided to explore entrepreneurship. After supporting health companies with their marketing, I met my now business partners and started FSQ Sport, a consultancy that supports the business of sport.
Who inspired you?
My parents! My dad is a surgeon who has spent almost 50 years helping extremely sick patients and their families navigate the complexities of healing. His work ethic and compassion are traits that have led me to want to work with people. My mom has an entrepreneurial flair that sparked multiple businesses and projects over time. Her passion and creativity are traits I try to bring into the work that I do.
They continue to inspire my three siblings and me to connect with others, be part of a community, and enjoy life.
How did Ivey play a role?
Through Ivey, I built a strong business acumen that gave me the confidence to try new things in life. It also introduced me to incredible people who have supported my personal and professional development. My time at Ivey led to lifelong friends and connections that I will forever be grateful I crossed paths with.
Why did you choose the HBA program specifically?
My brother was first interested in the program and was pre-accepted to HBA. When I looked further into it, it felt like the right fit for me as well, as it would provide a strong foundation for a career.
Working in advertising, it gave me the skills to understand the operations of our clients' businesses. The case study method and 48-hour reports taught me to work under tight timelines and ensure presentations were focused and articulate. My brother and younger sister also completed the HBA program.
What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
Quitting my job! I decided in 2018 to leave a great job to see what was next. With no plan and nothing lined up, I had no safety net and had to figure out exactly what I wanted to do next in my career. It led to some quick learning and incredible opportunities. It eventually led me to where I am now, so I am grateful for the journey.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
When I’m not working, I’m taking our golden retriever for a walk, spending time with family, fishing at the cottage, and travelling!
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I have my brown belt in karate, I drove an ice cream truck, and I used to have a side baking business!
What is your favourite memory from your time at Ivey?
It’s hard to pick just one! I would have to say the first week, when I met as many people as possible and took pictures knowing that one day, we would know each other and not just be strangers in our first week. Those pictures are all over the yearbooks, and I now have thousands with those same people throughout the years.
What is the most important takeaway from your Ivey experience?
You never know where the experience at Ivey and the people you meet will take you. Make sure you spend time connecting with others and don’t just try to rush through the program. Your section, cohort, and professors will be the only time that all of you are in the same place at the same time, so enjoy the moments because it will never be the exact same group together again.
Are you still connected to the School in any way?
For the past four years, I have been involved on the Board for both the Ivey Alumni Toronto Network and the Ivey Alumni Network. Being Co-President of the Toronto Chapter provided the opportunity to engage and connect with the largest alumni base globally. I had the opportunity to work with Sharon Castelino to expand engagement across more than eight decades of alumni.
I am currently the Global Chapters Lead, working with the Regional Leads to support chapters around the world to deliver meaningful events for alumni. If you are looking to get involved and reconnect with Ivey alumni, reach out to your local chapter!
