Meet the speakers of Momentum Kotahi Series Whā
Founder & CEO - Dare to Share
Alli is the Founder and CEO of Dare to Share- aiming to gamify financial literacy. She is about to launch their first product, a board game to teach families how to invest in shares. She started the business in 2021 while studying her commerce degree at the University of Canterbury through being heavily involved in the entrepreneurship community.
Co-Founder & COO - Kami
Alliv Samson is the COO and Co-Founder of Kami, a Kiwi ed-tech company that is transforming the way students and teachers engage and collaborate with learning resources. Alliv has helped grow Kami’s user base to nearly 40 million users across 180 countries in just over a decade. Having previously mentored university students through The University of Auckland Velocity Programme and Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Alliv is energised by sharing her wealth of experience to nurture and guide New Zealand’s leaders and pioneers of tomorrow.
Water Engineer - WSP
Alyce is an uri of Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Ranginui of Tauranga Moana and McLysaght Clan of Ireland. She is a Water Engineer and sits on the Physical Sciences Return on Science Investment Committee. Alyce is also the host of the ‘Māori in Engineering’ podcast, an interview based podcast that she started to elevate Māori in the engineering world. In everything she does, she aims to have an intergenerational mindset and that will be evident in her kōrero.
Venture Partner - Matū
Andrew is one of the founding committee members of Momentum, and now sits on the Wellington Momentum Investment Committee and Return On Science Digital Technologies Investment Committee. He is also a Venture Partner with Matū, an early-stage science and deep tech venture capital fund, and a Research Fellow with Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures at Waipapa Taumata Rau – The University of Auckland.
Investment Associate - Icehouse Ventures
Bex caught the entrepreneurial bug at a young age and has spent the past 10 years working on both her own and others’ startups. She joined Icehouse Ventures - NZ's most active early-stage venture capital firm - as an Investment Associate in 2020, with the focus of finding and investing in brave Kiwi founders building transformational companies. Bex is also the lead for Arc, a $10m Icehouse Ventures fund and investment network that invests in women-led ventures in Aotearoa.
Founder & CEO - Tether
Brandon is the founder and CEO of Tether, a New Zealand tech start-up created to connect us with the spaces we work, learn and live in. Brandon immigrated from South Africa to New Zealand in 2011 as a senior systems engineer responsible for building complex IT systems. His professional career is wide ranging from waiting on tables in his teens, to travel recruitment, electrical sales, and at one stage the owner of a restaurant, conference centre, and dance & movement studio. In early 2014 Brandon founded Cryptex, New Zealand’s first Bitcoin payment system and his first Kiwi venture. In 2018 Tether was born, when an opportunity to solve a big problem for New Zealand’s largest state housing provider was uncovered. Over the last 5 years Brandon and the Tether team have overcome some incredible obstacles.
CEO - Contempo Lab
Brian is an experienced entrepreneur with expertise in technology strategy, commercialisation, and venture capital. He founded and led Zephyr Technology Corp, a venture-backed company specialising in military and healthcare. Brian's experience spans analogue optics design, silicon chip design, FDA medical product development, and computational modeling using AI for cognitive sensing and decision support tools. He has worked with organisations such as NASA, DHS, and NCSU, and held advisory positions for their medical and military programs. Brian has a PhD in AI modeling of cognitive and physical fatigue and a Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. He currently runs a technology consulting and AI product company and is a research associate at AUT SPRINZ and the University of Auckland’s Auckland Bioengineering Institute.
Co-Founder & CEO - Bambax
Cameron co-founded Bambax in the final year of his studies with childhood friend and engineer Callum Windley. He is passionate about the plastic waste crisis and works to create a more sustainable environment here at home in New Zealand.
He pursued a degree in industrial design in Canterbury specializing in sustainable materials and manufacturing.
CEO - Otago Innovation Ltd
David Christensen is a highly respected figure in the commercialization ecosystem and is the CEO of Otago Innovation. Dave is in charge of the identification, protection, and transfer of intellectual property out of the University of Otago and is the director of exciting spinout companies like Amaroq Therapeutics and Upstream Medical Technologies. Dave is a passionate advocate for innovation and has been a longstanding supporter of programmes like Momentum and Return on Science. He is sought out for his insights and perspectives which are highly valued in advancing commercialization in New Zealand and beyond.
Commercialisation Manager - Otago Innovation Ltd
Deanna completed her PhD in Anatomy/Neuroscience (2021) investigating novel therapeutics for recovery following stroke. She continued her research career working as an ARF differentiating human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into neurons to investigate the neuronal biology and function of neurodevelopmental disorders.
In early 2020, Dee joined the Return on Science Otago Momentum Investment Committee and discovered she has a passion for critically thinking about start-ups and their opportunities for commercial success. Following the completion of her PhD, Dee joined the Otago Innovation team - along with continued involvement in the Return on Science programme joining both the Biotech & Pharma, and Medtech & Surgery Investment Committee’s.
Founder & CEO - The Mind Lab
Frances is the founder & Chief Executive of academyEX, a private graduate institute for professionals and EdTech company focused on developing contemporary online learning content for large organisations. Frances has a 26 year career in leading education progress and change initiatives, focused on disruptive technologies, sustainability and system change. She is a highly awarded entrepreneur and advocate focused on equipping and supporting professionals to stay informed and skilled in strategic preparedness for a constantly changing world. Frances holds a Master degree from the University of Melbourne and she is a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Programme Director - Momentum
Graham is an accomplished strategic thinker and executive manager with over 20 years of leadership experience in the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem. He is deeply committed to driving collaboration and delivering significant high-impact outcomes, both domestically and internationally. Graham is a skilled and experienced professional who excels at building strong relationships and driving results. He has a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship and has a track record of success in helping startups and established companies navigate complex challenges and achieve their goals. With his expertise in strategic thinking, business development, and entrepreneurship, Graham is a sought-after speaker and thought leader who inspires audiences around the world.
Managing Partner - Matū
Greg is involved in the commercialisation of novel and scientific technologies through his investment fund Matū. This fund invests in early-stage innovative ideas suitable for disrupting large global markets. Greg has vast experience in CEO or Executive roles in large public multi-national companies both in NZ and internationally. Greg is member of several Momentum and Return On Science Committees.
CSO - BioFab
Besides being a PhD candidate at the University of Auckland and the chair of Auckland Momentum Investment Committee, Jess is also the founding team member and Chief Science Officer at a biotech start-up, BioFab. Jess is a biotechnologist who sits right in the middle of the intersection where academia and industries meet. She converted the R&D project at her startup into her PhD project and is currently working through her second year, assisting in the capital raising activities for BioFab. She is passionate about coming up with new bio-based solutions that can solve pressing environmental issues.
Programme Manager - Momentum
Jules is a Programme Manager for the Return On Science and Momentum Programme. He oversees the Return On Science Digital Technologies Investment Committee and Canterbury Momentum Investment Committee. Jules has been in various leadership roles in organisations such as COO of Entré, a student organisation fostering entrepreneurship, and the vice-president of Lads Without Labels, a men’s mental health charity.
Founder & CEO - Spinpoi
Kate is a scientist, artist, and entrepreneur with a passion for play and well-being. Kate completed her PhD studying the health benefits of poi at the University of Auckland. Kate has since launched her social enterprise SpinPoi which uses poi to improve the quality of life for people of all ages. SpinPoi’s products and services are evidence-based and rooted in Tikanga Māori and have been accredited internationally.
Senior Investment Analyst - Matū
Kiri is a Senior Investment Analyst with Matū Group, responsible for investment and due diligence operations, market intelligence activities, and active portfolio management. for investment and due diligence operations, market intelligence activities, and active portfolio management. She has a double degree in Computer Science and Classics from the University of Otago. Kiri has been a sitting member on a number of national investment committees, including Return on Science Digital Technologies Investment Committee, and was a founding member of Otago Momentum. She is passionate about improving access and engagement of areas of commercialisation and governance for historically underrepresented groups.
Indigenous Intellectual Property Advisor - Kahui Legal
Lynell was the first Māori Patent Attorney and is recognised as a leading expert on indigenous intellectual property rights. Lynell has also explored the use of tikanga as a framework for recognising custodianship and stewardship of indigenous intellectual property rights.
Ko Taranaki te maunga, ko Tangahoe ko Waingongoro ngā awa, ko Aotea te waka, ko Ngāti Ruanui, ko Ngāruahine ngā iwi.
Lynell is a trademark protection and enforcement expert, with experience in helping clients worldwide, ranging from sole traders to multinational companies. Her specialty lies in indigenous intellectual property law in New Zealand and the Pacific, and she is known for her work in advising Māori organizations on IP issues. Lynell has been the Chair of the Indigenous Rights Committee for the International Trademark Association and has served on various governance positions. She co-authored a paper titled "Māori Interests and Geographical Indicators - Strategic Intellectual Property Management Enabling Māori Whānau Development" and also runs a foundation construction business with her husband in Te Whanganui-a-Tara.
CEO - Phase One Ventures
Mahesh supports kiwi founders on their startup journey to growth and success. As CEO of Phase One, he supports founders with strategy sessions, group sessions, mentorship, and connections by sharing his knowledge and expertise from his time working in startups.
Investment Analyst - Movac
Millie joined Movac in 2021 where her primary role involves deal screening, investment case development, and portfolio company support. Millie is currently an Observer on the board of Nanolayr - a deep-tech Nanofibre company. Millie's previous role was as a strategy consultant at L.E.K. Consulting in both Sydney and London where she worked market due diligence projects for private equity clients as well as strategy engagements for large corporates and government. Prior to consulting, Millie worked as a Chemical and Process Engineer at BOC South Pacific in Sydney. Millie has a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours (Chemical and Process) from the University of Canterbury.
Co-Founder & CEO - EatKinda
Milli’s mission is to drive sustainable innovation for New Zealand’s food sector, with health and well-being as a core focus. To achieve this mission, Milli co-founded and is now the CEO of EatKinda, a delicious cauliflower ice cream company. EatKinda has recently launched its ice cream substitute at Hell Pizza and has received exceptional feedback. Milli has previously presented EatKinda to a Momentum Investment Committee and won the Momentum Student Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2022 KiwiNet Commercialisation Awards.
Head of Intellectual Property Legal - Auckland UniServices Ltd
Nicola is the Head of Intellectual Property Legal of Auckland UniServices Ltd., the contract research and commercialisation arm of the University of Auckland. Nicola heads a team of patent attorneys that work very closely with the commercialisation team to take research from the University of Auckland’s staff and students to industry. Nicola is a patent attorney, solicitor and engineer. Nicola is an advocate for education of women and girls in STEM and women working in science and technology. She is also a strong supporter of female students in business and law and has worked with many as a mentor.
CEO - Opo Bio
Olivia is co-founder and CEO of Opo Bio, Aotearoa New Zealand's first cultivated meat startup. She is also a Research Fellow at University of Canterbury and previously worked at Matū Fund as an Analyst. She is a founding member of the Canterbury Momentum Investment Committee and expert Judge for XPRIZE Feed The Next Billion Competition. Her postdoctoral research examined the policy and regulatory environment of cultivated meat, a project hosted and aligned with the Office of the Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor. She is passionate about technology commercialisation and the future of food.
Siân Simpson - MC
CEO - Public Rally
Siân Simpson is a global businesswoman and founder of Public Rally. An agency dedicated to building communities and content strategies for clients in tech, music, AI, crime, legal, and education. Siân is also a sought-after speaker on mental health and leadership, and an early-stage startup investor.
Poutaki Hononga - Auckland UniServices Ltd
Tori currently works to indigenise the Research and Commercialisation spaces of Aotearoa and has extensive governance experience. A young Māori leader, Tori holds a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Arts (Sociology & Psychology).
Tori is passionate about how young people fit into the innovation ecosystem, with experience bringing rangatahi (young people) to this space. She served on the Ministry for Business and Innovation Canterbury Regional Skills Leadership Group, was the first Wahine Māori Chair/President of the University of Canterbury Students Association, Chairs the Canterbury Momentum Investment Committee and Arowhenua Māori School Baord and helps to create pathways for youth in STEM as a Trustee of the Science Alive! Board.
Executive Director Commercialisation - Auckland UniServices Ltd
Will Charles has been Executive Director Commercialisation since 2005. In 2016 he founded and manages the University of Auckland Inventors Fund, a $40m evergreen fund dedicated to start ups generated by staff and students at the University of Auckland. He is the founder and is responsible for the direction of Return On Science, which is part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Economic Development’s Commercialisation Partner Network. Most recently he founded Momentum, a unique national student led investment and start-up funding process that allocates the University of Auckland Inventors Fund to student ventures. He has been a speaker at a number of international Technology Transfer events including the Association of Technology Managers in the US (AUTM) and BioEurope.
Founder & CEO - HeartLab
Will is a tech entrepreneur, engineer, and student at the University of Auckland. Will’s experience includes electronic vehicles, embedded systems, and medical imaging technology. He is the founder and CEO of HeartLab, a startup revolutionising the cardiac imaging sector with its innovative cloud platform. The company has raised over NZ$5M in venture capital, and serves customers across Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
Deeptech Analyst - Matū
A recent PhD graduate from the University of Auckland, Will now works in a variety of roles from R&D consulting to being a founder. Will is passionate about the outdoors and the very nature of his PhD project led him to study and eventually form several start-ups in the aquaculture space. Will’s passion for bringing science into the real world through commercialisation has led him through the Momentum system where he now uses his expert knowledge to chair the Return On Science Agritech & Food Investment Committee.
