Drive, Passion, and an Abundance of Growth

Sepehr (Sep) Assadian may shy away from the spotlight, but his impact on ventureLAB has been profound, making him a cornerstone of the organization’s growth. He describes himself as “just part of the team,” yet colleagues acknowledge him as a key figure who has shaped programs, systems, and the organizational culture.

Sep's journey began as a new immigrant in Canada, where he volunteered at a pitch event for ventureLAB, then a small team of about twelve. Today, the organization has expanded to over sixty employees and a network of over seventy-five advisors. Many of those advisors were hired or trained by Sep, who played a significant role in developing departments, processes, and support systems aimed at assisting Ontario's tech entrepreneurs.

His connection to ventureLAB runs deep; he notes that it’s not just a job but a significant part of his life. Over the past eight years, he has been involved in virtually every facet of the organization, from reorganizing internal operations to launching data systems and establishing new founder programs. Initially volunteering as a coordinator, Sep jumped into the role with enthusiasm, despite having limited knowledge of the organization. His initiative quickly earned him promotions, leading to team management and the formation of new departments.

Sep emphasizes a long-term perspective in his endeavors. His belief that "trust and respect are non-negotiable" shapes his leadership philosophy. He encourages a culture where employees are free to learn and make mistakes, fostering an environment that allows for risk-taking. This inclusive leadership style has connected a diverse workforce, from Gen Z staff to seasoned industry experts.

Outside of his professional life, Sep is a devoted father of two and engages actively in his daughters' school, often sharing stories. He describes his life as split between a “real job from 5 to 9” as a dad and a “fun job from 9 to 5” at ventureLAB. His culinary skills are notable; he enjoys cooking elaborate breakfasts for his family and harbors aspirations of becoming a professional chef. This passion is so strong that he once took on early shifts at Starbucks while serving as VP at ventureLAB.

Sep regards cooking as therapeutic, much like his interest in crime dramas as a form of escapism. He’s the go-to person for discussions on shows like "Criminal Minds" or "Law & Order" before dawn.

What truly distinguishes Sep is his heart-driven leadership. He celebrates team accomplishments over his own and builds quietly, allowing others to shine. When asked about his proudest achievement, he often reflects on his role as a father, asserting that everything else he builds is for his daughters.

Today, ventureLAB stands as a hub of high-growth companies and innovative programs, a testament to Sep's continuous efforts. He consistently envisions the future, working tirelessly behind the scenes to propel the organization forward. Through his commitment and leadership, Sep Assadian has become an invaluable asset to ventureLAB, embodying a culture of growth, collaboration, and mutual support.