About US

Harrison is the Founder and Director of NextGen EDU. Harrison is serial entrepreneur in both the technology and education spaces. Harrison founded NextGen EDU after researching and understanding the growing need for young people to develop knowledge and skills related to the technologies of tomorrow.

Desiree, as the Head of Curriculum at NextGen EDU, is responsible for the continued development of the AI program. She works with both academic and industry partners to complete the research and development of NextGen EDU programs. Desiree is a data scientist and machine learning engineer and holds a postgraduate degree in computer science with a focus in machine learning from Lakehead University.

Kelly heads up the program team at NextGen EDU. In her role, she manages the operations of NextGen EDU cohorts, supports in the R&D of new programs and facilitates feedback and iteration from students and instructors to ensure the program is operating at its best. Kelly has previously held product and project management roles at organizations such as RBC and is currently pursuing a Master of Applied Science in Systems Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo.

Nick Romano is the co-founder and CEO of Deeplite AI, serial entrepreneur, senior Enterprise Technology executive, Outside Director, and advisor delivering successful outcomes through leadership, integrity, innovation, and empowerment for over 20 years. Prior to Deeplite Nick was cofounder and CEO of several successful Canadian tech companies including Messagepoint, Prinova Software and Prinova Technologies. Nick is a central part of the curriculum team bringing industry knowledge and expertise central to creating an applied AI program.

Dr. Garima Bajwa, Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Lakehead University, plays a crucial role in the research and development efforts of the curriculum team at NextGen EDU. Her Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of North Texas and her experience as an AI and machine learning researcher significantly influence curriculum development. Dr. Bajwa's research work and interests span brain-computer/machine interfaces, machine learning applications, and cybersecurity, which equip her with a unique perspective to shape a curriculum that delivers a high-impact program.

Kevin advises CEOs, founders, and boards on growth, resilience, and innovation, with a focus on the futures of work, learning, and the planet. He was a former senior leader at Doblin, the strategy, innovation, and design consultancy acquired by Monitor Deloitte. Kevin helped build and scale Doblin in Canada while leading major strategy, transformation, venture-building, and innovation programs for executives. Following Deloitte, he founded and led the design and innovation studio of Canada's largest creative university, including leading their incubator and venture fund for design-driven startups. The strategy and innovation work Kevin has led has been profiled in the Globe & Mail, National Post, Toronto Life, University Affairs, and as a TEDx speaker.