Her Story
About Sarah
I started working in startups and tech when really young, inspired by entrepreneurship as a way of life from my Indian background. In college I helped build a nonprofit supporting over a million Canadians becoming entrepreneurs and built one of Canada's first public-private accelerators and largest innovation space. I launched an e-commerce startup that was Shopify's 1,000th customer. Recruited by Google, I spent over 10 years building creator programs, accelerators, and campaigns to help startups access tools and shape AI in Canada. After moving to Los Angeles, I joined AILA, one of Southern California's largest nonprofits focused on responsible AI, where I handle partnerships, fundraising with organizations like Google, TikTok, and Snapchat, and run programs to upskill individuals in AI.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sarah
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My dad taught me that your worth is what you negotiate. It means your value is determined by what you negotiate for yourself, not just about money but broader value.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself. You have to believe in yourself because no one is going to believe more in you than you do.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunity and challenge is moving AI from hype to meaningful adoption and humanizing AI. We need to ensure trust, inclusion, and real-world impact keep pace with the technology, helping startups and communities adopt emerging tech responsibly while addressing concerns about data safety and ethical use.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, resilience, community, and purpose are the four big values. Resilience comes from my mother's battle with cancer for 20 years, teaching us to positively get back up. Building community and meaningful work through purpose is key in both professional and personal life.
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