Meet Rayeheh Rezaei, CEO and Founder, North Goose, startGBC December spotlight entrepreneur
About Rayeheh Rezaei
Rayeheh Rezaei is an entrepreneur whose journey encompasses academia, sports, and business. Originating from Iran, Rayeheh relocated to Canada four years ago to pursue higher education and expand her horizons.
Her professional journey is characterized not only by her academic accomplishments but also by a decade-long dedication to professional soccer, competing in various leagues. Rayeheh’s unwavering commitment to health and well-being and a passion for sports have fostered a unique entrepreneurial spirit.
As an individual with a deep commitment to education and an unyielding passion for sports, Rayeheh proudly created North Goose, a pioneering Canadian brand specializing in crafting environmentally friendly insulated water bottles featuring detachable containers, designed for individuals with active lifestyles.
North Goose’s product line is enhanced by practical accessories designed to bring convenience. At North Goose, the vision is to enhance individuals' lives by offering high-quality, sustainable products that seamlessly integrate into their active routines.
With a commitment to quality and innovation, every product undergoes rigorous testing to deliver excellence.
Academic Background
Rayeheh holds a bachelor's degree in industrial management, and a master's degree in IT management, and pursued further studies in Analysis for Business Decision Making at George Brown College.
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
Becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t a sudden decision for me. It was more like a natural path shaped by various experiences in my life. Playing professional soccer taught me a lot about hard work, setting goals, and working with a team. On the academic side, studying management gave me a good understanding of how businesses work and the importance of staying up to date-in a constantly changing world.
But there was something more, something that tied all these experiences together for me. My passion for health and well-being and the observation that there weren't enough practical, high-quality products available for people leading active lives. I felt a deep desire to fill this gap in the market.
So, that's what pushed me to become an entrepreneur. I wanted to create products that could make a difference in people's lives, solving problems and making things better for those who care about their health and staying active. It’s not just about business, it's about the chance to innovate and really help people live better lives.
Why did you create your business?
I started my business because I saw a need in the market that wasn't being met. I noticed there weren't many high-quality, practical and sustainable water bottle options for people who are always on the move, especially for those who love sports and care about their health.
With my background in management and my experience in professional soccer, I wanted to create something that aligned with my values and catered to the needs of health-conscious individuals and athletes. That's why I created North Goose, to offer a product that not only works well but also takes care of the environment.
I believe a successful business should meet the needs of its customers. Starting North Goose was my way of responding to what people were looking for. This business is a way for me to bring together my passions, knowledge, and desire to make a positive impact on our customers' lives.
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
The successful establishment of North Goose, an innovative Canadian brand, specializing in high-quality, environmentally friendly products is a significant achievement. Our commitment to quality and innovation has been recognized by our growing customer base.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to always be ready to learn and adapt. The world of entrepreneurship is ever-changing, so it's essential to keep seeking new knowledge and be open to different ideas. And don't forget the power of networking and seeking guidance from experienced individuals. Surround yourself with people who can offer valuable advice and support.
Any organisations or learning resources you would recommend?
Joining entrepreneurial local networks or industry-specific associations can provide valuable connections and resources. Online platforms such as Coursera or LinkedIn offer courses on entrepreneurship and business management.
Any books or podcasts you would recommend?
I highly recommend books such as “The Art of The Start” by Guy Kawasaki, “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill and "Shoe Dog" by Phil Knight for insights into entrepreneurial journeys. Podcasts like "How I Built This" by NPR offer valuable entrepreneurial stories and lessons.
Anything else you would like to share?
I recall a valuable lesson from my respected professor: Stay committed to your vision, remain resilient when faced with challenges, and remember that every setback is a setup for a comeback. Embrace the journey, learn from it, and keep moving forward.
Website and Socials
Website: www.thenorthgoose.com
Instagram: @thenorthgoose
Facebook: Northgoose
