Michelle Gindl is a communications professional with a diverse range of experiences in both corporate and entrepreneurial environments. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Calgary, where she gained a solid foundation in effective communication strategies.  After graduation, Michelle worked as a corporate writer for SMED, a Canadian manufacturer of industrial products, where she honed her writing and editing skills.  Seeking new challenges, she moved to Ecuador and spent three years running an oil service company, where she gained valuable experience in business development, project management, and International operations.  After taking time off to raise her family, Michelle is now returning to her passion for communications by joining Octopus & Son as the head of their communications department. In this role, she is responsible for developing and executing communication strategies that enhance their client’s brand, engage stakeholders and support business growth and objectives. Michelle's diverse background in communication, business and international operations make her a valuable asset to any organization. She is passionate about using her skills to help companies achieve their goals and drive growth in a rapidly changing business landscape.

Sonja is currently a student at the University of Calgary pursing a Dual Degree in Commerce and Economics with a Concentration in Finance with an embedded certificate in Entrepreneurial Thinking. As an international business case competitor, she has had exposure to a variety of business concentrations which lend hand to her ability to engage an audience. Her passion for learning new things is displayed in all she does and is what brought her here!

Marika started her journey by getting a Bachelor Degree in International Business Management and French Language. This study took her to Paris where she worked at UNESCO in Communications and Information. After graduating from her Master’s in Energy and Sustainable Development Management (honours) in Paris she continued working abroad in Project Management before returning to Canada to join our team. Her studies and experience have helped her develop her skills in business strategy as well as enhance her skills in communication. In her free time, Marika enjoys volunteering and is currently sitting on the Board of Directors for The Goldmind Project as the Director of Green Projects.

A professor at the University of Mount Royal where he teaches Information Design, Corey's love for simple and powerful designs show in all his work.

Dario Joseph Verrelli is the founder of Octopus & Son Social Media Inc., a digital marketing agency located in Calgary, Alberta. He also cofounded Work Nicer Coworking (the largest Coworking space in Alberta) and is the founder of the visual social media scheduling platform, Socialveil. Dario also teaches Digital Marketing Strategy at Mount Royal University and serves on the IMC Advisory Committee at Bow Valley College’s Chiu School of Business. Outside of these endeavours, his passions include travelling (but not flying), where he has had the joy of living abroad several times, social sciences and the presence of his young son, Félix, whom he affectionately calls The Fatness.