NACO Canada Women Founder Spotlight Series: Bronwyn Bridges
The Women Founder Spotlight Series celebrates women entrepreneurs' extraordinary journeys and accomplishments in the Newfoundland and Labrador tech industry. Through a series of profiles and interviews, this initiative showcases the resilience, innovation, and influence of women who have forged new paths in the local tech ecosystem.
In this edition, we feature Bronwyn Bridges, CEO and Co-Founder of PragmaClin, a company dedicated to developing digital approaches to managing Parkinson's Disease. As a Genesis Enterprise company, PragmaClin exemplifies the spirit of innovation and commitment to improving healthcare. Join us as we explore Bronwyn's inspiring journey, her insights on collaboration and community, and her vision for the future of tech in Newfoundland and Labrador.
GENESIS: Can you share with us your journey into the tech industry and what motivated you to become an entrepreneur?
BRONWYN BRIDGES: My leap into tech came from an unexpected angle—I was just diving into my MSc Pharmacy when I met Gord Genge, a recently diagnosed Parkinson's Disease patient with an eagerness to help fill gaps in the current market. We did a lot of research and noticed how much tech could revolutionize patient care. This gap between potential and reality sparked my interest, and I taught myself everything from the science of the technology we were going to build, all the way the business lessons I would need to learn. The real push to become an entrepreneur? Seeing the direct impact tech could have on improving lives. I wanted to be at the forefront of creating solutions that made healthcare smarter and more accessible. It's been a journey full of challenges, but every hurdle has taught me something valuable.
G: How have community and collaboration played a role in your entrepreneurial journey?
BB: Community and collaboration have been the backbone of my journey. Diving into tech, the support from local meetups, industry events, and other founders was invaluable. They connected me with mentors, peers, and my future team, helping us to pool diverse talents and ideas. It’s this spirit of teamwork that fueled PragmaClin's growth and allowed us to contribute to Newfoundland and Labrador's tech scene. In short, it's not just about what we're building, but about building it together—that's what's made all the difference.
G: What unique challenges have you faced as a female entrepreneur in the tech industry, and how have you overcome them?
BB: Facing challenges as a female entrepreneur in tech, well, it's been a bit of a journey. The industry, as exciting as it is, hasn't always been the most welcoming space for women. There've been times when I've walked into a room and felt the weight of being one of the few, if not the only, women there. It's a mix of being overlooked in conversations or having my expertise underestimated. But, honestly, these challenges have only fueled my determination.
Overcoming these obstacles meant leaning heavily into my network of fellow women in tech—finding mentorship, offering support, and sharing experiences. It's been about proving value through action, letting the success of PragmaClin speak for itself. I've also focused on building a company culture that champions diversity and inclusion, aiming to pave the way for more women to lead and innovate in tech. Facing these challenges head-on has taught me resilience, the power of community, and the importance of lifting others as we climb. It's not just about navigating the tech world as a female entrepreneur; it's about changing the landscape for the better. For those who have met me, it's also all about a colorful pantsuit to bring out the confidence as well when you need a boost!
G: Can you tell us about a particularly impactful collaboration or partnership that has contributed to your success?
BB: Definitely, one of the most transformative collaborations for me was with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, especially during a mission to Japan in 2022. This wasn't just a trip; it was a doorway to international markets and a chance to dive deep into the world of global tech collaboration. More than that, it introduced me to an incredible network of Canadian founders. These connections have been invaluable, leading to introductions and partnerships that have significantly fuelled PragmaClin's growth and success.
The experience with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada truly broadened my horizon, showing me the immense potential of cross-border collaborations. It underscored the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and the incredible impact of building a strong network. These connections within the Canadian tech community have not only supported PragmaClin but have also enriched my journey as an entrepreneur, proving that sometimes, the most impactful collaborations come from where you least expect them.
G: How do you approach continuous improvement and learning within your business?
BB: At PragmaClin, continuous improvement and learning is a big part of that is empowering our team to actively contribute to our evolution. We’ve cultivated a space where everyone is encouraged to suggest changes, identify areas for growth, and explore new ideas. This openness not only drives innovation but also fosters a strong sense of ownership and engagement across the team.
We actively encourage our team members to dive into courses, workshops, and any other learning opportunities that can broaden their skill sets and perspectives. This focus on learning from the ground up—valuing the insights and initiatives from every team member—ensures we stay at the cutting edge of healthcare technology while nurturing a culture of continuous growth and improvement.
G: What do you see as the unique benefits or opportunities of running a tech-based business in Newfoundland and Labrador?
BB: Running a tech-based business in Newfoundland offers some unique advantages that I truly cherish. Firstly, there's the sense of community here—it's unparalleled. Newfoundland and Labrador might not be the biggest tech hub, but the level of support, camaraderie, and openness within the local tech scene is something special. This tight-knit community fosters incredible opportunities for collaboration and networking, making it easier to share resources, knowledge, and even forge partnerships.
Another significant benefit is the growing interest and support from both the government and local institutions for tech innovation. There's a real push to diversify the economy through technology, which means more funding opportunities, resources, and programs designed to support startups like ours. Plus, the quality of life here is just amazing. The ability to blend a tech career with the lifestyle Newfoundland and Labrador offers—breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and a close-knit community—helps in attracting and retaining top talent who are looking for more than just a job but a fulfilling life. All these factors combined make Newfoundland and Labrador not just a place to run a tech business, but a place to grow it with a quality of life that’s hard to match.
G: Can you share a memorable success story or achievement that you're proud of?
BB: One of my most heartwarming success stories doesn’t come from a financial breakthrough or a pivotal business deal; it’s about a little girl named Clara and a moment that captures the essence of why I do what I do at PragmaClin. During the COVID-19 pandemic, like many, we adapted to virtual settings for our pitch competitions. After one of these online presentations, something truly special happened. Clara, who had been watching with her mom, expressed that when she grows up, she wants to be "just like the purple hair scientist." Her mom shared this with me, and it immediately became a beacon of inspiration.
This feedback from Clara, relayed through her mom, was a poignant reminder of the impact we can have that goes far beyond our immediate work. It reinforced the idea that our influence extends into inspiring the next generation, showing them possibilities they might not have imagined. Clara's words have energized my commitment to not only push the boundaries of technology in healthcare but also to champion the cause of female empowerment in STEM. Knowing that Clara sees a role model in the "purple hair scientist" underscores the importance of visibility and representation, motivating me to continue breaking barriers and cultivating an environment where young girls feel empowered to dream big and pursue careers in tech. This story keeps me grounded, reminding me daily of the profound impact we can make on individuals' lives and the responsibility we have to inspire and support future generations.
G: How do you envision your business making a positive impact on the local community, the broader tech industry, and Newfoundland and Labrador's tech ecosystem in the future?
BB: My vision for PragmaClin is all about creating a ripple effect of positive impact, starting right here in our local community and radiating out to the broader tech world and Newfoundland and Labrador's growing tech ecosystem. Locally, we're focused on providing more than just jobs; we aim to build careers that nurture talent and encourage community contribution. Our bigger picture involves positioning PragmaClin as a beacon of innovation within Newfoundland and Labrador, showcasing our region as a tech powerhouse. Through partnerships, advocacy for STEM education, and a commitment to inclusivity, we're dedicated to boosting Newfoundland and Labrador's reputation as a vibrant tech hub. It's not just about our success—it's about lifting the entire community and inspiring a legacy of innovation and engagement across the tech industry.
G: What advice would you give to other women who are interested in pursuing entrepreneurship in the tech sector?
BB: For women eyeing entrepreneurship in the tech sector, my advice is to embrace your unique perspective and lean into the strengths that set you apart. The tech world needs more diverse voices to drive innovation and create solutions that reflect the needs of all users. Don't let the fear of stepping into what has traditionally been a male-dominated space deter you. Your ideas, your resilience, and your approach to problem-solving are invaluable.
Start by building a supportive network. Connect with mentors, join women-in-tech groups, and surround yourself with people who encourage your ambitions. Remember, resilience is key. You'll face challenges and setbacks, but it's all part of the journey. Each obstacle is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your vision.
Finally, don't underestimate the power of visibility. Share your journey, your successes, and your challenges. By doing so, you not only pave the way for other women but also contribute to a more inclusive, dynamic tech ecosystem. The path to entrepreneurship is rarely straightforward, but it's incredibly rewarding. Dive in with courage, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference. Your voice is needed, now more than ever, to shape the future of technology.
G: Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for the future of your business and your impact on Newfoundland and Labrador's tech ecosystem?
BB: My vision for PragmaClin is to not only lead in healthcare technology but also to make a meaningful impact on Newfoundland and Labrador's tech ecosystem. I want to elevate PragmaClin to be a beacon of innovation from Newfoundland and Labrador, demonstrating our global relevance while fostering local growth. My goals extend beyond business success; I'm focused on nurturing a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and mentorship within our tech community. By collaborating with educational institutions and supporting emerging talents, I aim to inspire and empower the next generation of tech pioneers. Ultimately, I aspire to show that great innovation can emerge from Newfoundland and Labrador, contributing to both our local and global tech reputation. Most importantly, I want to prove that you can, indeed, do it all.
Special thanks to NACO Canada for supporting Genesis in sharing the stories of women founders who are making a difference in the tech industry through the Women Founder Spotlight Series.
