Building Innovative, AI-Driven & Community-Focused Tech Solutions

Country of Origin: Bangladesh

ETP Year: ETP Fall 2025, Winter 2025, and Summer 2025

Education: Master of Applied Science in Software Engineering, Memorial University of Newfoundland

An ETP alumnus with a Master of Applied Science in Software Engineering, Nusrat is building a career at the intersection of AI, technology, and social impact in Newfoundland. With over seven years of experience in software engineering, she was recognized as a Top Five finalist at the Illuminate 2025 competition hosted by the Memorial Center for Entrepreneurship for her innovative ideas. She is driven by a belief that technology should serve people, especially in healthcare and caregiving, where thoughtful innovation can improve lives.

Why did you participate in ETP? 

I participated in the Entrepreneurial Training Program (ETP) to learn about entrepreneurship and how impactful ideas turn into sustainable ventures. Coming from a strong technical background, I understood how to build solutions, but not how to shape them into viable businesses. ETP bridged that gap by exposing me to business fundamentals, customer discovery, and the incredible entrepreneurial resources available at Memorial University.

What is the most valuable lesson you learned through ETP?

The most valuable lesson I learned through ETP is that meaningful innovation starts with understanding people. Technology becomes powerful only when it is rooted in real needs, lived experiences, and human connection.

How has this lesson benefited you in your career and business pursuits? 

This lesson transformed how I approach my work. I now begin with listening rather than solutions, which has helped me design more relevant products, collaborate effectively across disciplines, and align technical decisions with real-world impact. It has strengthened both my professional confidence and my ability to build technology with purpose.

What is the most valuable skill you developed through ETP & how has it benefited you? 

The most valuable skill I developed through ETP is the ability to clearly articulate a problem and its value. Learning how to validate ideas, communicate vision, and tell meaningful stories has helped me lead conversations, pitch ideas with confidence, and contribute more thoughtfully in both technical and entrepreneurial environments.

What is the most valuable connection you made through ETP?

The ETP community itself was the most valuable connection. Through mentors, instructors, and fellow participants, I found a supportive network that encouraged curiosity, resilience, and impact-driven thinking. These relationships continue to influence how I collaborate and grow.

What is your #1 tip to students considering entrepreneurship?

Let passion guide you. You don’t need to have everything figured out. Start by caring deeply about a problem and taking the first step. Growth, clarity, and confidence come through action. Ask for help when you need it. You’ll find many resources on campus!

What are you up to now? 

I am currently working as a Junior AI Engineer, contributing to AI-driven solutions while continuing to explore how technology can support healthcare, caregiving, and community well-being. I am committed to building technology that creates meaningful, human-centred impact.

If ETP students wish to contact you to learn from your experience and seek your advice, how can they contact you? 

I am happy to share, and please feel free to follow me on LinkedIn and connect if you have any questions.

 

Interviewed by Dr. Hanh Do, ETP Coordinator in the School of Graduate Studies at Memorial University. She can be reached at dtmaihanh@mun.ca