Partner Spotlight: Mary Johnson, Founding Partner at Ablaze Collective
3 MIN READ
APRIL 2, 2024
In the dynamic world of fintech, where innovation meets impact, Mary Johnson (“Mary”) shines as a beacon of transformative change. As a founding partner of Ablaze Collective, Mary brings a wealth of experience from the heart of Silicon Valley and the forefront of technological advancement, particularly in big data and artificial intelligence, thanks to her significant work with IBM's Watson AI.
A Visionary Angel Investor
Mary's reputation as a distinguished angel investor is not just built on her financial acumen but on her profound commitment to mentoring and nurturing startups. Based in Toronto, her journey has been characterized by strategic investments in companies poised to revolutionize their industries. More than providing capital, Mary's approach is deeply rooted in guiding these young enterprises towards sustainability and leadership in their respective markets.
Rekindling Old Bonds for a New Future
The decision to join Ablaze Collective and partner with Jessica Kentch (“Jess”) was spurred by a poignant moment at a fintech conference that Jess was speaking at. Mary had not been in contact with Jess for over a decade since they worked together at Molson Coors as promotional models during their undergrad. Witnessing Jess speak about her vision for the fintech world with such raw emotion and authenticity, to the point of tears, really resonated with her and felt a pull from the universe to ‘lean in.’ Jess's ability to connect with people on an emotional level, seeing them as family rather than mere attendees, mirrored Mary's belief in the power of startups to create positive change beyond profit. Convinced by Jess's pre-existing fintech community and network, Mary decided to bring her wealth of experience as an angel investor to the table, aiming to grow the fintech startup into a thriving community. This partnership underscores a shared goal: to not only advance technological innovation but to foster a culture of inclusivity, support, and genuine connection, transforming the fintech space into a home for all involved.
Empowering Innovation with Purpose
Mary's role at Ablaze Collective is pivotal, leveraging her vast experience and network to nurture a fintech ecosystem that is innovative, inclusive, and impactful. Her partnership with Jess is a testament to their shared commitment to not just technological innovation but to creating a space where everyone feels at home. This ethos is what sets Ablaze Collective apart, transforming the fintech landscape into a community that supports and uplifts its members.
Life Beyond the Boardroom
During her downtime, Mary loves exploring the natural beauty of Toronto, from sailing on Lake Ontario to hiking in Rouge National Urban Park. Her frequent trips to Calgary for team meetings also allow her to enjoy the Rocky Mountains. Recently, Jess introduced her to snowboarding, and she swiftly graduated from the beginner's bunny hill. After a day on the slopes, they're likely to be found at Lake Louise's après-ski spots, where they’re telling business stories with IPAs in hand. Mary takes stories over IPAs very seriously.
A Catalyst for Change in Fintech
Mary’s journey from Silicon Valley's tech startup scene to the heart of Ablaze Collective encapsulates a story of innovation, connection, and purpose. Her contributions to the fintech sector and her unwavering support for startups are instrumental in shaping a more inclusive and impactful industry. Mary's vision for Ablaze Collective goes beyond mere financial success; it is about fostering a community where technology serves as a force for good, empowering change, and creating a sense of belonging for all involved.