Feeling lonely? TMU grad helps students find new friends and fun in Toronto

It’s easy finding something to do in Toronto, from farmers markets and festivals to pop-up restaurants and art installations (external link) . But finding friends to do those activities with can be more of a challenge. Thanks to long commutes, demanding schedules and lingering isolation after the pandemic, students may find it difficult to make connections on and off campus.

A social startup company incubated in TMU’s Innovation Boost Zone (external link)  (IBZ) is emerging as a creative antidote to social isolation. Co-founded by TMU alumna Nadia Barbosa, Tandem Experiences (external link)  was born out of a need to address the rising levels of loneliness. Tandem Experiences offers both a social club known as Tandem+ that helps facilitate new connections and a discovery app that curates unique local experiences.

“Toronto is vibrant, but can also be incredibly isolating,” said Barbosa, master of business administration ’21. “Our mission is to provide people with more than just events; we’re creating opportunities for real-life connections.”

Forming connections, the key to entrepreneurial success

Barbosa’s journey to founding Tandem Experiences is marked by a blend of practical experience and academic insight. After earning a public relations certificate from The Chang School of Continuing Education, Barbosa decided to pursue her MBA at Ted Rogers School of Management. It was her experience during her MBA that helped her succeed as an entrepreneur after pivoting from a career in business development.

“The MBA and particularly the entrepreneurship electives played a crucial role,” said Barbosa. “It introduced me to the startup ecosystem and provided the skills and network necessary to launch Tandem Experiences.”

That network included The Creative School Professor Owais Lightwala, who was also an MBA student at the time. Professor Lightwala connected Barbosa with Mariel Marshall who designs and develops immersive products in the culture and technology space, and Orion Buske, an innovative entrepreneur and technology mind, and together they co-founded Tandem Experiences. 

With a team and an idea in hand, Lightwala referred Barbosa and her co-founders to the IBZ, which then incubated the company. The IBZ is part of TMU’s Zone Learning network and provides mentorship and resources for technology startups that have the potential for great social impact.

“IBZ has been instrumental in refining our business model and connecting us with a supportive network,” Barbosa said. “The candid feedback and mentorship from other founders and industry experts have been invaluable.”

The resources and programming at the IBZ include a vast network of founders who help each other, offering feedback, support and advice. The IBZ also supports startups build prototypes, find market validation, navigate patents and prepare for fundraising. With the help of the IBZ, Tandem Experiences was able to advance their company.

Filling a need in the market

Tandem Experiences began with its discovery app that helps friends and couples find new and exciting things to do and places to see. However, after gathering feedback from their app users, the team discovered that there was a growing demand for in-person social interaction. 

The Tandem Experiences’ team answered the call with the launch of their social club Tandem+ this past spring, which organizes social events for both members and the wider community. Recent events have included themed socials, intimate dinner parties and art gallery outings. The company is also working with the Ted Rogers School of Management MBA Student Association to host a 90s-themed networking social (external link)  to welcome new students in September.

“We’re about creating environments where people can meet and bond. Our events are intentionally designed to break down barriers and make it easier for people to connect with each other and the community around them,” Barbosa said.

Looking ahead, Tandem Experiences plans to expand beyond Toronto, with a focus on cities known for their rich culinary and culture.