Tech Expert | Journalist | Popular Media Personality
Contributor to BBC World News Service
Takara Small is a gifted multitasker. She appears on CBC Radio’s Metro Morning as a technology columnist, discussing the latest tech trends, breaking news and more. Additionally, Takara is heard on “I’ll Go First,” a podcast which she hosts, and co-produces with the Globe and Mail. “I’ll Go First,” was named Canada’s number one tech podcast in 2018. In 2021, Takara debuted ‘A Death in Cryptoland,’ which debuted as #1 the True Crime show and the only Canadian show on Apple’s top 10 in its debut.
Before her radio and podcast success, she was the contributing editor for Fortune magazine and a staff writer at Metro News Canada. Takara also acted as a production assistant for Much Music. Much of her freelance work can be found in Chatelaine, Mic, Toronto Star, CP24, Refinery29 and more.
Takara contributes her knowledge to consulting work with national brands too. She produces original work, competitive analysis and market research to help brands grow. Some of the big names she’s worked with include Financial Post, African Congress and MovetheDial!
Her expertise has taken her across the globe to speak to audiences at major events such as Collision, Elevate, Social Media Week, DisruptionByDesign, International Women in Tech summit and more.
A longtime advocate for technology, Takara founded and oversees VentureKids Canada, an award-winning nonprofit that provides free coding classes and startup workshops to youth living in low-income or underserved communities.
TOPICS
Digital Transformation – Accelerating Growth Through Technology
A master of her craft, Takara provides a definitive outlook on the technology that is reshaping our world. From AI and advanced robotics, to data and digital health, she offers a glimpse into the future balanced with what organizations can do today to drive growth.
Small Town Innovation – A Practical Guide
Takara helps regional leaders see around corners and understand how innovation and technology can fuel growth and happiness in their communities.
Education – Teaching Tech
As the founder of VentureKids Canada, education and development of youth is vital to Takara. She brings a fresh perspective to help educators understand, at a practical level, the tech changes that are taking palace, the mindsets of youth in their interactions with technology, and the opportunities that we can tap into to leverage technology as a resource when it comes to education.
