The Influence of Family and Hometown on Entrepreneurship Success

Former Sarnia resident Marien Zanyk, currently residing in Connecticut, attributes her entrepreneurial spirit to her family and hometown. As the youngest of four girls, she recalls the unwavering support and can-do attitude that surrounded her. Her father, an engineer at Dow, played a significant role in nurturing her curiosity for science.

Reflecting on her formative experiences in Sarnia, Zanyk fondly remembers enjoying fries under the Blue Water Bridge and conducting impromptu science experiments with objects found on the shore. Her early fascination with science led her to pursue a doctorate of philosophy in experimental pathology from Western University after studying physical therapy and genetics.

Zanyk, now the founder of Zaneez Health and Fitness Equipment, is a seasoned consultant for medical devices, holding four patents for therapeutic devices, including the innovative AnkleStone. Inspired by the natural landscapes surrounding her, she developed the AnkleStone, a contoured device designed to provide foot and ankle relief. Her product has garnered interest from prominent sports organizations such as the NBA and U.S. soccer.

In addition to her entrepreneurial pursuits, Zanyk is dedicated to filling a void in ankle and foot care that she identified during her time as a consultant. She has received support from various companies and organizations in Connecticut, including the business accelerator Forge, for which she serves as an advisor.

Zanyk’s journey from Sarnia to Connecticut has involved a series of employment-related moves, leading her to embrace the unconventional mindset of an entrepreneur. She attributes much of her courage and inspiration to the adventures and experiences she encountered growing up in Sarnia, citing it as the foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit.

In conclusion, Marien Zanyk’s journey underscores the profound impact that family and a nurturing hometown can have on one’s entrepreneurial path. Her unwavering dedication to innovation and her commitment to filling a gap in the market reflect the values instilled in her during her formative years in Sarnia.