Tsai CITY Fall 2024: Reflections of Growth, Impact, and Innovation

A group of people chatting in a hallway, engaged in lively conversation and enjoying each other's company

As the Fall 2024 semester draws to a close, we are highlighting a semester of innovation, collaboration, and personal growth. This semester, our programs and initiatives supported students in their journey of discovery—empowering them to develop their ventures, deepen connections, and overcome challenges. 

Using the "Rose, Bud, Thorn" framework, we are sharing just a fraction of the impact and growth happening within the Tsai CITY community. This framework highlights the achievements (Roses), opportunities (Buds), and challenges that spur resilience and learning (Thorns). Each perspective highlights the importance of self-discovery, collaboration, and the transformative opportunities that arise through creativity and determination. Together, these elements reflect the multifaceted nature of growth–showing that progress isn't just about what's accomplished but also about what's learned. 

Vivian Cai headshot

Vivian Cai (SOM ’25): Innovating in Sustainability 

Programs: Launch Pad, Climate Innovation Intensive, Green Innovator Community 

Roses: Achievements this Semester

  • Pivoted her venture, Sustentra, to focus on Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) compliance, addressing a critical market gap. Sustentra helps auditors and assurance providers automate CSRD compliance through machine learning and mathematical logic, streamlining workflows, enhancing accuracy, and reducing manual effort–ultimately cutting expensive compliance costs.  
  • Conducted over 20 customer interviews globally, validating her approach and refining the venture's focus.
  • Connected with a PhD candidate in computer science who is considering joining her venture full-time.

“This semester taught me how to navigate uncertainty and make bold decisions. The support from Tsai CITY helped me refine my vision and create something impactful.” 

Buds: Opportunities on the Horizon 
  • Launching her venture by June 2025.
  • Building her team, including a CTO and ESG expert, while exploring accelerator and VC funding. 
  • Deepening relationships with potential early customers.

Thorns: Challenges Faced 
  • Encountered uncertainty during her venture’s pivot. Struggled to secure technical expertise and funding 

“The toughest part was realizing what I didn’t know and finding the right people to fill those gaps. It's a humbling but essential part of the journey.”

Yeabsera Agonfer

Yeabsera Agonfer (DIV ’26): Connecting Communities Through Collaboration 

Programs: Tsai CITY Fellow, Student Funding Coordinator

Roses: Achievements this Semester 
  • Strengthened ties between cultural groups and Tsai CITY, fostering greater inclusivity.  Built a vibrant and supportive community in New Haven. 
  • Gained valuable leadership experience as a Fellow and Funding Coordinator.

“I found so much joy in connecting with people and building community. Being a part of Tsai CITY has been a blessing–it’s helped me grow both personally and professionally. As an early career conceptual photographer, I've always been on the other side of applying for grants. I wanted to have a seat at the table to make funding decisions. It’s important to have representation from people who come from marginalized communities so they can show the value of ideas from those communities."

Buds: Opportunities on the Horizon
  • Leading more workshops and stepping out of her comfort zone.
  • Embracing challenges that push boundaries. 

"I'm really looking forward to pushing my boundaries. Next semester, I'm looking forward to saying yes to everything that scares me. Tsai CITY has given me the platform to experiment and take risks"

Thorns: Challenges Faced
  • Balancing the pressure to make the most of her time at Yale with self-trust and focus.

“Sometimes, there’s this pressure to do more, but I’m learning to trust that I’m on the right path and that the opportunities I need will come.”  

Ericka Kamanou-Tenta headshot

Ericka Kamanou-Tenta (SPH ’26): Empowering Ventures and Preparing for the Future 

Programs: Venture Development Coordinator 

Roses: Achievements This Semester 
  • Supported ventures tackling issues like healthcare and housing insecurity 
  • Witnessed founders grow their initiatives and achieve critical milestones 

“One of the most rewarding parts of my role has been seeing the ventures evolve and knowing that I’ve contributed to their success.” 

Buds: Opportunities on the Horizon
  • Expanding her network and deepening her understanding of entrepreneurship. 
  • Preparing to launch her own venture in the near future. 

“I’m inspired by the founders I’ve worked with and can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned to my own projects.”

Thorns: Challenges Faced 

 No significant challenges this semester, providing a solid foundation for growth.

Frank Cheng headshot

Frank Cheng (SOM ’26): Fostering Venture Capital Knowledge and Innovation 

Programs: Investing in Innovation (I3), Launch Pad 

Roses: Achievements This Semester
  • Built a solid foundation in venture capital through the Investing in Innovation Intensive.
  • Explored investment philosophies in food and agriculture, including cellular agriculture and lab-grown proteins.
  • Connected with Yale alumni in the venture capital field, gaining deeper insights and fostering meaningful relationships.
  • Joined a Launchpad team to develop innovative ideas, including streamlining health insurance processes and using seashells for water filtration and building materials.

“[The Investing in Innovation Intensive]has been transformative. It’s given me the tools to have richer conversations about venture capital and innovation.”

Buds: Opportunities on the Horizon
  • Partnering with two SOM peers to establish a student-run venture capital fund inspired by Gorges Ventures at Cornell.
  • Collaborating with Tsai CITY to expand entrepreneurial opportunities at Yale.

“I’m excited to start a venture capital fund at Yale, giving students the opportunity to invest in startups and grow their skills as investors.”

Thorns: Challenges Faced
  • Balancing a demanding workload while readjusting to student life.

“Getting back into the academic rhythm has been tough, but I’m optimistic that with time and practice, I’ll overcome these challenges.”

Join the Tsai CITY Community

These stories highlight the power of Tsai CITY’s programs and initiatives to inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and support personal and professional growth. As we celebrate this semester’s achievements, we invite you to join our community of changemakers. 

Ready to begin your own journey? Explore our programs and discover how Tsai CITY can help you innovate, collaborate, and lead.