Nivatha Balendra, BSc’22, is the founder and CEO of Dispersa, a Quebec-based cleantech company that she started during her undergraduate studies at McGill.
The inspiration behind Dispersa came after the devastating Lac-Mégantic rail disaster and oil spill in 2013. Balendra wondered how oil spills were being cleaned up, and if there was a more sustainable solution. Dispersa produces biosurfactants, which are natural alternatives to chemicals commonly found in cleaning products, cosmetics, and personal care products, among others.
Balendra always knew she wanted to study at McGill because of its strong health sciences program. She minored in international development and participated in the Dobson Cup, which allowed her to network with other entrepreneurs at the University. McGill also gave her the flexibility to balance studying and starting the company.
As Dispersa continues its innovative and sustainable mission, Balendra shared her academic and professional journeys with us.