Professor Chris Shahabi, a recognized expert in Entrepreneurship, Marketing, International Trade Finance, and Sustainability, believes in a hands-on approach to education. He encourages his students to take action rather than simply learning through theory, creating real-world applications for classroom knowledge. One of the most impactful ways Shahabi has implemented this philosophy is by involving his students with Oxygen, a cutting-edge nanotechnology startup he founded that transforms ordinary walls and ceilings into air purifiers.
Students at the Forefront of Innovation
At Conestoga College, Shahabi’s students have jumped at the opportunity to engage with Oxygen. The project is more than just theoretical—it’s a chance for students to apply their skills in a tangible, impactful way. For example, one of the students from Conestoga played a key role in the design and creation of the label that will be featured on the one-gallon cans of the product. This is a significant contribution, as branding and visual communication are critical aspects of marketing a new, innovative product while others are helping with digital content creation.
Wilford Vincent one of our amazing college students
In addition, students from Shahabi’s sustainability class are taking their passion for clean air to a global level. They are actively reaching out to the United Nations, advocating for clean air initiatives. By connecting with influential international organizations, these students are learning the importance of advocacy and collaboration, both key elements in driving large-scale environmental change.
Ambassadors for Clean Air
Shahabi’s students from his International Trade Finance courses are also being presented with a unique opportunity: the chance to become ambassadors for Oxygen and contribute to the United Nations Sustainability Goals (UNSG). These ambitious students will help raise public awareness about the importance of clean air, linking it to the broader context of global sustainability and supply chain management. By working with Oxygen, they will not only learn how to navigate international markets and trade, but also how to frame sustainability as a core value for businesses and consumers.
This ambassador program gives students a firsthand look at the interplay between business, policy, and environmental stewardship. They’ll be learning to tackle complex global challenges, such as air pollution, while working to position Oxygen as a solution that aligns with the UN’s agenda for a sustainable future.
A Principled Approach to Teaching
At the core of Shahabi’s teaching philosophy is a principle-centered approach that prioritizes ethical, purpose-driven business practices. By embedding real-world projects like Oxygen into the curriculum, students are not only gaining practical experience but are also learning how to launch businesses grounded in sustainability and innovation.
This method is transformative for students—it allows them to directly implement what they’ve learned in class, while simultaneously contributing to a larger mission of addressing critical global issues like air quality and climate change. In essence, these students are being empowered to start businesses with a strong ethical foundation, merging entrepreneurship with a deep commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Professor Chris Shahabi is also the founder of Creative Oxygen Labs www.creativeoxygenlabs.com which is a clean tech innovation company.
