Troy Shantz Jessica Ching says growing up a child with science-minded parents in Sarnia helped her become recognized nationally for her innovations in the medical field.
Troy Shantz
Jessica Ching says growing up a child with science-minded parents in Sarnia helped her become recognized nationally for her innovations in the medical field.
“I had a good childhood in Sarnia that I enjoyed, and I think that that was a good basis for my life today, said Ching, who like most city kids enjoyed fries under the bridge and visits to the Children’s Animal Farm in Canatara Park.
The 32-year-old innovator has turned heads in the medical community with a product called the Eve Kit, an at-home test for chlamydia, gonorrhea and HPV that eliminates the need for a doctor visit.
“Healthcare, I think, is particularly interesting because a lot of healthcare (products) are designed by the healthcare professionals themselves – which is often focused on functionality more than patient experience,” she said.
Ching attended Gregory A. Hogan school and her parents worked in the Chemical Valley. Their science-based vocations rubbed off on her, she said.
“I wouldn’t say I’m a total black sheep but most of my family are scientists. My mom is a chemist, my dad is an engineer and my sister’s a doctor. So I think I was generally attracted to ‘sciency’ things. “
Ching is the co-founder and CEO of Toronto-based Eve Medical, which has developed both the HerSwab and the Eve Kit, a product that began as her thesis project at OCAD University.
This year, she was named one of the top 12 Canadian Innovators by the Globe and Mail and was featured Ms. Chatelaine in Chatelaine magazine.
Her journey is relevant to anyone with an idea and the passion to see it through to completion, which is why she was invited to speak at this year’s Women’s Forum, hosted by the Sarnia-Lambton Business Development Corp. on Oct. 21.
Ching will share stories about her passion, which is to connect medical needs with good design.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Women’s Forum, presented by the Sarnia-Lambton Business Development Corporation
WHERE: 265 Front Street North, Gateway Room, 5th floor
WHEN: Friday, Oct. 21, 11:00 a.m.
TICKETS: $35, includes speaker and lunch
