For many young people, the question of “what’s next?” can be as daunting as it is defining—whether choosing post-secondary programs, navigating career options, or exploring personal identity, including community, social interactions, and physical and mental health.
Vancouver-based FutureTwin, a finalist for the Company of the Year – Startup award, is tackling that problem head-on. Founded by CEO Chloë Swain, the company helps students around the world find a sense of purpose and belonging by uncovering the education and career pathways that truly fit them.
The inspiration for FutureTwin traces back to Swain’s own school years, shaped by three pivotal experiences: struggling with outdated tools in the classroom, discovering the power of community and mentorship at YMCA family camp, and visiting a First Nations community where elders were deeply respected for their wisdom and guidance—a reminder of the importance of intergenerational connections, which remains central to FutureTwin’s mission today.
“We visited First Nations communities where elders were deeply respected for their wisdom and guidance,” she recalls. “I wished that kind of mentorship was part of our own education system. Instead, my peers and I were full of ambition but lacked direction.”
An early prototype run with her graduating class proved the concept’s impact—within weeks, 65% of students had changed their plans for the better.
FutureTwin’s platform builds a “living” digital twin for each user—an AI-powered model shaped by the individual’s interests, preferences, reflections, and self-assessments. Over time, each FutureTwin evolves alongside its user, enabling them to continuously explore and test potential life pathways as they grow.
In minutes, it can simulate more than a decade of future milestones, weaving them into vivid, AI-generated story moments. These simulations highlight skill gaps, point users to real human stories, and connect them directly to mentors who have lived those paths. Journaling tools track reflections, moods, and growth, turning dreams into actionable life plans.
Since launch, FutureTwin has grown into a cross-generational team of over 10 developers, designers, educators, and youth advocates. The startup has launched its beta, is onboarding its first 1,000 students, and Swain has been named to the BCBusiness 30 Under 30 list. While the company has drawn investor interest, Swain says they’re exploring non-dilutive funding options first to keep the mission front and centre.
Introducing a new category to traditional education systems hasn’t been without challenges. “Most platforms are built for compliance, not transformation,” Swain explains. “At first, institutions weren’t sure where we fit—EdTech, mental health, career planning? In truth, we touch all three.” By focusing on community demos, partnering with parents, and giving students direct access, the team built trust from the ground up.
Being based in British Columbia has shaped FutureTwin’s culture as much as its trajectory. “Here, innovation and humanity go hand in hand,” says Swain. “The BC Tech ecosystem has fueled our progress, connected us with mentors and peers, and kept us grounded in building ethical, responsible AI.”
For the team, their BC Tech Awards finalist status is more than industry recognition—it’s a platform to inspire their core audience. “To the student searching for direction, the parent balancing support with pressure, and the mentor eager to help—it’s our way of saying: your future matters, and you have a role in shaping it,” Swain says. “We’re building more than a platform—we’re building a movement that turns uncertainty into opportunity.”
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