Portrait of an Entrepreneur: Nanette Sene

Some startups focus on improving existing processes. Others tackle health challenges that have been overlooked for far too long. With Juno, Nanette set out to address an issue that affects millions of women: menstrual pain.

In this interview, she reflects on her journey from engineering student to founder, shares the lessons she has learned as an entrepreneur, and explains what continues to drive her every day. A thoughtful conversation about resilience, purpose, and making a meaningful impact on women's health.

🎙️ Let’s go back a bit: what was your background before launching your startup?

I actually started Juno while I was still in school. I completed a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering before pursuing a master's in engineering, followed by a master's in innovation and technology management.

At the same time, I was working full-time in R&D project management, so the company grew alongside everything else I was doing.

Did you always know you wanted to become an entrepreneur?

Not at all.

I didn't really know entrepreneurship was even an option until my master's program. Taking an entrepreneurship course completely changed the way I saw my career possibilities.

When did you decide to fully commit to Juno?

I never had that moment where I jumped into the unknown overnight.

Everything happened gradually. The real turning point came after our first accelerator program. That's when I realized Juno could become a real company, and I left my full-time job.

Did you go through an incubator? What did it bring you?

Yes, several.

They gave us structure, a better understanding of entrepreneurship, incredible mentors, valuable connections with other founders, and answers to many of the questions we had early on.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

Don't take yourself too seriously.

If you had to give advice to an entrepreneur?

I don't really like giving advice because I don't think anyone has all the answers.

At what point did your idea become tangible?

There wasn't just one moment. Finding the name Juno made it feel real.

Later, interviewing women who suffer from severe menstrual pain confirmed we were solving a genuine problem. Today, every conversation with physicians who understand why we're building this solution reinforces that feeling.

Where do you see Juno in 5 years?

I hope Juno will have made a real difference in women's health and will be improving the lives of millions of women.

What do you need most right now?

Strategic partners who have already commercialized medical devices and are willing to help us navigate that journey. And of course, funding.

If you could meet one person who could change everything?

Leaders in our industry who have already been through this journey and can help us move faster.

Looking back, what are you most proud of today?

Of the person I've become throughout the journey.

Building a company pushes you to your limits and forces you to discover who you really are. My biggest source of pride is having grown while staying true to myself.

And on the other hand, what has been the most challenging?

I've sometimes been disappointed by people.

At the beginning, you tend to believe everyone wants to help you. Thankfully, that's true for the vast majority of people, but a few difficult experiences are enough to change your perspective.

Is there a phrase or mantra that guides you?

I have a few.

Another one I often repeat is: "If you can handle the small things, life won't get you with the big things."

Is there someone who has made a real difference in your journey?

Absolutely.

Many people have. Most often, it's entrepreneurs I admire who have already built successful companies and choose to give back by mentoring others. Their support and encouragement have meant a lot to me.

Was there a meeting or synergy at Ax.c that had a concrete impact?

What I appreciate most about Ax.c is how accessible everyone is.

Partners like Desjardins and Québec Tech are always nearby, just like the other startups. Conversations happen naturally, even while filling up a water bottle, and those day-to-day interactions constantly help move Juno forward.

Finally: what motivates you to get up in the morning?

There's nothing else I'd rather be doing.

Of course, you're not motivated every single day, but I value this opportunity so much that I don't want to lose it. I want to keep building Juno, and I know that means showing up every day and giving it my best.

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