VoT winners’ interviews: Robbie Matthews
We’re excited to continue showcasing the remarkable talent from the 2024 Voices of Tomorrow competition.
Meet Robbie Matthews, a winner from the entrepreneurship track, who reflects on his experience. His story offers valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring innovators—enjoy the read!
Journey and Motivation
1. What inspired you to join the Voices of Tomorrow competition, and why did you choose your track (consulting, entrepreneurship, or venture capital)?
I saw the Voices of Tomorrow competition as a unique platform to bridge my passion for science and business while addressing pressing healthcare challenges. The entrepreneurship track was particularly appealing as it allowed me to explore solutions for bio-innovation challenges, starting with identifying an unmet need and reverse-engineering a practical solution.
2. How did the competition’s masterclasses, webinars, and mentors shape your
approach?
The masterclasses, webinars, and mentors offered a 360-degree view of biotech entrepreneurship. From regulatory hurdles to financial modeling, every session expanded my understanding.
Teamwork and Problem-Solving
3. How did your team collaborate and navigate challenges during the competition?
Collaborating across time zones was a challenge. Open communication with consistent updates was important to ensure continual progress of the project.
4. Can you share a specific moment where mentorship or teamwork made a
significant impact on your project?
Leading up to the pitch, teamwork was critical in bringing everything together.
Track-Specific Insights
5. Entrepreneurship Track: What was your approach to evaluating startups and making
investment decisions?
Dementia affects 55 million people globally and is a devastating disease. We focused on tackling Alzheimer’s, and overcoming the blood-brain barrier challenge, a major hurdle in CNS therapeutics. Conversations with KOLs and literature reviews shaped our approach, ensuring it was both scientifically sound and commercially viable.
Professional Background and Growth
6. What elements of your academic or professional background helped you excel in
the competition?
My background in physics, applied math, and biotech gave me a strong foundation for tackling complex problems. Experience in finance and tech entrepreneurship provided insights into business strategy, while my passion for CNS disorders fueled my engagement with the project.
7. Which skills gained through VoT do you consider most valuable for your future
endeavors?
The most valuable skill trained was the ability to identify an actual problem and present a feasible solution. Often, startups work from a solution, not knowing a priori if a market exists.
8. How has participating in this competition influenced your career aspirations or
long-term goals?
The competition has reaffirmed my desire to make a tangible impact on patient outcomes. It has solidified my commitment to bridging science, business, and technology to tackle unmet needs in healthcare.
Future Aspirations and Leadership
9. Where do you see yourself in five years, and how has this experience shaped
your vision for your role in biotech or healthcare?
In five years, I see myself leading a biotech venture or innovation hub that integrates healthcare, business, and policy. This experience has shown me the value of collaboration and mentorship, which will remain integral to my journey.
10. Do you plan to stay engaged with the GBR network or support future VoT
participants?
One of the big benefits of the program is access to the alumni network. I am grateful to have mentors who have helped shape my career. Pave it forward!
Reflections and Advice
11. What was the most memorable or transformative moment of the competition?
Hearing Emil Kakkis’ story at Ultragenyx was transformative. His perseverance in tackling rare diseases inspired me to think bigger and push through challenges with resilience.
12. What advice would you give to future participants to make the most of this
opportunity?
You get out what you put in. Seize the opportunity, and get going!
