The roots
We’re Ali and Sohail, childhood friends who grew up together in Kenya and have known each other since second grade.
Years later in Toronto, we both loved being active, but our routines kept us still. Our different experiences led us to create Movemate, with a shared purpose: making movement feel natural, joyful and easy to return to every day.
ALI ~ THE INVENTOR
A want for movement
Ali loved being active, but long hours at his computer left him stiff and restless. Studying industrial design at OCAD University, he began exploring how movement could fit into desk work.
His thesis project earned awards at OCAD’s annual exhibition. With input from health and movement practitioners, design professionals and people with similar experiences, he continued developing the board.
Through more than 40 prototypes, he developed a board that responded to the body, turning a personal challenge into a purpose worth pursuing.
↓ Prototyping journey ↓
SOHAIL ~ THE TESTER
A need for movement
At 24, Sohail fractured and dislocated his hip playing soccer. Reconstructive surgery and rehabilitation meant relearning how to move and rebuilding his relationship with his body.
Although he loved being active, desk work brought stillness, stiffness and discomfort. When Ali shared a prototype, he recognised the possibility of moving during those hours.
With his physiotherapist’s approval, he began using it while working. That experience inspired him to leave his job and join Ali, helping bring Movemate and more everyday movement to others.
Friends
Early supporters
Movers
