Our Story
My name is Nathan, my family often found waiting in long lines at the checkout counter challenging during our shopping. This was particularly difficult for my grandparents, who had trouble standing for extended periods of time. I was also deeply saddened by people complaining about wasting too much time when checking out. Witnessing their frustration, I wondered if there was a way for us to know in advance how busy a shopping center or store was, so we could avoid long lineups. Therefore, starting July 2023, I decided to create a solution that would benefit the public. I first invited two talented peers to join this fantastic team. We conducted extensive research and developed idealshoppingtime.com, a website that helps people determine the busyness of a shopping center or store and make informed decisions about when and where to go.
Gary Qiao
COO, Marketing Coordinator
My name is Gary Qiao, and I am currently a freshman student at Royal Road University. Research has shown that the average person throughout their lifetime spends five years waiting in lines and queues. This issue is particularly challenging for elderly individuals whose time is limited and cannot afford to spend their days waiting. Recognizing that many other families have experienced the same frustrations, I am more motivated than ever to find solutions to this shopping experience. With this opportunity, it led me to embark on a journey aimed at providing more efficient ways for everyone to shop efficiently and safely. I have always found joy in contributing to our community along with my other two aspiring peers. Together, as a team, we can forge pathways to the future.
Nathan Yin
Founder, CEO
My name is Nathan Yin, and I am currently a grade 12 student attending Richmond Christian Secondary School. I have been seeking an opportunity to help people enjoy a nice shopping experience without wasting their time in a crowded environment. I started idealshoppingtime.com with the goal of helping my family and others enjoy shopping without congestion because I am very passionate about solving problems and building solutions. I worked hard with my team, and seeing it take shape bit by bit brought me a great sense of achievement. I am further able to develop my leadership skills through this exceptional experience. I believe idealshoppingtime.com will continue to grow with more cities and shops and help more people have a pleasant shopping trip.
Zachary Zhao
CIO, Information Coordinator
My name is Zachary Zhao, and I am currently a grade 12 student at Richmond High School. Throughout my life, I have always been passionate about getting involved with projects to foster community. So, when I had the opportunity to join this amazing team and work together towards a common goal of helping others save time and improve efficiency, I could not resist. Creating solutions to make a difference in the world. I am beyond excited to see idealshoppingtime.com come to life and believe it will be an important website for everyone to use.
Angelina Yin
Design Director
My name is Angelina Yin, and I am currently a grade 7 student in Richmond Christian Middle School. Throughout the pandemic, I couldn't help but observe how not only my loved ones but also many people around me experienced lockdowns and heavy restrictions on venturing outside their bubble. Even when restrictions were lifted, there remained a prevailing fear of exposure to illnesses and viruses. This fear persisted across all age groups, from young to elderly. Witnessing this sparked a drive within me to make a difference. It led me to embark on the journey of Smartime Solution, aimed at providing more efficient ways for everyone to shop safely. I have always found joy in contributing to our community, and now I see an opportunity to enhance my leadership abilities. Together as a team, I am happy to use what I learn from JavaScript and web design to contribute.