Context Matters.

We are building human-centric AI foundation layers, actively integrating the latest research to ensure responsible and safe AI development that promotes the very essence of what makes us human.

Build Context-Aware AI Agents

Empowering Communities with Culturally Attuned AI

Our initiative focuses on developing AI solutions that go beyond simple language translation, ensuring that local customs, values, and lived experiences are woven into every interaction. By working hand-in-hand with nonprofits, community groups, and public agencies, we aim to create services that truly resonate with the people who need them most.

  • Cultural Context Layers

    We build specialized “cultural layers” that plug into existing AI tools, adding real-time insights on regional customs, linguistic nuances, and community values.

  • Community Collaboration

    Quennar partners directly with local organizations, nonprofits, and civic agencies to co-create AI approaches. We believe the best way to serve a community is by involving its members at every stage, from data gathering to model testing and feedback.

  • Equitable Access

    Whether you are a startup seeking faster, more culturally aware success, or a community outreach program wanting to break language barriers, our tools aim to reduce service gaps and improve outcomes. We envision a world where AI-driven systems empower rather than exclude.

Why Quennar?

AI can inadvertently exclude or misrepresent. By adding cultural context, Quennar improves trust and better outcomes.

Connect with us

The Quennar Initiative

A high-performing team, blending the multicultural communities of Toronto and the East Bay.  Passionate about advancing contextual, responsible AI.

Connect with us

We encourage you to connect with our team if you're passionate about culture and advancing responsible, human-centric AI—whether through research or practical applications.

Johann Marquez

CPO, Scale and Growth

Johann is a product leader and entrepreneur with a track record of building and scaling digital platforms in complex markets. As Chief Product Officer at Quennar, he drives product development and go-to-market strategy, drawing from his experience at Shopify. His work has earned recognition in StartupBootcamp, Top 100 Swiss Startups, and Wayra, and he remains passionate about creating technology solutions that drive trust, growth, and accessibility.

Lucy Stephenson

COO, Partnerships

Lucy is an operations and strategy leader specializing in emerging technology, infrastructure, and governance.
As COO of Quennar, she drives execution and growth in AI, drawing from her experience at Intel/Mobileye, where she led global initiatives in autonomous vehicle safety, IoT partnerships, and AI governance.
Lucy has worked on global policy, crisis response, and technology deployment, with a focus on ethical AI and complex systems.

Natalia Luka

Chief Scientist

Natalia works at the intersection of AI, culture, and governance. As a researcher at the Berkeley AI Research Lab, she examines how AI systems shape and reflect societal narratives. As Chief Scientist at Quennar, she leads efforts to develop contextual AI capable of navigating complex societal dynamics. With her publications in leading academic and industry forums, she contributes to shaping conversations on AI governance, ethics, and cultural adaptation.

Sepehr Sisakht

CEO

Sepehr’s background lies at the intersection of science and AI. He has led various tech initiatives to success, bridging the gap between technical innovation and real-world applications. In his role at Shyftbase, he oversaw the development of agentic supply chain solutions, leveraging AI to optimize operations for enterprises. At Quennar, he drives efforts to develop context layers for AI and agents, pushing the boundaries of how machines interpret and engage with society.