UQ’s 2025 Chief Student Entrepreneur: Yarra Kiseleva’s Mission to Revolutionize Travel
The University of Queensland’s (UQ) Ventures program has just named Yarra Kiseleva, founder of Seatfinder, as the 2025 Chief Student Entrepreneur—a title awarded to student innovators making a real impact. But Yarra’s journey isn’t just about accolades. It’s about breaking barriers, challenging expectations, and transforming an industry in just a few short months.
From Investment Banking to Game-Changing Travel Tech
Yarra didn’t always see herself as an entrepreneur. Initially set on a career in investment banking, she discovered a whole new world through UQ Ventures programs like Curiosity, Validate, and Hustle. These experiences opened her eyes to the thrill of problem-solving, innovation, and building a startup from the ground up.
“Ventures helped transform the way I see the world and the opportunities open to us through taking risks, stepping outside our comfort zones, and see opportunities where others see obstacles.,” Yarra said. “I’m so excited to continue this journey, working with the Ventures community to support and inspire the next wave of student innovators.”
That mindset led her to co-found Seatfinder, a startup tackling one of the biggest frustrations in airline rewards travel.
How Seatfinder is Changing the Game for Travelers
If you’ve ever tried to redeem airline reward points, you know how frustrating the process can be—complex rules, limited availability, and countless hours searching for flights. Seatfinder takes the hassle out of reward travel by automating the search process, helping users book flights seamlessly, and maximizing their loyalty points.
The results speak for themselves:
Thousands of active users every week
Tens of thousands of monthly users
Over $10 million saved on airfares in just four months
That kind of traction isn’t just impressive—it’s proof that Yarra and her co-founder Nicolas Van Hoorick have tapped into a major market demand.
Backed by Investors and Accelerating Fast
Seatfinder’s potential has already caught the attention of major players. The startup recently secured investment from Startmate and is currently part of the Ventures ilab Accelerator Chapter 1 cohort for 2025—giving it the momentum to scale even further.
Ventures Manager Gav Parry has seen Yarra’s dedication firsthand: “Her curiosity and drive to challenge the norm are exactly what Ventures is all about. It’s been incredible to see her transform her career path—and now, she’s inspiring others to do the same.”
What’s Next for Yarra and Seatfinder?
As the 2025 Chief Student Entrepreneur, Yarra is on a mission to empower the next generation of innovators at UQ. She wants to show students that entrepreneurship isn’t just for tech geniuses or business moguls—it’s for anyone willing to think differently, take risks, and solve real-world problems.
“I want to help other students realize that they don’t have to follow the traditional career path. There are so many opportunities out there—you just have to be willing to explore them.”
With Seatfinder rapidly growing and Yarra leading the charge for student innovation, the future of travel—and entrepreneurship—has never looked more exciting.
Stay Connected
Want to hear more about Yarra’s journey and the latest on Seatfinder’s expansion? Watch her exclusive interview here: Watch Now
For more information about UQ Ventures and its programs, visit ventures.uq.edu.au or contact [email protected].
