Join us at CreativeMornings Winnipeg on February 27, 2026 at 8am at the Forks Market (2nd floor event space), as we explore the theme Camino—the ways and paths that shape innovation—with entrepreneur and U-Pro Soccer founder, John Barbosa.

John is redefining athletic training with an AI-powered platform that uses computer vision and biomechanics to transform any living room into a world-class soccer academy. Supported by North Forge, U-Pro Soccer is opening new pathways for young athletes to access professional-level coaching from home. Discover how John’s journey from idea to impact is paving a bold new way forward in sports tech and beyond.

MEET JOHN BARBOSA

I’m the CEO and founder of U-Pro Soccer Technologies Inc., where we’re re-imagining how kids and families experience sports. Our mission is simple: turn screen time into skill time.

U-Pro was inspired by my own son, after he accidentally broke our TV while training indoors, I realized kids need a safer, smarter, and more engaging way to practice the game they love. That spark grew into a platform that combines AI-powered biomechanics, gamification, and a freemium model to make world-class training accessible to every child, no matter their background.

I believe in the Promised Land of Movement: a future where sports and play aren’t limited by cost, geography, or access, but available to every family, everywhere. That vision has guided U-Pro to early recognition, including the Leadership in AI Award and partnerships across youth soccer ecosystems.

Originally from Brazil, I moved to Winnipeg in 2017. My background spans tech, business strategy, and community-driven growth, but my focus is always the same: building companies that create lasting impact.