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Nikolai Ray is a visionary leader in the realms of real estate development and impact investing, serving as President of Fierbrooke Communities, a non-profit organization based in Sherbrooke, Quebec. Fierbrooke Communities is driven by a mission to create affordable housing, develop environmentally sustainable buildings, and champion initiatives that balance carbon emissions. With a deep commitment to addressing homelessness in Sherbrooke, Nikolai’s work goes beyond building structures—he revitalizes neglected spaces and transforms them into vibrant, purposeful environments.
In parallel, Nikolai is also the Managing Shareholder of Fierbrooke Collective, a group of accredited investors who pool their resources to fund real estate projects that yield profound social, environmental, and financial impact. Under his leadership, the Collective manages a property portfolio valued at over CAD $75 million, creating a dynamic interplay between profit and purpose.
Additionally, Nikolai founded MREX College, a pioneering institution dedicated to teaching real estate investment and financial engineering. His approach emphasizes long-term strategies and responsible investing, shaping a new generation of real estate entrepreneurs. With his deep expertise, Nikolai has become a highly sought-after thought leader in the real estate space.
In this exclusive interview, Nikolai shares insights into his many roles and the driving forces behind his passion for real estate and community-building.
Q: Can you tell us more about your role as President at Fierbrooke Communities and how it aligns with your personal values?
Nikolai Ray: Fierbrooke Communities was born out of a personal mission to create meaningful change. I’ve always believed in the power of affordable housing to transform lives, and my passion for environmental sustainability inspired me to incorporate eco-friendly practices into every project. But beyond that, I wanted to demonstrate that private and social real estate need not be at odds—they can work in harmony. Our goal at Fierbrooke Communities is to show that we’re not just talking about solutions; we’re actively creating them. We aim to make a tangible impact by addressing homelessness, revitalizing underused spaces, and investing in the future of our communities. This non-profit allows me to put my values into action and contribute directly to the betterment of society.
Q: You’re also the founder of MREX College. What inspired you to create the institution, and what lessons do you strive to impart to your students?
Nikolai Ray: MREX College was the result of years spent observing the real estate investment industry and recognizing the gap in high-quality education. The industry was flooded with “get rich quick” schemes, but real estate is far more nuanced than that. It’s a powerful vehicle for social and financial growth, and I wanted to make that knowledge accessible to everyone, not just those born into wealth. Real estate lifted me from poverty to prosperity, and I felt compelled to democratize this opportunity.
At MREX, we don’t just teach how to invest—we teach students to invest with integrity and impact. We emphasize practical skills, long-term strategies, and a community-centered approach. Our mission is to empower everyday investors to make smart, ethical decisions in multifamily real estate, and, in doing so, improve the communities they invest in.
Q: Can you explain the difference between your roles at Fierbrooke Communities and Fierbrooke Collective?
Nikolai Ray: Absolutely. While Fierbrooke Communities is a non-profit focused on affordable housing and sustainability, Fierbrooke Collective is an investment vehicle for accredited investors who want to generate wealth while also making a positive social impact. It’s a significant distinction—one focused on philanthropy and the other on wealth generation with a purpose.
As Managing Shareholder of Fierbrooke Collective, my responsibility is to ensure that our projects not only generate returns for investors but also contribute to the well-being of the communities we invest in. The wealth we create is often reinvested in these same neighborhoods, creating a cycle of improvement and growth.
On the other hand, as President of Fierbrooke Communities, I’m more directly involved in the day-to-day development of sustainable housing. It’s about rolling up our sleeves and making sure the vision is brought to life in a way that benefits everyone—from the residents to the broader community.
Q: How has your background in athletic training and human performance influenced your career in real estate and education?
Nikolai Ray: My time in professional sports instilled in me values that have become the foundation of my success in real estate—discipline, strategic analysis, and a relentless pursuit of advancement. Sports taught me to analyze situations critically, no matter what they may be, and to approach challenges with the mindset of continuous improvement.
Discipline is key when navigating the ups and downs of real estate, especially when managing significant investments. The ability to plan meticulously, adapt swiftly, and never settle for “good enough” is something I carry with me every day. In real estate, just like in sports, you’re constantly striving to level up—to add value, improve your performance, and push the limits of what’s possible. The resilience, courage, and teamwork I gained from my sports career have been invaluable in my journey as a real estate investor and educator.
Nikolai Ray is not only building wealth—he’s building a legacy of love and passion, one that bridges profit and purpose, and brings positive transformation to communities far and wide.
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