KELOWNA – Okanagan College business students chalked up multiple podium finishes at a recent national competition in Toronto. Making the showing all the more impressive was the fact that a number of the students and their mentors were honoured at the highest level for their teamwork.
The Enactus National Exposition brings together approximately 800 students, 500 industry leaders who serve as judges and 100 faculty advisors from across the country to celebrate the achievements of Canada’s future leaders and entrepreneurs. A team of 24 students from the Okanagan School of Business participated in this year’s event, held from May 4-6 at the Toronto Metro Convention Centre.
The Financial Literacy team that presented on the CanSave program came 2nd in the country (behind only SFU), beating out powerhouse competitors from Saint Mary’s University, Windsor, Ryerson, and Memorial, and receiving a $2000 cash prize. The CanSave program is focused on teaching financial skills to elementary students.
The Youth Empowerment Team (a new category this year) came third in the country (behind Ryerson and Windsor), and received a $1000 cash prize. The prizes will help fund the team’s participation in next year’s competition.
Despite stiff competition, the Nationals team from the College advanced to the semi-final round of competition (top 20), before being bested by eventual finalist and last year’s national champion, the University of Ottawa.
In addition, Abbey Jones and fellow BBA student and Enactus Okanagan College President Cassandra Lum, were awarded the national Founder’s bursary. Valued at $2,500 each, the bursaries recognize students for demonstrating exceptional leadership with Enactus. Only ten bursaries were handed out to students from all across Canada and two went home with Okanagan College students this year.
Outstanding advisors and faculty were also recognized at the event for the critical roles they play in mentoring the student teams.
Elvia Picco was named Team Advisor of the Year in recognition of her outstanding support of the Enactus Okanagan College team. Okanagan School of Business professor Andrew Klingel was inducted as a John Dobson Fellow for his Enactus involvement as a faculty member. A well-known entrepreneur, investor, and business advisor, Klingel teaches courses in marketing and management at the College’s Vernon campus.
Enactus is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring students to improve the world through entrepreneurial action. The Canadian chapter sees annual participation by more than 2,600 students spanning 67 post-secondary institutions.
Full results from the exposition can be found here. More information about Enactus Okanagan College is available at www.enactusoc.ca.