GOOD IDEAS , Annually
Now that the Innovation Challenge is heading into its fifth year , it ’ s safe to say that it ’ s a tradition . Although it hasn ’ t looked the same any two consecutive years because of public health requirements , there is one thing that never changes : it ’ s a chance for students and invited guests to get together and learn how to turn an idea into a solution . The past four years have seen the following themes : Green Planet , Beyond Human , Social Impact and Re + Engage .
There is no experience required — only an open mind and positive energy . In the past , teams have chosen to do everything from building a prototype of a physical product to creating a mobile app .
Event partner Volition — a consultant team for start-ups and entrepreneurs — brings it all together by providing mentors and judges , and by organizing the event space . “ Every year , I ’ m blown away ,” said Paul Brassard , founding partner at Volition and event emcee . “ Never in a million years would I imagine most of the ideas presented .” Volition also works with local businesses to curate exciting prizes , such as donations to the charity of the winners ’ choice , Lyft vouchers and gift certificates . The winning team is even offered an additional mentoring session to help them take their idea to the next level .
“ Innovation Challenge is a great opportunity for students to put their entrepreneurial side of things together with the technological side of the event ,” said Ahmber , Grade 11 , and a member of TeenWork , this year ’ s winning team . “ It ’ s a great event to collaborate and communicate ; there ’ s also a public speaking aspect that ’ s really important and beneficial for students .”
The Innovation Challenge features a midday performance by the Open Dance Club . “ Open Dance is a place where all dancers , regardless of skill , can be creative , make dances and learn dances ,” said Julie , Grade 11 , and a member of TeenWork .
“ I find the contrast of important topics and serious social issues against the expression of dance and creative explosion that happens at lunch is the perfect recipe ,” said Mr Tran , Teacher , Arts and Applied Design Skills & Technologies .
From ideating on positive social impact to pitching and performing , courage , creativity and citizenship are at the heart of this event .
“ I think the takeaway is that we can do anything we put our mind to ,” said Mme Ta , Department Head , Languages . “ It gives the girls so much pride in what they can do , and it gives them the chance to meet people and to know that there are people out there who can help them .”
Judges remarked on how thoughtfully students put together their ideas , with clear messages about the problems they were trying to solve and strategies for taking ideas to market .
Thank you to all of the parents , teachers and volunteers who give their time , expertise and support to our participants .“ It ’ s so much like real life — it ’ s an incredible thing . I know most adults haven ’ t participated in something like this , especially preuniversity , so to have this kind of experience is incredible ,” said CHS parent Tina Barkley .
36