OCNews

Enactus Okanagan College students have their sights set on nationals, after making the podium in four competitions at the Enactus Regional Exposition – including three first-place finishes.

They performed so well, that EnactusOC was recognized with an Excellence in Innovation Award, provided when students demonstrate their commitment to tackling some of Canada’s biggest challenges.

“We have come a long way this year,” explains Danielle Walker, EnactusOC President. “Our team has tripled in size, we have scaled and rebranded projects, and we have also started some amazing new ones. Our team has pulled together, shown great strength, adapted in challenging times, and paved the way for future success.

“These awards demonstrate EnactusOC’s determination, resiliency, and desire to better our community; I am extremely proud of all our members!”

The team captured first place in the Climate Action Challenge – the fourth time in a row that OC has come out on top in this category. They were recognized for the Unusually Good apple cider project, which uses discarded fruit in the agricultural process to create 100% pure, fresh orchard-pressed and pasteurized beverages. Proceeds from beverage sales support apple chip processing, which are donated to children and community members facing food insecurity.

Unusually Good was also at the heart of the team’s Entrepreneurship Challenge win – a back-to-back golden performance. They were also crowned champions in the Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition, which pitted them against other teams across Canada.

EnactusOC was also named runner-up in the Financial Education Challenge, for the Ivy Collective project. New this year, Ivy Collective creates an inclusive and supportive environment for immigrant and refugee youth to build their skills and confidence. They provided a free workshop series to newcomer Canadians to teach essential career skills, and are now extending the reach of the program through virtual sessions being promoted in Vancouver and Toronto.

The team was coached by Business professors Andrew Klingel, Kyleen Myrah, Danielle Robinson, Sheilagh Seaton and Mark Ziebarth.

“These awards speak to the tremendous impact the Enactus students have on their community. Despite the many challenges of the last two years, they have not only significantly expanded their project to reduce food insecurity and fight climate change, but even started new ones,” says Klingel. “We are so proud of these students as they are a shining example of transforming lives and communities.”

Their performance at regionals netted EnactusOC $5,500 to be re-invested back into their projects. People looking to support the students can purchase Unusually Good apple cider online at www.unusuallygood.ca or these local retailers: Peter's Independent Grocer, BC Tree Fruits Market, Pickleball Depot, Cap’s Liquor Store, Askew's Foods and Buy-Low Foods in Vernon.

Enactus Canada National Exposition will be held May 10-12 virtually.