Youth in Kelowna are going head to head with ideas for global sustainability in the Grande Finale of the Sustainable Development Challenge, presented by Global Citizen Events and Interior Savings.
On Feb. 22, seven teams will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges at the Mary Irwin Theatre in hopes of winning a $5,000 investment.
“This is an incredible opportunity for the community to gather and support youth as they present their ideas and build skills that will make a positive impact”, says Brian Harris, CEO of Beem Credit Union. “It’s also a call to action for all of us to learn about the Sustainable Development Goals and play an active role in achieving them. We’re eager to hear the presentations and see these young people make a difference in our world.”
Teams have been working for about five months to put an idea and pitch together. Not only will the winning team receive an investment, the students will work with Impact Toolbox for mentoring.
The 2023 winning team held several community planting days with a focus on “rewilding” with plants native to the Okanagan.
“Our mission is to empower emerging leaders to create thriving social enterprises and community initiatives, to address critical needs and problems” says Segun Fatudimu, CEO of Impact Toolbox. “ So it’s great to be involved with the Sustainable Development Challenge to help youth in Kelowna find community partners and financial support to implement their ideas. We believe this is transformational for young people, who then realize that their voices really do count.”
The event is open to the public with a $5 admission fee. City Councillor Loyal Wooldridge and past student winners will host the evening.
Learn more about the event or purchase tickets here.
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