Canada's brightest student entrepreneurs shine at The Arena

The Arena 2024 Pitch Competition concluded after a thrilling 40-day battle, crowning Keeley McCormick as the champion with a prize of $10,000. Keeley, a University of Victoria Engineering and Computer Science student, impressed the judges with her innovative venture, Revyn Medical Technologies Inc. The company redesigned a vaginal speculum that prioritizes patient comfort and sustainability. 

Revyn Medical Technologies: a patient-centered solution

Founded by Keeley and a dedicated team from the University of Victoria, Revyn tackles the discomfort associated with traditional speculums. Through surveys of over 600 patients, they identified a significant number experiencing anxiety and even avoiding examinations due to speculum use. Their redesigned speculum aims to alleviate this issue while remaining effective for practitioners.

This win propels Revyn forward, allowing them to develop prototypes utilizing biocompatible materials and minimizing patient discomfort.

A fierce finale and generous supporters

Miswar Syed from the University of Waterloo won second place at The Arena with his business, Swish, which creates transparent screens that retrofit existing solar panels and can remove dust using nanotechnology. Swish allows solar panels to be cleaned multiple times a day and increases the efficiency of capturing energy, which could be especially beneficial in deserts where dust is a significant concern.

The final pitch battle between Keeley and Miswar presented a tough decision for the distinguished judges, which included Saint Mary’s alumni Shannon Byrne Susko BComm'89 BSc'92, April Howe EMBA'18, Mandhir Singh MBA'14, James “JC” Curleigh BComm’89 DComm'22 and Alexandra McCann.

Special recognition goes to Shannon's company, Metronomics, for sponsoring the competition and providing each finalist with a $10,000 award. Pat Whalen, Founder and CEO of Extension Marketing, also provided marketing support to the finalists valued at $5,000.

“Thank you to all participants for showcasing their brilliant ideas,” says Michael Sanderson, the Director of the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. “A special appreciation to the sponsors and judges whose essential contributions ensure the success of this pitch event.”

A national celebration of innovation

The Arena 2024 was not just about one winner. It was a nationwide showcase of student entrepreneurial talent, featuring 64 students from 29 universities, coast to coast. Seven contestants from Saint Mary's University battled with fellow entrepreneurs across Canada and showcased their businesses, including Maddie Bristol (Plastarch), Storme McNeil (Smile Vodka Water), Queen-Esther Okundonor (QTress Beauty Supplies), Jayrell Diggs (SudDrop Laundry Services), Aneesa Hussain (Plane Platter), Alexia Bourgeois (Gal Pal) and Yomna Ibrahim (Sociable). Their entrepreneurial spirit was contagious, inspiring many other students who watched the competition unfold.  This outpouring of interest showed that Saint Mary's fosters a vibrant environment where anyone with a dream can take flight.

To learn more about The Arena 2024, visit the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre website or watch the competition on Facebook.

The Anne J. & Albert T. Isaacs Commons opens with inspiring SPHERE event

On March 22, The Anne J. & Albert T. Isaacs Commons opened inside the Loyola Academic building with a unique celebration which unveiled artistic displays and performances by Saint Mary’s students.

Named in honour of esteemed alumnus, the late Albert Isaacs DipENG'55 and his wife Anne, whose generosity brought it to fruition, the Isaacs Commons is a space that inspires great possibility. For events, gatherings and sharing in community, this space allows curious minds to connect, engage and explore.

The opening of the Isaacs Commons also served to host the space’s inaugural event: SPHERE. Developed by Residence Life, SPHERE is a celebration of unity, designed to bring the SMU community together through an artistic showcase of culture and community. The first of its kind at Saint Mary’s, SPHERE is a platform for students to share their talents and passions and celebrate their peers. The showcase included artwork, cultural creations, musical performances and more. With more than 180 in attendance, including students, faculty and staff, the Isaacs Commons was abuzz with inspiration and possibility.

The Anne J. & Albert T. Isaacs Commons

Welcoming the SMU Community to the SPHERE event

Student artwork on display

Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray welcome community members to the grand opening of the Isaacs Commons

SMUSA President Shiray Tan welcomes the crowd

The Isaacs Commons overlooks the Huskies field

Textile artwork on display

Student musicians performing at SPHERE

Student leaders recognized at 2023-2024 SLRA ceremony

Student Leadership Recognition Award recipients

Congratulations to all 10 recipients of the 2024 Student Leadership Recognition Award (SLRA). The SLRA awards were presented in a ceremony on March 20, 2024, hosted by Career & Experiential Learning and Saint Mary’s University Student Association (SMUSA).

The annual award recognizes students who possess, display and apply leadership qualities and skills within the Saint Mary’s University community and beyond. The awards were initiated in 2012 and are given annually to a maximum of three students from each faculty.

Student Leadership Recognition Award 2024 recipients:

Faculty of Arts:

• Madison Vanderlinden, fourth year, Intercultural Studies & French

• Olivia Brennan, third year, Anthropology

• Rory McGarvey, fourth year, Environmental Studies

Faculty of Science:

• Amaan Ahmed, fourth year, Computing Science

• Katherine Myers, fourth year, Honours Astrophysics

• Paige Deering, fourth year, Biology

Sobey School of Business:

• Anubhav Gupta, fourth year, Finance & Computing and Information Systems

• Ashish Ganapathy, third year, Accounting & Finance

• Lydia Lee, third year, Marketing & Economics

Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research: 

• Liam Mason, first year, MA Atlantic Canada Studies

BComm student with focus on sustainability wins prestigious Frank H. Sobey Award

Madeline (Maddie) Bristol

Sobey School of Business student Madeline (Maddie) Bristol has been named one of only eight undergraduate students from across Atlantic Canada to win this year's  Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies.  

Maddie is in her final year of studying for a Bachelor of Commerce at the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary's. In addition to her studies, Maddie actively seeks opportunities to gain practical, real-world experience. 

Maddie served two consecutive year-long terms as president of Enactus Saint Mary's. During her presidency, she managed projects aimed at reducing food waste at the farm level, eliminating food insecurity, teaching at-risk youth financial literacy, and clearing oceans of plastic waste. Under her leadership, the team was named national champions in both the Scotiabank Climate Action Challenge and the TD Entrepreneurship Challenge. 

Plastarch Packaging team at the 2023 Innovation Cup

As her passion for entrepreneurship and sustainability grew, Maddie launched Plastarch Packaging. The business provides a bioplastic solution to single-use cutlery and packaging for environmentally conscious business owners without compromising durability and affordability. Plastarch Packaging was the recipient of a $10,000 award at December’s Innovation Cup, hosted by the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.

Maddie's commitment to entrepreneurship and sustainability, as demonstrated through her leadership of Enactus Saint Mary's and the founding of Plastarch Packaging, played a significant role in her selection for the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies. Her innovative approach to addressing environmental challenges and her dedication to making a positive impact on the community exemplify the qualities that the award aims to recognize and celebrate. 

“I extend my warmest congratulations to Maddie Bristol,” says Mark Raymond, Interim Dean, Sobey School of Business. “Maddie embodies the SMU experience. Our students develop an entrepreneurial mindset and are equipped with the knowledge, insights, real work experiences and network to lead and make a positive impact on business and on the community.” 

About the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies

All full-time business students attending Atlantic Canadian universities are eligible for consideration for the award. Deans at each university nominate candidates who have demonstrated a high level of entrepreneurship, a commitment to supporting the communities in which they live and work and relevant employment experience. Each award winner receives $45,000 in recognition of their achievements and gains access to mentorship support from members of the business community across the Atlantic region.  

Students excel in Venture Capital Investment Competition

Students from the Sobey School of Business gained valuable real-world experience and excelled in the recent Venture Capital Investment Competition (VCIC) New England Regional Final held in Boston.

The graduate team, composed of students from the MTEI (Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation) and MBA programs, took home a top award. “Entrepreneurs and start-ups participate at these events and they determine the winners for Entrepreneurs Choice. Our team won due to their ability to communicate and connect,” says the team’s advisor, Brennan Daley of the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.

Gurprit Singh, MBA student

“Being part of VCIC in Boston was a truly transformative experience for me, giving me a real-world view of venture capital, pushing my critical thinking ability and exposing me to the vibrant Boston entrepreneurial ecosystem,” says MBA student Gurprit Singh. “The experience is not just a competition, but a stepping stone into the dynamic world of venture capital, shaping my skills and expanding my network in venture capital.”

Saint Mary’s participates annually in the Global Venture Capital Investment Competition (VCIC), the world’s largest venture capital competition with over 120 university and graduate school teams competing. VCIC is the only place where students get to be VCs for the day, and startups get an immersion in the fundraising process. The SMU teams compete against U.S. universities in the Northeast region and are judged by their preparation and thoughtful execution as a VC firm.

Top (L-R): Sorav Sogy, Ankit Mittal. Bottom (L-R): Shakkharatul Haque Mehad, Jacky Chiu, Shri Subramanian, Gurprit Singh, Sruthi Ganesapandian, Jack Poirier, Sidney Nuwahereza, Oscar Lu, Brennan Daley.

Sorav Sogy, BComm student

Bachelor of Commerce student Sorav Sogy says, “It's not studying; you're actively managing a Venture Capital (VC) fund as an associate. This involves making investment decisions, raising funds, attending conferences and building crucial relationships with entrepreneurs and VCs. You're making a real impact by working alongside industry leaders, facilitating co-investment deals, and learning directly from senior partners and associates at local VC firms. It’s as real as it gets.”

The university’s excellence in venture capital is well established through consistent winning performances in global competitions, expert faculty dedicated to mentoring students, and successful graduates who often pursue careers in this exciting field.

Mark Raymond, Interim Dean of the Sobey School of Business, notes that the teams from Saint Mary’s are the only Canadian teams competing at this elevated level against teams from prominent U.S. universities including Babson, Dartmouth and Notre Dame. “We are known for giving our students amazing opportunities. This is an example of how SMU students gain an entrepreneurial mindset and are equipped with the knowledge, insights, real work experiences and network to lead and make a positive impact.”

Saint Mary’s students, staff and faculty are paying it forward by hosting a national competition in Halifax in March for other Canadian teams who would otherwise not gain these lessons in entrepreneurship and innovation. "Hosting the Canadian regionals provides an opportunity for students from other schools to compete and engage with our vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem," notes Daley.

Finance students excel in global competition

The Saint Mary’s team earned eighth place for Canada in the 2023 Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge

Saint Mary’s University students gained valuable real-world experience that will help propel them into careers in capital markets and investment banking, by participating in the 2023 Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge. The Saint Mary’s team, comprised of students in the Sobey School of Business, finished eighth in Canada, 42nd in North America and 113th in the world out of 2,007 teams.

Teams from 309 universities and business schools faced the same challenge: use Bloomberg Terminals to invest $1 million virtual USD and be ranked on the profit/loss margin. “We were nervous,” says Master of Finance student Ifrahim Iftikhar. “We did not want to lose the $1 million (virtual) in the first two or three weeks.”

Team Captain Rehan Habib and the team members Nancy Naadei Kotei-Sass, Ryan Macalalad, Suja R.J. Vikas and Ifrahim Iftikhar are all from the prestigious Master of Finance program. They taught themselves how to use the Bloomberg Terminals from online videos and other resources provided by Bloomberg Education.

Influenced by world events, the students initially took a defensive position and followed a safe 60/40 diversification strategy focused on U.S. stocks, but soon found they were only matching the WLS index (Bloomberg World Large, Mid & Small Cap Price Return Index) which was underperforming at the time. They needed a change in direction to maximize returns over the short, six-week span of the competition.

“Our diversity was a distinct advantage, says Rehan Habib. “ With team members from several countries including India and Pakistan, we had multiple perspectives and important sector insights.”

“We identified that the Indian stock market was doing extremely well, and the Pakistan market was at a historic high,” explains Suja Vikas. “We analysed the market and decided collectively how much risk we could take.” The strategy succeeded and the team secured a $65,000 lead by the competition's end.

Faculty mentor, Dr. Florian Muenkel, says that the competition is particularly valuable for the students studying in the Sobey School of Business. “It’s practical experience. Students learn how to take a large set of assets and identify which ones have the best potential.  They learn that we are all exposed to behavioural biases, and they learn how to overcome them. At the same time, they browse the news and consider macroeconomics and political risk.”

He notes that the Saint Mary’s team was successful due to teamwork—they were able to divide up the tasks and make decisions. “You have to rely on your team; they worked well together.”

Nancy Naadei Kotei-Sass says, “I learned a great deal—how to handle the Bloomberg Terminal and how to trade. Trading in a short period requires a lot of strategies because the market can be your friend today and an enemy tomorrow.” Ifrahim Iftikhar expressed a similar sentiment. “We found that good news such as strong company performance did not necessarily translate into a stock price increase. There were other factors at play. It was an eye-opener.”

Ryan Macalalad says, “The mentorship of faculty members, Dr. Florian Muenkel and Dr. Rahman Khokhar, extended far beyond the four walls of the classroom, inspiring us to explore our potentials as traders, face challenges and strive for excellence. Their encouragement and advice throughout the trading challenge was instrumental in the team’s success."

8,400 students across 38 countries competed in the 2023 Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge, testing their skills in investing $1 million virtual USD. The global event is supported by the research and analytics team at Bloomberg for Education.

The Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge tests students annually on generating the highest relative profit and loss return (P&L) via Bloomberg Terminals. Each team is accompanied by a faculty advisor.

Student Leadership Conference 2024

The 2024 Student Leadership Conference will take place on March 2, 2024. Come learn new skills, hear from inspiring speakers and have fun meeting new people. This one-day conference is open to all SMU students and includes opportunities to connect with peers, build your leadership skills and have some fun along the way.  The day will feature a leadership primer, discussions with current and emerging student leaders and an inspiring keynote speaker. 

The SMU Student Leadership Conference will bring together students from across campus to connect, learn, laugh and be inspired.  

All students are encouraged to attend, whether you are already involved in leadership activities or just getting started on your leadership journey. You don’t want to miss this. 

The Early Bird Registration deadline is February 9th. Space is limited. Register early to be entered to win one of three $25 SMU Bookstore Gift Cards! The first 100 people who register will receive a free leadership starter kit, including a Saint Mary’s leadership padfolio and guide. Kits and gift cards will be distributed at the conference. Participants must be present to claim theirs. 

Why attend the Student Leadership Conference 2024? 

1. Conference participation is CCR eligible, and all participants will receive a certificate of completion at the end. This looks great on the resume and gives valuable references on the cover letter. 

2. The conference gives students the opportunity to participate in fun and interactive sessions, gain valuable insights and network with like-minded individuals. 

3. There will be prize giveaways throughout the day. 

4. Lunch is provided. 

Event Details 

Date: March 2nd, 2024 

Time: Doors open at 9 a.m. (check-in required at the front desk) 
Conference runs from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Location: Loyola 290 

Registration Is Now Open! 
Register to attend the Student Leadership Conference on March 2nd, 2024! 

Conference Schedule 

9-10 a.m. | Check-In and Coffee 
10-10:15 a.m. | Opening Remarks and Overview of the Day 
10:15-11 a.m. | Leadership Primer by Tom Brophy 
11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Keynote Address 
12-1 p.m. | Lunch (included in registration) 
1-1:50 p.m. | Concurrent Sessions 
1:50-2 p.m. | Break 
2-2:50 p.m. | Concurrent Sessions 
2:50-3 p.m. | Break 
3-3:30 p.m. | Student Leader Panel 
3:30-4 p.m. | Closing Remarks and Ice Cream Social 

Questions? Email studentsuccess@smu.ca  

Transitioning from Co-Curricular Record to new Experience Record

The Saint Mary’s Co-Curricular Record (CCR) program has helped thousands of students connect with, track and validate co-curricular experiences including on- and off-campus volunteering, professional and personal development, leadership, student societies, awards and certificates, and sports and recreational opportunities.

Through the CCR program, students track hours, complete reflections and identify competency development using the university’s Career360° platform. Students use the record during their job search process or for further education or scholarship applications.

As the world of co-curricular and experiential learning evolves, Saint Mary’s University is transitioning from the former Co-Curricular Record model to our new Experience Record model. The Experience Record is a comprehensive document that summarizes a student’s involvement in curricular and co-curricular experiential learning at Saint Mary’s University. “Co-Curricular Record” is now defined as “Co-Curricular Recognition”, and all co-curricular programming will remain the same. Verified Co-Curricular Recognized (CCR) experiences will be documented on the Experience Record.

Some experiences will be automatically populated on a student’s Experience Record through Career360°, while others are submitted via the Co-Curricular Recognition (CCR) Program. The Experience Record includes verified experiences: Co-Curricular Recognized activities, Service Learning, Co-operative Education, Student Employment Initiative, Events/Workshops, Micro Experiential Learning, and more.

The new Experience Record model allows students to publish and sync their Experience Record to their LinkedIn profile in the Licenses and Certifications section. They can also access a URL link to the Record, which can be added to their cover letter or resumé.

For questions or inquiries on how to get involved with the CCR or Experience Record, contact Christy Starkey at Christy.Starkey@smu.ca.

Meet your Valedictorians for Winter 2024

Three valedictorians, selected for their leadership, campus involvement and academic success, will address their fellow graduates at the Winter Convocation ceremonies taking place on January 26 and 27, 2024. These students are the recipients of a John and Heather Fitzpatrick Valedictorian Award.

Learn more about the Winter 2024 valedictorians, and watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation.

Sheldon Bhawanie, Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Sheldon Bhawanie, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research

Sheldon Bhawanie left his home in Trinidad and Tobago and arrived at Saint Mary’s after searching for the best business school in Atlantic Canada. Needless to say, the Sobey School of Business came out on top and Sheldon has never regretted his choice. His degree, a Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation, has given him the foundation for a successful career and so much more.

Sheldon is currently employed at the Sobey School of Business as a Professional Development Project Manager in Graduate Career Services and volunteers as a soccer coach at the Halifax City Soccer Club. Working with students, helping them navigate their education journeys and enriching their lives has become a calling. “We are here not only to exist but also to make life better for others.”

Q&A with Sheldon

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s University?

I had attended St. Mary’s College in Port of Spain and had dedicated a significant part of my life to volunteering there. When I was looking for a good business school to attend in the Maritimes, it was no coincidence that SMU came up—I was sold! From one St. Mary’s to the next.

Tell us how you got involved in the SMU Community

I volunteer as a mentor for the Innovation Sprint events hosted at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. I think the clarity with which I see problems can help others solve problems.

Looking back, what was your favourite Saint Mary’s memory?

I remember coming to SMU for the first time in August 2022 and just standing in the Atrium thinking that I did well to get into my program and that I had to make my mark here. I couldn’t believe I was going to be part of the tapestry of this university. That moment is etched in my memory forever.

How has the MTEI helped shape your success in Halifax?

I have made so many connections here, not only as a student but networking with other professionals in Halifax! I learned that networking is key to setting up your landing after graduation. Everyone knows someone and therefore, good connections position you for a fulfilling life.

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Funmilayo Chioma Adegoke, Bachelor of Commerce

Funmilayo Adegoke, Valedictorian for the Sobey School of Business

Funmilayo Chioma Adegoke, from Lagos, Nigeria, earned a Bachelor of Commerce with a double major in Accounting and Computing and Information Systems. Her keen interest in the intersection of technology and finance motivated her to pursue these fields, and she is enthusiastic about exploring how technology can transform the accounting world.

Q&A with Funmilayo

Why did you choose Saint Mary's University?

I chose Saint Mary’s because of the Sobeys School of Business and its esteemed reputation as one of the top business schools in Canada.

What was your experience coming to Halifax as an International student?

Transitioning to life away from my family was a new experience, but SMU made it smoother than I expected. The assistance I received encouraged me to get involved and support other students as they transition into the SMU community. I worked with the International Centre and Residence Programming Team to help organize holiday-themed events, offering students on campus during the Christmas break a 'home-away-from-home' experience.

What other ways did you get involved with campus life?

I had many opportunities to get involved on campus, including as a member of the Commerce Society and African Society. I volunteered with the SMU Community Food Room and as a Cultural Assistant for the Language Centre, which paved the way for a rewarding job opportunity.

My first job on campus was with the Patrick Power Library, where I gained invaluable experience. In my second year (during the pandemic), I served as a Resident Assistant, supporting students facing unprecedented challenges and was honoured with a Flexible Leadership Award for my contributions during that time.

Which instructor had the most significant impact on you?

I've been lucky to encounter a few exceptional professors during my academic journey. Professor Charles Baxter sparked my interest in accounting, while Professor Vasiliki Athanasakou helped me gain a new perspective on the subject. Both have been invaluable mentors to me.

What are your goals for the future? How did Saint Mary's help set you on this path?

I am working towards my CPA and have found the CPA prerequisite courses offered by Saint Mary’s to be very helpful in achieving my goal. The resources provided by SMU have enabled me to explore my diverse interests and pursue a second major in Computing and Information Systems.

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Celina C.J. Rolle, Bachelor of Arts

Celina Rolle, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Arts

Press on and persevere. This is the message Celina Rolle wants to emphasize in her valedictory words of wisdom to fellow graduates. “Though we stand on top of this hill, many more are waiting to be conquered,” Celina says in her address, which opens and closes with inspiring passages from the Matthias Barr poem “Persevere”.

Celina works as a foreign service officer with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Bahamas. She came to Halifax from Nassau to pursue a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Global Development Studies, building on her previous studies in law and criminal justice at the University of The Bahamas.

Q&A with Celina

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s? After researching different universities, I found that Saint Mary’s stood out the most to me. Its commitment to ensuring that everyone feels welcome resonated with my values. It was also a plus to know several people who have either attended or are currently enrolled at SMU.

What was your favourite course? The Mind-Body Problem (PHIL 2328). After taking this class, I’m still grappling with the question of whether the mind is contained within the brain. It pushed me to think creatively and consider alternative possibilities.

Which instructor had the biggest impact on you? Jean-Blaise Samou, my instructor for Africa: Contemporary Development Issues (GDST 4462). The main responsibility of professors is to encourage students to think critically. However, he went beyond that by motivating us to explore the backgrounds of the authors whose readings we were required to study. This helped us understand how their personal experiences influenced their writing. I have since applied this approach to all my classes and even in my personal life, resulting in a significant impact on my way of thinking.

What will you miss most about Saint Mary’s? I am going to miss every one of my friends dearly. From the moments of pure joy and laughter that we shared to the deep conversations we had, I’m grateful for the time we spent together. I will always cherish those memories.

How has your experience at Saint Mary’s helped shape your future goals? Through interacting with a diverse range of people from different walks of life, I have learned how to communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and appreciate different perspectives. SMU's curriculum is designed to instil a strong work ethic. The rigorous coursework and deadlines taught me to manage my time wisely and work efficiently under pressure. These skills have been very useful in my career, where I am required to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines. Next, I would like to obtain my master’s degree.

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Winter Convocation takes place on January 26 and 27, 2024. Watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation or on our Facebook page.

Students tackle health care, food security issues with Wicked Problem Lab awards

Students present their ideas at the LeaderVision Atlantic Wicked Problems Lab Awards

Four Saint Mary’s students are gearing up to tackle some thorny issues in health care, food security and sustainability thanks to an award program from the Wicked Problems Lab.  

Now in its second year, the LeaderVision Atlantic Wicked Problems Lab Awards (sponsored by SMU alumnus Douglas Coll BComm’89), provide $2,500 to two undergraduate students who present a compelling idea to address a challenging problem. The Wicked Problems Lab grants two additional awards of the same value to one graduate and one undergraduate student.  

“Wicked problems, like poverty or climate change, are by definition almost impossible to solve because they are complex and always evolving, with no real end point,” says Dr. Mat Novak, a professor in the department of Geography and Environmental Studies and director of the Wicked Problems Lab. “But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t work to address them. These awards inspire and encourage students to work towards solutions.” The Lab supports the students by providing data, analytical software and expertise. 

Twelve projects vied for the award this year. The successful candidates began working with Drs. Novak and Matsumoto–the WPL’s Research Analyst–shortly after they were notified of their prize and will continue to develop and implement their idea this winter. Surveys, spatial analysis and census data will help inform their projects along with meeting local partners to carry out their ideas. Students will showcase their projects at the end of the term. 

Congratulations to the winners:

Lydia Lee 
Bachelor of Commerce, Sobey School of Business 
Project: Sustainable Seconds 

Sustainable Seconds aims to address food insecurity by delivering affordable and sustainable home meal kits. Using second products from local farmers and donated ingredients to create affordable and sustainable meal packages, it’s a cost-effective solution with pre-measured ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes.

Sorav Sogy 
Bachelor of Commerce, Sobey School of Business 
Project: CARE ETA 
 
Sorav Sogy, along with fellow BComm students Vaishali Sachdeva, Ishaan Singh and Aarav Sen Mehta, want to tackle healthcare wait times through the development of an interactive app. CARE ETA aims to improve the experience of patients waiting in lengthy queues in emergency hospitals by implementing a real-time system that lets people stay informed about their status.

Melissa Alvarez Del Angel 
Bachelor of Science, Psychology major 
Project: Palm Oil Reduction and Healthier Food on Campus 

Melissa Alvarez Del Angel is promoting healthier food options to the SMU campus. In response to the environmental impact of widespread palm oil production, Melissa has proposed a comprehensive strategy for reducing the use of palm oil and advocating for healthier food alternatives at SMU.

Hasib Ahmed 

Master of Technology, Entrepreneurship and Innovation 
Project: Wellnex 

Hasib Ahmed is developing a platform to make blood collection more accessible. This project seeks to enhance urban and rural mobility by introducing a doorstep blood sample collection service facilitated by a visiting nurse/phlebotomist, eliminating the need for individuals to commute to the hospital.

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About the Wicked Problems Lab 

Established in 2020, the Wicked Problems Lab harnesses the power of data and advanced analysis to address the world’s wicked problems. 

The lab is equipped with the latest software and curated datasets and is staffed with a full-time analyst to help address your wicked problem.  

The lab offers: 

• One-on-one research help 

• Undergraduate and graduate-level problem-based learning activities 

• Workshops, seminars and group training 

• Self-directed tutorials for data and software, including GIS 

• Community-research help assistance 

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Related stories: 

• New award aims to help solve wicked problems 

• Wicked problems of food insecurity  

Student launches Black haircare and beauty supply vending machine on campus

Queen-Esther Okundonor

Students, friends and staff celebrating together

Group photo with everyone who was at the launch event including Dr. Summerby-Murray, Professor Rohini Bannerjee and staff from the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

Event attendees looking at the new vending machine

Queen-Esther with the QTress Beauty Supplies vending machine on campus

Queen-Esther Okundonor, a fourth-year Marketing and Finance student from Nigeria, has a passion for helping people. This passion led her to launch her new business, QTress Beauty Supplies, a vending machine located in the Loyola Academic Building on campus. QTress Beauty Supplies aims to provide convenient and easy access to hair and beauty care products for the diverse student body at Saint Mary’s University and Halifax at large. 

Before opening in October, Queen-Esther had spent three years thinking about starting her own beauty supply business after learning about other vending businesses. At first, she was hesitant to make business plans while balancing her schoolwork and tuition payments, but she decided to give it a try.

Although Queen-Esther faced some ups and downs throughout the journey of planning and envisioning her business idea, she did not give up on her project. Instead, she worked harder. She learned to pivot when things did not work out. To Queen-Esther, the whole process was worth it because she was able to meet many supporters and gain a community.

This fall, friends, students, staff and faculty, including Saint Mary’s President Robert Summerby-Murray, gathered at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and celebrated the launch of QTress Beauty Supplies. The new vending machine, which carries a variety of beauty and hair care products for different hair and skin types, is located on the first floor of the Loyola Academic Building.

The story of Queen-Esther’s entrepreneurship journey inspired many students, igniting a spark of motivation and encouraging them to chase their own dreams. “When you look your best, you feel your best, and this should not be only a luxury,” says Queen-Esther.

Watch a CTV News story about Queen-Esther Okundonor and QTress Beauty Supplies: Easy access to Black beauty supplies | CTV News