This July, Saint Mary’s University welcomed Indigenous youth from Cape Breton for a week-long immersive business and university experience through the inaugural Indigenous Youth Business Camp.
Led in partnership by the Sobey School of Business and Kylar Johnson, Indigenous Student Advisor in Student Affairs and Services, the pilot initiative was designed to create early pathways to post-secondary education for Indigenous youth in Atlantic Canada. Over the course of the week, students lived in Saint Mary’s residence, explored life on campus and in Halifax, and participated in a range of programming focused on entrepreneurship and business fundamentals.
“This week was all about connection,” said Kylar. “It was about giving students a feel for what it’s like to live here and learn at Saint Mary’s, helping them build relationships with our Indigenous community at SMU, showing them what supports exist within Student Affairs and Services and beyond, and giving them a chance to explore what SMU has to offer.”
The Sobey School of Business programming focused on experiential learning with faculty, staff and student groups. Participants engaged in workshops on how to pitch a business idea, develop marketing strategies and manage key aspects of business operations. They also visited local businesses aligned with key business streams, including site visits to Sobeys headquarters, Clearwater, the Halifax Wanderers and Tribe Network, and took part in an on-campus session with the CEO of SimplyCast and prominent SMU alum, Saeed El-Darahali BSc’02 MBA’04. Participants also connected with members of the SMU Enactus team and learned how getting involved outside the classroom can enrich the university experience.
Camp participants visited a local Sobeys location
SMU Enactus members gave a presentation to students
According to Manar Salem, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects at the Sobey School of Business, one of the most valuable aspects of the experience was its two-way learning model.
“We wanted to give students a realistic insight into university life – what to expect, how it differs from high school, and what opportunities exist across different areas of business,” Salem said. “But it was also a learning experience for us. Hearing their questions and seeing what sparks their interest helps us understand how to better connect with and support our future students. It shapes how we think about teaching business, and how we build community.”
Throughout the week, participants explored a variety of business disciplines, from marketing and sustainability to sport, retail, AI and non-government organizations. They gained a deeper understanding of the different academic pathways available at Saint Mary’s and how these are reflected in real-world business operations.
“It was validating to hear from presenters who wanted to learn from us too,” said Bethany, a participant in the program. “I make art, and I want to sell it, so this experience helped me start thinking through what I need to consider like expenses, pricing, even how to market to audiences. It also helped me think about how to find balance and not burn out.”
Indigenous student leaders played a key role throughout the week, with two current students serving as chaperones and mentors. “All it takes is one visit to campus and you're sold,” shared BComm student and Huskies Football player Cole Prosper. “Everyone here wants you to succeed - don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
The group also had the opportunity to experience campus life by staying in residence, touring spaces, including SMU’s newly renovated Indigenous Student Space, learning about available resources and supports, and going on social outings together.
“I loved the camp,” exclaimed Cheyanne, another student participant. “Everyone connected so quickly. I feel like I would be more likely to choose SMU now, having had the chance to meet some of the Indigenous students and seeing the student space they have here.”
A highlight of the week was the final presentation project. Participants worked in teams to develop and pitch creative solutions to real cultural issues, applying what they had learned throughout the week. Supported by student mentors from the Sobey School of Business, they presented their ideas to a panel of judges, impressing the judges with their innovation, confidence and thoughtful insights, and offering a glimpse of the potential these future leaders bring.
“This camp gives students a real chance to picture themselves here,” said Professor Vurain Tabvuma. “They’re not just hearing about university; they’re living it for a week, asking questions, meeting people and seeing what’s possible. That kind of experience can be a turning point in helping them figure out what they want and knowing they’d be supported if they came here.”