Bright minds turn to future for Illuminate Education Business Challenge

South West students got down to business this week, taking part in the Illuminate Education Business Challenge.

Last Tuesday, 80 students from Cape Naturaliste College, Bridgetown High School, Margaret River Senior High School, and Manjimup Senior High School gathered in Busselton to take part in the challenge, in which they considered sustainability outcomes for the future of humanity.

The core challenge of the day asked students to propose solutions to the “most pressing needs of humanity” including the sustainable, secure and fair stewardship of food, water, biodiversity, energy materials and other ecosystem functions and services.

Organised by Cape Naturaliste humanities and social sciences teacher Lenka Bassham, the event had a “positive vibe” throughout the day, she said.

Participating student Emily Toner said it was great to combine ideas toward relevant issues and see how others approached the same issue.

“It was a great way to talk about community issues we feel passionate about and turn them into business ideas,” she said.

Ideas were presented to a judging panel including City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley, youth development supervisor Angela Griffin and Luke Baldock who selected Bridgetown High School as the overall winner.

The people’s choice prize was awarded to the students of Cape Naturaliste College.

Mr Henley said it was a “privilege” to be involved.

“With over 17,000 students across Australia inspired by the challenge it was great to see students embrace the use of sustainable practices,” he said.