Our Saturday Dug Out session at YLED NPO was nothing short of extraordinary! The spotlight was on our Grade 11 cohort — young entrepreneurs-in-training — as they pitched their business ideas for funding under the sharp eye of a panel of judges.

Each team was tasked with presenting a comprehensive business case, covering everything from product development and market research to go-to-market strategies, production plans, and financials. It was no small feat — and yet, these young leaders rose to the challenge with confidence, creativity, and resilience, many of them running on little sleep after working tirelessly to prepare.

A special shoutout to our team Moonlight, who walked away with 100% funding! I couldn’t be more proud. Their mentor, Cassidean Isaacs, gave it his all — and as their coach, I can honestly say my work was cut out for me!

These are the moments that remind us why we do what we do: nurturing talent, building leadership, and creating platforms where young people can shine.