‘Pitch’ Perfect Business Competition At BHS
Students created an array of products, including children’s toys, jewellery boxes, pet supplies, bags, technology storage and more during the ‘Pitch’ Perfect Business Competition at BHS.
A spokesperson said, “This past term, Year 9 students at BHS had their first introduction to the world of Business Studies and Economics through a module on entrepreneurship. The module started in January and culminated in a Shark-Tank-style pitch competition.
“Known as Enterprise Week, this hybrid programme combines Business Studies and Design and Technology. The year group of 54 students was divided into groups of three. Each group was tasked with creating a product and developing a business plan for how they could turn a profit by selling their product. The students created an array of products, including children’s toys, jewellery boxes, pet supplies, bags, technology storage and more.
Secondary Business Studies teacher Elyse Rayner commented, “Enterprise Week is a testament to the incredible potential within our students. It’s about more than just winning; it’s about embracing the process – creativity, collaboration, and the entrepreneurial spirit. I’m immensely proud of all the teams for their hard work and innovation.”
“Starting with a preliminary round of pitches, each group had to present their product to their peers and a panel of judges comprised of teaching staff and entrepreneurs from Ignite Bermuda. From the preliminary round, six groups were selected to advance to the final. Each of the six groups was encouraged to adjust their pitch presentations based on the feedback they received during the preliminary presentations.
“In addition to our internal staff and Ignite entrepreneurs, the final panel of judges was expanded to include Rachel Nightingale and Aleisha Hollis, representing Walkers [Bermuda] Limited, which sponsored the event. The finalists were also permitted to invite family members along to join the audience of their peers.
“After much deliberation, first place was awarded to Aki Holders, a portable jewellery storage solution presented by Iona van Niekerk, Kiara Buckley and Ava Ritchie. Night Owl, a sleepoverthemed game box created by Maya Williams-Johnson, Carla Futter, and Poppy Martin, was awarded second place. Maggie Adderley, Rielle Gaglio and Journee Belboda, who pitched Tails and Trails, a pet storage solution, were awarded Third place. Each of the winning teams will receive a cash prize, courtesy of Walkers [Bermuda] Limited, and mentorship hours donated by Ignite Bermuda.
“Walkers is delighted to have been a headline sponsor for the first ever BHS business pitch competition. Aleisha Hollis ‘15 an Associate at Walkers Bermuda and I enjoyed the opportunity to judge the impressive and innovative pitches presented by the students. We are proud to provide guidance and inspire future female entrepreneurs in our community.” – Rachel Nightingale, Walkers Partner & Training Committee Co-Chair.
“Ignite Bermuda is thrilled to have been a part of the first Enterprise Week pitch competition. We’re really proud to have so many of our alumna represent as guest judges and volunteer mentors, knowing that they bring invaluable experience and enthusiasm with them. We’re excited to see how this collaboration enables the continued growth and development of aspiring entrepreneurs in our community. Congratulations to all of the girls who pitched!” – Georgia Rego, Programme Manager.
“The Enterprise Week competition will continue to be an annual event for the Year 9 students to look forward to.”
