Enterprise Pitch Competition Held At BHS
Year 9 students at BHS put their entrepreneurial skills to the test at this year’s Enterprise Pitch Competition, an initiative designed to develop business knowledge, critical thinking, and confidence in presenting ideas.
A spokesperson said, “Sponsored by Walkers [Bermuda] Ltd and supported by Ignite Bermuda, the competition allowed students to pitch original business ideas to a panel of industry professionals.
“Known as the Enterprise Project, this hybrid programme combines Business Studies, Psychology and Design and Technology. The year group of 42 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 stands, bags, and more.”
Secondary Business Studies teacher Elyse Rayner commented, “This year’s Enterprise Pitch Competition was a powerful reminder of what students can achieve when given the space to explore ideas, take risks, and challenge themselves. It’s not just about developing a pitch—it’s about developing confidence, resilience, and critical thinking. I couldn’t be prouder of their creativity and growth.”
“I am really passionate about this collaborative project. It is a great learning experience where students can develop ‘real world’ skills such as working with others, problem-solving, and perseverance. I hope it is an educational experience they will remember fondly.” Added Design and Technology teacher Jodie Walters.
The spokesperson said, “Starting with a preliminary round of pitches, each group had to present their product to their peers and a panel of judges, comprising teaching staff and entrepreneurs from Ignite Bermuda. From the preliminary round, five groups were selected to advance to the final. Each group was encouraged to adjust their pitch presentations based on the feedback they received during the preliminary presentations.
“In the final round, students had to pitch to a panel of industry experts, including professionals and volunteers from Ignite Bermuda and Walkers, who provided valuable insights and feedback to students. The judging panel included: Tyasha Smith [Xpressions Bermuda], Rhiannon Nanette [POD Bermuda], Holly Mazar-Fox P ’35,’37 [Mazar-Fox Art Consulting Ltd], Antonia Holder [Digiroo], Chrysda Smith ‘19 [Walkers], and Aleisha Hollis ‘15 [Walkers].
“With parents and peers in attendance, students confidently presented their ideas, demonstrating their ability to develop products, conduct market research, and justify business strategies. The competition offered a valuable opportunity to apply classroom learning to real- world scenarios, enabling students to develop problem-solving and teamwork skills essential for business success.”
“This experience has been a great opportunity for me to explore both my strengths and weaknesses when creating a product. I am extremely grateful to have been able to participate in this project and to all the teachers who guided us along the way,” remarked Year 9 student Anna Mao.
Her classmate Marli Robinson added, “I feel that participating in the Enterprise Project has been a valuable experience where I learned to work in a group with people I didn’t know very well. It really helped to improve my communication skills. We developed creativity and learned how to manage a business and understand how to promote it effectively.”
The spokesperson said, “After much deliberation, first place was awarded to The Wooden Plant Pot Kit, created by Vongai Benza, Lana Naudé, and Sanaa Tucker. In Second place, The Self-Watering Plant, pitched by Isla Cooze, Hailey Odouri, and Eva Worsick. Third place was awarded to Naomi Lindo, Isla Mutch, and Mariah Torak-Cordeiro, who pitched 3D Tic-Tac-Toe. Each of the winning teams will receive a cash prize courtesy of Walkers [Bermuda] Limited.”
“Walkers is proud to continue our support as the headline sponsor of the BHS Enterprise Pitch Competition. Although I was unable to join the judging panel this time, I want to thank Aleisha Hollis and Chrysda Smith for their assistance with judging. It is incredibly rewarding to support and empower the next generation of female entrepreneurs in our community. We remain committed to guiding and inspiring their success.” – Rachel Nightingale, Walkers Partner & Training Committee Co-Chair.
“Ignite Bermuda was honoured to support the BHS Enterprise Pitch Competition for the second year! We loved welcoming the class to our Hub for a pitch workshop, where we worked hands- on with the students and were truly impressed by the confidence and ideas they brought to their pitches. A huge thank you to our incredible alumni who generously shared their expertise as pitch judges. Congratulations to all who pitched!” – Georgia Rego, Programme Manager.
The spokesperson said, “The Enterprise Project will continue to be an annual event for the Year 9 students to look forward to.”
