On Nov. 9, the ACE Guelph-Humber chapter represented the University by hosting the first ACE case competition, "Leaders of Tomorrow," focusing on inspiring future business leaders. This historic event, with over 70 attendees from the University of Guelph-Humber, Humber Polytechnic, and Toronto Metropolitan University, fostered professional growth.
The ACE Guelph-Humber chapter, under ACE Canada, is an organization that caters to students across the country to grow professionally and personally through case competitions.
With a mission to create future business leaders, our ACE chapter has set the goal of putting all members in the best position to succeed. We exemplified this mission by preparing a day filled with professional workshops, networking opportunities, and a thrilling case competition. At the "Leaders of Tomorrow" case conference, students got out of their comfort zone by competing and fostering meaningful connections.
As a student who observed the whole conference, the energy was one of a kind. Ever since I joined the ACE Guelph-Humber chapter last year, I became more confident in my skillsets and passionate about my career. Being a part of the executive team, allowed me to witness students embark on the same journey and head onto the right path. At ACE Guelph-Humber, we give a new meaning to student development, and it was a privilege being a part of the executive team planning this conference and contributing to a community of aspiring professionals.
At our conference, dedicated guest speakers provided invaluable professional insights and shared their journeys to inspire attendees. Tony Bagnato, founder of Competitive Advantage Inc., empowered students to build confidence and enhance their networking skills, while Dilshan Jayasinghe, a U of GH alum and case competition enthusiast, shared his case competition journey with students, educating them on the winning formula. Dilshan wasn't the only alum contributing to our event. One of U of GH's strengths is our close-knit community, with the help of U of GH alumni and professors being esteemed judges at our case competition, our students would get a unique learning opportunity. Having seasoned professionals like Prince Khan, Tejpal Singh, and Farkhanda Shamim evaluate students and provide their industry expertise gave students a learning experience that no textbook could replicate.
With the help of our sponsors, EY, CPA Ontario, and Red Bull, our event was a success. Their investments in the "Leaders of Tomorrow" allowed them to educate students about the benefits of their respective firms.
ACE stands for achieve, connect, and empower. At the "Leaders of Tomorrow" case conference, that was in full display. For anyone still wondering if these events are worth attending, let me tell you: they are. This is where leaders are born, so I have a message to the students who attended: you are the leaders of tomorrow.
And to those who missed it - this is just the beginning.