The Jim Fielding Innovation & Commercialization Space at Laurentian University was full of energy on March 28, 2025, as students presented at this year's Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) Pitch Competition. This event showcased the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Laurentian University students, with 17 total applications submitted and seven students selected to pitch their business ideas to a panel of expert judges:
- Josée Pharand (Regional Business Centre)
- Brendan Skiffington (NORCAT)
- Logan Blanchard (Desjardins*)
Competition winner and third year Psychology student, Mary Odisho, stands proudly with the Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) panel of expert judges. From left to right: Josée Pharand (Regional Business Centre), Brendan Skiffington (NORCAT), Mary Odisho, and Logan Blanchard (Desjardins).
Competition Winners:
- 1st Place: Mary Odisho - Third year Psychology student (ViaPist) - An AI-powered virtual friend that provides conversational support for mental health, offering a comforting voice to those in need of immediate, non-judgmental assistance. Award: $3,500
- Second Place: Florish Adebayo - Fourth year Biochemistry student (Beiwty Rishrish Cosmetics) - A beauty brand dedicated to creating high-quality, non-toxic, and cruelty-free cosmetics and skincare, empowering individuals with products tailored to their unique beauty needs. Award: $2,000
- People's Choice: Fatmeh Hamoud - Third year Law and Justice student (Transformative Strength) - A personalized strength training and nutrition coaching program designed to help individuals achieve sustainable fitness transformations through tailored plans and ongoing support. Award: $1,000
"The pitch competition showcased the incredible breadth of talent and creativity of our student entrepreneurs and we are excited to support these ventures as they grow. The BYOB competition helps students develop their skills and confidence to succeed as future entrepreneurs," said Anastacia Chartrand, Innovation and Commercialization Coordinator.
Gisele Roberts, Director of Research and Innovation added: "Having been involved with the BYOB since its inception in 2015, I've seen firsthand how it empowers students to bring their ideas to life. This year's competition was one of our best yet the enthusiasm, creativity, and quality of pitches were truly outstanding!"
"I want to thank my family, co-founder, judges, Laurentian, the Foundry, and Desjardins for sponsoring this event," enthused competition winner, Mary Odisho (Toronto, Ontario). "ViaPist's mission is to make mental health support affordable and accessible for everyone, and this event gave us a chance to emphasize the importance of equitable mental health care. Spreading awareness and advocating for change in the mental health industry motivates us to keep pushing forward."
Odisho is studying to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree, via distance. "As an online student, being on campus for the first time was truly a memorable and amazing experience."
The BYOB competition is an annual event for all creators and innovators. First launched in 2015, this competition provides a platform for students and recent alumni to showcase their ideas and entrepreneurial spirit.
*Special thanks to Desjardins for sponsoring all cash prizes.
