The KF Centre for Excellence was proud to stand alongside Central Okanagan Public Schools in celebrating youth innovation through the 32nd Annual iGen Business Plan Competition—an extraordinary showcase of passion, creativity, and bold ideas from the next generation of entrepreneurs.
This year’s event brought together students across the district in a shared mission to ignite entrepreneurial thinking. The energy was electric—and the presentations were nothing short of inspiring.
At the semi-finals held on June 4, KF Centre for Excellence’s Executive Director, Chris Lapointe, had the privilege of serving as a judge, joining an esteemed panel of local business leaders: Brea Lake (Accelerate Okanagan), Dan Allen (Entrepreneur & Business Professor, Okanagan College), Jessy Gale (MNP), Christy Lovi (Doak Shirreff Lawyers), and Sascha Lesack (COEDC). Students delivered thoughtful, confident, and courageous pitches—showcasing real business ideas with remarkable insight and clarity.
What stood out most was the incredible heart behind each presentation. It was truly moving to see students light up as judges offered feedback, encouragement, and genuine support. These weren’t just student projects—they were moments of growth, confidence, and possibility.
At the KF Centre for Excellence, our mission is rooted in education and innovation. Partnering with iGen aligned beautifully with our vision of empowering young minds to dream big and lead boldly. These students are not just the future—they are already making an impact.
A big congratulations to all the outstanding participants of iGen 2025—and to this year’s winner, Cadence Lesack of George Elliot Secondary, for taking home first place with her business Equi-Guard! Your ideas—and your passion to share them—remind us why we believe so strongly in supporting youth leadership and entrepreneurship.
Learn more about the iGen program at igc23.com
