Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023

Our students excel and shine at the COIE-ARIES Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 this weekend 

A purposeful, fun and actionable facilitated experiential learning program for changemaking and leadership skills aligning with our Academic Plan and generously supported by Diane Blake

The Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 weekend program held between September 29th and October 1st provided purposeful fun and actionable facilitated experiential learning, focusing on changemaking and leadership skills. Centennial students demonstrated remarkable leadership and active participation in all three winning teams.

The Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023:
An Overview

The Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023, meticulously organized by the SDG Innovation Lab, Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (COIE), ARIES and supported by Canadian partners including OSPE, UNDP, and Digital Society School Amsterdam, showcased a sophisticated and multi-stage program that exemplified best-in-class methodologies.

This unique program made a substantial contribution to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while simultaneously nurturing future-oriented skills among its participants. It achieved this by immersing them in a collaborative, problem-solving environment, facilitated by experts and guided by Mentors at every stage.

Throughout this intensive event, ten teams embarked on a transformative journey, commencing from scratch on a Friday, and remarkably, within just 2 1⁄2 days by Sunday, were able to conceptualize, develop, and present well-conceived solutions to a distinguished panel of Judges. This remarkable progress was facilitated by the application of cutting-edge methodologies that included flipped classroom techniques, experiential learning, team-based collaboration, and iterative experimentation using industry-leading approaches such as Design Thinking, Lean, and Agile—all deeply rooted in sustainability principles. These methodologies were diligently supported by a rich repository of in-house experts, external thought leaders, mentors, and industry trailblazers, all synergistically harnessing curated open resources to drive innovative and creative solutions to significant, real-world problems.

The Global Goals Jam Canada plenary was inaugurated by Jonathan Hack and Lalit Guglani, featuring a special message from Marco van Hout, co-founder of the Global Goals Jams, and inspiration from 4 illustrious keynote speakers:

• Sandra Odendahl, Senior VP and Head, Sustainability and Diversity, Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
• Bruce Taylor, Founder & President, Enviro-Stewards Inc.
• David Nicholas Oswald, Founder & President, DE Design + Environment Inc. and Associate Faculty, Royal Roads University
• Angie Redecopp, Corporate & ESG Lawyer, Impact Business Law

This distinguished lineup set the tone for a weekend that would ultimately redefine the participants’ approach to tackling global challenges.

This unique programming, built around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) presented specific and contemporary challenges for participants to tackle, organized into two overarching themes—aligning with the SDGs’ focus on both people and the planet:

Check out the detailed report of our Global Goals Jam Themes & Topics too!

Alongside Design Thinking (inspired by Stanford/Ideo), the Lean LaunchPad methodology – pioneered by institutions like Stanford University, Columbia Business School, and UC Berkeley – played a pivotal role in helping participants craft repeatable and scalable business models for their innovative solutions. It’s noteworthy that the Lean LaunchPad methodology is taught in over 200 universities worldwide and forms the foundation of the U.S. National Science Foundation Innovation Corps program, setting the standard for commercializing scientific breakthroughs in the United States. Two additional iterations of the Lean LaunchPad®, “Hacking for Defense” and “Hacking for Diplomacy,” are tailored to address national defence and foreign policy challenges.

This comprehensive and thoughtfully designed event represented a convergence of talent, innovation, and cutting-edge methodologies. It fostered experiential and agile learning within a team environment where participants were not just learners but active contributors to peer learning. In summary, the Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 event represented a sophisticated and transformative experience that exemplified the best practices in contemporary education and problem-solving.

The speakers engaged the 79 plenary attendees in a holistic view of sustainability, providing engineering, sustainable finance, ESG legislation, creative media, and agricultural, economic, and governance perspectives to eager participants.

In addition to a strong student response that included participation from various colleges, the Jam also featured faculty leadership and expertise from the various schools within Centennial (School of Engineering Technology and Applied Science, The Business School, School of Community and Health Studies, and School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts).

34 executive mentors from post-secondary institutes, government, corporations and community groups (including Toronto Metropolitan University, George Brown College, Business Development Bank of Canada and the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers) came and provided guidance and mentorship to the teams on themes, business ideas, pitches, developing virtual prototypes, and integrating advice and feedback throughout the design journey. At the end of the design jam, three teams were awarded prizes totaling $4,500 based on evaluation by the panel of esteemed judges below. 

Our Winning Teams:

Wearwise by Awarers – Overall Winner

Click this link to view their final pitch deck!

Project overview:

“Wisewear,” is a fashionable health accessory bracelet integrated with a pulse sensor. This innovative product aids in identifying emotions, understanding them, and providing the right support when needed.

The bracelet beads are made from recyclable plastic, with the head bead featuring bluetooth connectivity enabling the user to access their data and resources from a mobile application.

The data collection and analysis will be powered by artificial intelligence, and the app will feature nearby therapists, mental health tools and videos, buttons for calling friends, family, or emergency services, and a mood journal. Alongside advancing SDG #3: Good Health and Wellbeing, expected results include a reduction in mental health disorders, and an increased positive conversations around mental health.

Teammates:

• Team Lead: Muriel Assandé (Hospitality and Tourism Administration, SHTCA)
• Motolani Olusile (Marketing Management, TBS)
• Anne Aseey

SKARF Mobile App by SKARF – 2nd Place

Click this link to view their final pitch deck!

Project overview:

SKARF is a mobile app aimed at providing young individuals with the necessary tools, knowledge, and community support to effectively combat cyberbullying. In 2022, 89% of Canadian teachers believed that cyberbullying is the #1 safety issue in public schools, with 1 in 4 children reported to have been cyberbullied by Grade 11. This results in emotional distress and isolation, especially coupled with a lack of resources to address the issue, struggle to access professional support, or don’t have a safe community to engage with.

The SKARF app provides mental health resources to improve emotional wellbeing, engages users with gamified activities helping them combat cyberbullying, and offers a safe community where teenagers can share their experience and receive support from peers and certified professionals. The app has different interfaces for parents, students and school staff.

Teammates:

• Team Lead: Shakil Mohammed (Interactive Media Management, SCMAD)
• Kevin Taday (Aerospace Manufacturing Engineering, SETAS)
• Festus Asiyanbi (Software Engineering Technician, SETAS)
• Abimbola Bolarinwa (Social Service Worker, SCHS)
• Renee Vera (AI – Software Engineering Technology, SETAS)

EmpowerHer by Learner’s League – 3rd Place

Click this link to view their final pitch deck!

Project overview:

EmpowerHer by the Learner’s League is an interactive learning and career development platform and supportive community that empowers underserved women to build in-demand skills, attain self-sufficiency and job security by transforming insecurity into confidence and opportunity.

The platform features personalized learning and career pathways to help middle-aged women refugees and immigrants improve their English communication, understand Canadian culture, and connect with a community. All courses are available 24/7 and self-paced, with a commitment to gender, cultural, and ASL inclusivity. The platform is free with a subscription option that includes live captions in 30+ languages, AI-driven performance tracking, as well as cultural and legal advice.

Teammates:

• Team Lead: Raj Vihari Kongara
• Mila Ravindiran (Interactive Media Management, SCMAD)
• Ashok Ranade
• Paresh Sharma

What our Participants are Saying

The student experience in the Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 can be summarized as follows:

Students found the experience to be eye-opening and enriching, especially those interested in entrepreneurship and innovation. They viewed it as a valuable opportunity for personal growth and societal betterment. The Jam encouraged students to think creatively and deeply about global challenges and provided a platform for teamwork and purpose-driven collaboration.

Participants appreciated the guidance from expert mentors, facilitated environment, the structured approach to ideation and problem-solving, and the use of templated tools like Miro for virtual and visual collaboration of a well-managed program.

For many students, it was their first exposure to such a high-energy and intense brainstorming and innovation. They found the experience educational and exciting. The program not only taught important  skills but also fostered a sense of unity among diverse individuals, emphasizing the power of collaboration and diversity. Many students commended positively on the mentorship, interactive breakout sessions, and the opportunity to meet like-minded and creative peers. Students highlighted the importance of learning by doing and gaining practical insights into entrepreneurship and innovation.

Overall, the student experience was described as fulfilling, intense, and educational. It left a lasting impact on participants and fueled their enthusiasm for future events and opportunities.

What our participants shared:

“This weekend’s challenge inspires participants like myself to think deeply and get involved. It encourages creativity, teamwork, and a sense of purpose. It’s a way for people to connect with others who want to make a positive impact on the world.”

– Trisha D., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“Interesting and mind opening experience especially for me who wants to learn more about entrepreneurship.”

– Emander D., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“I liked the brainstorming and the sharing of ideas. I liked the learning provided by the mentors. The help of Mentors (during the breakout rooms) was amazing! That was super insightful and the mentorship and guidance was unparalleled. Finally, I also liked how the program was developed, explained, and monitored. Also, the Miro Visual workplace was intuitive and easy to use. I met great and creative people (otherwise I wouldn’t have meet) [and received] valuable information for future presentations. Enjoy the process; learn from the outcome!“

– Kevin T., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“What I really appreciate is the presence of mentors who actively engage in the breakout rooms, assisting us in developing our ideas and offering valuable insights. I had a great time working with my team as we discussed, questioned, identified problems, and ultimately decided on our project’s focus. Participating in the Global Goals Jam allowed me to fully engage in the realms of design thinking and lean methodology. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to SDG for this enriching experience!”

– Lea M., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“This wonderful experience is much needed for society to build a better world.”

– Ujwala D., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

” I love the whole concept of engaging youth leaders to think about the possibilities to change the world for the better future of our coming generations.”

– Shane R., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

” Stumbling upon the Jam at the student resource center on MyCentennial website was a revelation. These three days have been a rollercoaster of learning and collaboration. The experience of working with unfamiliar faces was enriching. It was an emotional journey, a testament to the power of unity in diversity. The Jam has left an unforgettable imprint on me, fueling my anticipation for more such events: where minds meet and ideas ignite to make the WORLD a better place.”

– Ahmed S., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“Envision like an architect, implement like an engineer. “

– Abimbola B., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“The training and the presenters were excellent. The future needs well designed solutions to move forward!”

– Anne A., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“Educational and interesting.”

– Festus A., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“I live by the motto of “learning by doing,” and I’ve come across a wealth of valuable information throughout my journey in the jam. I appreciate this wonderful opportunity! Thank you for this great opportunity! :)”

– Nona R., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“This is helping me understand different cultures and how we all are united in this Jam. Loved the mentors, had a lot of fun, learnt a lot, this was the best Jam I attended. I have learnt one key skill of being a virtual leader during a rollercoaster ride of brainstorming and pitch perfect Jam.”

– Raj Vihari K., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“Amazing experience. Provided a streamlined overview on how to launch an impactful business from scratch covering all aspects from ideation, viability & launch. It was intense, and I loved every bit of it. Highly recommend to anyone passionate about entrepreneurship! “

– Shakilo M., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“I love this design jam!”

– Joe H., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“Brightening ideas to shine the international spotlight on global challenges.”

– Kenneth A., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“I was surprised how well managed this 2 day program was, and so much support from mentors, great team interactions, overall amazing experience.

– Gideon S., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“Being part of something as impactful as this to the society is fulfilling.”

– Motolani O., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“It was a learning experience for me and the team work helped me to practice collaboration. We empower each other through our voices, stories and connections.”

– Amy T., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant

“The jam is pretty fun! Its nice to be able to work with people on this sort of “hackathon” to come up with a solution to some of biggest challenges that we face today and in the future”

– Hadi A., Global Goals Jam Canada Fall 2023 Participant