Launched with the ambition of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among youth in the Northwest Territories, the “Budding Entrepreneurs” project offered participating students a unique human and educational experience. Although the final concert, meant to celebrate weeks of hard work, planning, and creativity, was ultimately cancelled, this setback in no way diminished the positive and lasting impact the program had on the youth involved.

Throughout the project, students from Grades 10 to 12 at Sir John Franklin High School and École Allain St-Cyr in Yellowknife, as well as École Boréale in Hay River, were encouraged to think creatively, design collaboratively, and build a concrete initiative, namely, an artistic and community-focused event. This hands-on experience enabled them to develop a wide range of essential skills, including teamwork, time management, problem-solving, interpersonal communication, stress management, and decision-making. These competencies will be invaluable as they progress in their academic, professional, and personal journeys.

The cancellation of the concert, while disappointing, also served as an important lesson in the realities of project work: the inevitability of the unexpected. This moment illustrated that setbacks can be powerful learning opportunities. The students came to understand that challenges are part of any journey. Resilience, the ability to learn from difficulties, and the strength to bounce back are all core qualities of a successful entrepreneur.

It is also important to highlight the key role played by mentors, teachers, and partners such as the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), the City of Yellowknife, the City and Courthouse of Hay River, and ECE EVENT. Their support, attentiveness, and ability to guide students through thoughtful reflection and action greatly enriched the experience.

This first edition of Entrepreneurs en Herbe laid a meaningful and forward-looking foundation. With a few adjustments, particularly in areas such as internal communication, logistical planning, and collaborative organization, this initiative has the potential to become an inspiring model for other schools and communities across the Northwest Territories.