Our successful two-day InnocaS.E. competition on February 27, 2025, saw Sheridan students and alumni step up to tackle some of the most pressing issues today, from mastering AI to building equity, diversity and inclusion.
The winning idea discussed how hands-on workshops on AI tools in digital marketing at Sheridan EDGE could boost students’ AI skills. The two runner-up ideas discussed using technology to close the gaps preventing students from accessing in-person healthcare and improving diversity, equity and inclusion in student governance.
“Sheridan EDGE has helped me think of entrepreneurial ideas which create a social impact,” says winner and Sheridan student Anisha Jose Kizhakkethottam, whose topic was ‘Artificial Intelligence in Career and Entrepreneurship’.
The competition’s panel discussion focused on career motivations, industry trends requiring innovation and the vital role of innovation in advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion. Panel members discussed the need for creative solutions to address current industry hurdles and dismantling systemic barriers, inspiring attendees to drive positive social change through their innovative ideas.
Panel members included moderator Noreen Javed, Interim Director, Entrepreneurship and Changemaking at Sheridan EDGE, Dr. Haruna Isah, B.Eng, MSc, Ph.D., Associate Director for the Centre of Applied AI at Sheridan College, Dr. Bolanle Solomon-Adewusi, founder of The ScholarshipWhizz, Lynn Courville, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Ontario Student Voices and Dr. Alexa Roggeveen Professor and Social Service Worker for Sheridan’s Gerontology Program.
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- Vice President of ED&I at SSU, Vincent Tsang began the event with a Land Acknowledgment.
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- Indigenous activist Eddy Robinson, discussed creating a culturally safe environment for mutually beneficial and respectful conversations.
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- Nadine Sinno, Student Engagement Manager at Sheridan EDGE introduced and welcomed panel moderators.
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- (L-R), Noreen Javed, Interim Director, Entrepreneurship and Changemaking was the panel moderator. She led the panel discussion focused on career motivations, industry trends needing innovation and the vital role of innovation in advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion. Also shown are Haruna Isah, B.Eng, MSc, Ph.D., Associate Director for the Centre of Applied AI at Sheridan College, Dr. Alexa Roggeveen, Professor, Social Service Worker – Gerontology Program, Dr. Bolanle Solomon-Adewusi, Founder of The ScholarshipWhizz, and Lynn Courville, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Ontario Student Voices.
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- Marycynthia Maduka presented her case study on using technology to empower students’ health. Her study aimed to identify the challenges in implementing technology-driven solutions to help students better manage their well-being.
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- Shahin Preet Kaur’s presentation discussed AI in Career and Entrepreneurship, using the e-commerce platform Shopify to showcase how AI is driving business growth and innovation.
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- Judges providing feedback to one of the student presenters, Rohit Rajkumar.
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- Anisha Jose won first place and a $800 prize. She discussed AI’s potential to revolutionize entrepreneurship and careers worldwide, highlighting how Sheridan EDGE equips students with the tools and knowledge to leverage AI for success in business.
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- Bassem Zaklama won second place and $500 for his proposal on how technology can complement, rather than replace, traditional wellness services for a balanced approach to health. His proposal focused on SSU wellness events, online resources, athletics, and more.
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- Jerica Jimenez won third place and $350 for her proposal on Breaking Barriers: Bridging EDI Gaps in Student Governance. She highlighted how promoting EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) can improve participation and offer better student governance by increasing diverse perspectives and backgrounds in leadership roles.
About EDGE Student Membership
The EDGE Student Membership is a catalyst for the growth of Sheridan students. Membership provides entrepreneurial skill development, networking and hands-on learning so you can build a purpose-driven career or venture. You can learn more and join here.
