Students from the Learners Early Access Program (LEAP) showcase critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork in a groundbreaking business debate challenge
Algoma University recently hosted a first-of-its-kind Case Debate Competition, a groundbreaking event that brought together high school students from the Learners Early Access Program (LEAP) to showcase their business acumen, critical thinking, and collaborative skills.
Held at the historic Peel County Courthouse within the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives in Brampton, the competition challenged students from the Peel District School Board (PDSB) and the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) to analyze and debate complex business case studies. These case studies covered topics such as entrepreneurship, ethics, and organizational behaviour. 37 participating students presented arguments for and against case-based scenarios under timed conditions, demonstrating creativity, strategic thinking, and teamwork.
Under the guidance of Algoma University Business Professor, Shahrukh Khan and Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, Dr. William Wei, LEAP and first-year students in the Introduction to Canadian Business course spent the fall semester preparing for the inaugural LEAP Business Case Competition. Professor Khan, in collaboration with Dr. Wei, designed the mini case studies and the case competition model to test students’ understanding of course materials while setting them up for long-term success in the program and beyond.
The competition featured a keynote address by Mubin Vaid, Co-Founder of TDot Performance and a former Dragons’ Den participant. Vaid shared his personal journey in business development, public speaking, and mastering the art of the perfect pitch. His insights provided students with a real-world connection to entrepreneurial success, inspiring them to realize their full potential as future business leaders.
“The program is designed to equip students with real-world managerial skills,” said Professor Khan. “Throughout the term, we’ve focused on coaching students in critical thinking and strategic decision-making. The Case Debate Competition mirrors real-world business challenges, and encourages participants to analyze and present multiple perspectives on complex decisions.”
The winners of the competition were celebrated for their outstanding analytical and communication skills. Their innovative solutions and persuasive arguments impressed judges, faculty, and industry representatives in attendance. Distinguished judges at the competition included: Quazance Boissoneau, Algoma University alumnus and Manager of Indigenous Education & Engagement at Humber College; Michael Saniga, Director of Engagement and Learning Innovation, CPA, RPA, at RPA Canada; Natalie Cao, Miss Globe Canada 2018 and Badar Shamim, Vice President and Portfolio Manager, CIM, CFP, at Generation PMCA Corp.
“We are incredibly proud to see the LEAP and first-year students in the Introduction to Canadian Business course rise to the challenge of debating real-world business scenarios,” said Dr. Wei. “This inaugural competition reflects Algoma University’s commitment to hands-on, experiential learning, and we’re thrilled to witness the creativity and talent the students bring to the table. Events like these inspire the next generation of business leaders and set the foundation for their future success.”
Through the LEAP program, high school students cultivate their business, communication, and presentation skills–key competencies that not only support their academic achievement but also enhance their post-secondary capabilities. These skills are reflected daily through the teaching practices of PDSB educators at LEAP, in class, on campus, and in the community, reinforcing the importance of experiential learning opportunities such as this competition.
The LEAP program is a partnership between Algoma University, the Peel District School Board (PDSB), and the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB), with support from industry partners. Through LEAP, students can earn both Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) credits and university credits, as well as career-oriented micro-credentials. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and career readiness, offering students a head start in their educational and professional journeys.
To learn more about Algoma University’s Faculty of Business and Economics, please visit: algomau.ca/academics/school-of-business-economics/
To view photos from the Case Debate Competition, please visit: Link.
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