Lasalle students among Top 20 finalists in provincial Make Your Pitch competition

Two students from Lasalle Secondary School are heading to Toronto this weekend to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges. It’s not reality television, but it’s just as good an opportunity.

Brian Nelson and Brianna Whitson will be among the Top 20 students from across Ontario participating in the Young Entrepreneurs, Make Your Pitch Competition on Monday, May 15th and Tuesday, May 16th, 2017 at the Ontario Centres of Excellence in Toronto. The event is presented by Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) and the Ministry of Economic Development and Growth.

Students will pitch their ideas live at OCE’s Discovery conference and showcase in front of a panel of judges from the entrepreneur community. Students will vie for an opportunity to possibly launch their business through the Summer Company program, which involves start up funds and mentorship. There will also be other awards.

Brian Nelson and Brianna Whitson were selected to represent the Sudbury/North Bay region. Participants were asked to submit a two-minute video pitching a possible business they would like start.

Brian Nelson invented the Ice Cap, a baseball hat with a detachable, inside pocket for a gel pack. The advanced cooling gel technology is great for hot days, whether gardening, golfing or playing basketball. The Ice Cap keeps the head cool, while the pocket, made with a padded absorbent material, soaks up excess sweat. The pocket and cap are machine washable. The gel pack can be stored in the freezer for later use.

Brianna Whitson developed the Cargo Belt, a strap with a mesh bag that clips to the back of a car seat. The bag is used to store belongings, such as purses and groceries. The Cargo Belt closes with a drawstring, securing items and preventing them from falling forward during sudden stops. The Cargo Belt also keeps ringing cell phones safely out of reach. Quick and easy to install, it comes in many colours and designs to suit all tastes.

“We are absolutely delighted that two students from Lasalle Secondary School were selected for this incredible opportunity,” says Principal Maureen McNamara. “Brianna and Brian’s innovative ideas prove that our students are second to none. The whole school will be cheering for them in the provincial competition.”

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Media Contact:

Maureen McNamara, Principal, Lasalle Secondary School
Rainbow District School Board, 705.566.2280