Futures Leaders Challenge (FLC) was a high school tier competition hosted at the University of Toronto Scarborough on Saturday, October 5, 2019. FLC gives high school students a glimpse of the LIVE Competition, a business case competition for university students. 

A team of 4 St. Augustine students, including Christopher Wong, Justin Ly, Jennifer Luk and Madison So, competed among 30 other teams participating in a one day event revolving around business case rounds, panels, and networking sessions. The competition consisted of three case rounds; round 1: marketing proposal, round 2: sustainability business report, round 3: debate. Each case had a designated preparation time, and in that duration each team prepared and came up with solutions to the cases. It was a stressful yet thrilling experience that challenged students’ teamwork, leadership, time-management, organization, communication, and critical thinking skills. 

Besides the case rounds, competitors had the opportunity to meet university students to discuss about post-secondary pathways and life as a UofT student. With new networks and more knowledge regarding post-secondary, high school students could start or continue planning their future. 

Lastly what would a competition be without a prize?! Out of 30 teams, the top three teams were awarded with medals and sponsored swag bags. In addition, the top team received a $300 cash prize recognizing their innovative cases. However the most worthy award would be the experience of competing and networking with UofT students. 

FLC is a worthwhile opportunity for high school students who want to pursue business or are just looking to strengthen their skills. Remember to step out of your comfort zone and to always take on new challenges!

By: Jennifer Luk