The Next Big Thing, an organization most well-known for its eight-month intensive fellowship program, announced the launch of its new Bright Idea summer program targeting Vancouver youth between the ages of 13-18.
Over four days, youth from the lower mainland will explore their skill sets and identify their strengths through mentorships, with the goal of helping them understand how to build successful startups.
“The Bright Idea curriculum is designed to first encourage young entrepreneurs to identify their skills and afterwards, participate in leadership training,” said Joanna Buczkowska-McCumber, managing director at TNBT. “We are strong believers that in order to create a successful business, innovate a sector or build a social movement, you need to first understand yourself.”
Based on insights into their skill sets, the youth will be encouraged to design products. The program will also incorporate mindfulness through yoga, meditations, and workouts.
“Never before have Next Gen innovators held more control over the future of Canada’s social fabric and economy,” said Meredith Powell, co-founder of the organization. “Our goal is to help them grow.”
Applications are open on The Next Big Thing website, and due by July 10.