Grand Innovation Lab coming to Bishop’s University
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The Black Community Resource Center (BCRC) and Afro Summit are set to host the Grand Innovation Lab, a groundbreaking three-day program designed to empower Black youth through entrepreneurship and innovation. This event, scheduled from Aug. 5 to 7, will take place at Bishop’s University.
The Grand Innovation Lab aims to provide Black youth aged 14 to 19 with the tools and knowledge necessary to become future leaders and innovators. Kerwins Saint-Jean, the project coordinator for Afro Summit, elaborated on the program’s purpose in a July 31 interview. “The Grand Innovation Lab is a culmination of Project RIDE. This initiative has been running for almost four years, focusing on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship,” he explained.
The event promises to be a comprehensive and engaging experience, with several key components tailored to the participants’ needs:
– Tailor-Made Programming: The sessions are designed to meet the specific interests and needs of the young attendees. “Our goal is to provide an engaging and relevant learning experience,” said Saint-Jean. This includes a variety of sessions on entrepreneurship, innovation, and personal development, ensuring a holistic approach to youth empowerment.
– Entrepreneurial Exploration: Participants will engage in interactive sessions that include case studies, real-world examples, and discussions on entrepreneurial thinking. “We aim to spark creativity and help young people see the potential in entrepreneurship,” Saint-Jean noted. This aspect of the program is particularly focused on helping youth understand the practical aspects of starting and running a business.
