What do youth need to lead better lives and feel empowered? Seven national Enactus teams rose to the challenge of answering this vital question posed by the 2025 Desjardins Youth Empowerment Challenge. Wilfrid Laurier University was announced as the National Champion at Enactus Canada’s National Exposition in Calgary on May 7.
The team’s winning project, Sapphire, creates inclusive workplaces for autistic students. With skills training, paid internships, and a supportive network, they’ve supported 11 students in gaining employment, generating $115 K in income – and plan to scale the program nationally! The team received $3,000 in funding to further its project.
“It’s so important to build and invest in initiatives that give young Canadians the opportunity and the agency to tackle challenges that affect them the most. Desjardins is proud to be able to do that with an organization like Enactus,” said Marilyn Horrick, Vice-President, Market Growth, Brand Expansion and Partner Relations Outside Quebec. “The teamwork and the innovation we’ve seen in this challenge over the past few months has been remarkable. It’s exciting to play a role empowering the people who are shaping the future of innovation in Canada.”
In its second year, the Desjardins Youth Empowerment Challenge supports projects that enable young people (aged 25 and younger) to develop skills, knowledge, and leadership qualities. The runners-up were just as inspiring as the winning team.
Acadia University, Runner-Up: Resilient Youth, breaking barriers for youth overcoming trauma by providing mental health resources and training. By distributing mental health kits, collaborating with 10+ local mental health organizations, they have supported 350+ young people.
University of British Columbia – Vancouver, Second Runner-up: Enspire teaches Grade 6 and 7 students to use business to create sustainable positive impact. Ennovate pairs students with university mentors to create UNDSG-focused mini social enterprise with $150 microloans.
“Our partnership with Desjardins gives Enactus teams the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial and innovative solutions to some of the most critical issues impacting youth. We are grateful to Desjardins for their continued support of Enactus Canada and youth empowerment,” said Brittany Johnston, Director of Partnerships at Enactus Canada.
More than 40 teams representing post-secondary schools from across Canada competed in regional rounds. Seven champions advanced to the final at the Enactus Canada National Exposition. A total of $27,000 in funding was awarded to Regional and National Champions to further support their youth empowerment projects.
Learn more about other National Expositions results and Challenge Partnerships.