Within every Enactus team is a leader who creates space for others to grow and step into their potential and thrive together. This year, that spirit is reflected in Avery Cote from Enactus Nova Scotia Community College-Ivany Campus, as the Enactus Student Leader of the Year.
Through his leadership, Avery has built a strong foundation for the future of his team by fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and long-term sustainability. He grew his team from just four returning members to 30 active members, expanding Enactus beyond the business faculty and across campus. By implementing a hands-on “shadowing” model, he empowered and mentored the team’s next generation of student leaders, embedding deep values of trust and shared ownership. Under his guidance, the team returned to national competitiveness, breaking a six-year drought to become Regional Champions for the first time since 2018 and placing in all four Regional Challenges.
“Your circumstances aren’t your destiny. My non-linear path taught me that resilience is the ultimate competitive advantage. I’m dedicated to setting my team up for future success by teaching them to see every challenge as a stepping stone, not a stop sign.” – Avery Cote, Co-President, Enactus Nova Scotia Community College-Ivany Campus
In recognition of his leadership, Avery received a $2,000 bursary, along with up to $3,000 in travel support to attend the 2026 Enactus World Cup.
The Student Leader of the Year award, proudly presented by the John Dobson Foundation, is designed to recognize the leader or president who has made the most outstanding contribution to their Enactus team, supporting and advancing the team’s success. The award was announced at the 2026 Enactus Canada National Exposition in Montreal.
