Big Ideas Youth Challenge 2023

It's a fun and fast-paced day of listening, learning, and doing for students in years 7-10.

Students from schools across the Townsville region will hear from some of Northern Australia’s most exciting and inspiring innovators and changemakers, as well developing their entrepreneurial thinking and human-centered design skills.

Facilitated by experienced educators from Future Anything, the Big Ideas Youth Challenge has been purposefully designed to engage young people in a scaffolded design thinking process that culminates in teams 'elevator pitching' their own innovative ideas that solve problems they care about.

The 2023 Theme

‘Circular Futures, Looping and Thriving In Our City of Action

Who should attend?

The event is designed for students in Years 7 - 10. We are seeking a broad mix of students, both in capability and talents, who would benefit from exploring entrepreneurial skills in a motivating and supportive setting.

Tickets are available to all schools across the Townsville region. Tickets will be allocated to ensure there is a mix of schools attending.

Ticket allocation:

• 20 free student tickets available per school - waitlist available for additional tickets
• Schools may request additional tickets and will be added to a waitlist pending availability

Draft Agenda *subject to change

• 8:00am- 8:45am: Arrival + Registration
• 9:00-9:20am: Welcome (Event Unpacked + Future of Work)
• 9:20- 9:40am: Keynote Speaker + Q&A
• 9:40 – 10:00am: ACTIVITY: Choosing your problem
• 10.00am -10.20am: Morning Tea
• 10.20am – 10:40am: Panel of Entrepreneurs + Q&A
• 10:40 - 12:00pm: ACTIVITY: The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey
• 12:00pm- 12:30pm Lunch
• 12:30pm- 1:20pm: ACTIVITY The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey Continued
• 1:20pm- 1:30pm Break
• 1:30pm- 2:10pm: ACTIVITY: The Shark Tank
• 2:10pm-2:40pm: Winner’s Announcement + Closing

Transport

Each participating school will be required to organise and manage the transport requirements for students and supervising staff/parents attending the event. Parking will be limited, please advise if you require bus parking - email suz@spnq.org

Permissions and Supervision

Each participating school will be asked to manage parental permission requirements and ensure a suitable level of staff supervision for their students attending the event. While participating teachers/parents will not be required to formally facilitate the sessions, their engagement in the activities will increase teachers’ skills and confidence in unlocking students’ entrepreneurial mindset in the classroom.

This event will be filmed and photographed. All students will therefore be required to complete a media permission form (provided after registration).

Students should bring:

• Their own refillable water bottle
• Lunch (and morning tea if required) - NB no refrigeration will be available on site
• Wear school uniform (NB event will be held partially outside. Student may wish to bring a jumper/warm clothes).
• A dash of enthusiasm, an open mind and a willingness to engage with others.