DDQIC assessed the results and feedback from the pilot program and is now preparing for a full scale launch of the program officially dubbed the Future Leaders Initiative at ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ (FLIQ). The program training content will largely resemble the pilot, but with edits and additions to make the lectures and modules more accessible to a global youth audience. Topics that youth learn include Innovator's Mindset, Design Thinking, and Business Model Canvas, all of which is applied to developing their own business venture and pitch.

In the program, youth acquire invaluable problem-solving skills, gain confidence in navigating the post-secondary environment, and prepare for their future success. Students have the opportunity to earn a ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ micro-credential that can be leveraged when applying to post-secondary studies.

In the next steps of scaling the delivery of the program, DDQIC hopes to partner with upwards of 10 schools and hundreds more youth. We are interested in connecting with communities all over the world to get involved.

Interested in offering Future Leaders Initiative to youth in your community? Reach out to us at innovation.centre@queensu.ca.

Students from John Polanyi Collegiate Institute attending a design thinking workshop in the Rose Innovation Hub
Students from John Polanyi Collegiate Institute attending a design thinking workshop in the Rose Innovation Hub.