When Lyndsay Brisard first entered the E-Spirit Business Plan Competition in Grade 9, he had no idea it would lead him to where he is today.
Brisard just completed his first year in Laurentian University's commerce program, a path he said was inspired by the E-Spirit competitions.
The Business Development Bank of Canada organizes the annual competition to give aboriginal high school students the opportunity to learn about business, economics and what they are capable of achieving.
Brisard first heard about the contest in Grade 9 at Lasalle Secondary School. He said at the time, he “had no goals or aspirations.” But every year, Brisard took part in the competition, submitting different business plans.
The final project he submitted was his most successful. He said the business was a spin-off of Operation Red Nose, providing drunk drivers with a safe ride home during the summer months. His other projects included a day care centre and fitness facilities.
“The skills I have acquired over the years have been phenomenal.”
Brisard's Grade 12 business plan placed second at the national competition, earning him a summer internship with the Business Development Bank of Canada's Sudbury Branch. And just two years later, he had the opportunity to help run the most recent E-Spirit Business Plan Competition.
As he watched students compete from the other side of the fence, Brisard said he was happy with what he say, and he noted he could relate to them.
“I'm proud of (the contestants),” he said. “I know what they're going through.”
Brisard is now a Laurentian University student studying commerce, with hopes of becoming a chartered accountant.
“I'm loving it,” he said. “There is nothing about my program I don't like.”
