Students from Holy Family Catholic School in Wallaceburg earned top honours at this year’s Enactus One Future competition, held at Lambton College on April 30.
The Stitch & Fix Fidgets team captured first place for a project aimed at reducing landfill waste while supporting student wellness.
The team created low-sound fidgets made from unwanted stuffed animals, providing tools to help students with focus, sensory regulation and emotional grounding. The fidgets will be sold in schools, with proceeds supporting additional mental health initiatives.
The project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for good health and well-being and life on land.
Enactus Canada, a registered Canadian charity, challenges students to address real-world issues through innovation and entrepreneurship. Over a 10-week period, teams identify a community need and develop solutions tied to one or more United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“I am incredibly proud of how our students came together as one team. They listened to one another, shared ideas freely, and supported each step of the process with care and respect. Watching them collaborate with such creativity and purpose was inspiring.” said Zak Rybansky, teacher at Holy Family Catholic School.
Teams from six St. Clair Catholic schools participated in the competition, with St. Clair Catholic projects claiming all three top spots.
The Plarn Initiative from Holy Rosary Catholic School in Wyoming placed second, while The Fairwear Clothing Drive from St. John Fisher Catholic School in Forest earned third place.
The competition was supported by Bluewater Power, which provided additional investments to help the top projects grow and continue their work. The winning team received $500, while second and third place teams received $300 and $200 respectively.
Pathways to Success teacher Dan Cicchelli praised the students for their efforts and leadership.
“Our students continue to amaze us with their vision, compassion, and determination. These projects show what can happen when young people are empowered to lead with purpose. They are not just imagining a better future… they’re building it,” Cicchelli said.
