Most people would hear the challenge, “create measurable value using string”, and either shy away, or simply say it can’t be done. Especially once they heard that they only have 12 days to complete and then compete their idea. However, these are the types of abstract challenges that students of Moung Royal University are given to challenge their creativity and prove to the world that value can be created using even the most basic household items – you just have to challenge conventional ways of thinking.
November 17th, 2009 marked the second annual Mount Royal University Innovation Challenge, and what an awesome evening it turned out to be! Like I mentioned, students were provided a very unique challenge this year – creating measurable value out of string – then preparing their idea into a 3-minute edited video. The event was very well coordinated and took shape of a mini-film-festival, which in turn attracted approximately 350-375 people!
Coming into the evening, I hate to say it, but I was half-expecting video after video of forgettable consumer items. Man was I ever wrong! Student groups absolutely blew me away with their ideas. So, what sort of value was created? Of course there were a few groups that created sell-able products, and they were quite unique and presented very creatively. However, the groups that truly stood out above the rest (and placed 1st and 2nd in the tournament), created value that was not measured monetarily. Instead, value was created by the impact their efforts had on those in need, or those around them. Whether it was raising money for the homeless or the children s hospital, rescuing homeless dogs, or having students and passerby confess their dreams, the value that was created from using only string was absolutely mind blowing, and extremely inspiring.
It just goes to show you, first of all, that value really can be created out of just about anything, as long as passion, creativity, and selflessness are exercised. I also believe that the entire tournament reflects so positively on Mount Royal as an institution, their impact on students and the community, and on our future.
Excellent job Mount Royal and all who were involved in facilitating the Innovation Tournament. Can’t wait till next years!
