Youth Innovation Triumphs: How the TMS Schulich Innovation & Entrepreneurial Experience Program is Shaping Future Leaders 

In a world where the power of youth innovation is increasingly recognized and celebrated, two remarkable students from the TMS-Schulich ExecEd program have achieved a significant milestone. Ayden Lee and Lucas Wei, former participants of the TSE2023 program, have been awarded the prestigious Global Youth Action Fund grant of $3,000 USD for their project “Crew of Care.” 

The TSE (TMS Schulich Innovation & Entrepreneurial Experience) program, a collaboration between YSpace at York University, Schulich ExecEd, and TMS independent school, has been empowering high school students since 2019 to cultivate entrepreneurial skills and a sense of social responsibility. Ayden and Lucas, along with team members Evan Leung and Sheng Yang, embarked on their journey during the TSE prototype phase, where they conceived the idea of Crew of Care—a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing medical inequality and fostering reconciliation with Indigenous communities in Ontario, Canada. 

“Schulich ExecEd is delighted to partner with TMS and YSpace at York University on the TSE program. Together, we have developed a program tailored for high school students that enhances their business and leadership skills while guiding them to build scalable solutions to real-world problems,” shares Rami Mayer, Executive Director of Schulich ExecEd, Schulich School of Business, York University. 

“Since 2019, we have been committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders through the TSE program, cultivating entrepreneurial skills and a deep sense of social responsibility. Our collaboration with TMS and YSpace marks a significant stride in fostering youth-led initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This partnership equips the next generation with the expertise needed to make positive impacts in local communities and to emerge as the visionary leaders of tomorrow.” 

From Classroom to Community 

Their project addresses the pressing issue of inadequate healthcare access among Indigenous and marginalized populations, stemming from a lack of awareness and understanding. Through community fundraising events and collaborations with larger organizations, Crew of Care aims to amplify its impact and work towards creating culturally acceptable healthcare solutions. The project received valuable feedback and mentorship during the TSE experience in July 2023, igniting the passion and commitment of its founders. 

The Global Youth Action Fund, an initiative of the International Baccalaureate (IB), supports youth-led projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Ayden and Lucas’s project stood out for its potential impact, collaborative approach, and commitment to social change. The $3,000 grant will provide vital support as Crew of Care continues to expand its reach and initiatives. 

Reflecting on their journey, Ayden Lee and Lucas Wei, along with executive team members Vincent Peng, Sebastian Churchill, Shabadleen Sandhu, Amber Kwong, and Hussain Ladak, express their excitement and pride in this achievement. They envision further partnerships with health awareness NGOs like Water First and aim to host city-wide fundraising events and educational workshops to advance their mission of enhancing healthcare access among Indigenous communities. 

“Through the skills developed and honed in TSE program, Ayden and Lucas were able to spark their passions and graduate with a sense of social commitment and justice. This project has continued strong, gaining momentum in the past year, and this award is an acknowledgement of students’ hard work, dedication, and wanting to make a positive change in local communities.“ says Anna Bouzina, TMS upper school teacher and long-standing member of the TSE planning committee. 

What’s Next? 

Looking ahead, the TMS Schulich Innovation & Entrepreneurial Experience remains committed to fostering youth-led initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The upcoming TSE2024 program will focus on Food Security and Sustainability, offering students a platform to explore various issues impacting global food systems. 

As Ayden, Lucas, and their team continue their journey with Crew of Care, their story serves as a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and youth innovation in driving positive change in society. With passion, dedication, and a sense of purpose, they are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.