91°µÍř’s creative entrepreneurs solve real-world problems
What makes the annual Kenneth A. Freirich Entrepreneurship Competition such a rewarding experience for 91°µÍř’s passionate student entrepreneurs each year?
Is it the invaluable mentorship fostered among students, staff, and alumni mentors, who bring real-world feedback and insight to the “Shark Tank”-like competition? Maybe it’s the thrill of anticipating who will be awarded cash prizes that will help take students’ ideas to the next level? Or maybe it’s being part of an exciting 91°µÍř tradition that is now in its 15th year?
The answer has to do with all of the above and more: 91°µÍř is a place where creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship are celebrated; where a supportive community including past competition winners, alumni mentors, classmates, faculty and staff, parents, and judges from successful enterprises come together to cheer on students and ensure that student projects shine.
That talent and creativity went on full display at this year’s competition finals held on April 12.
From clothing lines with social and environmental impacts, to apps that make trip planning or listening to favorite music easier, all eight business plans that qualified for the 2024 finals worked to find creative, entrepreneurial solutions to solving challenging problems while also making a world of difference.
And the winner is ...
Malika Sawadogo ’24 celebrates after winning the 2024 Kenneth A. Freirich Entrepreneurship Competition.
MESTH Collection
Malika Sawadogo ’24 captivated the audience with her showcase of quality, affordable clothing inspired by the beauty of her homeland, Burkina Faso. Her presentation not only highlighted the thoughtfully sourced fabrics from her hometown but also featured a vibrant fashion show showcasing the line’s men's and women’s wear.
MESTH’s unique clothing and bags not only exude beauty but also serve a greater purpose of supporting the community that inspired the fashion line. With a commitment to giving back, 5% of proceeds will be directed toward aiding widows and orphans in Sawadogo’s home country of Burkina Faso. Looking ahead, she envisions establishing a foundation that will provide even more support to the community.
Here's a buyer's secret: Sawadogo aims to offer consumers a sense of individuality through her limited design brand approach. By choosing a MESTH piece, not only will you adorn yourself with a handmade, traditional African design, but you'll also own a style that's truly one of a kind.
Second to none ...
Justice Ripinga ’24, who placed second, presents his business plan for Quatam, a ride-sharing app for minibus taxis in South Africa.
Quatam
Quatam is a ride-sharing app with a mission to revolutionize public transportation efforts in South Africa. According to its founder, Justice Ripinga ’24, upward of 70% of South Africans face challenges, such as long waits, associated with the minibus taxi, the country's main form of transportation. Quatam allows passengers to accurately locate a seat on the nearest minibus while optimizing routes for drivers to ensure efficient pickups.
Ripinga is a member of the ,which seeks to transform young leaders into the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Time for third ...