EDMONTON – NorQuest College business student Ketsia Lombossa Engoya has been awarded a prestigious ‘Top 5’ award from Draper University in Silicon Valley.
Engoya was awarded the $12,000 USD scholarship and 5-week Draper University ‘Hero Training’ entrepreneurship program while attending her virtual training for the 'Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship.' Her idea – HonetPay, a digital platform that automates the workflow between brands and BIPOC influencers using Intelligence Process Automation – was selected as one of the 5 best among all the international attendees.
“Our students have such incredible potential,” says Dale Schaub, NorQuest College’s Executive in Residence. “NorQuest’s business program and the support of programs like this sets our learners up for success in so many ways, but it’s a testament to Ketsia’s hard work and determination that she’s getting such exceptional recognition by Draper University.”
By starting her journey at NorQuest and working with the NorQuest Executive in Residence on her business, Engoya has amassed over $24,000 worth of free services to help grow her business, including:
- A $12,000 USD ($15,134 CAD) scholarship to Draper University Hero Training and a five-week trip to California
- $7500 in expert support through the Business Development Support Program administered by NorQuest’s Executive in Residence and funded by the Alberta Innovates Edmonton Regional Innovation Network (ERIN) program
- $1000 in expenses refunded from the 150 Startups program to create an MVP
- A $495 USD ($625 CAD) scholarship to Draper University Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship Program for getting 2nd place in their regional pitch competition
- $200 for winning 2nd place in the crowd favourite idea competition at 150 Startups Kickoff Weekend
Engoya’s success is a clear example of the exceptional opportunities available to student entrepreneurs through NorQuest’s Executive in Residence program. The program is led by early-stage business specialist and owner of One Punch Consulting, Dale Schaub, and offers free support to student entrepreneurs through funding from the Alberta Innovates ERIN program and administered through Innovate Edmonton.
Student entrepreneurs looking to get their business started are encouraged to contact Dale Schaub to learn how they can put the power of the Executive in Residence program to work for them.
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About NorQuest College: NorQuest College is Edmonton’s community college serving over 21,000 students annually throughout the province with full-time, part-time, online, and face-to-face learning options. NorQuest helps learners with diverse educational backgrounds complete or further their studies through foundational programs. Our post-secondary diploma and certificate programs and continuing education options offer rewarding career paths in health, community studies, business, environment, technology, hospitality, and diversity and inclusion training. Our suite of customized and corporate training options ensures organizations and their workforces are prepared for the demands of the future. By collaborating with business, industry, government, and communities, we ensure our learners receive workforce relevant, inclusive, and transformative educational experiences.
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Mike Reeves
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Phone: 780.288.3651
Email: Mike.Reeves@NorQuest.ca