Enactus Inspires Young People to Change the World Through Entrepreneurship

When Nuha Siddiqui began studying business and environmental economics at theuniversity of Toronto in 2016, the first club she wanted to join was Enactus. Through an older sibling, she already knewof the not-for-profit’s reputation for encouraging young entrepreneurs touse innovationand business principles to help create a better world through an experiential platform.

“Enactus really encourages students to take risks and face challenges head on,” says Siddiqui. “Itprovides resources, mentorship, guidance, and pathways for you to build on so you can bring forth solutions to real issues.”

Entrepreneurship leads to innovative solutions

Siddiqui started by tack ling the hot-button issue of plastic pollution after hearing a World Economic Forum statistic saying there would be more plastic than fish in oceans by 2050. She and herenactus team started by investigating alternatives to styrofoam packaging made from agriculture by-products( in this case, vegetable waste). This experience served as the foundation for Ecopackers, incorporated in 2018 after she graduated.

The company offers a plant- based resin, an eco- friendly, compostable replacement for single-use plastics. It’s an idea that has earned support with more than $4 millionraised for the startupin just fourmonths. Those funds will be used to open a newresearch and development centre near Toronto in early 2020 and to hire 25 employees to run it. This is in addition to an office in Asia, close to plastic manufacturers who use Eco packers’ technology.

Siddiqui credits Enactus with helping her become a successful entrepreneur. “It promotes the entrepreneurial mindset,” she says. “It’s important for young people to have those skills. We’re fortunate to have so much support to take ideas forwardin Canada. Don’twait tobuildthem until youfinish school,” she advises. “Do itnow.”