10
CURIOUS MINDS
Firing up their inner entrepreneur T
hey might be the next Sir Richard Branson, Elon Musk or Janine Allis. Who knows how many of Haileybury’s students today are the entrepreneurs of the future? Helping those students discover their business flair and build their future empires is the aim of the Haileybury Incubator Project (HIP)—a popular part of the Year 9 curriculum that is led by Damien Meunier, Head of Entrepreneurship and Learning Partnerships. “The skills developed through the HIP program are varied,” he says. “There is a large focus on developing creative and critical thinking, collaboration, enhancing digital skills and creating solution-focused students. These future-ready skills will help our students to become our next leaders and change-makers.” This year’s HIP saw students work on diverse projects—from creating a digital mural to promoting positive mental health and awareness to building a customisable device that converts any desk into a standing desk!
Aaiyana Ayoub with the Toodie Hoodie
One group of students developed a program for younger children, delivered by teens, to teach them about consent. Another group developed a podcast supporting positive relationships towards the Asian community. Aaiyana Ayoub won the Best Individual Project for Haileybury Girls College.
She launched a fashion startup with a marquee product called the Toodie Hoodie—a beach towel with pockets. “I love going to the beach and I needed something that I could use to dry myself but that could also hold belongings. I like hooded towels but they have no storage space where you can put your phone, keys and wallet,” says Aaiyana.
“So, I made my Toodie Hoodie with storage and a waterproof pocket so when the towel gets wet from being used to dry off, your belongings won’t get ruined.”
Through HIP, Aaiyana has been introduced to a mentor who is helping her shape a plan to start production of the Toodie Hoodie. “The mentor has been amazing and given me great advice on what to focus on and what to not worry about at this stage. The advice has given me a good understanding of how to go forward. I’d like to start production by early 2022 and the plan is to produce three different types of the Toodie Hoodie. The first age group I’ll be selling to are ‘tweens’ and teenagers,” she says. “This project has taught me that you should give everything a try. I now have confidence and belief in myself that I can start this business and do well.”
