April 16, 2018 – Source: Editor @GBC News
If you’re looking for a glimpse of the future of social enterprise, look no further than George Brown College’s Social Innovation Hub. Nearly two dozen students presented 20 projects at the Hub’s showcase on Wednesday, April 11 — giving the college community a chance to interact with these incredible leaders-in-the-making.
The Social Innovation Hub is an alternative placement opportunity for George Brown students in the School of Community Services. Launched by faculty members Natalie Wood and Zuby Saloojee, the Hub is considered an “early-stage incubator” for innovative ideas, projects and social enterprises. It helps students develop the skills and confidence to succeed as social entrepreneurs and social innovators.
“The Social Innovation Hub is a truly innovative vehicle for learning — one that empowers students to think big, adopt an entrepreneurial approach to social justice, and make a positive impact on the world around them,” said President Anne Sado at the event.
Over the past four years, a total of 77 students — or “Hubsters” — have participated in the Social Innovation Hub. They’ve worked with 33 external partners and 22 George Brown partners. In total, the Hubsters have created 18 social enterprises and 37 socially innovative projects.
Natalie Wood, who has overseen the Hub since its inception in 2014, says Wednesday’s showcase should give the college community a sense of pride — and comfort:
“It’s an indication of the leadership and creative potential of our students here in the School of Community Services and at George Brown College, where, with the right kinds of opportunities for testing their ideas, they can become the next social and economic innovators in their communities.”