DPS Modern Indian School hosted the third edition of the “Teenpreneur Pitch Perfect Challenge” on October 13, bringing together students from 10 schools across Qatar to showcase entrepreneurial ideas focused on sustainability. The event featured two categories: Grades IX–X and Grades XI–XII, with participants challenged to develop innovative products that transform waste into business opportunities, reflecting priorities aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 for responsible consumption and production.
The competition emphasized sustainability and ethical business practices, encouraging young entrepreneurs to develop viable market strategies and financial plans alongside their product concepts. Students presented solutions designed to address waste management issues, with a focus on creativity and practical application.
Shaheen Muhammed Shafi, vice-president of DPS Monarch International School and the event’s chief guest, encouraged participants to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset that goes beyond traditional business models. He emphasized recognizing emerging opportunities and viewing setbacks as part of the learning process in building successful ventures. DPS Modern Indian School Principal Soma Bhattacharjee highlighted the importance of innovation, encouragement, and the broader values of entrepreneurship beyond just winning.
A panel of judges evaluated presentations on criteria including product features, business viability, and sustainability. The panel included Vimal Thomas, chief accountant at Bureau Veritas International, Qatar; Saumy Thomas, manager of Internal Audit at Qatar University; and Shaheen Backer, a business leader and certified business coach.
In the Grades IX–X category, Shantiniketan Indian School secured first place with their “Venzora Hair Pads” project, presented by Mohammed Aleem Lone, Mohammad Saahir Shamsheer, and Nihal Badshah. MES Indian School earned the runner-up position for “Foodward,” with presentations by Rayan Majeed, Aaesha Fathima Basheer, and Sara Gigani.
Among the older participants in Grades XI–XII, Podar Pearl School won the top prize with “Restep,” developed by Aarefa Mezi, Sadiya Saneesh, and Haribhakti Subodh Patil. Loyola International School and DPS Modern Indian School shared runner-up honors, presenting “Kykloz” and “Ground2Good,” respectively. Teams representing Loyola included Jevishnoo Jakson Coonghe, Manya Bhandary, and Laximi Jayavardhan Gadde, while DPS Modern Indian School’s entry featured Nysa Singh, Nicole Crasta, and Maairah Rimas Chadkhan.
The event concluded with a call for continuing the focus on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, aiming to inspire meaningful change through responsible entrepreneurship among Qatar’s youth.