SASKATOON – It may have been cold outside, but inside Saskatoon’s Sheraton Cavalier Hotel things were heating up at the JDC West “Buffer Zone.” Delegates from 12 business schools assembled in Saskatoon for the 11th annual Jeux de Commerce West competition. This three-day event is the largest case competition in Western Canada and showcases academic, athletic, debate and social competitions.
Organizers say the unique energy, goodwill and fierce competition is what sets JDC West apart from the rest.
“I think it’s unique to have these business professional students going and solving these extremely difficult cases, but then in the evenings being able to support each other, cheer, it is just a great time,” says organizing committee internal co-chair Anastasia Stadnyk.
“The excitement and the energy that is brought to this case competition is like nothing ever before,” says internal co-chair Kara Leftley. “I’ve competed in other case competitions, I’ve been to other conferences and there’s nothing like it.”
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This entire competition is run by University of Saskatchewan (U of S) business students who have been working since November 2014 to finance and organize the cases, events and galas.
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To attend delegates had to try out, raise money through community involvement and train in their respective fields.
Students say the competition gives them critical thinking and leadership skills, along with a chance to network.
U of S co-captain Michael Gonari says his team has worked hard to make the hometown crowds proud.
“The students put so many hours into this and they poured their hearts into this and I’m really just so proud of them. The massive steps that they’ve made over the term are just phenomenal to watch as a captain.”
Throughout the weekend teams will be awarded points with the ultimate goal of winning “School of the Year.” This prize will be handed out Sunday evening at an awards gala.
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