2023 RBC Inclusive Entrepreneurship Recipients: Not Being Afraid of Failure

Venture for Canada takes pride in our ability to equip young leaders with the skills, networks, and resources necessary to thrive in the entrepreneurial world through our Fellowship program. 


When asked about what moments shaped new perspectives during the Fellowship program, our Winners of the 2023 RBC Inclusive Entrepreneurship Awards spoke about embracing the potential of failure and using that as a learning experience:


“VFC Fellowship program places major emphasis on the power of a growth mindset. This strong emphasis made training camp a place where people feel safe to take risks and make mistakes and where they can receive feedback and support. As an entrepreneur, you constantly wrestle with failure, but failure can be a valuable learning experience. The experience wasn’t just about learning entrepreneurial skills. It was about being in an environment where everyone is motivated to succeed and root for each other’s success.”

  • Cam Hennessy (Toronto, Ontario)

“The moment that had the most impact on me was when I got the opportunity to do the sales pitch challenge. Before that challenge, I didn’t think I could be a salesperson; in fact, it was the scariest challenge I had faced in a while, which is why I knew I had to do it. Taking that challenge head-on showed me that even if something scares me, I could still face it head-on.” 

  • Laughter Afolabi (St. John’s. Newfoundland)

From Student to Employer Partner: Darlington Etaje’s Journey with Venture for Canada Explore the full-circle journey of Darlington Etaje, from his initial engagement as a student in Venture for Canada's Intrapreneurship Program to his pivotal role as a founder and employer within the same initiative. His story highlights the impact of resilience and the critical need for inclusive, practical solutions in the energy sector. Discover how his ongoing collaboration with Venture for Canada is nurturing a new wave of leaders dedicated to sustainability.
2024: A Year in Books – Top 6 Reads Dive into Scott Stirrett's selection of six profoundly impactful reads from 2024, each offering unique insights into human endurance and the complex nature of our bonds. From Sally Rooney's nuanced exploration of familial grief to Anne Applebaum's stark recounting of historical oppression, these books not only reflect on personal and collective trials but also celebrate the unyielding human spirit in facing them.
If Failure’s Wrong, We Don’t Want To Be Right Facing failure is as much a part of growth as achieving success. Discover how Venture for Canada, through the insights of Learning Design Manager Jessica Lee, turns the daunting feeling of failure into a powerful catalyst for innovation and resilience. Learn how embracing and reframing failure can drive personal and organizational growth in high-pressure environments.