Ironically, I was initially rejected when I applied to Enactus SFU as a Workshop Coordinator in my first year. As dejected as I was, I knew that getting involved with the organization was a must. Shortly after failing with my application, I created Enactus SFU’s newest project: Bright Ideas. In true Enactus spirit, I utilized my innate entrepreneurial ability to overcome the challenge I faced.
Joining Enactus SFU has been the best decision I have made in my undergraduate career; however, had I not gone through that initial rejection, I would not be where I am today, as the President of Enactus SFU, leading the largest student organization at SFU featuring over 180 social entrepreneurs.
Over the past year, I’ve attended workshops, judged competitions, presented to high school students, and worked with marginalized individuals. I’ve met amazing community members who continue to inspire me every single day. That’s the reason I’m in Enactus – to make a difference in their lives. That’s the message I’ve repeated to my team all year: “We can’t focus on competitions, we must focus on making the largest impact, because ultimately, that’s all that matters. We aren’t in this for the awards, but it’s a nice incentive!” This message was spread among all 180 members and it worked – we swept Regionals!
I am incredibly proud of my team. We secured first place in each of the Regional Exposition’s four categories: Capital One Financial Education Challenge, Scotiabank EcoLiving Green Challenge, Scotiabank Youth Empowerment Challenge, and TD Entrepreneurship Challenge. We made history in Calgary and our teams will now be competing on home turf at the National Exposition in May.
During the entire awards ceremony, I had my head in my hands – the nerves were real. As each award was announced, the celebrations grew stronger and stronger and chairs were everywhere by the end of it. There were some amazing memories from the exposition, but I think the one I will remember the most was after the closing ceremony. Julie from Enactus Canada came over to congratulate myself and Casey. She told us that this was “the first time a team had swept all four categories at the Western Canada Regional Exposition.” I was speechless. Our team huddle afterwards was definitely emotional, showcasing our close-knit family-like culture.
Reflecting back on my last three years in Enactus, it has been full of opportunity, successes, and challenges, but I can definitely say that Regionals was an experience I will never forget.
With one month left in my term, it’s amazing to think about the organization’s growth this year and my personal growth over the past three years. From initially being rejected with my first application, to struggling to balance a full course load with over 40 hours per week of Enactus this year, to always putting Enactus above personal commitments. Those sacrifices have led me to where I am today. Moving forward, as I wrap up my time with Enactus, what I will take with me most is the fact that Enactus SFU has become my second family. I have built amazing friendships and would not be where I am without each and every individual who I have had the pleasure of working with.
I can proudly say that I have left a mark on Enactus SFU and it has done the same for me.
Rajin Shokar is a 3rd year BBA candidate, concentrating in Accounting, MIS, and Operations Management. As the President of Enactus SFU, he is a constant driver of change, who has been an active member of the Beedie community with Enactus and BMP over the past 3 years. Rajin has also completed a co-op at Sands & Associates as a Junior Accountant and will be going on exchange to Copenhagen Business School in Spring 2018. If you’re interested in learning more, feel free to reach out to him via email or LinkedIn.