A popular event has given students a chance to show-off their HR knowledge and expertise.

On March 20th, the HRPA hosted its 3rd Annual Student Case Competition through its Toronto Chapter. The event was held on a virtual platform for the first time due to COVID-19.

More than 40 students were in attendance, representing eight universities and colleges from across Ontario, including Durham College; Wilfrid Laurier University; Georgian College; Sheridan College; University of Windsor; Seneca College; Conestoga College; and Lambton College.

Competitors were given an HR business case and tasked with analyzing and developing a response strategy to the problem. Six senior HR leaders judged the competition and scored the students’ proposed strategies.

Winners were awarded Guusto gift cards ranging from $50 for third place competitors up to $150 for first place winners.

Congratulations to the following 2021 Student Case Competition winners:

1st Place: Conestoga College 
Represented by Shannon Robinson, Jessica Reed, Katie Hensen, Tara Eykens, and Chanel Oakes

2nd Place: Wilfrid Laurier University
Represented by Cassidy Janet Porco, Maneesha Suresh Kumar, Sayivaruni Visagan, Ellen LaFroy, and Kanika Dave

3rd Place: Seneca College
Represented by Kunal Sunil Soni, Inna Obolenko, Kirsten Howlett, Fayloa Dara Phillip, and Amanda Boyle

The Student Case Competition remains an invaluable opportunity for students to put their problem-solving skills to the test, get feedback from experienced HR leaders and gain insights into common HR business challenges.

“The future of many organizations depends on responding to changes in dynamic environments,” said Boski Verma, event organizer and HRPA’s Manager of Student Volunteer and Engagement.

“As future professionals, this competition serves as the catalyst for ensuring students can thrive in any business environment. Although there were only three winners chosen, every student that participated gained experience that reinforced the key skills needed to impact and inspire others.”  

The HRPA would like to thank our 2021 Student Case Competition judges:

  • Lexi Hambides, CHRP, CHRL, Human Resources Director, Woodbridge
  • Adriana Carlin, CHRP, Principal/Director, Get Filip
  • Breanne, Murdock, CHRP, CHRL, Human Resources Consultant
  • Shari Cooper, CHRP, CHRL, Human Resources Manager, The Bess and Moe Greenberg Family
  • Ilona Gonsalves, CHRP, CHRL, Chapter Communications Committee
  • Moneca Yardley, CHRL, Director of HR, Scadding Court Community Centre

We would also like to thank all the students who participated and volunteers who helped make the event an unforgettable success.

The 4th Student Case Competition will be held in 2022.

Visit the HRPA’s Student page for other upcoming student initiatives and professional development opportunities.