16th February 2025 | ICT University, Yaoundé
There is something particularly powerful about being guided by someone who has walked the very path you are on. On Monday, 16th February, ICT University’s Hult Prize chapter hosted a dynamic and engaging session that embodied precisely that spirit — one rooted in shared experience, genuine mentorship, and a collective drive to go further.
Leadership That Leads by Example
At the heart of Monday’s activity were two individuals whose Hult Prize journeys speak for themselves. Campus Director Ndonwi Nelly and Deputy Campus Director Michael are not merely administrators of the programme — they are seasoned competitors who have reached the national stage as finalists on two consecutive occasions. Rather than simply overseeing this year’s cohort from the sidelines, they chose to step in as mentors, sharing the hard-won lessons and practical insights that only come from having stood before a panel of judges themselves.
Their decision to lead not just as organisers, but as former participants, set the tone for a session that was refreshingly candid, practical, and motivating.
Mastering the Pitch Deck
The centrepiece of the day was a workshop focused on one of the most critical elements of any Hult Prize journey: the pitch deck. Ndonwi and Michael walked participants through what it truly takes to craft a compelling, well-structured pitch — covering everything from how to communicate a problem clearly and persuasively, to the key components that judges expect to see and that teams often overlook under pressure.
Students were encouraged to think beyond aesthetics and focus on substance: the clarity of their social impact narrative, the strength of their business model, and the confidence with which they present their ideas. It was exactly the kind of session that bridges the gap between having a great idea and knowing how to sell it.
A Visit from the Nationals Community Coordinator
Adding further momentum to the day, the Nationals Community Coordinator paid a visit to ICT University to meet with the teams and assess the progress of their projects ahead of the upcoming pitch day. This visit served as a timely reminder of the stakes involved and gave students the opportunity to receive high-level feedback and guidance as they fine-tune their presentations for the national stage.
Having someone directly connected to the national competition present on campus was both a motivating and clarifying experience for the teams involved.
Swags, Stickers, and Community Spirit
No Hult Prize session would be complete without a touch of energy and celebration. Students were rewarded with Hult Prize stickers and swags, a small but meaningful gesture that reinforces a sense of belonging to a global movement. These tokens of community were well-received and added a lively, collegiate atmosphere to the close of the day.
Looking Ahead
The momentum at ICT University is building steadily. With experienced leadership, hands-on mentorship, and the support of the national team, this year’s cohort is shaping up to be one of the most prepared yet. Pitch day is approaching, and if Monday’s session is anything to go by, ICT University’s teams will be ready to make their mark.
Stay tuned to Hult Prize Cameroon for updates as we follow our campus teams on their journey to the nationals and beyond.
Hult Prize Cameroon | Empowering the Next Generation of Social Entrepreneurs