GUELPH, ON – Students in the Beyond Borders class are getting ready to host their culminating event on January 17, 2026, at the River Run Centre in Guelph.
Beyond Borders is a Guelph-based experiential learning program that develops future business leaders through hands-on education, community involvement, and real-world business exposure.
Students have been preparing for the Evolve Gala for six weeks and have been focused on booking the venue, sales, and finance for the event, promoting the event, and preparing the logistics of the event on the day of the gala. This year students have set the very ambitious goal of raising $200,000 for four local programs and charities.
Students were posed with a challenge earlier in the semester. As part of the challenge, students made presentations to pitch their charity ideas. After voting, students selected three charities and one program that are very important to them; Team Addy, Guelph Wish Fund for Children, Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington and the UGDSB Experiential Learning programs.
While reflecting on the charities picked, Kaiya W., Chief Editor said, “The Beyond Borders Gala is a special thing for the students in the class and for the Guelph Community because it showcases how the young leaders [in the class] have learned and grown, while also being able to support the local community.”
While the donation will be divided between the three charity organizations to benefit children in the community, program teacher Mike Parsons said that some of the money is being given to the UGDSB Experiential Learning programs so that they can continue to help students thrive.
When thinking about her time in Beyond Borders, student Emma Y., (Director of Sales and Finance for the gala) said that the program is so important because “it has taught me about leadership. By being able to integrate real life experiences with classroom knowledge” she has really grown as a leader and believes this program has helped her prepare for her post-secondary education.
Through the dedication of students, this year the Beyond Borders team was able to secure Lauren Roy, Dance INC., Alexa Goldie, and Joe Burns as the entertainment. Along with the entertainment, attendees can also expect a silent auction, 50/50 draw, appetizers before the event and dessert at intermission. The event is semi-formal attire.
While the gala is almost sold-out, tickets can be purchased HERE.
If you are unable to attend the gala but still want to donate, donations are being accepted here.
Good luck Beyond Borders students, we look forward to the gala and hearing if you made your fundraising goal!
To learn more about the Evolve Gala, please click here.
