A Front-Row Seat to the Future: Judging IPU’s Master’s Students on “Shark Tank” Day

This week, I had the absolute honour of joining the Shark Tank-style judging panel for the Master’s students at International Pacific University New Zealand (IPU). These talented students were presenting their final business pitches for the Entrepreneurship and Innovation paper—and wow, did they deliver.

If you’ve ever visited IPU, you’ll know it’s a truly beautiful campus, but it’s the people and the energy that make it remarkable. With programmes spanning Accounting, International Business, International Relations, Japanese Studies, Management, Marketing and TESOL, IPU is a hub of global thinking and creative ambition. It’s an amazing place to study, grow, and imagine what’s possible.

And imagine they did.
The students showcased an incredible range of startup ideas—innovative, thoughtful, and rooted in real human need. Each pitch reflected not only hard work, but heart. Their commitment to solving genuine problems and bringing new value into the world was inspiring to witness.

A huge thank you to my fellow panel members for their insight, encouragement, and shared enthusiasm. It was a privilege to collaborate with such passionate people, all united in supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs.

To all the students: well done. Give yourselves a well-deserved pat on the back—you’ve earned it. Congratulations on your achievements, and on the courage it takes to pitch your ideas in a high-pressure environment.

I’m already looking forward to seeing what 2026 brings. ✨🚀
Until then, enjoy your well-earned holidays! 😊