The SUPA Introduction to Entrepreneurship class is designed to provide 11th and 12th-grade students with opportunities to develop networking, research, problem-solving, and presentation skills through hands-on experience. An essential part of that process is having students regularly engage with members of the Nido and Santiago communities who are actively involved in entrepreneurship, business, and service. Recently, the class received the visit of Ian Lee, Examedi founder and Nido alum, and Banco Itaú.

Start-Up Knowledge

On Thursday, October 10, Nido Alum (‘19) Ian Lee visited the SUPA Introduction to Entrepreneurism class. Only 24 years old and already the founder or co-founder of Examedi and four other companies, Ian shared his experiences and lessons learned from his career as a coder and entrepreneur committed to having a positive impact.  

Ian told students his personal success story and that of his startups, as well as the value he has created for his customers and their families through his commitment to developing innovative medical technology solutions. For example, Examedi provides an Uber-like delivery service for medical tests, such as blood tests, so that people do not have to leave their homes, which can improve the quality of life for people with long-term illnesses.

After his visit, students reflected on what they learned and identified insights. 

Corporate Challenge

Another class goal is to develop skills and competencies by engaging in authentic challenges in collaboration with external partners. In October and November, students are working as consultants for three different companies. One of those is Banco Itaú.

After learning more about the new SUPA Entrepreneurship class, Nido parent Jorge Novis introduced the class teacher, Mr. Jason Cancella, to his Itaú colleagues, who shared research that suggested that more than 80% of Gen Z do not feel comfortable or confident talking about their finances.  Then, Itaú presented students with a challenge: How can we help young people develop the skills and confidence they need to engage and feel more comfortable talking about money?

Melina Kitzinger, Head of Marketing, and her colleague Nicole Arancibia Otero visited the class virtually to explain the research that informed Itaú’s need to explore this challenge.  They also shared some of the work the bank has already done to build their brand and connect with customers in Chile.

After sharing the summary with the entire class, the students who worked on this challenge had the opportunity to ask follow-up questions to clarify their understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by Itaú’s research.

By allowing students to explore the same research and obstacles that inform their work, the bank and the other companies help our students develop their skills and confidence. 

Designed like a series of internships, the SUPA class's challenges created in partnership with companies such as Itaú help students explore their interests and engage with real-world problem-solving.