This spring, The Vancouver Basketball Foundation™ had the opportunity to sponsor a BCIT Marketing Management Business Consulting Project, working alongside three standout students: Surprise Munie, Adina Aknazarova, and Angela Grace.
As part of their final BCIT coursework, they focused on addressing a critical organizational challenge—how to develop a more consistent and scalable fundraising model that would support long term growth and sustainability.
Faced with this challenge, the student team applied a structured and thoughtful approach. They explored the funding landscape, analyzed donor behavior, and built a fundraising roadmap tailored to our mission. Their final business proposal featured a fully integrated marketing campaign, including donor segmentation, sponsorship strategy, and actionable next steps.
“Working on the BCP project with The Vancouver Basketball Foundation gave me the opportunity to apply everything I’ve learned in the classroom to a cause that truly matters. It was more than just a consulting experience—it was a chance to contribute to a mission that empowers youth through sport, and to see how strategic thinking can drive real community impact.”— Adina Aknazarova, BCIT Student
“Being a part of this project with the Vancouver Basketball Foundation really pushed me to think in new ways and reminded me why community-driven work is so important. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my time as a student, and it felt good to contribute to something that makes a real difference.”— Angela Grace Caguioa, BCIT Student
With guidance from Executive Director, Megan Pinske and BCIT Faculty Advisor Erica Halvorsen, the students took full ownership of the project—from initial research to campaign development and final presentation.
“The Vancouver Basketball Foundation has been such an excellent BCP sponsor because not only were our students able to level up their marketing research and strategy skills, they were contributing to the community by helping VBF with their outreach. As their faculty advisor, it was so exciting to watch these students learn in real time how their knowledge of marketing could actually make a positive impact on people's lives through VBF. I know this was an extremely meaningful experience for them!"
— Erica Halvorsen, Faculty, Marketing Management, School of Business Faculty Advisor, BCITMA British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)
We’re grateful for the insight, professionalism, and dedication the students brought to this project, and proud to support emerging talent through meaningful and hands-on experience.
To Surprise, Adina, and Angela: thank you for your outstanding work. You’ve left a real mark on our organization, and we can’t wait to see what you do next!
