Oliver Borr
Hamilton Hebrew High

What does it take to turn a simple idea into a successful business? This is just one of the exciting questions being explored through Pathways, a new educational initiative by HHA High that is opening doors for Jewish teenagers throughout the greater Hamilton community.

Currently, 23 students from various schools and backgrounds are enrolled in this unique program, which blends academic excellence, practical life skills, Jewish values, and real-world discovery. Pathways offers two Ontario high school credit courses: Food and Nutrition, taught by Romy Friedman, and Entrepreneurship: The Venture, taught by Darrell Kennedy. The nutrition course helps students develop practical, lifelong skills while exploring the cultural influences of our diet, while the entrepreneurship course introduces them to the realities of business development, marketing, and finance.

What truly sets Pathways apart is its commitment to taking education beyond the classroom. Students will participate in an exciting series of excursions to learn directly from local entrepreneurs. Planned destinations include Premier Kosher Meat Plant, Summit Station Dairy, Jakeman's Maple Products, and Tzafona Wineries, with additional plans to connect students with business leaders like David Levy of Chocolate Tales.

These experiences offer something textbooks cannot: the chance to hear the stories of the people behind the brands. Students learn firsthand how entrepreneurs navigate regulations, develop production systems, and overcome inevitable setbacks.

Pathways reflects HHA High's broader educational philosophy. In a rapidly changing world, developing resilience, leadership, and entrepreneurial thinking is essential. By connecting academics with practical experiences, Pathways helps students recognize opportunities and develop their talents.

Crucially, the program provides a welcoming, engaging environment where Jewish teens can build friendships and strengthen their community connection. Pathways isn’t just teaching students how businesses work; it is inspiring Hamilton's youth to think creatively, dream ambitiously, and discover their own potential to build something extraordinary.