Introduction:
The Business Model Canvas Competition was an engaging opportunity where we were challenged to think like entrepreneurs and pitch a unique business idea in front of a panel of “sharks.” As a team, we came up with the concept for an all-in-one fashion app designed to revolutionise how people interact with their wardrobes and make style decisions. Our app idea included a feature where users could upload photos of the clothes they own to create a digital closet, making it easier to curate and plan outfits using a built-in calendar. We also proposed a thrift store section where users could sell their pre-loved clothes, buy second-hand items from others, or recycle garments in an eco-friendly way. To personalise the user experience, the app would offer colour analysis based on face shape, complexion, and body type, helping users identify the colours that suit them best. Additionally it would also analyse the user’s personal style monthly using statistics. Another key aspect of the app was its social component, allowing users to connect with friends, rate each other’s outfits, and share fashion inspiration. People can also navigate outfits that they look online and want to buy through the navigating outfit feature. Lastly, the app would include a section dedicated to current trends and fashion tips, keeping users informed and stylish.

• Date: 9th October 2025

LO1 – Identify Own Strengths and Develop Areas for Growth
Through this competition, I was able to clearly identify some of my key strengths and also recognise areas where I needed improvement. One of my major strengths was digital design, I discovered that I had a strong skill set in visually conceptualising and designing the app interface. I took the lead in designing most of the components of the app, ensuring it was both user-friendly and aesthetically appealing. Before finalising the idea, I also conducted market research to identify existing gaps in the fashion and sustainability sectors. This research helped guide our concept development and ensured that our business plan addressed a real and relevant need. However, during the process, I realised that I needed to improve in areas like theoretical planning, especially when it came to developing the business model tools, such as identifying our ask from the sharks or laying out the financial and operational aspects in more detail. While I was confident with the creative and visual side of the project, I learned that building a strong business model also requires clear strategic thinking and structured planning, something I now aim to improve upon in future projects.

LO2- Demonstrate That Challenges Have Been Undertaken, Developing New Skills
During the competition, we faced a significant challenge when we discovered that another team had a business idea similar to ours. This pushed us to rethink and refine our concept to ensure it stood out. We added several unique features, such as colour analysis, social interaction, a digital closet planner, and a combined thrift store and recycling section to make our app more innovative and valuable. Another major challenge was looking into the revenue aspects of our business model. To ensure sustainability and profitability, we included premium features in the app, which would offer advanced personalisation and exclusive content for paying users. Although I had prior experience in digital design, this was the first time I was designing an app, which required a different approach. I had to make sure the interface was user-friendly, intuitive, and visually appealing. To do this, I explored and researched various existing fashion and lifestyle apps, analyzed their layouts, and learned how to structure content effectively. This process helped me develop new technical and research skills

LO3- Demonstrate How to Initiate and Plan a CAS Experience
Our participation in the Business Model Canvas Competition began with taking the initiative to be a part of the event and work together as a team. We started by conducting market research and brainstorming multiple business ideas across different sectors. After analyzing each idea’s potential, we chose to move forward with the fashion app, as we felt it addressed real-world problems and had the most potential for impact and innovation. Once the idea was finalized, we divided the tasks based on our individual strengths and interests. I focused on the design aspect of the app, while other team members researched the technical and business-related components, such as revenue models, cost structure, and potential market share. We carefully planned how the app would look and function, ensuring it had both creativity and practicality. Additionally, we thoroughly prepared for our pitch in front of the sharks. We structured our presentation to create a strong first impression, highlighting the problem, our solution, the unique features of our app, and the business model behind it. Every step of the process from research and idea selection to designing, delegating, and presenting was carefully planned and executed to give our concept the best chance of success.

LO4 – Show Commitment to and Perseverance in CAS Experiences
Throughout the Business Model Canvas Competition, we demonstrated a strong level of commitment and perseverance from the initial planning stages all the way to the final pitch. The process involved multiple stages, like, market research, idea selection, designing the app, planning revenue strategies, and preparing our presentation which required consistent effort over an extended period. There were several moments where things became challenging, especially when we found out that another team had a similar idea. Instead of getting discouraged, we stayed committed and worked harder to enhance our concept with more unique and valuable features. We continuously revised our plan, made improvements, and kept pushing forward to make our idea stronger. Personally, I dedicated a lot of time and energy into designing the app and ensuring the user experience was intuitive and appealing. Even when certain aspects became time-consuming or difficult, like figuring out layout details or coordinating with the team, I stayed focused and motivated to see the project through. 

LO5 – Demonstrate the Skills and Recognise the Benefits of Working Collaboratively
The Business Model Canvas Competition was a true team effort where we learned how to work collaboratively and play to each other’s strengths. From the very beginning, we divided the workload strategically, while I focused on designing the app interface and visual layout, other team members handled the technical and business aspects. We supported each other throughout the process, making sure our contributions complemented one another. Even during the presentation phase, we made sure to divide the slides and speaking roles based on who felt most confident with each topic. I presented the app’s design and features, along with another team member, while others explained the technical and financial components. This made our presentation smooth, clear, and impactful, allowing each of us to speak on what we knew best. Working together in this way not only improved the quality of our final product but also helped us understand the value of trust, communication, and collaboration. It showed me how a well-coordinated team can achieve much more than working individually.

LO6 – Demonstrate Engagement with Issues of Global Significance
Through our participation in the Business Model Canvas Competition, we engaged with important global issues by aligning our app idea with two key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

One of the core features of our fashion app was the thrift store section, where users could sell, buy, or recycle clothing. This directly addresses the issue of fashion waste, which is a major contributor to global pollution. Without thrifting or recycling, most unused clothes end up in landfills, adding to environmental damage and overconsumption. We also included a recycling feature where users could upload an image of any garment, and the app would suggest creative and practical ways to recycle or repurpose it. This promotes sustainable consumption habits and encourages people to extend the life cycle of their clothes instead of throwing them away. y incorporating these features, we not only created a business model with real market potential but also one that promotes environmental responsibility and conscious consumer behavior. This experience helped me understand how businesses can be designed to not just generate profit, but also make a positive impact on society and the planet.

Conclusion:
Participating in the Business Model Canvas Competition was a valuable and enriching experience that allowed me to explore my creativity, strengthen my teamwork skills, and deepen my understanding of real-world business challenges. From identifying a market gap and developing a fashion app concept to presenting our idea in front of the sharks, every step of the journey helped me grow both personally and professionally. I discovered my strengths in digital design, learned how to make user-friendly interfaces, and developed new skills through research and planning. At the same time, I recognised areas I needed to improve, such as planning the theoretical side of the business model, which gave me clear direction for future growth. This experience also taught me the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and perseverance, especially when facing competition or challenges. Most importantly, through our focus on sustainability and responsible fashion, I realised how business ideas can contribute to global goals and make a meaningful impact on the environment and society. Overall, this competition was not just about developing a business plan, it was about innovation, teamwork, learning, and becoming more aware of how our ideas can shape a better future.

Evidence: