Canada’s 2026 NextGen Risk: Insurance Case Competition, held in Calgary, brought together students from across the country to test their skills against real-world insurance risk challenges. A team of four accounting and finance majors from the Dhillon School of Business stepped into the spotlight, demonstrating curiosity, collaboration and determination. Representing the University of Lethbridge with confidence and professionalism, Sedera Rasiliarizaka, Keshaben Gosai, Niyat Thapa and Yna Felisa Montanez embraced the challenge and showcased months of preparation in a strong performance.
Their journey to the competition didn’t begin in the same classroom. Because the team was split between the Calgary and Lethbridge campuses, the team had to be intentional about how they came together. Under the guidance of coach and sessional instructor Carolyn Scissons, who recently taught in the Master of Management program at the downtown Calgary campus, they built their foundation through early morning workshops, practice cases and a couple creative icebreakers (like debating which kitchen appliance best represented their personalities). What began as a group of strangers quickly evolved into a cohesive, supportive team.
Scissons noted that from the outset of the competition, the team's curiosity and determination set them apart. The team embraced every opportunity to learn, asking thoughtful questions and engaging deeply with industry professionals and peers from the other 13 post-secondary institutions across Canada.
"Their professionalism, thoughtful questions and collaborative spirit reflected the very best of the University of Lethbridge," Scissons says.
The competition’s final challenge brought the stakes into sharp focus: a complex case centered on a northern Alberta business navigating wildfire risk. It was the kind of scenario that demanded not only technical knowledge, but creativity, adaptability and strong teamwork. Late nights were spent refining their analysis, polishing their presentation and preparing to stand confidently before a panel of judges. Though the team didn't place in the top three, Scissons says she is extremely proud of the team.
“When they stepped into the room to present, they carried not only their hard work but the values that define our university," she says. "We are incredibly proud of their dedication, resilience and the way they represented our school with excellence and heart.”
Reflecting on the experience, team member Sedera shares, “We had a great experience at the competition! It was both challenging and rewarding, and we learned a lot. Personally, I think that stepping outside of accounting gave me a new perspective—it showed me there’s more to explore beyond accounting, like insurance.”
Scissons also acknowledged the support of the Insurance Institute of Canada and the Insurance Institute of Canada's Career Connections as well as event sponsors including CNA Insurance, Wawanesa Insurance, Hub International, Intact Insurance and Peace Hills Insurance. It's hands-on opportunities that help students grow as future industry leaders.
The Dhillon School of Business at the University of Lethbridge is known for its immersive experiential learning opportunities, connecting learners with industry and its supportive, personalized approach. Study options available in both Lethbridge and Calgary.