Blockchain Business School Equips Over 60 Bahamian Students to Lead in the Tech-Driven Economy

More than sixty Bahamian students took part in the Blockchain Business School Conference and Hackathon, an immersive program designed to merge technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Hosted at the University of The Bahamas, the initiative introduced young innovators to the fundamentals of blockchain, digital finance, and business strategy, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

The initiative was organized by Harness All Possibilities (HAP) Bahamas in partnership with educators and youth leaders, including Michelle Rolle, head of the business department at Temple Christian School; Sharleen Hanson, director of Boost Educational Service and Boost Academy; and teen entrepreneurs Phelton Petit-Frere of YouthTech Eleuthera and Pinnacle Structure, and Chelsea Smith of KidsCode242.

Students ages 10 to 18 received hands-on exposure to artificial intelligence, financial literacy, 3-D printing and social-impact design. Through presentations, games and creative challenges, participants were urged not only to imagine the future but to prototype it.

“This event was about far more than technology; it was about equipping young Bahamians with the mindset and tools to become leaders of innovation,” said Rhonda Eldridge, the organizer and founder of HAP. “By tackling real issues with creativity and courage, these students demonstrated solutions with immediate community benefits and long-term potential to strengthen our nation. They’ve proven that The Bahamas can be an exporter of ideas, not just an importer of technology.”

Speakers included representatives from the Central Bank of The Bahamas and the Securities Commission of The Bahamas, alongside international finance and technology experts and local social entrepreneurs; a lineup that positioned the conference as a bridge between policy, business and the classroom. Prizes included books by Bahamian author Tia Rose, adding a cultural dimension to the tech-focused program.

“The Blockchain Business School Conference and Hackathon created a practical environment to expose students to the future of digital payments in The Bahamas,” said Carlisa Belle of the Central Bank of The Bahamas. “Participants were highly engaged, asked insightful questions and showed strong interest in how SandDollar can be used day-to-day. Their response reaffirmed the importance of empowering the next generation with knowledge and opportunities to shape our economy.”

The event culminated in a hackathon in which teams addressed real-world challenges: HealthyEats, a platform promoting better nutrition; Blue Whales, an app aimed at reducing youth violence; and SafeGuard, a digital tool for child safety. HealthyEats, developed by a team representing Lend a Hand Bahamas, a nonprofit based in Bain and Grants Town, took the top honour. The win was marked by a donation from HAP Bahamas, PricewaterhouseCoopers Bahamas and SunCash to Lend a Hand Bahamas, along with gift cards for each student.

Judges noted the students’ discipline and clarity of purpose, saying the entrepreneurial energy on display mirrored the kind of innovation sought by global markets and underscored the country’s potential to cultivate homegrown talent in technology-driven fields.

Eldridge attributed the conference’s momentum to broad community collaboration. “From audit and tech firms to food vendors, donors and grassroots partners, a wide network came together to support the initiative,” she said. “Their combined efforts created an environment where students could experiment, learn and shine.”

HAP said it is now developing year-round, customized programs under the HAPLabs banner to accelerate learning and upskilling. The effort will pair students with industry mentors, link participants to professional networks and encourage them to share knowledge with peers and their communities.

About Harness All Possibilities (HAP)

Harness All Possibilities (HAP) is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering Bahamian youth and professionals to thrive in an increasingly digital and interconnected global economy. Through signature initiatives such as the Blockchain Business School and HAPLabs, HAP integrates technology training, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and social innovation with mentorship and community collaboration. Since its founding, HAP has partnered with schools, businesses, and civic institutions to deliver programs that not only build skills but also inspire participants to apply their knowledge toward solving real-world challenges. By bridging education, technology, and enterprise, HAP is cultivating a pipeline of innovators who can drive economic growth and social progress in The Bahamas and beyond.