Richards College of Business Students Awarded in UWG’s Recent Wolf Den Business Pitch Competition Share this page
Big ideas took center stage at the University of West Georgia’s recent Wolf Den Business Pitch Competition, where students showcased their entrepreneurial spirits and competed for top honors, which Kelsey Carter, Sylvia Nwankwo and Maurice Fench Jr. received.
During this 10-week bootcamp, they honed their skills in project management, communication strategies, and public speaking through hands-on learning while transforming their ideas into compelling business pitches. With networking opportunities, workshops, and real-world research, the competition provided more than just a stage – it became a launchpad for innovation, confidence and career readiness.
Participants were tasked with creating a business pitch to present in front of four judges and an audience of more than 100 people. Grading their ability to answer effectively, present confidently and remain organized, students were challenged to think critically. All participants left the competition with a valuable new skill.
“I felt like I achieved something I never thought was possible,” said Fench, the Audience’s Choice Award winner.
Fench pitched an app called Gogitt – a cross between TikTok and Instagram – where consumers could purchase items directly from influencers and large companies. He was awarded $1,000 and obtained a better understanding of economics.
Sylvia Nwankwo ’24 was awarded second place in the competition. With a degree in psychology, Nwankwo pitched an app called Bemelohealth. This platform contained an AI feature that enabled therapists to create digital replicas of themselves, offering temporary support to clients when they weren’t available. With constant access to support groups, users could engage with their life-like chat companion, and each other.
“Up to the day of competition, I practiced and practiced,” said Nwankwo. “It was a really rewarding experience.”
In addition to earning $1,500, she gained insight on business-development and learned how to create effective design plans.
Pitching a YouTube channel called Karter Kitchen, first-place winner, Kelsey Carter, talked about the negative health effects of Southern cuisine. Presenting facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and proof of mental health decline, Carter offered an alternative to fried favorites and promoted better eating habits.
“It felt good to know the extra work I put in paid off,” said Carter.
Dedicating about eight hours a week to prepare for the competition, Carter was awarded $2,500.
Both Carter and Nwankwo are striving to bring their pitches to life, applying all they’ve learned from the competition.
“If you can overcome fear, you can excel at anything,” said Nwankwo.
With increased confidence, work ethic and business knowledge, these students encourage others to get out of their comfort zones and take advantage of UWG opportunities.
“Look into more programs at the university,” said Fench. “They offer so much.”
For more information on the Richards College of Business, visit its website.