Five Dunstan High School students travelled to Auckland on Friday (August 18) to meet with business experts. 

The day was focused on providing ‘bright sparks’ with the opportunity to learn from business experts and get feedback on how they can take their ideas further. 

The Bright Sparks opportunity was founded by former Dunstan High School student Lionel Mason, who has started his own successful business, SL7.

To get chosen for the trip, students submitted a portfolio of work showcasing their project and future goals. 

Some students were working on projects through school while others focused on their own interests. 

One of the SL7 projects in action. 

Students selected have been working on various projects and passions including handbag designing, programming games and websites, creating interactive learning games and a social enterprise. 

Throughout the day, students learnt about running a successful business, how to get a foot in the door and being forward thinkers. 

This included a visit to view SL7 projects and meet with Icehouse, a company that supports innovators. 

The Dunstan High School group learnt a lot from everyone they met on the day. 

Student Annabelle said Bright Sparks was a “fantastic opportunity that has greatly impacted all of us”.

She hopes that future students will also get to take on the opportunity.