The Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM) recently held a Business Day-Camp for high school students, aimed at developing their entrepreneurial skills through hands-on experience. The camp featured a “Coffee Shop” simulation, created by Sims Institute, an Ed-Tech company based in Dubai, providing students aged 15-17 with a practical glimpse into the world of business. Chef Mariam AlMansoori, Founder of Montauk Boutique Cafe and Guest of Honor, praised the students’ enthusiasm and creativity. “It’s inspiring to see such enthusiasm and potential in these young students. Their approach to the simulation demonstrates the value of experiential learning,” she said.
The event began with participants forming teams, selecting virtual locations for their coffee shops, and making key business decisions in the first phase of the simulation, titled “Startup.” In the second phase, “Building Your Brand,” students focused on maintaining or growing their business. Offline, they also worked on creating logos and designing marketing posters, enhancing their branding and marketing abilities.
Dr. Valerie Lindsay, Acting Dean of ADSM, commended the students’ engagement and confidence, noting, “This group of bright young students was very impressive. Their level of engagement, self-confidence, and eagerness to learn indicates strong emerging leadership talent within this generation.”
The day concluded with the selection of the winning team, “Comfort Coffee,” based on the highest profit generated during the simulation. A team member remarked, “The simulation was challenging but incredibly rewarding. We learned a lot about running a business in just one day, and it was inspiring to have guidance from Chef Mariam AlMansoori.”
ADSM’s educational philosophy emphasizes practical application and real-world experiences. Dr. Constance Van Horne, Associate Dean of the Undergraduate program at ADSM, highlighted this approach: “At ADSM, we focus on not just teaching skills but getting students to apply those skills in real and simulated business settings. Learning by doing is a key focus of our faculty.”
One of the participants expressed appreciation for the event, stating, “I learned so much from the ADSM faculty and from Chef Mariam AlMansoori, whose journey as a local entrepreneur is truly inspiring. It was an eye-opening experience that showed me what’s possible with the right skills and knowledge.”
The ADSM Business Day-Camp provided a clear example of the institution’s commitment to developing future business leaders through innovative, skill-based learning experiences.
