Some children enjoy reading stories. Zoë Shajani decided to create her own.
At the National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, Zoë introduced judges to Zoë's Magical Books, a collection of children's stories designed to help young readers learn important lessons while encouraging them to imagine new possibilities. Representing SLI The Sidney Ledson School, she presented five book concepts focused on dream professions, cultural celebrations, healthy lifestyles, friendship and kindness, and positive values such as honesty and respect.
Her creative project, which combined storytelling, learning, and imagination, earned her the title of 2026 Kindergarten Division Winner at the National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge.
Throughout her presentation, Zoë explained how each book was designed to inspire children in a different way. Some encouraged readers to explore future careers and dream about who they might become. Others focused on healthy habits, friendship, cultural understanding, and important character traits that help children grow into responsible and caring individuals.
The judging panel was particularly interested in the educational impact of the series.
When asked by judge Mia Torr what lessons children would learn from the books, Zoë highlighted values such as honesty and respect, demonstrating the thoughtful foundation behind her project. When asked which book was her favourite, she selected the Good Values book.
Judge Luke Vesz commented on the bright and engaging presentation and discussed the appeal the books could have for young readers. He asked Zoë who she envisioned reading the books, and she confidently identified children around five years old as her target audience.
Judge Yivgeni Matoussov was curious about the future of the series and asked whether she planned to create additional books beyond the original collection. Zoë shared that she would like to continue creating more books that teach important lessons to children.
Following the competition, Zoë reflected on what she enjoyed most about the experience.
"My favourite part was getting to use my imagination. I liked sharing my ideas with other people. It made me feel proud to see my project come to life."
That sense of imagination is woven throughout Zoë's project. Rather than creating a single story, she developed an entire collection of book concepts, each intended to help children learn while encouraging creativity and curiosity.
When asked what advice she would give other young innovators, Zoë offered encouragement that reflects the confidence she demonstrated throughout the competition.
"Believe in your ideas and don't be afraid to try. Start with something you love and keep working on it. Even small ideas can become something really special."
Looking ahead, Zoë hopes her books will continue helping children imagine, learn, and dream big.
"Zoë's Magical Books helps children imagine, learn, and dream big through stories."
Outside of entrepreneurship, she enjoys reading, writing, drawing, and other creative activities that allow her imagination to flourish.
The National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge encourages students to develop ideas that can make a positive impact on others. Through Zoë's Magical Books, Zoë demonstrated that even at the kindergarten level, entrepreneurship can be rooted in creativity, learning, and a desire to inspire others.
Congratulations to Zoë Shajani, 2026 Kindergarten Division Winner of the National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge.