Junior Ayana Banks Takes Home First Place in Pitch Competition; Marino Surfwear Earns Fourth

Since first sharing the Sweet Dream project’s story in September, founder Ayana Banks has been building momentum, raising funds, and continuing to deliver bags to decorate patient rooms at CHOP.

Her work received a huge boost last week when Banks, a junior, participated in—and WON— a highly selective pitch competition sponsored by the Eagles and Firstrust Bank. With over 34 schools and 1,500 students participating in the Firstrust Bank-Philadelphia Eagles Entrepreneurs Game Plan, only five projects made it to the Final Pitch Competition that took place on May 1. Banks was awarded $2,500 for her project, which, she says, will enable her to provide even more patient deliveries. 

“This event is really great for children who are trying to start a business that makes an impact,” says Banks, who thanked the sponsors for the opportunity and partnership. “Together we’re going to make a future where all pediatric patients can thrive through the healing power of decorations in hospital rooms.”

In fact, SCH’s CEL had two teams in the competition’s top five. Alongside Banks were Marino Surfware’s Alex Zeka and Noah McLaughlin, seniors who took home fourth place and received a check for $500. 

As part of the event, the entrepreneurs presented in front of a panel of judges, including Jason Avant, former Eagles wide receiver and a franchisee of Launch Trampoline Park. The students also toured Lincoln Financial Field and visited the Eagles locker room, where they received their own Eagles nameplate and a bag of swag.

Commenting on the poise and professionalism of the contestants, Frank Gumienny, senior vice president and chief operating officer of the Philadelphia Eagles, shared, “Amazing, amazing high school students, putting together business plans. [Their] presence, leadership, [they were] so prepared, standing up there like they are true professionals when they are only in high school.”

Enjoy the full clip from the event here, and watch the announcement and confetti drop here.