I rise today to offer some well-deserved recognition in this honourable house to the business students from Memorial University who won the 2008 Students in Free Enterprise World Cup.

This was no small feat. At the competition in Singapore in October, this group of talented, ambitious, young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians represented Canada in facing the best business students from around the globe � teams from more than 40 different countries � and they walked away world champions.

I recently had the pleasure of attending and offering congratulatory remarks at a special reception at the university in honour of the team and their tremendous achievement. It was also a chance to enjoy a repeat performance by the students of their impressive winning presentation.

It wasn�t just their energy, professionalism, and top-notch presentation skills that won them the competition. It was also the commendable work that SIFE Memorial carries out on a regular basis; the inspiring entrepreneurial ventures and community leadership projects that they are able to showcase in their presentation. This year alone, SIFE Memorial members gave over 26,000 volunteer hours to these projects, which help promote knowledge and practical experience among youth in important fields, including entrepreneurship and environmental education.

In Singapore, not only did they show the world how their initiatives enrich the community, but they also promoted Newfoundland and Labrador on an international stage to leaders in business and education, and peers from all over the world. So, while their work, their dedication and their success has a direct impact on our local community, it also resonates across continents and cultures.

Their success speaks volumes about Newfoundland and Labrador � our incredibly talented people, our world-class university, and our ability to compete with the best from around the world. In that respect, these students are true ambassadors for our province.

The Department of Business and Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development were pleased to support the SIFE Memorial team with $20,000 to facilitate their participation in Singapore, so they could show the world what we are accomplishing right here in Newfoundland and Labrador.

I am sure all honourable members will join in acknowledging the world champs. They are shining examples of how young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians can be active leaders, and what can be accomplished with a little imagination, determination and teamwork.