When local students get the chance to explore entrepreneurship in a hands-on way, something special happens.

Through a partnership with Latrobe City Council, a group of high school students from across the region joined the HEX High Accelerator, a practical, future-focused program that helps young people turn ideas into real-world ventures.

Over several weeks, students explored the fundamentals of startup thinking: identifying problems, designing solutions, building confidence, and developing their own pitch. Both the kickoff and the final pitch night took place at the Morwell Innovation Centre, creating an inspiring space for creativity, collaboration, and community.

In the audience were Councillor Steph Morgan from Latrobe City and Kat Dodd, Operations Coordinator at Gippsland Tech School, along with family, friends, and community supporters.

💬 The students pitched ideas focused on sustainability, wellbeing, education, and tech, with every team showing courage, creativity, and curiosity. It was a proud moment for the region, and a reminder that innovation doesn’t just happen in big cities. It starts right here, in local hubs, with the right support.

What is the HEX High Accelerator?

It’s a future-skills program for high school students that teaches entrepreneurial thinking through digital learning, mentorship, and real-world challenges. Students finish with their own startup pitch, and the tools to take it further.

A big thank you to Latrobe City Council for backing the next generation of thinkers and builders.

And an extra special shoutout to Frances Goh, who ran the live sessions in Morwell, to support these young people every step of the way, guide local stakeholders through the experience, and host an inspiring pitch night to remember. HEX prides itself on delivering incredible experiences by industry experts from like you 💛

We can’t wait to see where these students take their ideas next.