June 14, 2022 – Student Company Flax Pax is the recipient of JA British Columbia’s 2022 Student Company of the Year Award. This $3,000 award is sponsored by CIBC and recognizes excellence in teamwork and cooperation, creativity and innovation, profitability and viability, and outstanding planning and operation of a JA Student Company.

This student company came together in the Fall of 2021 as part of the 16-week after school JA Company Program.  In the 2021-22 school year, high school students from all over B.C. were placed in teams, and met via virtual platforms, to collaborate and build their own start-up. All the student companies were asked to tackle one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals that address global challenges.

The newly formed Flax Pax team chose to address goal #12 Responsible Consumption and Reduction by encouraging waste reduction. Flax Pax’s business idea was to develop hot/cold packs made from 100% natural burlap, whole flaxseed, and dried lavender. They can be heated in the microwave or placed in the freezer for use as an ice pack. The lavender scent may promote relaxation and even relieve insomnia, anxiety, and stress.

“Our product helps the local environment because every component of the product is biodegradable and sustainably sourced. Furthermore, the product also helps individuals who plan on buying gel packs but fear the environmental setbacks of most conventional gel packs,” says Riya Kainth, President of Flax Pax. “With our product, individuals will be able to purchase an affordable and convenient hot/cold pack that meets their environmentally driven desires.”

As well, the team learned about the importance of giving back to their community. Flax Pax donated 15% of their profits to profits to Environmental Youth Alliance (EYA). Based in Vancouver, EYA connects children and youth with nature and the community by providing programs such as gardening and nature observation and further raises young people’s awareness around environmental issues.

Congratulations Flax Pax!  

To meet the team, View their 2 minute video here.  Also, View their 40 second ad here.

This award is generously supported by