Students win in the Academy Global Strategic Risk Case competition

This year, our students proved their expertise with a win in the Academy Global Strategic Risk Case Competition.

Competing against top universities across Australia and New Zealand, this award win is a testament to our students’ strategic expertise, teamwork, and ability to tackle real-world challenges head-on.

For the second time, multiple Torrens University teams entered the challenge, with two of our teams earning recognition as grand finalists in the Top 10. Among them, America’s Consulting secured a Top 3 finish, demonstrating exceptional strategic risk analysis and leadership.

With more than 70 teams registered from over 20 universities, the Top 10 finalists impressed with rigorous analysis, creative risk strategies, and outstanding teamwork—representing seven cities across Australia and New Zealand and showcasing the brightest emerging talent in business risk strategy.

Franco Cima, Master of Business Administration (Advanced), reflected on his success:

“My biggest takeaways from the competition were getting real-world experience, developing team synergy for effective and enjoyable teamwork, and the satisfaction of putting Torrens at the top of ANZ Universities' rank.”

Students experiencing consulting environment

The Strategic Risk Case Competition provides students with hands-on consulting experience, mirroring the high stakes decision-making process that industry leaders face daily. Teams tackle real-world risk scenarios, build strategic responses, and present their solutions to a panel of industry experts — making this an unparalleled opportunity to sharpen business resilience.

Professor Greg Harper, Executive Dean, Business & Hospitality, emphasised the relevance of this competition in today’s business landscape:

“You can’t control the future, but you can build resilience by understanding macro and micro economic forces shaping industries. This competition gives students real-world insights and learning experiences from seasoned professionals tackling these challenges firsthand,” said Professor Harper.

According to the Future of Jobs Report 2025, Australia’s labour market is set for major transformation over the next five years. Businesses will increasingly value graduates who demonstrate innovation, flexibility, and collaboration — and competitions like Academy Global’s Strategic Risk Case Competition provide the perfect platform to hone these skills.

Industry exposure and exclusive industry connections

Academy Global collaborates with The Institute of Strategic Risk Management (ISRM) to provide expert mentorship from leading practitioners. This collaboration gives our students exclusive access to industry expertise, equipping them with agility, resilience, and preparedness for the challenges they’ll face in their careers.

Meet the 2025 award winners

America’s Consulting (Top 3 Finish)

• Michelle Alzamora – Master of Business Administration & Master of Public Health
• José Carlos Trillo – Master of Business Administration & Master of Global Project Management
• Franco Cima – Master of Business Administration (Advanced)

Nexus Triad (Grand Finalists, Top 10)

• Trecy Ann S. – Master of Business Administration & Master of Public Health
• Aleza Rea Orcine – Master of Business Administration & Master of Public Health
• Rachelle Verdillo – Master of Business Administration & Master of Public Health