Developers’ Den XV: Bridging Education and Industry with Real-World Insights
The Developers’ Den XV (DDXV) was more than just a case competition; it was a day-turned-evening filled with celebration, generosity, and most importantly, community. On 28 March 2025, DDXV kicked off with the semi-final round at offices of Dialog, followed by the final round presentations and reception at BDP Quadrangle at The Well. DDXV brought together teams from Columbia Business School, Columbia University GSAPP, Rotman Business School at the University of Toronto, and home teams from Schulich School of Business at York University. Each team represented their schools with excellence, taking a well-earned moment to celebrate their achievements. Beyond the competition, the evening was marked by an incredible give-back culture. Industry partners and our strong alumni network showed up with kindness, mentorship, and unwavering support, making the event possible.
“This year’s Developers’ Den was a standout success, driven by the strong engagement and support from industry leaders,” said Severina Lutaj (MBA ‘22), Principal, RAM Development Group. “As co-chair, it was inspiring to see companies not only show up but actively invest in the next generation of real estate professionals.”
Developers’ Den attracts top real estate students, delivering a unique learning opportunity that challenges them as future leaders of the industry. The competition provides a real-world scenario and represents experiential learning at its best.
“This prestigious event empowers students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations, showcasing innovative development concepts backed by sound financial strategies,” said Mohammad Zeidi (MREI ‘21), Senior Development Manager, SmartCentres REIT, who helped plan the event for the second year in a row. “This experience not only sharpens their skills but also prepares them for a successful future.”
This year’s case focused on the redevelopment of the Woodbine Racetrack by the Woodbine Entertainment Group (WEG), a 684-acre parcel of land in Toronto. As part of WEG’s Master Plan for a vibrant mixed-use community, multiple neighbourhoods/precincts were identified, each with its own land use approvals and development constraints. Teams were provided with land use documents, a survey of the parcel, servicing information, construction costing, and other background information and assumptions needed to make recommendations regarding the highest and best use for this parcel in the context of WEG’s investment goals.
Student competitors prepared a concise and compelling proposal under tight deadlines, defended their assumptions, balance risk and reward, and thought on their feet when challenged by a panel of leading industry executives. The first-place team won a cash prize of $6,000, second place $3,000, and third place received $1,500.
This year’s winners are:
First Place: Schulich School of Business – Woodbine Wonders
Sami Wong (MREI ’25), Sarah Delorme-Newsom (MREI ’25), Jonah Wood (MREI ’25), Violetta Chen (MREI ’25)
Second Place: Columbia University, MSRED – Paddock Park
Michael-Daniel Oded, Gibson Bell, Amnay Khosla, Ghanim Alghanim
Third Place: Schulich School of Business – The Concourse
Jan Doroteo (MREI ’25), Lucas McComb (MREI ’25), Samantha Douek (MREI ’25)
“It was a tremendous experience to see the incredible talent and ambition that exists in this next generation of professionals,” said Michael Copeland, CEO, Woodbine Entertainment, and a Final Judge in the competition. “This will drive the real estate industry forward in Canada, and worldwide.”
A heartfelt thank you goes to the alumni planning committee—Anubhav (Anu) Sharma, MREI 2020, Severina Lutaj MBA 2022, Mohammad Zeidi, MREI 2021, and Aaron Hershoff, MBA 2009.