The public is urged to vote to decide the winner of the #IdeasForChange Food Security Challenge, presented by Stellenbosch Network.
The competition has truly sparked innovation in the pursuit of a food-secure Stellenbosch. It is presented in partnership with the Department of Science and Innovation’s regional innovation support programme (RISP), Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Innovus and Launchlab, Ranyaka and the Agricultural Sustainability Education Lab.
The challenge is not just a competition; it’s a movement to shape the future of food security in Stellenbosch. The challenge’s fifth edition has drawn a remarkable pool of entries, each with the potential to revolutionise food security in the area. These innovative ideas offer the chance to win a share of R30 000 in cash prizes and more to bring them to life.
The top-three finalists who will vie for the title are:
Ayesha Abrahams – Food Exchange app or website:
Abrahams, a PhD candidate at SU specialising in plant pathology, envisions creating a digital platform (app or website) that facilitates community food exchanges, reducing waste and easing the burden of food prices. This innovative concept encourages sharing and promotes sustainability. Her area of focus is food waste solutions.
Mikhail Accom – Eduponics:
Eduponics integrates aquaponic farming into educational curricula, addressing food security and educational enrichment. Their project, Eduponics Go Green, offers hands-on experiences in sustainable agriculture and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Accom is currently completing his postgraduate diploma in aquaponic farming at SU. His area of focus is AgriTech.
Hein Duvenhage – Arable Grow:
Arable Grow designs market-specific vertical farming technology, making it accessible and efficient. Their educational partnerships and sustainable approach offer solutions to food security. Duvenhage and the majority of the Arable Grow team are SU alumni. Their area of focus is AgriTech.
This dynamic challenge encourages residents to participate by casting their votes for their favourite finalist. Public voting commenced on Wednesday 18 October and will remain open until Monday 30 October. The winner will be announced on Tuesday 31 October.
Your vote can make a significant difference in our community’s food security journey. Cast your vote online at https://lnkd.in/e-w_ZhFM.
The final decision will be based on a combination of public votes and an independent judging panel comprising Sunita Kalan (Department of Science and Technology); Marli Goussard (Ranyaka); Brandon Paschal (SU Launchlab); Ravini Moodley (SU Innovus); Mhlengi Khambule (Agricultural Sustainability Education Lab); and Rirhandzu Marivate (Sustainability Institute).
- To hear more about the finalists and their ideas, visit: https://bit.ly/3Qw38Ex.
