Calling all students or recent graduates! If you are an individual or team working on a volunteer, social enterprise or environmental project then the U21 RISE competition is for you.
The U21 RISE (Real Impact on Society and Environment) Awards showcase student-led projects in sustainable development, non-profit innovation and social enterprise that relate to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
“McMaster’s membership in Universitas 21 gives our students access to high profile competitions such as U21 RISE. It is both exciting and stimulating to be able to measure one’s ideas on innovation, impact, potential and collaboration against those of one’s international peers – and do so successfully,” said Dr. Peter Mascher, Vice Provost, International Affairs, McMaster University.
Last year, biomedical and mechanical engineering student Lianna Genovese won for her innovative project that helps people with physical challenges write, draw or use a tablet or computer.
“Winning this award was a very important milestone in my personal growth and career,” said Genovese, who won under the category of “Most Innovative“.
Her invention Guided Hands is a medical device that enables people with reduced fine motor skills to complete everyday tasks, such as writing, painting and using a tablet. Her project supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being and Goal 4: Quality Education
“Winning this competition gave me a lot of confidence. It validated that what I created has potential and it gave me the drive to continue.”
All McMaster-nominated entries submitted to the global final will gain access to U21’s global network, the opportunity to generate pledges of support from partners, and have a chance at winning one of three prizes for their project valued at $2000.00 each for the categories of Most Innovative, Most Impact, Most Potential and Most Collaboration.
To be considered for the global final, interested McMaster students and recent graduates must submit an entry by February 28, 2021. For more information about the competition and entry submission guidelines, click here.