The BIEA International STEM Youth Innovation Competition, organized by the British International Education Association (BIEA), is a global event for students aged 6 to 21. Supported by the UK scientific community, including experts from UCL, Imperial College, and the Royal Institution, this competition aims to foster technological enthusiasm and inspire a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among students worldwide.
The competition takes place every summer, featuring a new theme focused on science and innovation each year. The inaugural event occurred in 2018, initially open only to British students, and centered on designing a drone for rescue missions. In 2019, the competition expanded internationally, welcoming student teams from across the globe to create drones aimed at protecting wild and endangered animals. The finals were held at the Royal Air Force Museum in London in July 2019.
Since 2020, the competition has transitioned to an online format, allowing teams worldwide to present their projects to a global audience. In recent years, teams from Malaysia have participated in the competition. This year’s theme was “Sustainable Styles: Threads of the Future.” Two teams from Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, participated. One of these teams, the Avengers of Fashion, consisted of the following students:
- Sangetan A/L Veerappan (F5, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- Sutarrsan A/L Mahendran (F5, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- Teiviyga Sigaa Mani A/L Masilamani (F4, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- M. Kavinraj (F2, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- Desmond George A/L Cyril (F1, SMK Datuk Muhammad Yusof, Linggi)
This team won third prize in the competition. They created fabric using coffee powder and developed an app called “Garment Tracker.” Their innovative ideas were truly impressive.
Following that, the Green Girlz team comprised:
- Sivapriyankaa A/P Kehtu (F3, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- Kasmira A/P Mohanarangam (F3, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- Paavitra A/P Yuvarajan (F3, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- Livashini A/P Ganesan (F2, SMK Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson)
- Kamshavarthine A/P Rathakrisnan (F4, SMK Tinggi, Port Dickson)
This team was awarded the Emerging Impact Award. They innovated with ‘Milk Fabric,’ creating cloth from milk waste, and developed an eco-smart bin and a reusable tote bag from recycled clothes. Their efforts showcased remarkable creativity and sustainability.
These talented students received invaluable training from Mr. Rohan Aru at Xplore Mindz Academy. His expert guidance and mentorship played a crucial role in their impressive performance at the competition. Under his leadership, they were able to effectively translate their creative ideas into tangible solutions, achieving remarkable results.
The impressive achievements of the Avengers of Fashion and the Green Girlz highlight the growing talent and innovative spirit within the Malaysian student community. Their achievements not only highlight their own exceptional skills but also serve as a powerful inspiration to other students. By pushing the boundaries of science and technology, these young minds remind us all of the potential within each student to make a meaningful impact on the world. As we look to the future, let their success motivate and encourage other students to pursue their own STEM passions and contribute to a more innovative and sustainable world.
All the information and images are provided by Mr Rohan Aru.
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