#Innovation #BE OPEN #Switzerland #Lugano #Gender Equality

The Launch of Design Equality with Innovation

In a significant move towards fostering innovation and addressing pressing global issues, the BE OPEN Foundation recently announced the launch of its seventh international competition entitled "Design Equality with Innovation." This initiative aims to engage students, recent graduates, and budding professionals in generating creative solutions that align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The competition is not just a platform for students but a crucial step towards creating a sustainable and equitable future.

The focus of this year's competition underscores the vital role of promoting gender equality and women's empowerment as outlined in SDG #5. According to reports from the UN Department of Economic and Social Development, full participation of women in the labor market is not just a social imperative but an economic necessity, with the potential to boost economic growth significantly.

Elena Baturina, a renowned international entrepreneur and founder of BE OPEN, elaborates on the mission of this project, stating, "For the past six years, we at BE OPEN have supported the SDGs by hosting international student design competitions. Each year, we have been amazed by the brilliance and creativity displayed in the projects submitted by young people worldwide. This year, our goal is to leverage the innovative spirit of youth to address issues of gender equality and to encourage female leadership in sustainable development."

Encouraging Participation and Innovation

The competition incentivizes participants with grants that range from €2,000 to €5,000, along with other educational opportunities and a chance to attend a major international event focused on sustainability. Such rewards not only stimulate participation but also underline the importance of supporting young innovators as they navigate the complexities of modern challenges.

As the world faces increasingly interconnected challenges, the need for fresh, innovative solutions grows. The competition aims to inspire entrants to think outside the box, fostering an atmosphere where established norms can be shifted to embrace a more inclusive approach to problem-solving.

The growing recognition of the economic and social potential of women by empowering them as innovators and entrepreneurs stands central to BE OPEN’s mission. Through this initiative, the foundation seeks to promote solutions that address the unique needs of women and girls while supporting sustainable small businesses and community initiatives.

Creativity as a Catalyst

BE OPEN firmly believes in the transformative power of creativity as a catalyst for sustainable development. They argue that to achieve the ambitious goals set forth by the UN, creative thinking and innovative design are essential. This approach positions design not merely as an aesthetic pursuit but as a crucial tool for implementing the SDGs in a way that is impactful and resonant with communities worldwide.

In conclusion, the "Design Equality with Innovation" competition is more than just a student challenge; it is a commitment to nurturing the next generation of change-makers. As young minds contribute their skills and innovations towards achieving gender equality and sustainable development, they lay the groundwork for a more prosperous and equitable society. Through this initiative, BE OPEN continues its mission to inspire creativity, spark dialogue, and drive significant change across the globe. The outcomes of this competition will not only reflect the state of youth innovation today but also hold the promise of shaping a more just and sustainable tomorrow.