#BE OPEN #Switzerland #Lugano #Design Equality #SDG Competition

Celebrating Innovation in Gender Equality

On May 28, 2026, BE OPEN Foundation announced the winners of its DESIGN EQUALITY with Innovation Competition, a significant event designed to encourage innovative solutions among students and graduates. This competition is part of the broader SDGs-focused programme that aims to promote sustainability and address global challenges through creative solutions. Since its inception in 2019, BE OPEN has actively sought to inspire younger generations to contribute to a more sustainable future.

The competition dedicated this year to SDG#5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls, received hundreds of impressive submissions. After rigorous evaluation, an esteemed international jury consisting of sustainability experts, academics, and designers selected 50 finalists for honorary mentions. The winners of the top three prizes were.

The Winners

1. First Prize (€5,000): Norah Kimathi from Strathmore University, Kenya
- Her project Zerobionic, an AI-powered robotic exoskeleton, aims to improve access to STEM education for deaf and hard-of-hearing girls, showcasing how innovative technology can enhance educational equity.

2. Second Prize (€3,000): Victress Igboanusim from Imo State University, Nigeria
- Victress developed Calyx-Probe, a handheld AI diagnostic tool that focuses on providing women with non-invasive reproductive healthcare solutions, ensuring that critical health services are accessible.

3. Third Prize (€2,000): Lennox Omondi and his team from St. Paul's University, Kenya
- Their initiative, Ecobana, transforms banana agricultural waste into biodegradable sanitary pads, addressing both the issue of waste management and the need for affordable sanitary products in underserved communities.

These innovative projects were praised for their potential to create significant social impact while advancing gender equality. The founder of BE OPEN, Elena Baturina, expressed her admiration for all participants, stating, "As global challenges grow more complex, we require fresh thinking and collaboration across disciplines. The projects submitted demonstrate the incredible talent and creativity among young people across the globe. They are the future leaders of sustainable change.”

Looking Ahead

In addition to the financial grants, all winners will receive fully paid trips to major sustainability-related events, enabling them to present their projects to influential decision-makers and a global audience. The Public Vote and Founder's Choice Prize winners are expected to be revealed in June 2026, further celebrating the creativity and dedication of emerging innovators engaged in addressing pressing global challenges.

BE OPEN continues its commitment to supporting initiatives that empower youth, especially women, to engage in fields that have traditionally seen limited representation. Through competitions like DESIGN EQUALITY, they strive to create an inclusive environment that fosters innovation and gender equality, ensuring no talent is left unrecognized in the pursuit of a better future.

This initiative not only aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals but also emphasizes the vital role of education, innovation, and community engagement in building a more equitable world.

The project's impact is poised to expand, with plans for future competitions and initiatives aimed at driving meaningful change across various sectors. For more information about the contest and its winners, interested individuals can follow their updates and initiatives at the BE OPEN Foundation’s official communications channels.