STEMi Makers of Africa hosts Girls Accelerating Sustainable Action (GASA) Competition.
The “I AM GASA” (Girl Accelerating Sustainable Action) is an initiative that aims to empower young women (ages 15-32) to accelerate sustainable action, sustainable action and emerge as leaders in their communities. Speaking at the unveiling, Ruth Chigbo shared that the I AM GASA Competition is for young women and girls from around Africa to showcase their projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on environmental sustainability, community development, and women’s empowerment.
The I AM GASA Competition will honor the top 4 participants with the following prizes:
- 1st Place: $400, 1:1 mentorship sessions with an esteemed professional, and 2 media publication features (local and international).
- 2nd Place: $300 and 1:1 mentorship sessions with an esteemed professional.
- 3rd Place: $200 and 1:1 mentorship sessions with an esteemed professional.
- 4th Place: $100 and recognition certificate.
The project will range from circular economy start-ups and solar-powered sanitation systems to community health campaigns and agro-tech innovations.
This year’s edition of the competition will receive entries in the form of two-minute video pitches, where participants present real-world, scalable SDG-aligned solutions addressing some of Africa’s most pressing challenges.
The event will also feature expert reviewers from ECOWAS and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, who will share their insights and provide first-hand knowledge on:
- How to position your initiatives for large-scale funding
- Strategies for amplifying social impact
- Best practices for sustainable development
This is a unique opportunity to learn from the experts and gain valuable feedback on your initiatives and mentorship. All participants will receive a certificate of participation, acknowledging your achievement and commitment to driving sustainable change. We’re excited to share this momentous occasion with you! Please come prepared to be inspired, motivated, and empowered to take your initiatives to the next level.
Amanda Obidike, who co-leads the programme’s implementation, emphasised the importance of investing in Africa’s next generation of sustainability leaders. “Through platforms like GASA, we nurture women who transform their communities through data, innovation, and leadership,”. 15 finalists will be invited to pitch live to a panel of judges comprising sustainability experts, entrepreneurs, and development professionals. After thorough deliberation and public engagement, four winners will be selected and awarded over $1,000 in total cash prizes, along with mentorship and publication opportunities.