Brilliant Labs to Host International Brilliant Blue Challenge, October 24–25, 2024
October 24–25, 2024, Brilliant Labs will host the Brilliant Blue Challenge, an international event that invites young innovators from around the world to develop solutions for the blue economy — the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and healthy ecosystems. This year, the virtual competition will welcome 40 teams from 22 countries, including Brazil, Canada, Finland, Scotland, South Africa, United States and Japan.
The Brilliant Blue Challenge features three categories: Marine Renewable Energy, Marine Autonomous Systems, and Healthy Marine Life. Participants are tasked with developing innovative projects within these categories to address real-world challenges affecting our oceans. The competition not only provides students with the opportunity to apply their skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) but also to learn more about the blue economy — a fast-growing sector that encompasses industries such as marine conservation, aquaculture, and renewable energy. Globally, the blue economy is projected to create 24 million jobs by 2030. Ensuring sustainability within this sector is crucial to balancing industrial growth with environmental preservation, ultimately securing ocean resources for future generations. (Source: United Nations, World Bank)
An example of the impact of Brilliant Blue is Mayar Ibrabah, a former participant from Halifax West High School. Mayar and her team won the Productive Ocean Award, Healthy Marine Life category, with their project that explored how Multi-Trophic Aquaculture could improve water quality. The project involved designing a micro-ecosystem using blue mussels and seaweed to examine whether cultivating them together could create a healthier marine environment. After conducting tests, the results showed that the side with both mussels and seaweed exhibited better water quality, highlighting the potential for future applications in aquaculture and marine conservation.
“Before participating in Brilliant Blue, I didn’t know I wanted to learn more about ocean science. But the challenge sparked something in me,” Mayar shared. As a first-year science student at Dalhousie University and a summer intern at Cooke Aquaculture, she attributes her passion for ocean science and the blue economy to the Brilliant Blue Challenge. She also credits her teacher, Dana Sweeney, for inspiring her and her team to pursue their innovative project. “Mayar and her team were incredibly dedicated and passionate. It was a joy to see them grow and realize their potential,” Dana said.
“As we continue to expand, Brilliant Blue is becoming a global platform for young innovators to showcase their talents and drive change in marine sustainability,” says Omar Hussein, Director, Brilliant Blue. “We’re excited to see the incredible projects that will come out of this year’s challenge.”
As the competition continues to grow in global influence, Brilliant Blue is garnering interest from 10 countries that are eager to host future competitions. The first host outside of Canada will be announced in the coming weeks, reflecting the expanding reach and importance of the Brilliant Blue Challenge on the world stage.
Free virtual tickets to attend the event are available now. Register today to cheer on these young innovators tackling marine sustainability and shaping the future of the blue economy.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the UN Ocean Decade for their endorsement and support of the Brilliant Blue Challenge. This recognition reinforces our mission to inspire and empower young innovators to tackle the critical issues facing our oceans. Your endorsement is a testament to the global importance of our work and the potential impact of our initiatives.
We also wish to acknowledge and thank our incredible community supporters who have played a vital role in making the Brilliant Blue Challenge a success. Organizations such as ProBleu — Earthwatch, Sea Smart, Ripple Environmental Education, Bright Ocean Marketing, MBON — Marine Biodiversity Observation Network, Marine Life 2030 UN Ocean Decade Programme, TryEngineering and IEEE Oceanic Engineering Society, and Great Blue Heron have provided unwavering support and collaboration. Your commitment and contributions are essential in fostering a new generation of leaders dedicated to marine sustainability.
MEDIA INQUIRIES: Omar Hussien, Director, Brilliant Blue 519–590–9983 Omar@brilliantlabs.ca
The Brilliant Blue Challenge is an annual international competition organized by Brilliant Labs, aimed at inspiring young innovators to develop sustainable solutions for the blue economy. This competition invites high school students from around the world to engage in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) projects that address critical issues affecting our oceans. Endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade and supported by organizations globally, the Brilliant Blue Challenge focuses on three main categories: Marine Renewable Energy, Marine Autonomous Systems, and Healthy Marine Life. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, participants gain valuable skills and knowledge, driving forward innovation in marine conservation, aquaculture, and renewable energy sectors. As the competition expands its global reach, it continues to foster a new generation of leaders dedicated to ensuring the health and sustainability of our ocean ecosystems.
Brilliant Labs is a pioneering hands-on learning charity located in Atlantic Canada, dedicated to fostering innovation and creativity among youth through STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) education. Celebrating its 10th anniversary on November 14th, Brilliant Labs provides access to cutting-edge technology, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities, empowering students to develop solutions for real-world challenges. With a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement, Brilliant Labs aligns its teaching with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). The organization is guided by the belief that youth must be critical thinkers who create with technology rather than simply consume it. Initiatives like the Brilliant Blue Challenge encourage young minds to explore and address critical issues in the blue economy. By integrating the UNSDGs into all educational activities, Brilliant Labs inspires a new generation of thinkers and problem-solvers who are equipped to make a positive impact on the world.
BRILLIANT LABS INQUIRY
Jeff Willson, Executive Director, Brilliant Labs, 506–442–9059, Jeff@brilliantlabs.ca
