Last year, on March 14 and 15 2023, Change Makers, one of the global winners of the world’s largest global hackathon, NASA Space Apps Challenge 2021, celebrated their achievements at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C, and accompanied by our Realfun founder, Teacher Teo, who is also the NASA space apps local lead.
“As a top 10 Global winner, we were invited by NASA on the trip the US to NASA headquarters. This journey was a completely life-changing achievement for me and my teammates this trip has boosted my confidence and motivated me to pursue a better and more challenging goal instead of staying in my comfort zone.” Said Edwin Ting, 2021 Global Winner in the video about the Impact through the years of the NASA Space App Challenge.
Change Maker’s journey:
Although the celebration was in March 2023, their journey started way back in 2021 when The Change Makers, comprising Edwin Ting Heng Wei, Isaac Yong Wei Onn, Yiek Siew Hao, Jayden Lu Zheng Li, and Sean Lee Jia Roung, supported by their teacher Chew Ai Fang, won the prestigious ‘Best Use of Technology Global Award’ 2021.
Watch the Video of Global Winner 2022 – Team Change Maker:
Malaysian and Sarawakian Pride:
Change Makers’ success was not only a personal triumph, but winning in this competition was a tremendous pride to our state, Sarawak, and our country, Malaysia. It goes to show our local talents have the potential to win a competition on an international level.
The US Trip:
Their trip to the US began on the 8 March 2023, from Malaysia to Dubai to the United States (New York and Washington D.C.) and returning to Malaysia. Along the way, they were exposed to experience a new culture in a different environment and country. It must have been an incredible and meaningful experience for all of them.
Watch the Video of NASA Space Apps Sarawak Winners Trip Highlight:
A Journey Sponsored by Sarawak State Government:
Behind this incredible journey is the steadfast support of the Sarawak state government under the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak. Their commitment to nurturing and developing local talent has enabled Change Makers to dream big and achieve something on an international stage.
The Day of Recognition and Celebration at NASA Headquarters:
The Change Makers were invited to NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., to be honored and recognised by NASA Leaders and Subject Matter Experts. On March 14 and 15, the team had the unique opportunity to showcase their achievements, share their innovative solutions, network with other winners, and engage with the leaders at the forefront of space exploration.
The celebration began with a deep dive into the world of science and space apps, where the Global Winners engaged in a thrilling game of trivia, testing their knowledge and wit. They also embarked on an adventure through iconic museums and landmarks, including the Air and Space Museum.
The Key Takeaways from Change Makers:
Here are the key takeaways from the Change Makers about the NASA Space App Challenge.
- NASA is involved in many exciting projects, reminding us to stay humble and continuously learn.
- Meeting with NASA competition winners inspired us to communicate confidently while remaining humble and open to learning.
- Maintaining relationships and communication for future opportunities is important.
- Location does not limit potential, as winners come from all over the world. With hard work and determination, anyone can achieve their dreams.
Conclusion:
Change Makers from SMK Bintulu’s journey to becoming global winners at the NASA Space Apps Challenge 2021 is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young innovators. Their remarkable achievement not only showcases the potential of Malaysian talent but also emphasises the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and learning. As they return home, the Change Makers carry not just an award but the pride of their community and the hopes of a future where their innovations contribute to the betterment of our world. We hope this trip can inspire students in Sarawak that dreams do come true when we work hard.
Visit NASA Space Sarawak to know more about this challenge or register here for NASA Space Apps Challenge 2024.
