The Swarovski Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations (UN) this week unveiled the 2024 edition of the Creatives for our Future programme to benefit young innovators from different UN member states, including Rwanda. This year, six successful applicants will receive financial support of €20,000, along with an education programme in collaboration with top international institutions, tailored one-on-one mentorship, and industry networking opportunities to advance their innovation and career. ALSO READ: Rwandan innovator among 10 to get $1.5m Alibaba funding The programme, which is conducted in collaboration with the UN Office for Partnerships, accepts applications from young creatives from Rwanda, and from other innovators around the world, aged between 21 and 30 years, with innovative ideas that have the potential to accelerate sustainable development. From fashion, to art, to engineering, the programme has supported 21 sustainable innovation projects since its launch in 2020, enabling its beneficiaries to develop and scale their projects – either with funds to build on their research, or through mentorship and networking opportunities to unlock new directions. Other disciplines include design, architecture, science and technology. “The Swarovski Foundation’s mission is to promote sustainable livelihoods through education to reduce inequality. With the Creatives for Our Future programme, we can harness this through young creative talent seeking to break innovative ground and spearhead new approaches and ideas in sustainable development,” said Jakhya Rahman Corey, Director of the Swaroski Foundation. Having received more than 1,500 applications from 92 countries, and supported 21 cohort members, the programme “showcases that creativity has the power to solve global challenges and achieve sustainability goals,” she said. ALSO READ: Six Rwandan startups to receive $100,000 Google funding “The Swarovski Foundation is looking forward to welcoming this year’s applications to turn their ideas into reality through access to education, resources, and a vital support network”, she said. Nigeria has previously raised the continent’s banner, and boasts two alumni and programme beneficiaries - Joshua Ichor and Stanley Aniogbogu. Ichor developed a hand pump monitoring system and built a clean water kiosk for rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa. Anigbogu’s inspiration sprung from challenges faced in his early years. He regularly had to study by candlelight, which resulted in eye infections from the harmful fumes. To address this problem, Aniogbogu developed an eco-friendly energy solution by reusing electronic waste and plastic bottles to provide clean energy and light sources for marginalised groups. Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships said: “We need young talents, from fashion to engineering, to use their creativity to tackle sustainable development challenges.” “With mentorship, industry connections, and funding, these young people are turning obstacles into opportunities and driving real progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. Through the Creatives for Our Future programme, we are fostering the next generation of leaders, she added.
