An Exciting Start to the SAGE World Cup 2024!

Today marked the beginning of the SAGE World Cup 2024, an exhilarating event that brought together 57 young entrepreneurs from 11 countries, including Ireland, USA, Nigeria, Israel, China, Bangladesh, South Africa, Vietnam, Russia, South Korea, and Japan. The venue buzzed with excitement as participants gathered to showcase their innovative projects, exchange ideas, and compete for the title of the best teenage entrepreneur in the world. The day was packed with activities, featuring the much-anticipated Country Day - Culture Showcase, the International Trade Fair, and the announcement of the Runner-Up League.

"To change the world, transform society, and shift the consciousness of people, ultimately achieving the happiness of all humanity and world peace, we need the wisdom, courage, and unity of our young generation."

Culture Showcase

The day kicked off with the vibrant Country Day - Culture Showcase, where each team had the opportunity to display their unique cultural heritage. The atmosphere was electric as participants dressed in traditional attire, and shared their country's folklore, music, dance, and cuisine, creating a colourful tapestry of global culture. It was a powerful reminder of the diversity and unity of this gathering, where young minds from different corners of the world came together with a common goal: to positively impact the world.

International Trade Fair

The International Trade Fair was a vibrant celebration of the diversity and richness of the participating countries. Each team set up booths showcasing their country's unique products, fun facts, and cultural highlights. From traditional foods to fascinating information about their homeland, participants offered a glimpse into the heart of their cultures. The fair was a sensory delight, with colourful displays of traditional crafts, and engaging stories about the history and traditions of each nation. It was an opportunity for everyone to experience the world in a single space, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of the global community that SAGE represents.

Beyond the cultural showcase, the fair also served as a wonderful bonding experience for the young people participating in SAGE. It was a chance for them to connect with peers from different corners of the world, share their experiences, and build friendships that go beyond borders. This exchange of ideas and cultures helped foster a sense of unity among the young innovators, reminding everyone that, despite our differences, we are all working towards a common goal of making the world a better place.

Spotlight on the Irish Team: Team RUST

We are incredibly proud to see Team RUST (Rubbish, Utilisation, Sorting, Technology) from Coláiste Dun An Rí, Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, representing Ireland at the SAGE World Cup 2024. This team of passionate young social innovators is tackling a global issue that affects us all: improper recycling in public spaces. Their mission is both ambitious and impactful, aiming to reduce environmental pollution by enhancing recycling practices through innovative technology.

To combat the issue of improper recycling, team RUST has developed a groundbreaking solution: an intelligent bin that sorts waste material with the use of AI. The team built the bin from scratch, coded the AI camera, 3D printed parts, programmed the machinery and worked alongside companies such as Kingspan and Panda recycling to make sure that their bin would change the recycling industry as we know it. 

Their project aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a primary focus on Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and Goal 13: Climate Action. By improving recycling processes and reducing environmental pollution, Team RUST’s initiative contributes to global efforts aimed at combating climate change and its impacts.

As they compete on the global stage, we proudly support Team RUST and their innovative efforts to drive positive change and make a lasting impact on our environment.