Inventing the Future: Winning students impress in MEA innovation challenge
Tuesday 14 October 2025
Two Year 10 students have impressed judges in a competition that challenged them to come up with a world-changing invention or technology that could improve life on Earth by 2050.
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council celebrated the creativity and ingenuity of students across the Borough in September through its Invent the Future - Shape the World of 2050 competition.
Participants showcased their visionary ideas through posters, short stories, and comic strips, with two standout entries earning an exciting prize: a trip to Brooklands Innovation Academy in Surrey at the start of October.
Ulidia Integrated College students Sophie Skinner and Leah Montgomery were selected as the competition winners for their innovative and practical designs.
Sophie impressed the judges with her innovative concept: a Hearing Aid Tablet designed to translate between verbal and sign language. This idea aims to bridge communication gaps for users with hearing impairments, offering a seamless and inclusive way to interact in everyday environments. Her design showcased thoughtful consideration for accessibility, user experience, and technological feasibility.
Leah’s winning entry was a Personal Air Purifier Necklace: a wearable device that creates a protective bubble of clean air around the wearer. Designed to combat pollution and allergens, Leah’s invention stood out for its practicality, portability, and potential health benefits. Her concept demonstrated a strong understanding of environmental challenges and how technology can offer personal solutions.
Congratulating the students on their success, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said: “Well done to Sophie and Leah for their impressive entries, and to all those who took part in the competition, showcasing the breadth of creativity among the young people of our Borough.
“It is so important to support our students and show that STEAM subjects can lead to fulfilling careers with the potential to really make a difference in society.”
The competition was part of Activate Your Curiosity, a dynamic STEAM initiative delivered by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council under the Making the Future programme. Formerly known as Science Summer School, the initiative is part of the National Science Programme led by 360 Degree Society, connecting young minds with pioneering businesses to solve real-world challenges and inspire future careers in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
The initiative offers a vibrant calendar of activities for primary and post-primary students, including:
- Interactive School Workshops: Hands-on STEAM sessions delivered directly in classrooms
- Behind-the-Scenes Industry Visits: Exclusive access to local companies showcasing innovation in action
- STEAM Events: Engaging workshops and TED-style talks tailored for Year 10 students
If you would like to get involved, please contact christine.barnhill@midandeastantrim.gov.uk for more information.