16 July 2025

From a fuel-saving drag-reduction device for road vehicles to setting up a recycling centre to repurpose plastic waste, U21 is delighted to play a role in furthering the impact of student social entrepreneurs via the U21 RISE Showcase and Awards. 

This year’s showcase  featured 24 finalist projects led by 66 international student participants. RISE (Real Impact on Society and Environment) projects explore many important contemporary challenges, including sustainability, waste reduction, community care, health, education and employability. The defining thread throughout all the work this year was a collective resolve, driven by energy, courage, and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the world. 

An international panel of experts in education and social entrepreneurship faced the difficult task of selecting winners from a truly inspiring array of video pitches. We are delighted to share the four winning entries: 

Most Impact Award

Beyond the Pivot, The University of Hong Kong

We, the Beyond the Pivot (BTP) team, are thrilled to win this year’s U21 RISE ‘Most Impact’ Award! This fuels our mission to build a better world through education and volunteerism. We extend our heartfelt thanks to U21, our university, and everyone who supported BTP’s journey. Together, we’re bridging gaps, building connections, and making impactful change!”

– The Beyond the Pivot (BTP) team

Most Innovative Award

Appendable Drag Reduction Methods & Devices for Road Vehicles, University College Dublin

I’m honoured to receive the U21 RISE Award for Most Innovative Project. This recognition supports my efforts to develop a practical, fuel-saving drag-reduction device for road vehicles. With this funding, I’ll refine and continue my prototyping, road-testing and industry collaboration activities. Thanks to Universitas 21 and UCD for this opportunity.”

-Michael Connolly, Appendable Drag Reduction Methods & Devices for Road Vehicles

Most Potential Award

Supetai Project, KU Leuven

Thank you so much to U21 for this award! We are so grateful for your faith in us and for seeing our potential! This grant will not only benefit our center but also the Ewaso Ngiro community. Thank you, Dank u, and Asante sana!”

-Supetai Project Team

Most Collaborative Award

The Movement Street, University of Maryland

We’re honored to receive the Most Collaborative award from the U21 RISE Showcase for our work with The Movement Street! This recognition fuels our mission to reimagine volunteerism for the next generation. Grateful for our community and all who’ve helped us build creative, accessible, and joyful service opportunities.”

-Lyric Amodia, The Movement Street

There is still time to Pledge Support

The 24 RISE finalist projects are open to Pledges of Support until the end of August. These are student-led, socially impactful initiatives from around the world – tackling issues from climate action and education access to mental health and community development.

Your pledge could take many forms: an offer of mentoring, expert advice or even hands-on support. Whether you can offer an hour over Zoom, or you are inspired to get involved with their work yourself, your support could make all the difference. If you are interested in pledging support, please complete the U21 RISE Pledge Form. 

You can explore all the finalist projects, including the winning entries, on the U21 RISE Showcase webpage.