Reading through this year’s projects has been nothing short of inspiring. Students tackled five powerful themes: mental health, equality, climate change, housing crisis, and healthcare.
Schools and students came from many different backgrounds, and each brought a unique perspective to these challenges. What connected them all was The B!G Idea programme. Through curiosity, confidence, and creative thinking, every student found a way to have their voice heard.
Importantly, success looked different for everyone. For some, it meant winning an award. For others, it meant speaking up in class, discovering new problem-solving tools, or learning how to research effectively. Even practices like meditation became valuable tools for some students. Every part of the journey mattered.
In the mental health category, students focused on making schools more welcoming and supportive.
Many designed calm spaces with bean bags, bookshelves, games, and areas to relax or talk with friends and counsellors. Others blended technology with wellbeing by proposing digital noticeboards that share positive messages and support.
Several teams also developed app ideas. These included safe spaces for young people to journal, share motivational quotes, access helplines, and connect with peers experiencing anxiety or mental health challenges.
The equality category produced thoughtful and practical solutions.
One idea introduced a subscription card to help families facing financial hardship with school costs and after-school care. Another proposed an app where people of different races, identities, or sexual orientations could connect, share experiences, and build friendships.
Students also suggested creating safe online spaces for LGBTQ+ teenagers to communicate freely and support one another, helping to counter harmful or negative online behaviour.
Students brought forward many creative responses to climate change.
One standout idea involved portable wind turbines to provide water and electricity in Eritrea, Africa. Another team designed an app with a barcode scanner that suggests ways to recycle or upcycle clothing and household items. Users could earn points and track the positive impact of their actions on the environment.
There were far too many brilliant ideas to mention them all.
To see the category winners and the overall 2022 winner, join us at the Showcase on Friday, 20 May, from 11am–1pm. After the event, visit The B!G Idea Exhibition on our website to explore every project created this year.
With the support of our mentors, The B!G Idea gives young people the space to think independently and develop meaningful solutions to real-world challenges.
No prizes required — that impact alone is success.
