NextGen Space Challenge Pitching Event
Empower the next generation of space leaders by joining us to hear these space technology ideas that can tackle global challenges and drive impactful change.
Overview
Join us for the out-of-this-world finale of the NextGen Space Challenge!
In partnership with the UK Space Agency, South African National Space Agency, Kenya Space Agency, Rwanda Space Agency, and the Africa Space Leadership Institute, this event showcases the brightest young space innovators from South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, and the UK. Witness these emerging talents pitch groundbreaking ideas that leverage space technology to drive meaningful socio-economic impact in their countries.
Event Highlights
This is not just a celebration—it’s a launchpad for innovation. Be part of a pivotal moment as young visionaries showcase how their space technology ideas can tackle global challenges and drive impactful change. Join this webinar to watch the finalists of this pitching competition present:
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Inspiring pitches: Finalists will present innovative solutions developed through an innovative incubation programme.
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Gain valuable feedback from an esteemed panel: A judging panel of global industry and academic leaders will evaluate their work.
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Compete for exciting rewards: The top three innovators will win up to £1,000 and gain exposure to international space industry and academic networks.
Empowering the Next Generation of Space Leaders
This programme seeks to identify and empower the next wave of space scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders within the countries of our network. With an identified gap in talent entering the sector, this programme aims to inspire students and young professionals, particularly in Africa, to step into this high-growth industry.
Building on the success of the 2023 South African pilot, this year’s programme provided finalists with business skills to complement their technological innovations.
Participants collaborated with peers, worked with Innovate UK teams and partners, and received mentorship from industry leaders, refining their ideas into market-ready concepts.The programme culminates with this high-profile pitch event, where global industry players, investors, and academics witness the transformative potential of these students’ work.
Be Inspired. Be Involved. Witness the Future of Space
We will work closely with these finalists to refine their ideas, enhance their business acumen, and amplify the real-world potential of their innovations. This event is not just a celebration—it is a launchpad for the next generation of leaders in the space industry. Join us to witness how these young visionaries are shaping the future of space technology for global impact.
Mark your calendar and join us for a transformative event that highlights innovation, collaboration, and the boundless potential of space technology.
UK-Africa Space Technology for Sustainability Global Innovation Network
This initiative connects key industry players across the UK, South Africa, Kenya, and Rwanda to foster collaboration, market access, and growth in space technology.
South Africa’s engineering heritage, Kenya’s rapid space-sector growth, Rwanda’s unique collaborative opportunities, and the UK’s global leadership in space make this partnership pivotal in addressing global challenges.
Background
Innovate UK & Global Alliance Africa Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is the UK’s innovation agency, driving life-changing innovations through investment and collaboration.
Global Alliance Africa is a six-year project funded by UK International Development through Innovate UK (GCRF) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). It fosters UK-African partnerships by creating inclusive market access, funding, and knowledge transfer opportunities.
Event Judges and Mentors
Join us to meet the mentors and judges who are helping to shape the next generation of innovative space leaders in the UK and Africa:
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Jon Waboso-Barrow, Regional Lead – Global Alliance Africa, Innovate UK Business Connect
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Ntoshane Mohlamonyane, Strategic Advisor to the CEO, South African National Space Agency
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Albert Mugisha, Strategy Advisor to the CEO, Rwanda Space Agency
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Mariam Mufti, Africa Communications Lead, UK Space Agency
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Charles Mwangi, Director – Space Sector & Technology Development, Kenya Space Agency
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Yvette Hopkins, Board Chair, Craft Prospect
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Nicki McGoh, Senior Director of Space & Climate, Caribou Digital
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Andy Robb. Partner & EMEA Space Practice Leader, Deloitte
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John Kamara. CEO and Co-Founder, Adanian Labs
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Tonye Khama, Co-Founder, EnrichGeo Technologies Solutions, UK
Our Experts
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