Starbucks Champions Young Innovators: Empowering Change Makers to Compete Globally.

The  V&A Waterfront was buzzing with excitement as Starbucks South Africa hosted Booster Kids, a local robotics club, for a day filled with innovation, creativity, and delicious Frappuccino’s! Our store was transformed into a playground of possibilities, where young minds showcased their talents and shared their dreams.

The Booster Kids team, Checkmate, is gearing up to represent the Western Cape at the First Lego League (FLL) Asia Pacific Open Invitational in Sydney, Australia from July 4-7, 2024. And we couldn’t be prouder to support these future world-changers!

Guests were treated to an impressive demonstration of the Checkmate team’s robot run. They also presented their heartwarming innovation project, which reimagines chess to be accessible for blind individuals – a project inspired by a team member’s mother who lost her sight. A wonderful testament to their creativity and compassion!

“Robotics has become my new passion. I hope to one day create something with VAR in soccer,” shared Ryan Fortuin, a passionate 12-year-old team member.

Kids and parents got hands-on with a basic Lego build and explored the coding programme that powers these amazing robots. It was a day of learning, building, and human connection for all kinds of people from different backgrounds with varying interests. Jair February, an 11-year-old with a keen interest in robotics, said, “I joined Booster Kids because I’m not very good at sports. I really like Lego, and robotics gave me a sense of purpose.”

The highlight for many was the “Build Your Own Frappuccino” station. Kids unleashed their inner barista, creating custom drinks with sugar-free syrups and no coffee, making delightful concoctions they could proudly call their own. Passersby were also invited to enjoy the robotics demonstration, spreading the excitement throughout the mall. To reward those who sponsored these inventive kids, the first 50 donors received exclusive Starbucks hampers, packed with delicious goodies.

“Robotics turned out to be something I enjoyed, so I decided to join and now I’m doing this!” said Abigail Schubert, a bright 12-year-old with dreams of a future in engineering.

“At Starbucks, we believe in supporting young innovators who have the potential to change the world. The creativity and dedication of the Booster Kids team are truly inspiring, and we’re proud to be part of their journey,” enthused Leah McCrae, Managing Director of Starbucks South Africa. “This event also ties in perfectly with Youth Month as we celebrate the potential and achievements of our incredible youth,” she added.

We wish the Booster Kids team the best of luck at the FLL Asia Pacific Open Invitational in Sydney. Go Team Checkmate!

Partner with Booster Kids and help get Team Checkmate to Australia by contributing to their cause: https://www.quicket.co.za/event/263438/collect