The Green Youth Indaba Young Researchers Pitching competition is known for its competitiveness among students from South African universities.
University of the Western (UWC) MSc student Robyn Lesch kept the UWC flag flying high as she made her mark at the 9th annual competition’s young researcher section, where she was awarded second place.
According to its website, the competition is a flagship initiative of the Green Youth Network. It aims to identify, nurture, and showcase the most innovative green technology solutions developed by young entrepreneurs across South Africa.
Held annually, the competition serves as a platform to amplify the impact of youth-led innovations, contributing to the growth of the green economy and sustainable development. It spotlights innovation, fosters entrepreneurship, and drives innovation.
Lesch’s research – also her pitch during the competition – focuses on using agricultural waste products as the precursor to synthesise graphene-like materials. This contributes to global sustainability goals and improves the efficiency of current waste management systems by repurposing waste instead of disposing of it.
She explained: “Graphene is used in fuel technologies for energy storage, such as in lithium-ion batteries. This aligns with sustainable development goals by providing clean and affordable energy, supporting climate action, and promoting a circular economy where waste is transformed into valuable resources.”
“The next steps include further research – perhaps in the form of a PhD dissertation – which would involve optimisation, upscaling and potentially intellectual property protection with the help of the Technology Transfer Office at UWC.”
Lesch feels fortunate to have been surrounded by supportive individuals who believe in her and my research’s potential.
“Participating in the Young Researcher’s Pitching competition and earning second place among young researchers nationwide has been an awe-inspiring experience. This venture underscores the importance of sustainable innovation to drive positive change that ensures a brighter future for all. I look forward to being part of the youth that helps make this happen.”
The initial rounds of the competition were held virtually during the week of 7 June. The top five participants presented at the final round in Durban on 13 and 14 June 2024, where Lesch took the first runner-up spot.
She conducts her research under the mentorship of Mr Evan D. Visser and the supervision of Dr Ntalane S. Seroka and Professor Lindiwe Khotseng at the Department of Chemistry.
“The amazing support system I have in mentors and other individuals who fiercely believe in me gives me the confidence boost I need. I am grateful for the opportunity and honoured to have met some incredible people along the way.”
But this wasn’t Lesch’s first rodeo. In December last year, her lecturer, Robert Lindsay, head of the Nanoscience programme, encouraged her to enter the department’s Nanoscience Pitching Competition.
Her lecturers describe her as a highly motivated Master of Science candidate with a robust academic foundation in biotechnology, bioinformatics, and nanoscience.
Through her research, she wants to advance her expertise and contribute to the ‘green’ chemistry-focused nanoscience domain.
With her skill set, which includes exceptional problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and effective communication skills, she brings a multidisciplinary perspective to address challenges in the nanoscience realm. Her emphasis is on green chemistry, and Lesch has a passion for leveraging multidisciplinary science to benefit and reach individuals, communities, and broader society.
Motivated by the desire to expand her knowledge and make a substantive contribution to the field of natural sciences, she is dedicated to continuous learning and professional development. She is committed to enhancing her expertise and making a meaningful impact on the world.
