We co-founded the Young Innovator Awards programme 12 years ago, with the aim of fostering a culture of innovation amongst secondary students in our region. Like most children, the Young Innovator Awards has grown up in the blink of an eye. For the first time since its inception, we gave yia! a proper brand refresh to better reflect the changing world students live in today.
Innovation begins with i
The letter ‘i’ from the logo inspired a new brand story and graphic device based on the insight that “innovation begins with i.”
Everyone has something to offer
Our rebrand is all about giving agency to the students – reminding them that meaningful innovation comes from a place of personal experience and that everyone has something unique to offer the world.
Partnering with influencers
The Young Innovator Awards has attracted some world-class judges and guest speakers from home and abroad, which reinforces just how important initiatives like this are – not just for our region, but for all those who believe in the power of innovative thinking.
Ideas win prizes
The best entries, as judged by top innovators in NZ and abroad, win internships at leading innovative businesses in the Bay of Plenty plus cash prizes.
A unique trophy
The yia! trophy was crafted by Barron Surfboards – a Kiwi company at the peak of material innovation. Its wooden base is coated with their patented Woolflex material (a sustainable alternative to fibreglass) then sealed with an environmentally-friendly resin for the ultimate wow factor.
