Building a better future thanks to the creativity of children

When faced with challenges, we naturally turn to experts, scientists, engineers and researchers to find and create appropriate solutions. But what if we also asked and listened to children for their ideas on improving the world?

This is the idea behind Designathon Works, a Netherlands-based foundation that aims to empower children by organising “designathons”, where they can apply their creativity and talent in addressing global challenges.

Inspired by the capacity of children to imagine creative solutions for a better future, this unique initiative has been selected as an Expo Live grantee for its mission to make children changemakers in a rapidly changing and increasingly technological world. Each ‘designathon’ is a seven-step process bringing together groups of children, ages 8 to 12, to collaborate, build prototypes and present solutions to global challenges such as deforestation and poverty.

Thanks to its global network of regional partners, Designathon Works has reached more than 100,000 children in 45 countries, engaging tomorrow’s adults in real-life issues and encouraging them to take a pro-active approach to global problems. With its mission closely mirroring the Expo 2020 Dubai theme, ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, Designathon Works contributes to empowering children to design their own future and ensuring the voices of youth are heard.

The Expo 2020 Dubai Innovation Series is a weekly blog series highlighting some of the creative and world-changing innovations that are being showcased via Expo 2020 Dubai’s programmes and pavilions.