yia! 2025 — it’s still yia! Just supercharged

Innovation isn’t something we talk about — it’s something we do.

That’s why Young Innovator Awards (yia!) is evolving in 2025 to better meet the needs of students, teachers, and industry.

What’s New?

This year, yia! becomes a one-day, hands-on innovation workshop — open to all students and teachers, no pre-work required.

• When: Thursday 21 August 2025

• What: Design thinking, future-focused skills, creative challenges

• Who: Year 7–13 students and educators across the Western Bay of Plenty

No submissions. No judging panels. Just energy, ideas, and action.

Why the Change?

We’re removing the barriers. With increasing time pressures on schools, this new format:

• Makes participation easy and accessible

• Builds real-world skills through design thinking

• Strengthens pathways between education and careers

• Deepens teacher and industry connections

Design Thinking isn’t a trend — it’s a future-proof skillset. And yia! is here to grow it.

What’s Next?

Student and teacher registrations open soon. In the meantime, share the news, mark your calendar, and get ready to innovate.

Want in? Contact our team to learn more or express your interest.