BMW Group Australia has announced the winners of the 2023 edition of its YourMelbourne student competition.
Open to all students from RMIT University and the University of Melbourne, the competition challenged students to share their vision for Melbourne in 2030 with sustainable solutions addressing climate change, population growth, and the need for urban mobility.
Aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, BMW Group Australia says the competition fosters a holistic approach to urban challenges.
The Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Sally Capp; Wolfgang Buechel, CEO, BMW Group Australia, and representatives from both the University of Melbourne and RMIT were the judging panel which evaluated submissions based on five pillars: private mobility, public mobility, urban planning, connectivity, and sustainability.
The individual category winner, Ashlesha Balyan, presented her idea for a Collective Hub – a space integrating safer public transport access, ‘motor-free’ walkways, increased greenery, multi-level parking and affordable housing. Her presentation creatively visualised her concept by identifying underutilised areas in Melbourne that could potentially be transformed into her concept.
The group category, winners Alisna Yanni, Bryan Jonathan, and Iga Wardhana focused their entry on ‘Turning Motion into Power.’ Their innovative idea showcased technologies such as kinetic tiles in high-traffic areas, whirlpool turbines in the Yarra River, Air Filter wind turbines in parks, and an engaging app to demonstrate how movement can contribute to a sustainable future.
BMW Group Australia says the competition encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration, with participating students integrating concepts across different academic disciplines such as design, technology, user experience, engineering, and business.
It says that students could enter as individuals or as a group, competition for a combined total of more than $10,000 in cash prizes.
While the allure of cash prizes is enticing, the YourMelbourne competition offers much more according to BMW Group Australia. It says it provides participants with a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth, emphasising a journey towards positive change in their community.
A highlight of the competition is the chance to secure an immersive weeklong internship with BMW Group Australia says the brand. This internship will provide students with a hands-on experience of working for a multi-national brand that embraces sustainability.
The YourMelbourne competition is an opportunity for students who are passionate about making a lasting impact. It not only encourages creative thinking and problem-solving but also provides a platform for those who aspire to drive positive change in their communities.
| Individual category prizes | Team category prizes(prizes awarded to team as a whole) | |
| 1st | $5,0005-day internship at BMW Group Australia | $7,5005-day internship at BMW Group Australia |
| 2nd | $1,000 Apple Store Gift Card | $1,500 Apple Store Gift Card |
| 3rd | $500 Amazon Gift Card | $750 Amazon Gift Card |
