Secondary
Selected for the Technovation Girls National Finals
Technovation Girls is an international app and business development competition that has engaged more than 34,000 participants from over 100 countries since its launch in 2010.
From GKA, Grade 10 student Aoi Yamanaka participated in the competition and had the opportunity to present her app at both the Japanese National Finals and the Global Competition in the United States.
In Japan, her team advanced to the National Final Round, where only 11 teams were selected from 78 teams (408 participants), and received the Salesforce Award. At the Global Competition in the United States, she also advanced to the Semifinals, and the finalists are currently being selected.
Below are Aoi Yamanaka’s reflections:
“StarConnect is an app designed to help children undergoing long-term medical treatment stay connected to their school, friends, and emotions. By connecting them with peers in similar situations and individuals who have recovered, the app aims to reduce loneliness and provide hope and a sense of belonging.
This was my third year participating in Technovation Girls. Drawing on the social problem-solving and research skills I have developed at GKA, I began by investigating the needs of people directly affected by this issue. Through this process, I discovered underlying challenges that are not always visible on the surface and developed solutions from multiple perspectives, ultimately turning my ideas into a tangible product.
It was an exciting experience that allowed me to engage directly with society in ways that cannot be learned solely in the classroom. The possibility that my ideas could make a real difference in someone’s life inspires me to keep taking on new challenges, and I look forward to continuing this journey in the future.”
Videos of her presentations are available below.
Global Competition (USA)
https://youtu.be/oTC-r6NmhX4?
Japan National Finals (WITH HARAJUKU)
https://www.youtube.com/live/
(Team 11’s presentation begins at 1:25:56.)
Our students embrace opportunities beyond the classroom and continue to challenge themselves through meaningful learning experiences. At GKA, we are committed to fostering an environment where students feel empowered to take on new challenges, learn from each experience, and grow with confidence. We will continue striving to be a place where curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to challenge oneself are nurtured every day.