Bright Sparks finalists - the rise of the digital native

Bright Sparks 2014 finalists - the rise of the digital native

A noticeable increase in the use of software was a hallmark of the entries for Bright Sparks 2014.

More than 100 entries were received by New Zealand's premier competition for brilliant young minds.

Now in its 14th year, the annual competition, created by The Skills Organisation, encourages young people to experience software, technology and electronics directly through a project-based approach.

Among the highlights were:
A homework app (500,000+ downloads worldwide) that generates revenue for its creator.
Flight Controller and software to control a drone.
A working model of an America's Cup yacht, including electronic foil control, (inspired by Team NZ's desire to win).
A fast, secure computer operating system enabling laptops and PCs, both old and new, to be revitalised.
Bright Sparks manager Ross Petersen said software entries had increased again this year, a reflection of the changing technological landscape.

"The rise of the digital native is becoming more apparent as each year goes by," Petersen said.

"Many of these students live and breathe software and technology. There are some incredibly sophisticated young minds out there.

'When you've got entries already generating income and/or commercial demand, it bodes well for New Zealand's future."

A full list of the finalists can be viewed here

The winners will be announced at the Bright Sparks awards ceremony:

October 30, 5pm
Waipuna Conference Centre
58 Waipuna Rd, Mt Wellington
Auckland

Prominent New Zealanders Sir Ray Avery (Keynote address) and Michelle Dickinson (MC) will be in attendance.

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