MIGRANT workers often face precarious conditions far from home.
However, an innovative project by a bright international student is making waves for its potential to transform the lives of millions around the globe.
The second runner-up project in the Next Generation Innovations competition, Crescia San Angel from the Philippines captivated the judges and audience with her visionary project, "Superheroes Need Saving Too: Innovative Dual-Chip Tracker and a Cross-Border Protection System for Overseas Workers".
Crescia's project, aptly named H.O.M.E. (Hope for Migrant Workers in Emergencies), is a technological innovation and a lifeline for those who often find themselves in vulnerable situations far from home.
The H.O.M.E. project
At its core, H.O.M.E. is a comprehensive protection system designed to safeguard the rights and lives of overseas workers.
It combines the power of a dual-chip tracker, which integrates GPS (global positioning system) tracking and cellular communication, with a centralised network that fosters diplomatic cooperation between host and origin countries.
The project creates a comprehensive support network that links host and origin countries, encouraging international cooperation and diplomatic efforts.
This network aims to address humanitarian issues faced by overseas workers by establishing protocols for effective communication, data-sharing and coordinated emergency responses.
"H.O.M.E. is dedicated to safeguarding the human rights of overseas workers by establishing a reliable system that provides immediate aid during emergencies, and ensures fair access to justice and resolution.
"This innovative platform is designed to empower workers, offering them the tools and support to protect their rights and maintain their safety, autonomy and wellbeing," she said during a special interview with the 'New Straits Times'.
However, technology is just one aspect of the project.
How it started
Crescia's inspiration for this project stems from her deep commitment to human rights and concern over the ongoing violations that threaten the dignity and value of individuals in today's world.
Driven by a desire to make meaningful change, she aims to leverage her education and the platform she has been given to contribute to global transformation, particularly for those whose futures are uncertain.
Crescia envisions her project, H.O.M.E., as a beacon of hope and protection for overseas workers, ensuring that even when they are far from home, they remain connected to a strong support network that safeguards their rights and wellbeing.
"This project calls for international cooperation among governments, migrant worker welfare institutions, organisations and countries involved.
"It aims to promote diplomatic efforts and agreements that establish protocols for communication, data sharing and coordinated responses to emergencies faced by workers," she added.
Crescia's journey to this achievement was supported by her family, particularly her mother, a fellow overseas Filipino worker and advocate for migrant workers' rights.
"My mum was the one who pitched the idea to me and her passion for helping others inspired me to turn it into a reality," Crescia said, expressing gratitude for her family's encouragement throughout the competition.
"I also want to thank my aunt and uncle from Singapore, who travelled to Kuala Lumpur to support me every step of the way."
As the second runner-up in the competition, Crescia has been awarded a scholarship valued at £7,000.
She will begin her International Foundation Year at Study Group's Durham University International Study Centre in November, before continuing her studies in International Relations at Durham University in 2025.
The Next Generation Innovations competition, hosted by Study Group, provides talented students from across Southeast Asia with the opportunity to showcase their ideas and secure scholarships for higher education in the UK.
The competition challenges participants to develop a 5,000-word project proposal outlining how they intend to use their higher education to create a positive impact on the world. Finalists then present their projects in a 15-minute pitch, followed by a question-and-answer session.
Three outstanding young individuals have been awarded scholarships totalling over RM127,300 after triumphing in the Next Generation Innovations international student competition.
Safeguard yourself from tech threats by using this Dell promo code