The Winnovation Awards 2021 finalists have been announced!

Picture: 2021 Winnovation Awards finalist Lily Taylor, Defence Science and Technology Group, nominated for the development of an inexpensive, portable, accessible, interactive and reusable STEM kit for students, targeted towards optics research for defence outreach activities.

An Australia-first bushfire awareness STEM program in schools, machine learning for early fault detection in Adelaide’s water networks and the world’s first interactive and digital-inclusive children’s story book for blind and deaf children are just three of the innovations announced as finalists in the 2021 Winnovation Awards.

The Winnovation Awards 2021 elevate South Australia’s innovative women by showcasing female change-makers and future role models driving innovation in their profession. This year’s finalists have been announced today (Monday 25 October) ahead of a virtual awards ceremony in early November.

The finalists were selected by a group of independent judges across 11 awards categories, including science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.

Nicole Swaine, President of Women In Innovation SA, said the awards provided an opportunity to celebrate leading female innovators across all industries, research institutes and government.

“There are so many incredible advancements being made across education and industry in South Australia at the moment, and we’re surging ahead in defence, space, biotech, agriculture and advanced manufacturing, among many sectors,” Ms Swaine said.

“The Winnovation Awards provide us with an opportunity to promote these unsung heroes, who don’t often seek publicity for their achievements.

“We commend all of the entrants who have contributed to making South Australia a more innovative state, as they continue to create a ripple effect through job opportunities, research capabilities and even improving our quality of life.”

The Winnovation winners will be an announced at an online event on November 4, featuring Sweat co-founder and trainer Kayla Itsines.

In a rare interview opportunity with ABC Breakfast presenter Ali Clarke, the pair will discuss Ms Itsines’ journey from start-up to international success, her challenges, how she juggles having a young family and her learnings along the way.

“It's amazing to see women in South Australia pushing the boundaries, innovating in the business space and paving the way for future generations,” Ms Itsines said.

“South Australia is proudly my hometown and where I co-founded my own business, Sweat, so it's an honour to play a small part in celebrating the achievements and success stories of local female entrepreneurs.”

Book here to secure your free ticket to the 2021 Winnovation Awards, held virtually from 6pm, Thursday 4 November 2021.