Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow invites youth to tackle real issues

Samsung has launched the 2025 Solve for Tomorrow competition, inviting Australian high school students to address real-world issues using STEM and creative solutions.

The initiative comes as recent research commissioned by Samsung and conducted by Pure Profile reveals that 70% of Gen Z Australians are motivated to address societal challenges, while 68% believe science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are crucial to solving major global issues, such as climate change and access to education.

This year's program introduces two new overarching themes: 'Technology for Sustainability' and 'Social Change through Sports and Technology'. These complement the original categories of 'Diversity, Equity and Inclusion' and 'Education'. The aim is to encourage students to think broadly and develop ideas with the potential for significant impact.

Research findings

According to the findings, Gen Z Australians are action-oriented and eager to create meaningful change. The programme is designed to harness this momentum by providing a structured platform for young Australians to translate their ideas into tangible solutions. The research, conducted in June 2025, depicts a generation described by 57% as "hopeful but cautious", highlighting the emphasis on responsible use of technology. Additionally, 15% of respondents expressed concern that societal progress in addressing major challenges is not happening quickly enough.

Artificial intelligence is also increasingly important for young people, with 60% of respondents stating that they see AI as a positive force in society, and 43% already use it in their daily routines. In terms of potential impact, 38% nominated education as the sector most likely to be transformed by AI over the next five years, ahead of healthcare and entertainment.

Programme details

The competition is open to Australians aged 14–24. Participants are required to submit a description of their STEM-based solution, up to 400 words, aligned with one of the competition's global themes. All applicants under 18 must have parental or guardian consent. Entries can be submitted online. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to Design Thinking workshops, receiving mentoring to further develop their proposals before presenting a final video pitch to the judging panel.

The 2025 Solve for Tomorrow Main Competition features a major prize of AUD $10,000 in cash, alongside a Samsung Ultimate Productivity Pack, which includes a Galaxy Z Flip6 5G, a 32" Smart Monitor M70D UHD, and Galaxy Buds3. There is also a Social Amplify competition, in which participants submitting a TikTok video of their solution have a chance to win a Galaxy A56. TikTok entries must use the hashtags #SFT_AU_2025 and #SolveForTomorrow and are required to be publicly accessible for judging.

Social media engagement

The competition's format reflects the online habits of its target demographic. The research indicates that 59% of Gen Z use social media daily, with 72% identifying TikTok as their most frequently used platform. Over 52% of those surveyed believe TikTok's STEM tab can help them hone their STEM knowledge and skills.

The programme positions itself as a national stage for young Australians aspiring to make a difference, offering recognition and support in the form of mentorship, funding, and public visibility. By participating, entrants can present their STEM-driven solutions to a national audience and receive practical support to further their projects.

Role of the ambassador

Astrophysicist and science communicator Dr Kirsten Banks returns as Solve for Tomorrow ambassador. In her role, Dr Banks encourages participants to pursue bold ideas and develop practical solutions tailored to global issues.

"Young Australians are already leading the way - using technology, creativity and curiosity to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing our world," said Dr Kirsten Banks. "Solve for Tomorrow is about giving them the tools, support and a platform. I'm proud to be part of a program that empowers the next generation to explore how STEM and AI can drive meaningful, lasting change - not just for their communities, but for our collective future."

Ongoing commitment

Solve for Tomorrow has seen global participation since its launch in 2010, involving more than 2 million students worldwide. Samsung reaffirmed its continued support for young innovators, aiming to equip them with technological tools and platforms to amplify their voices and ideas across education, sustainability, and innovation.