Innovative Student Solutions Shine In Massey University's 2025 Grand Ideas Competition

From water-friendly prosthetics to bra alternatives and smarter sanitary solutions, this year’s Grand Ideas competition at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University showcased the incredible creativity and problem-solving talents of students determined to make a difference.

A total of 37 entries were received in this year’s challenge, with ideas across health, design and sustainability. After a rigorous selection process, six finalists were chosen to pitch their concepts to a panel of judges. Three standout ideas were ultimately awarded a share of the $10,000 prize pool supported by Massey Enterprise.

First place – Ruby Keegan

Industrial design student Ruby Keegan took out the top prize with Prosthetics In The Water, a modular prosthetic leg designed for swimming and walking. The concept features water-safe foot components and protective covers, enabling amputees to move seamlessly in and out of the water with comfort and ease.

Ruby says the experience has already broadened her outlook and strengthened her resolve to push the project further.

“Sharing an idea for the first time is always nerve-racking, but the support and validation I received in this competition have given me fresh perspective and even greater ambition for the project’s future. My concept is designed for people like my mum, a below-knee amputee. The work is deeply personal and constantly reminds me of its purpose and potential. I’ll be taking the project into my master’s studies next semester, using Massey’s new programme structure to explore the scope in greater depth. Human-centred design is at the heart of this research—after all, you can’t get more human than a replacement limb.”

Commercialisation and Intellectual Property Director and competition judge Dr Dan Carlisle says Ruby impressed the judges with her practical, inclusive approach to improving mobility for amputees.

“Ruby had a deep understanding of the challenges faced by lower-limb amputees and how her ideas could improve accessibility and independence for her target market. Her passion and drive to make a difference were clear from her pitch and were a key factor in awarding first place.”

Second place – Kylie Boxall

Master of design student Kylie Boxall was awarded second place for Affirming Essentials, a minimising bra alternative designed for wearers with D+ cup sizes. Her innovative garment offers support without traditional hardware or strap tension, using internal silicone panels to reshape and hold breast tissue in place. The pull-on design makes it easy to wear and remove.

“Placing in this year’s competition is more than a win for Affirming Essentials, it’s a victory for female-founded, female-facing innovation. Of course, change starts in academia and I’m committed to pushing it further,” Kylie says.

Campus Co-Lab Student Development Coordinator and competition judge Kristina Sokolova says Kylie’s innovation stood out for its practical, user-focused response to a common but often dismissed challenge.

“Kylie is tackling an everyday challenge faced by many women, one that is too often overlooked or dismissed as an inconvenience. Her product balances functionality and comfort through smart design and has strong potential for commercial growth in a clearly defined market.”

Third place – Sophie West and Zené Krige

Third place went to industrial design graduates Sophie West and Zené Krige for Poppie, a sleek, wall-mounted sanitary bin and toilet roll holder for public restrooms. Designed to eliminate the need to twist, reach or touch the bin, Poppie combines thoughtful hygiene solutions with modern, unobtrusive design.

Sophie and Zené say the idea stemmed from personal frustration and a desire to improve everyday experiences in public spaces.

“Our frustration with the lack of adequate consideration for sanitary bins inspired our pitch for Grand Ideas. This experience allowed us to better define our problem area and the user experience. The dream would be to see Poppie in public bathrooms as an integrated solution for all.”

WellingtonNZ Workforce Development Specialist and competition judge Anita Ravji says Sophie and Zene impressed the panel with their elegant and user-focused response to a common public hygiene challenge.

“Sophie and Zene have thoughtfully addressed the common challenge of cluttered public washrooms with their innovative, wall-mounted disposal bin. This simple yet impactful solution has the potential to make a significant difference for menstruating individuals. Congratulations to them both on this meaningful contribution.”

The Grand Ideas competition is a flagship initiative designed to support students in developing bold, practical and potentially commercial solutions to real-world challenges. Finalists benefit from cash prizes but also receive mentoring, development support and exposure to innovation pathways through Massey Enterprise.

© Scoop Media