Two Grade 8 Innovators from Pretoria Have Earned Their Place at the Genius Olympiad 2026 in New York — Now They Need a Nation Behind Them
There is a moment in every young life where raw potential meets real opportunity — and that moment has arrived for Gustav Heesen and Johan Vorster. These two Grade 8 learners from Pretoria have achieved something remarkable: they have earned the right to represent South Africa at the Genius Olympiad, one of the world’s most respected international science fairs, taking place in Rochester, New York, USA, in June 2026.
👉 Support the campaign here:BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign
They have the talent. They have the project. They have the invitation. What they need now is a nation willing to support South African youth innovation.
From Pretoria Classrooms to a Global Stage
This is not a handout. This is an investment in South African excellence.
Gustav and Johan’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. They became the first Grade 7 learners in history to be named Overall Winners of the Gauteng North Imbewu Science Fair. They followed that by placing as Second Runner-Up at the National Imbewu SAYESS competition, outperforming older competitors from across the country.
Now, the iMBEWU Science Foundation, a registered non-profit organisation in South Africa, has officially selected them to represent the country at the Genius Olympiad in New York.
However, the reality is clear: the Foundation does not have funding to support learners financially. Every cent must be raised through sponsorships, donations, and crowdfunding.
That is where we come in.
👉 Support the campaign here:BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign
The Project: AI Innovation for South African Classrooms
What sets Gustav and Johan apart is not just their academic brilliance — it is their ability to solve real challenges in South African education.
Their project is an AI-powered education system designed to reduce the administrative burden on teachers in overcrowded classrooms. Built using N8N (flow-based automation technology), the system:
- Delivers personalised student feedback
- Identifies learning gaps and performance trends
- Recommends targeted learning activities
- Generates class performance reports for teachers
Most importantly, the system can automatically mark handwritten student tests based on a memo — dramatically reducing marking time while improving consistency and accuracy.
The solution is built using affordable, accessible technology, making it ideal for rural schools and under-resourced education systems in South Africa.
The learners are also developing a mobile app and web application to make the system easier to use. However, this platform is still in development and not yet complete.
This is not theory. This is real-world AI innovation in education, built by two 13-year-old South African learners.
👉 Support the campaign here:BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign
📺 See their project in action: Watch the video here
The Funding Goal: What It Takes to Get to New York
The total estimated cost for international travel and participation is approximately R150,000 (about R50,000 per person). This includes:
- Competition registration and entry fees
- Accommodation and meals
- International flights and transport
- Travel insurance and logistics
For one family, this is a major financial challenge. But through crowdfunding, corporate sponsorships, and public support, it becomes achievable.
This is not charity. This is about investing in future South African scientists and innovators.
Why Supporting Youth Innovation Matters in South Africa
Every time a young South African competes globally, they help reshape the country’s narrative. They inspire future generations, highlight local innovation, and prove that world-class talent exists in South African schools.
Gustav and Johan represent more than themselves — they represent the future of science, technology, and education in South Africa.
Your support is an investment in:
- STEM education in South Africa
- Youth development and innovation
- Global representation for South African learners
How to Support the Campaign
The families have launched a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign and welcome any contributions.
Ways to support:
- Donate via the BackaBuddy fundraiser link
- Share the campaign across social media platforms
- Watch and promote their YouTube project video
- Connect for corporate sponsorship opportunities
Organisation:
iMBEWU Science Foundation
83 Mitchell Street, George
info@imbewu.foundation
www.imbewu.foundation
South Africa has no shortage of talent. What we need is the will to support and invest in it. Gustav Heesen and Johan Vorster have earned their place. Let’s make sure they get there.
This article is based on information provided by the iMBEWU Science Foundation and the learners’ families. For verification, supporting documentation, or media enquiries, please contact the representatives listed above.
