After a decade-long absence, the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) made a triumphant return to EO Melbourne on Wednesday, 13 November 2024. The event brought together some of the brightest young entrepreneurial minds from tertiary institutions, all competing for the prestigious title and the chance to represent Australia at the APAC finals in Japan next year. The evening, hosted by EO Melbourne Chapter Strategic Alliance Partner BlueRock, offered a unique blend of intense competition and camaraderie within the vibrant, creatively designed spaces of their venue.
Participants, aged 18 to 30, met stringent criteria: their businesses had to be active for at least six months, generate revenue or funding exceeding US$1,000, and they needed to balance these achievements while pursuing tertiary education. With a full expenses-paid trip to Japan at stake, the competition attracted some truly remarkable contenders.
Showcasing Innovation and Impact
Four finalists presented their business ideas to an esteemed panel of five judges, facing a challenging deliberation process. Among the standout entrepreneurs was Savannah Fung, the founder of Typpio.com, a company dedicated to fighting banking fraud. By harnessing AI technology and analysing unique typing patterns, Typpio offers a cutting-edge alternative to traditional password systems.
Equally impressive was 20-year-old Kai Seymon, the founder of Kaikofidgets.com, a thriving $2M business that began as a personal endeavour at just 11 years old. Kai’s handcrafted fidgets, designed to aid neurodivergent individuals in improving focus and reducing self-harm, have evolved into a globally impactful enterprise employing individuals with disabilities. Kai’s deep understanding of his customer base, coupled with his operational expertise, set him apart as a formidable competitor.
Celebrating a Winner and a Bright Future
Ultimately, the judges crowned Kai Seymon as the winner of the 2024 GSEA Melbourne competition. With his mother and carer by his side, Kai accepted the honour, ready to take on the next stage of the competition at the APAC finals in Japan on 21st February 2025. Savannah and the other participants were commended for their outstanding efforts and rewarded with access to four exclusive learning days, reinforcing the GSEA’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent.
EO Melbourne extends its heartfelt gratitude to Blue Rock for their unwavering support, to the judges for their time and dedication, and to every participant for their courage and ingenuity. As we cheer Kai on in his quest to bring home the title, this year’s GSEA has truly reminded us of the incredible potential within our next generation of leaders.