Innovation in Action: IUGB’s “Impact Green Crew” at the Design Sprint
Written by: Setayesh Fakhrtavoli
Written by: Setayesh Fakhrtavoli
The Design Sprint is like an innovation marathon: teams have just a few days to identify a real problem, design a solution, and pitch it to experts. It’s fast, intense, and pushes students to think differently while collaborating under pressure.
This year, IUGB was proudly represented by the Impact Green Crew: Axel Toualy Tapé, Soro Inah, Kesse Diby, Koni Afoua Rosy, Koné Fatim, Djedje Loane, Diakite Sira Matene, and Konan Moaye. Each member brought unique skills from creativity and communication to analytical thinking, technical expertise, and perseverance.
The team first prepared Rebox, a project turning plastic waste into functional recycling bins. But when the challenge unexpectedly shifted to financial access, they adapted quickly and created AIFA (Assistant Intelligent de Facilitation d’Accès), a digital assistant to make banking more inclusive. This pivot under pressure highlighted both their creativity and resilience.
With mentorship from Mr. Tchétché, the students refined their ideas, tackled tough questions, and turned raw ideas into practical, impactful solutions.
They made it to the finals, although they didn’t pass the second round. Even so, the team’s courage to take on a national challenge, adapt on the spot, and give their best effort makes IUGB proud and shows the spirit of initiative and teamwork that defines our students.
The Impact Green Crew’s story proves that IUGB students can rise to any challenge, turning bold ideas into solutions that inspire change, both on campus and in the wider community.