Being part of the Global Entrepreneurship Challenge for two cycles helped me understand the impact my innovation can have on often-overlooked communities. Our GEC innovation addressed the United Nations’ goal of reaching universal health coverage by creating a sustainable personal first-aid kit for Jacksonville’s homeless population. By first holding discussions about our vision with local homeless shelters, we understood how to develop a reliable and inclusive product for this group. Acknowledging and empathizing with their concerns, we created a kit, Heartbeat in a Box, filled with an LED light and alarm system, biodegradable gauze and tape, natural soap sheets, bug spray, and sunscreen, effectively addressing a major issue in our homeless population. 

The next year, my group and I created a children's book called “Once Upon a Goal” that explains the 17 Sustainable Development Goals through illustrations and captions of how they can be applied in their daily life. Made out of recycled materials, this helpful resource entertains and educates younger groups.