STUDENTS from Coláiste Nano Nagle in Limerick have clinched awards at the Technovation Regional Pitch Event at AMD in Dublin, unveiling two super projects aimed at helping immigrants adjust to life in Ireland.
The projects, ‘Éire Explorer’ and ‘Imicircle’, were created during Teen-Turn after school sessions, led in Coláiste Nano Nagle by teacher Samantha Prior.
Students Danijela Muždeka and Sara Lemos created Éire Explorer, a social enterprise dedicated to enhancing the lives of immigrants.
“Éire Explorer is more than just an app; it is a lifeline for immigrants seeking to find their footing in a new country,” explained Sara, one of the project’s co-creators.
“Our aim is to provide a platform that not only offers practical information about documentation, schools, and jobs but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.”
Students’ participation in weekly ‘technovation’ sessions, supported by Teen-Turn, was instrumental in shaping their projects.
The experience has also sparked a passion for technology among the pupils as part of the after school programme involved learning how to code a mobile app.
“I have always dreamed of a career in the technology field, and now, with Teen-Turn’s support, that dream feels within reach,” said Sara.
Another Limerick winner on the day was 14-year-old Alice Babilon Borgeshas whose Imicircle app is designed to alleviate the loneliness faced by immigrants. Alice’s project was inspired by her own experiences and won her multiple awards at the Technovation event.
“I had the idea for my project as soon as I saw that the loneliness of immigrants is a problem that is growing more and more every day. As an immigrant, I wanted to help people like me,” Alice said.
Having moved to Ireland less than two years ago, without knowing any English, Alice’s own journey highlighted the challenges many immigrants face.
“Imicircle is a project to help immigrants find people from their country close to where they are, regardless of the country they immigrated to”, Alice said.
“The goal is to help them make friends, reduce loneliness, and avoid post-immigration depression.”
Alice’s achievements extend beyond the development of Imicircle.
“I didn’t speak English at all when I arrived, so I learned it within a year. I am very proud of my effort to learn a completely new language while also working and addressing a significant societal issue,” she explained.
