Faith and Religion – Religious Freedom Violation and Intolerance Spark International Controversy amongst multiple Religious Groups within South Korea
- : SCJ Canberra
- : 04/11/2024
South Korean local government cancels international event with 30,000 participants from 78 countries, causing international damage.
On October 29th, an administrative decision by the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization, a South Korean government agency sparked international controversy, raising concerns about religious freedom and causing substantial financial loss.
The “Religious Leaders Forum and 110,000 Graduation Ceremony,” a joint initiative by two prominent religious organizations, was set to take place in Paju, South Korea. The event, hosted by the Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus, was expected to draw over 30,000 participants from 57 countries, including 1,000 religious leaders representing Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism.
However, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization, a public entity under the Gyeonggi Province, abruptly cancelled the venue rental without prior notice.
The Shincheonji Church of Jesus states: “This last-minute decision has resulted in significant financial damage to the event, as well as all organizers and parties involved.”
Organizers of this event stated that the cancellation commits an unconstitutional act of discrimination against a specific religion, violating religious freedom, human rights, and due process of law.
The hosting organizations, the Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus, reported that they had received official confirmation on October 23rd and 28th that there was no plan of cancellation. They also report that the unilateral cancellation was an unreasonable administrative action targeting a specific religious group – other events scheduled for the same day were not affected, and that the cancellation was an “administrative decision caused by opposition from a specific religious group,” which “violates the principle of separation of church and state guaranteed by the [South Korean] Constitution.”
The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization cited security concerns related to recent North Korean actions, and the planned activities of a North Korean defector group as reasons for the cancellation. However, it was pointed out that other events, such as civilian bike rides and foreign tourist visits to the DMZ, were still permitted within the same designated area.
The incident has reignited international debate about religious freedom and tolerance in South Korea. The U.S. State Department’s International Religious Freedom Report has previously highlighted concerns such as the prosecution of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and the government’s refusal to approve mosque construction.
The Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus have expressed frustrations and call upon the South Korean government to respect religious freedom, uphold human rights, and to rectify this decision. They also urge international organizations to monitor this situation and take appropriate action to protect religious freedom.
- Event_Organizers_have_staged_a_protest_in_front_of_the_Gyeonggi_Tourism
- : SCJ CBR
- : Publicity Director
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- : 0424663278
- : https://www.shincheonji.org/introduce/church/
Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ position on the abrupt cancellation of the Imjingak Peace Nuri Hall for their 110,000 Graduation
- : SCJ Canberra
- : 01/11/2024
Shincheonji Church of Jesus are in the face of legal pressure, following the sudden cancellation and banning of the use of their venue of choice for their annual graduation ceremony for their theology school, Zion Christian Mission Centre.
Shincheonji allege that Gyeonggi Tourism Organization have committed unconstitutional acts of the sudden blockage of their event, on the premise of religious oppression.
Shincheonji Church of Jesus had rented the Imjingak Peace Park in Paju, Gyeonggi Province from October 29 to 31 to hold a Religious Leaders Forum and their 110,000 Graduation Ceremony on the 30th. Tens of thousands of graduates and religious leaders from both Korea and abroad had already entered the country and completed all preparations to participate in the event. Shincheonji had already spent hundreds of billions of won to conduct the event at this scale. However, on the morning of the 29th, it was reported the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization unilaterally cancelled the rental without consultation or notice to the other parties involved.
Frustrations from Shincheonji come from reports that all administrative procedures for the procession of the Religious Leaders Forum and the Graduation Ceremony were of legal nature and in constant cooperation with the Gyeonggi Tourism Organisation – both parties received an approval notice as early as July 22, rental fee from Shincheonji being paid in full on October 2 and on October 16, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization gave final reviews of all the details of the event, undergoing extensive safety inspections. In particular, on the same day, there was news that Gyeonggi Province had designated the entire Paju City as a danger zone, but under the guise to block the distribution of leaflets to North Korea. Furthermore, on October 23 and 28, figures from the tourism organisation confirmed twice that “there are no plans to cancel the venue booking.”
The Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon had ordered the cancellation of the venue, due to the reason of “provoking North Korea.”
Shincheonji and many others allege that large-scale events that had taken place at Imjingak Peace Nuri had never brought forth any unwanted attention from the nation’s direct opposition. Speculations arose that it was due to the targeting of a specific religious group from the local government.
Knowing that this stemmed from such and that it also defies many aspects of the Korean constitution, it has caused much outcry from those both in and outside of Shincheonji.
Shincheonji are looking to take all possible legal means to resolve the issue if the events proceed in a way where the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization fail to take responsibility, or fail to settle the matter civilly.
Street protests from members within Shincheonji are also being considered.
Shincheonji are also asking for an official public apology from their former event partners, and to put a halt to religious discrimination against them and others.
Freedom of religion has been stressed heavily, with Shincheonji officials stating “freedom of religion is not a subject of negotiation” in order for them and their congregation to exercise their faith without discrimination.
- : SCJ CBR
- : Publicity Director
- : scjcbr84@gmail.com
- : 0424663278
PODCAST PROMO: State of Israel Goes Rogue – Attacks UN Peacekeepers – Paul Buchanan and Selwyn Manning
- : Multimedia Investments Ltd
A View from Afar – In this episode of A View From Afar political scientist Paul Buchanan and host Selwyn Manning analyse how the state of Israel has gone rogue, attacking United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. At this juncture it is clear this is an intentional attack.
Over the past week Israel Defense Force troops have repeatedly attacked UN peacekeepers who were authorised and deployed to the region by the United Nations Security Council.
Also last week; the Government of Israel issued a statement notifying the United Nations Secretary General that he was now banned from Israel and was persona non grata. Within a day of that statement, IDF troops had fired on UN peacekeeping positions in Southern Lebanon.
Since then, the IDF has continued operations that threaten the UN’s presence. And Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has now issued a directive to the UN peacekeeping force to withdraw from the area north of its borders in Southern Lebanon.
Also, despite the United States Biden Administration cautioning Israel on its attacks on UN personnel, overnight New Zealand time, the United States has deployed 100 US troops on the ground in Israel to operate missile defence systems.
In this podcast, Paul and Selwyn consider:
- Why Israel has begun to attack United Nations peacekeepers in the region?
- Why has the United States deepened its involvement in Israel’s so-called defence?
- What of Hezbollah, Hamas; are their attacks on Israel a defence or an attacking offensive?
- What of Iran, what is its position and will it engage in a full-scale war with Israel and what are the consequences should it do so?
INTERACTION WHILE LIVE:
Paul and Selwyn encourage their live audience to interact while they are live with questions and comments.
To interact during live recordings of A View from Afar podcasts, go to Youtube.com/c/EveningReport/
Remember to subscribe to the channel.
- : https://www.youtube.com/live/3feU3ZedRlA?si=MLYOIfZFGzHdf3HI
- : https://eveningreport.nz/podcast-download/1090323/podcast-state-of-israel-goes-rogue-attacks-un-peacekeepers.m4a
- : Selwyn Manning
- : Managing Director - Founder
- : selwyn@milnz.nz
- : 6421611958
- : https://milnz.co.nz
- https://www.youtube.com/@EveningReport
Sovtech AU Launches in New Zealand, Working with Cure Kids to Deliver Cybersecurity Solutions with a Social Impact
- : https://www.sovtech.com/
- : 14/10/2024
Auckland, New Zealand — Sovtech, a leading Australian cybersecurity firm, is proud to announce its official launch in New Zealand this October, marking a new chapter in its expansion across the Tasman.
Known for its innovative ‘profit for purpose’ business model, Sovtech combines cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions with a strong social mission, including partnerships with significant causes such as Cure Kids – a leading charity dedicated to improving child health in New Zealand.
As part of the New Zealand launch, Sovtech’s Founder and Director, Neil Templeman, will be visiting Auckland on 15 and 16 October to meet with clients, partners, and government officials. Templeman brings a personal connection to New Zealand, having lived here for seven years. His goal is to establish a local presence, creating new jobs and building a robust team to serve New Zealand businesses.
“Launching in New Zealand has been driven by strong demand from customers and our partners. We see a great opportunity to help businesses here enhance their cybersecurity posture while making a positive social impact and we have recently signed our first contract in NZ with a large enterprise customer,” says Templeman.
Sovtech’s unique approach to cybersecurity sets it apart from other providers. The company offers services such as advanced email security, data protection and third-party risk management, but with a difference – profits are reinvested into causes that matter. In Australia, Sovtech has supported First Nations health and education initiatives, and with its New Zealand expansion, it has chosen to align with Cure Kids, a charity focused on funding medical research to improve the health of children.
Cure Kids is enthusiastic about this collaboration. Brendon Pongia, Head of Engagement, commented, “We are excited to have the support of Sovtech, an organisation with a strong social mission and a shared commitment to improving the health of children in New Zealand.”
By launching in New Zealand, Sovtech aims to create a lasting social impact while providing the country’s businesses with industry-leading cybersecurity solutions. Its goal is to offer both private and public sector organisations the tools they need to improve their cyber resilience, while simultaneously contributing to a broader societal mission.
“We believe technology should be a force for good, creating ripple effects that transcend borders and generations,” adds Templeman. “With our Procurement for Purpose model, New Zealand businesses have a unique opportunity to strengthen their security while driving meaningful change.”
Sovtech’s launch in New Zealand is more than just business – it’s about community, sustainability, and making a difference where it counts.
Media Contact: Neil Templeman
Founder & Director, Sovtech
Neil_templeman@sovtechnz.comT: 00 61 419 172 445
www.sovtechnz.comNeil Templeman will be available for interviews during his visit to New Zealand on 15-16 October. To schedule a meeting or interview, please contact him directly at the number above.
About Sovtech:
Sovtech is a cybersecurity provider offering comprehensive solutions to help businesses safeguard against modern threats. Their profit for purpose model reinvests profits into social causes, aligning technology with positive global change. https://sovtech.com.au/About Cure Kids:
Cure Kids is New Zealand’s largest charitable funder of child health research committed to finding better treatments and preventative strategies for a wide range of serious child health conditions. Cure Kids has invested more than $65 million in New Zealand research since it formed over 50 years ago, which has helped to shape and vastly improve the way children who live with serious diseases and health conditions are diagnosed and treated. Cure Kids is currently funding around $8 million in child health research across 60+ projects. Red Nose Day is their biggest annual fundraising campaign and makes a significant contribution to this work. For more information visit: www.curekids.org.nz- Neil Templeman - Sovtech
- : Neil Templeman
- : Founder & Director, Sovtech
- : Neil_templeman@sovtechnz.com
- : 0061419172445
- : https://www.sovtech.com/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-templeman003/
Faith News – Pastors with decades of experience: “I read the Bible literally. Now I’m learning it correctly.”
- : SCJ AUS Canberra
- : 01/10/2024
The Yeongnam Shincheonji Word Conference Chairman Lee Man-hee, who made pastors pour out their sincere testimonies of faith, said, “I must realize who I am as the Bible says and have faith according to the Word.”
The response from established church pastors who attended the Shincheonji Word Conference held in the Yeongnam region is enthusiastic. Pastor Cho, who is serving as a senior pastor in Gimhae, said that he came to know the Bible properly after attending the Word Conference.
After attending the ‘2024 Shincheonji Word Conference’ held in Masan, Pastor Cho confessed, “I have read the Bible many times, but it seems like I read it literally,” and “I feel like I learned the exact revelation that is suitable for this era only after attending the Word Conference.”
He continued, “ Many pastors of established churches, including myself, have been doing ministry based only on what Bible scholars have said .
“I think we need to open it up and make an effort to find the right thing,” he added.
After attending the Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ Word Conference like Pastor Cho, there have been numerous confessions of pastors and church leaders looking back on themselves and their denominations, needing to re-focus their ministry on the Word.
Pastor Oh, who has been a member of the Presbyterian Church and has been a pastor for 17 years , said; “I was skeptical about the lack of words within denominations and the constant division, but after hearing the words of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, I realized that this is a place that preaches the words according to the Bible.”
He continued, “ I feel a lot of guilt as a pastor for having taught the word incorrectly, ” and added, “ I hope that pastors of established churches, like me , will open their hearts, learn about the word of Shincheonji, and then make their own judgment.”
Another Presbyterian pastor, Kim, said, “Korean Christian churches are currently in a state of confusion, and many church members are leaving,” and added “this is a time when we must make an effort in the Word.”
The response of these pastors is due to the consistent Word Conference by Shincheonji Church of Jesus. In particular, four Word Conferences were held in the Yeongnam region this year alone. In January, they were held in Ulsan and Busan. And last month, they were held in Masan and Busan – the Word Conference held in Masan on the 25th of last month was attended by 16,000 people, including 100 pastors from neighboring regions such as Gyeongnam, and lasted for four days.
Pastors who have heard the words of Shincheonji Church of Jesus in response to this request from the Shincheonji Chairman are signing MOUs (Memorandum of Understanding) for word exchange with Shincheonji Church of Jesus. As of early last month, the number of domestic churches that have signed MOUs for word exchange with Shincheonji Church of Jesus has reached 727. In the case of overseas churches, a total of 13,053 churches in 84 countries have signed MOUs with Shincheonji Church of Jesus.
For believers who were unable to attend the event due to physical limitations such as time and location, Shincheonji Church of Jesus supported a live YouTube broadcast. It was reported that approximately 500,000 people watched the live broadcast of the Word Conference.
A Shincheonji Church of Jesus official said, “I think the biggest change is that pastors are the first to listen to the words of Shincheonji. God’s will is for all of humanity to follow His will and be saved… I hope that pastors will truly understand God’s words and enlighten church members through this opportunity.” He continued; “I hope that people, regardless of denomination or sect, will properly learn and understand the Bible and continue to cooperate through the exchange of words.”
The Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ Word Convention will be held in Seoul on the 5th, after passing through the Yeongnam region including Busan, and will then be held in other regions.
- : Alina
- : Volunteer
- : canberra.church84@gmail.com
- : 0415222392
Emerging Global Church Chairman continues to deliver lectures on “Testimony of the Fulfilment of Revelation”
- : SCJ AUS Canberra
- :
On October 25th Lee Man-Hee, the Chairman of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, conducted internationally broadcasted seminar in regards to the “Testimony of the Fulfilment of Revelation” in Masan, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea.
With over 16,000 participants including 100 pastors and numerous journalists in attendance, this publicized event hosted at Masan Church was held in response to the surprisingly growing public interest towards the doctrines and teachings of the once enigmatic church.
These seminars were previously held in the regions of Ulsan and Busan in early January this year to similar fanfare.
Since last month, Shincheonji has reported to have received support in the form of signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) from 727 domestic churches in South Korea while internationally it has gained MOU’s from as much as 13,053 churches across 84 countries.
The church also announced that up to 1671 churches across 43 countries have modified their church signboards to Shincheonji.
With its continuous support, Shincheonji announced that it will continue to hold and promote said seminars throughout the year in effort to expand it’s influence to the world.
- photo_2024-09-27_17-10-15
- : Alina
- : Volunteer
- : canberra.church84@gmail.com
- : 0415222392
- : https://www.shincheonji.org/
Over 100,000 Gather in the name of World Peace for the 10th Anniversary of the HWPL Peace Summit
- : HWPL Canberra
- : 23/09/2024
On September 18, the “10th Anniversary of the HWPL September 18 Peace Summit” was broadcasted in over 40 countries and attracted approximately 100,000 people at the HWPL Peace Training Institute in Gyeonggi-do, Korea, where the anniversary was held.
Hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the Department of Global Communications (DGC), the event was themed “Building a Global Community of Peace through Regional Cooperation.”
Led by HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee, it was a celebration of the contributions of global leaders and citizens towards peace over the past decade and exploring strategies for future global unity. Notable attendees included Great Dharma Master Hyecheon of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and José Honorio da Costa Ferreira Jerónimo, East Timor’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Culture.
Previously, the HWPL Peace Summit was first celebrated a decade earlier, in Seoul, 2014. The summit was attended by more than 1,000 political, religious, women’s, and youth leaders, as well as media representatives from over 140 countries. Discussions focused on conflict resolution, religious harmony, and the implementation of legal measures to ensure sustainable peace.
During his commemorative speech, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee expressed gratitude to all participants for attending the 10th anniversary of the peace movement. He encouraged everyone by saying, “Let us no longer draw lines of difference between you and me. With love and peace, let’s unite to save the global village. Let us cooperate to help each other and leave behind a valuable legacy of peace for future generations.”
Followed by 10 year’s worth of highlights, this led to many discussions of future plans of HWPL and their partners, with a particular emphasis on establishing a “regional network” for peace tailored to local characteristics. Through this regional network, HWPL aims to actively address threats to peace and consolidate collective capabilities.
In light of this, HWPL established partnerships for peace development with intergovernmental organizations such as the Group of Seven Plus (G7+) and the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (PARLATINO). G7+ was established to promote harmony among conflict-ridden nations through peace, stability, and development, boasting 20 member states. PARLATINO, founded to promote development and integration based on democracy, currently has 23 member states.
Additionally, the nationwide “Accompany: Connecting Korea” campaign was launched with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed during the ceremony. The “Accompany” campaign was initially trialled in major cities in Korea last July. Through this launch, HWPL aims to work with over 230 civic organizations to connect cultures across generations and carry out diverse peace activities.
The “Accompany” campaign is a continuation of the Saemaul (New Village) Movement, which was responsible for South Korea’s economic development and social transformation in the late 20th century. The Saemaul Movement focused on modernising rural areas and strengthening community consciousness. Similarly, the Accompany campaign aims to overcome social conflicts rooted in generational, regional, gender, and ideological differences through social solidarity and cooperation.
To achieve the goal of establishing a “regional network,” various sessions will be held worldwide, focusing on diverse groups. Additionally, under the slogan “Let everyone in the global village become a messenger of peace,” individuals will be encouraged to play active roles in promoting peace. Messages of peace and unity from citizens of all walks of life, both domestically and internationally, will be collected and shared.
Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) is a non-governmental international peace organization registered under the UN DGC and UN ECOSOC that is acknowledged for their endeavors and efforts towards achieving peace worldwide.
- 3 Chairman Man Hee Lee with G7PLUS at the opening of the HWPL World Peace Summit
- : https://www.youtube.com/shorts/MVz_y1WJ7Q0
- : HWPL Canberra
- : Marketing Co-ordinator
- : hwplcanberra@gmail.com
- : 0424663278
- : https://www.hwpl.kr/language/en/about-hwpl-_en/
Introducing NEW Selaks Origins Breeze 5%
- : Selaks
- : 20/08/2024
Selaks, a pioneer in New Zealand’s wine industry, proudly unveils Selaks Origins Breeze 5%, a revolutionary addition to its portfolio.
Launching this August, Selaks Origins Breeze 5% makes its timely debut following Dry July, pioneering Selak’s first ever 5% alcohol offering in New Zealand. Each bottle promises an easy-drinking experience with just 3 standard drinks per 750ml bottle at 5% ABV.
Research consistently indicates a growing demand for lower-alcohol beverages. Consumers are increasingly mindful of their alcohol intake and are actively seeking options that allow them to enjoy wine in moderation. This shift reflects a broader cultural movement in New Zealand towards more responsible drinking habits.
The Origins Breeze range uses the Piquette method, a traditional technique originating from France. Piquette is made by rescuing already pressed winemaking grapes and giving them a second squeeze, resulting in a refreshing range that includes a crisp Piquette from Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, a summer berry-infused Piquette Rosé, and a vibrant Piquette from Pinot Gris.
“Utilizing the traditional Piquette method, we’ve crafted fruit wines that not only minimize waste but also maximize the vibrant fruit flavors that define our fruit wines.” said David Edmonds, Chief Winemaker at Selaks.
Crafted with innovation and waste reduction in mind, this range caters to wine enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike, seeking a flavourful, lighter option without compromising on taste.
“At Selaks, we’re excited to introduce the Origins Breeze 5% range, a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation,” added Edmonds.
“We’ve focused on creating a product that captures the bright, fresh characteristics of our fruit, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers,”
Selaks Origins Breeze 5% is poised to redefine expectations of lower-alcohol fruit wines, offering a delicious choice for any occasion.
About Selaks: 90 Years of Winemaking
Founded with a rich heritage, Selaks is celebrated for crafting exceptional New Zealand wines that honor tradition while embracing innovation. Since Marino Selak arrived from Croatia in 1906, he and his nephew began creating wines that have become favorites across New Zealand, marking the start of Selaks’ legacy of excellence in winemaking.
From their humble beginnings in West Auckland to their current home in the Hawke’s Bay, they’ve built a legacy steeped in tradition and passion. Each bottle carries the essence of those who have shaped its creation, preserving the spirit of their winemaking family through the generations. Selaks’ commitment to quality and excellence has traveled far beyond borders, embraced by wine lovers across the globe.
For more information about Selaks Origins Breeze 5% visit www.selaks.co.nz
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- : Misty Johnston
- : PR Agency
- : misty@filter.co.nz
- : 021449680
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Robertshaw Strengthens Presence in New Zealand Through Partnership with System Control Engineering
- : Robertshaw
- : 03/06/2024 07:00
Itasca, Illinois – June 3, 2024 – Robertshaw, a global leader in control components for the appliance industry, announced a significant milestone today – expanding their reach into the New Zealand market through a partnership with System Control Engineering, a leading provider of industrial automation and control solutions.
Paul Rimes, Executive General Manager of System Control Engineering, says this milestone is significant because it allows them to offer a wider range of best-in-class solutions to their customers, including popular Robertshaw products like the 7000 Series Gas Valve, M Series infinite switches for electric cooking equipment, and ST Thermostats for water heaters.
“We are thrilled to partner with Robertshaw to bring their industry-respected products to New Zealand,” says Rimes. “Our customers can now access a comprehensive selection of control components from one trusted supplier, streamlining their procurement process and ensuring they receive the best possible solutions for their needs.”
This partnership also benefits Robertshaw by expanding their reach into the New Zealand market through a well-established and respected distributor.
“System Control Engineering’s strong reputation and technical expertise make them the ideal partner for Robertshaw in New Zealand,” says Marc Speigel, VP of Sales at Robertshaw. “We are confident that this partnership will allow us to better serve our customers in the region and provide them with the exceptional support they deserve.”
The availability of Robertshaw products in New Zealand through System Control Engineering is effective June 1, 2024.
About Robertshaw
Robertshaw is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of control components for the appliance industry. Robertshaw delivers advanced flow control components and systems for water, gas, and other fluids to help build extraordinary products that improve safety, comfort, health, and happiness. Browse Robertshaw’s complete line of products on System Control Engineering’s website: www.systemcontrol.co.nz/robertshaw
Contact: sales@systemcontrol.co.nz- NZ Launch_Blog-Email Header_Robertshaw
- : https://www.systemcontrol.co.nz/robertshaw
- : Katie Kretschmar
- : Marketing Manager
- : katie.kretschmar@robertshaw.com
- : 847284266
- : https://www.systemcontrol.co.nz/robertshaw
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University of Otago and Methane Mavericks Win Grand Prizes at Space for Planet Earth Challenge
- : SpaceBase Limited
- : 15/03/2024
Auckland, New Zealand — 16 March 2024
The team “Methane Mavericks” from Newham, Australia, and the University of Otago team from Dunedin, New Zealand, have been awarded the Grand Prizes in the Space for Planet Earth Challenge, an innovative competition focused on leveraging space technologies to address environmental issues.
Cristhian Delgado Fajardo and his team from the University of Otago clinched the top prize at the University level for their project “Satellite-based AI Emulators for Efficient Monitoring of Agricultural Methane Emissions in New Zealand.” Their ground-breaking work aims to enhance the monitoring and management of methane emissions from agricultural activities in New Zealand using satellite data and artificial intelligence.
In the high school category, Olivia Hedge and Khoa Anh Do of Methane Mavericks from Newham, Australia, won the Grand Prize for their project “Using Sentinel Data to Identify and Prioritize Small-scale Emissions for MethaneSat.” Their innovative approach utilizes satellite data to detect and prioritize small-scale methane emissions, contributing to the development of more effective mitigation strategies.
Six teams from New Zealand, Australia, and the Philippines competed in the Challenge finals, presenting their projects to a panel of esteemed judges from various space agencies, research institutions, and organizations. The winners were awarded cash prizes of $25,000 NZD and $8,000 NZD for the University and high school categories, respectively, along with valuable mentorship opportunities from SpaceBase.
“We are truly impressed by the calibre of work presented by these young innovators,” said Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom, CEO of SpaceBase. “Their projects demonstrate the immense potential of space technologies in addressing pressing environmental challenges, and we are confident that their research will create a lasting impact in the region.”
The Space for Planet Earth Challenge was organized by SpaceBase, a forward-thinking organization that leverages incentive prizes and space technologies to catalyse innovation and solve complex problems. The Challenge was made possible through the support of various sponsors and partners, including the Pacific Fund, K1W1, Orbica, AWS, US Embassy in New Zealand, Biome Trust, Rich Bodo through the Gift Trust, Australian Space Agency, New Zealand Space Agency, Auckland Space Institute, Callaghan Innovation, Outset Ventures, Auckland Unlimited, and Auckland Aerospace.
For more information about the Challenge and the winning projects, please visit spacebase.co/challenges.
About SpaceBase Limited:
SpaceBase Limited is a New Zealand-based space education and consulting social enterprise with a mission to democratise access to space for everyone. SpaceBase is creating equal opportunities to leverage space technologies to solve problems on Earth by catalysing space ecosystems in developing and emerging countries, starting in New Zealand. Since its incorporation in 2017, the organization has collaborated with economic development agencies, local and national governments, and advocacy groups to deliver over 150 educational presentations and workshops, three Pacific and nationwide space and aerospace competitions, and has helped birth space communities and organizations locally and globally.
- : Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom
- : Co-Founder
- : info@spacebase.co
- : 64224021936
- : https://spacebase.co
- https://www.facebook.com/SpaceBaseNZ/