The University of East Anglia’s Changemaker 2026 competition has announced 13 shortlisted submissions, which are now available for public voting.
The UEA Changemaker competition champions student-led ideas and initiatives with an impact for the people, the planet and local communities.
Staff, students, and the wider public are invited to help select the top ten finalists who will progress to The Grand Finale.
Public voting opened on Monday 8 December, and will remain open for one week until Monday 15 December at 12pm.
The ten most popular entries will secure a place on the UEA Changemaker Accelerator, a three-month programme designed to help participants test, refine and develop their concepts into viable business opportunities.
The accelerator will provide mentorship, guidance and practical support to help emerging changemakers transform bold ideas into real impact.
“Changemaker is all about empowering people with ideas that matter,” said Finbarr Carter, UEA Student Enterprise Officer.
“This year’s submissions show an inspiring commitment to sustainability, community wellbeing, and social innovation.
“We’re excited to see which ideas the public choose to take forward.”
The Grand Finale will take place at The Enterprise Centre Lecture Theatre on Thursday 19 March. The finalists will receive the opportunity to pitch their ideas live, and one student will be crowned UEA Changemaker 2026.
The 13 shortlisted initiatives are as follows:
ENKAPY by Viola Kipchumba
A digital platform that organises women into savings groups known as Chamas, enabling them to save, invest, borrow collectively and support one another in securing finance without traditional collateral.
Imara Project by Bridget Manyange
A secure offline digital platform enabling vulnerable women and girls in Kenyan informal settlements to safely store gender-based violence evidence, making access to justice easier.
Kelpy by Penelope Helbest
An eco-friendly sexual wellness initiative creating plastic-free, biodegradable pregnancy tests.
Relo by Cassie Minicucci
A support hub empowering university students with chronic illnesses through resources, courses and practical strategies for managing academics, healthcare, social life, work and nutrition.
The Story Alchemist by Wafaa Manawai
A visual, neurodivergent-friendly creative writing platform that breaks complex storytelling concepts into simple, engaging steps—making creativity accessible to all.
Zero-Waste Refill Shop by Mao Suzuki
A sustainable refill shop offering ethical, affordable and environmentally friendly products aimed at making circular, low-waste living accessible to everyone.
LAMCHOP by Lamma Ewi
A circular-economy enterprise in Limbe, Cameroon, reducing post-harvest waste by solar-dehydrating farmers’ surplus produce and converting organic residuals into manure and animal feed.
The Maritime Law Blog by Natalia Bulko
A platform designed to make complex maritime law accessible to seafarers, small businesses and travellers so they can better manage incidents and protect their rights.
YoungVisionArt by Zeya Mckay
An online platform supporting student artists and photographers by providing a space to showcase and sell their work.
Keep Smiling by Halaa Takafi
A community support network for vulnerable women—including single mothers and elderly women—providing social meet-ups, welcome packages and connection opportunities.
MindMove by Bayardelger Lkhagvadorj & Yulia Malska
Creators of eco-friendly wellbeing board games that help people practise confidence, emotional balance and connection through play, making mental health support fun and accessible.
Acadify by Yussur Alrawi
An open online platform enabling users to easily create and share structured educational content, with the mission to democratise teaching and expand access to knowledge.
BlkBar by Jola Taiwo, Jah White, Laud Boahene & Joshua Aina
An app marketplace connecting hairstylists with clients in their local area, allowing users to browse stylist portfolios and search for recommended hair products.
Members of the public can view all 14 submissions and cast their votes at:
Image Credit: UEA Changemaker 2026
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