SpringBots South Africa Rock Gold at Robotics Olympics

Photo Credit: Supplied

Robotics squad SpringBots South Africa is bringing home gold from Greece thanks to their victory at the World Robotics Olympics!

Athens, Greece (01 October 2024) — Local robotics team SpringBots recently showed off their South African STEM chops in Athens, Greece, thanks to their outstanding participation in the World Robotics Olympics (FIRST Global Challenge).

The SpringBots team includes Mukondi Sinogu, Ponani Keletso Nkuna, Katiso Mallane, Amahle Mkhize and Chaydon Weldschidt, with mentors Jared and Roxanne Reddy.

Held this past September, the competition saw over 190 countries’ teams vie for victory. Competitors consisted of robotics team members between the ages of 14-18, all of whom enjoyed the thrill of modern magic amid the ancient history running through Athens’ veins.

Just to put it into perspective, the Opening Ceremony took place at the Parthenon Olympic Stadium—a striking reminder of what innovation once looked like thousands of years ago. Just imagine the Parthenon’s patrons back in the day bearing witness to teams for robots! Not to mention a Black Eyed Peas performance.

Despite the SpringBots getting off to a rocky start, they showed true, South African-approved grit. The SpringBots’ robot, affectionately named the McKenzie Bot in tribute to Gayton McKenzie, our Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, experienced some damage during its transit. This ultimately complicated the team’s competition, but not for long!

In a familiar slate of South African resilience, the team pushed through the disheartenment to repair the McKenzie Bot together in full unity.

“In the spirit of Ubuntu, we established a coalition called Africa Unite, aimed at supporting fellow African nations facing similar challenges,” Roxanne shares.

“We collaborated with teams from various countries, fostering camaraderie and teamwork throughout the event.”

This commitment aptly promoted unity in robotics and was honoured with recognition when the team received the Dr. Mae Jemison Award for International Unity.

On top of this, the SpringBots also claimed gold at the prestigious competition! With this victory in their arsenal and support for their future endeavours well-earned, the team have shared big plans for the future.

At the top of the list is a plan to establish over 100 robotics teams in underprivileged communities so that robotics and STEM education becomes more accessible to all. Additionally, the team are working hard to bring FIRST Global back home to South Africa.

“As we embark on this important journey, we remain committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and unity in robotics across Africa,” concludes Roxanne.