Revolutionising The Construction Industry with Anotida Chiyangwa

Founder: Anotida Chiyangwa

School: Year 12 Student at Peter Carnley Anglican Community School

Anotida at the 2024 Next Gen WA Showcase Event.

Social Media: LinkedIn

Tell Us About Your Project?

My project is a rapid-build platform designed for constructing high-rise, net-zero buildings using sustainable methods.

The construction process is divided into three phases. First, in the prefabrication phase, building components like the steel structure and walls are created in a factory using recycled materials, with provisions for utilities such as water and electricity. In the delivery phase, these prefabricated parts are transported to the construction site and stored until needed. Finally, in the onsite construction phase, the platform uses four cranes and hydraulic rails to lift and assemble the parts into the building’s structure.

The platform is equipped with features such as a primary management system, 360-degree elevators for worker access, a construction hoist for safety, and air-conditioning. This solution reduces construction time and promotes sustainability while ensuring safety and precision in the assembly process.

What Inspired Your Innovative Idea?

My innovative idea was inspired by a desire to address the housing crisis, which has been a growing issue. Since year 9, I’ve been passionate about real estate, and I’ve always been interested in how we can build homes more efficiently and sustainably. As I learned more about the housing shortage and the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions, I saw an opportunity to merge these two concepts.

I wanted to create a platform that not only speeds up construction but also prioritizes sustainable building practices. This combination of efficiency and sustainability can help solve the housing crisis by making high-rise, net-zero buildings more accessible and affordable. My idea was born from the belief that with the right technology and innovative approaches, we can create a real impact in the real estate market and provide better living solutions for everyone.

What Is Your Long-Term Vision For Your Project?

My long-term vision for this project is to develop a fully established design and working prototype by the time I graduate from university. Throughout my studies, I plan to refine the technical aspects, focusing on sustainable construction practices and improving the efficiency of the building platform. I’ll also use my time at university to network with professionals in the construction, engineering, and real estate industries.

By attending industry events and seeking mentorship, I aim to gain insights that will strengthen the project’s viability. My goal is to start discussions with investors and industry experts to gather support for the project and explore opportunities for partnerships. By the time I finish university, I hope to have the necessary backing to turn this idea into a scalable solution that addresses housing challenges, starting with local projects and expanding to larger-scale developments.

What Lessons Did You Learn About Teamwork And Collaboration Through The Process Of Developing And Implementing Your Innovative Solution?

Throughout the process of developing my innovative solution, I learned valuable lessons about teamwork and collaboration. One key takeaway was the importance of being open-minded. I realised that by listening to different perspectives and welcoming new ideas, the project became stronger and more refined.

I also came to understand that my skills, while useful, are limited, and there is always room for growth. By working with others who bring different expertise to the table, I was able to learn from their strengths and improve my own abilities. Most importantly, I discovered that I can't achieve my vision alone.

Collaboration is essential to turning ideas into reality, and by relying on the knowledge and support of others, we can create solutions that are far more impactful than anything we could accomplish individually. This experience has taught me the power of teamwork in bringing ambitious ideas to life.

Can You Describe A Moment During The Development Of Your Project Where You Had To Think Creatively To Overcome A Particular Obstacle Or Challenge? During the development of my project, I encountered a challenge in finding a way to build high-rise, net-zero buildings efficiently without following the conventional methods used in construction. Traditional approaches, while reliable, didn’t align with my goals of sustainability and rapid construction. I had to think creatively to overcome this by focusing on a more practical solution: prefabrication.

Instead of building everything on-site, I opted for manufacturing key components in a factory using sustainable materials, then transporting and assembling them on-site. This not only sped up the construction process but also reduced waste and energy use, making it a more eco-friendly approach. By rethinking the entire process and focusing on efficiency, I was able to create a practical solution that met the project’s objectives. This experience taught me that stepping away from conventional methods and embracing new, creative approaches can lead to more effective and innovative solutions.

What Advice Would You Give To Other Young Students Who Are Eager To Pursue Their Own Innovative Ideas?

My advice to young students eager to pursue their own innovative ideas is to start by believing in your vision, even if it seems challenging. Innovation often requires thinking outside the box, so don’t be afraid to take risks and step away from conventional approaches. Understand that your skills will grow over time, and you don’t need to have all the answers from the beginning.

Seek out mentors, collaborate with others, and learn from different perspectives – this will help you refine your idea and bring it closer to reality. It’s also important to be persistent. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but they are opportunities for growth. Keep learning, adapting, and improving. Lastly, stay practical.

Anotida Chiyangwa participated in our Next Gen Awards 2024 program and was one of our Top 10 for our WA Showcase Event. To find out more about the Next Gen Awards and how your projects and initiatives can be showcased head to: www.nextgenoftheyear.com