FAQs

A: The CST Impact Competition challenges students from all disciplines to develop innovative solutions addressing issues faced by migrants, refugees, and displaced people, guided by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching. This is your opportunity to actualize your passion to solve pressing needs!

A: No! We welcome students from all any denomination and backgrounds. The competition focuses on applying the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, not just the Catholic faith itself.

A: is a set of principles that emphasizes human dignity, solidarity, and the common good. It calls for social justice through principles such as the preferential option for the poor, economic fairness, and the responsibility to build a just and compassionate society.

A: Any undergraduate or graduate students who are interested in addressing challenges related to migration and workforce integration. Students from various disciplines are encouraged to apply to bring diverse perspectives to their solutions. Teams must be composed of at least [Minimum number, e.g., 2] students.

A: Absolutely! We welcome students from all academic backgrounds. Teams can demonstrate their ideas through detailed mock-ups or prototypes. The emphasis is on the creativity and feasibility of the idea, rather than the technical execution at this stage.

A: We strongly encourage team participation, as collaboration often leads to more innovative and impactful solutions.

A: We encourage scalable, tech-driven solutions that enhance employment capabilities for migrants, such as digital marketplaces, online platforms for skills training, or apps for language learning tailored to specific industries. The key is to have an impactful solution.

A: No, you don't need a fully polished idea! We encourage you to start with a problem you're passionate about and develop your solution throughout the competition, with guidance from mentors.

A: Yes, you can adapt or expand on an existing project, as long as it aligns with the competition's themes and guidelines.

A: Sure! And you don’t need to build a fully functioning digital product. Instead, focus on designing a concept or prototype that shows how the product works and what it aims to achieve. This can be done through wireframes, diagrams, or any form of mock-up that conveys your idea effectively.

A: Technology should be a tool to increase the reach, impact, and efficiency of your solutions. You can propose using advanced technologies like AI or blockchain conceptually, detailing how they could be used to enhance your solution’s effectiveness without needing to develop the actual technology during the competition.

A: Proposals must be sensitive to the cultural norms and educational levels of Afghan women, considering how these factors influence the accessibility and usability of the proposed solutions. Solutions should be adaptable to accommodate different literacy and tech proficiency levels.

A: The winning team will be awarded a grand prize of $10,000 to implement their project with the non-profit. All finalists will receive recognition and have the opportunity to present their work to potential investors and partners.

A: Absolutely! This is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable skills, network with professionals, and showcase your passion for social impact. Participation can significantly enhance your resume and demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.