Have you noticed environmental problems in the Jefferson City area? Are you passionate about helping your community and the planet? Are you an innovator or problem-solver?
If you said yes to any of these questions, National Geographic’s Slingshot Challenge might be just for you!
This year, National Geographic is inviting teens aged 13 to 18 from around the world to submit a minute-long video exploring a problem in their community and a potential solution. Winners may receive up to $10,000 in funding for their project.
In 2025, Cynthia Zhang from the U.S. and Lila Seo Martínez from Ecuador both placed focus on restoring and protecting native flora in order to promote insect biodiversity. Other award recipients, like Halah Noor from Bahrain and Mariela Cruz-Suarez from the U.S., focused on incentivizing youth and citizen climate action, while a three-person team from Nigeria consisting of Bright Attai, Blessed Pepple, and Lesley John Jumbo utilized emerging artificial intelligence technologies to combat deforestation.
With recipients all around the world, last year’s Slingshot Challenge winners tackled environmental issues through social, technological, and economic solutions.
Do you have an idea to combat climate change here in Central Missouri?
Students can register for the Slingshot Challenge on National Geographic’s website. Video submissions are due February 6, 2026.
