Division of Natural Science students, Traude Walton and Romar Stewart, combined their talents to create a unique hydroponics solution, earning themselves second place and a cash prize in the 2025 Youth Energy Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEEP),

Tasked with conceptualising a creative use of the Solar House at Queen’s Park, the BCC students designed a training facility equipped to educate the public about sustainable food production methods that can be applied at both small and large scales.

“Our goal was to design a space where people could learn how to grow food sustainably in their own backyards,” Walton explained, emphasizing not only functionality but also aesthetics, demonstrating how an agricultural space can remain visually appealing while serving an industrial purpose.

The annual competition challenges participants to develop forward-thinking, sustainable solutions that promote renewable energy in Barbados and, by extension, contribute to global sustainability efforts.

Traude and Romar both study Agricultural Science at the BCC and described their classes as instrumental to their success in the national competition.

Additionally, the students thanked their Senior Tutor, Dr. Arlyn Linton-Jones, expressing their gratitude for her consistent encouragement, explaining that they would have never know about the competition without her.

Congratulating the two, Dr. Linton-Jones described their success as an outstanding achievement.

“Their success not only reflects their hard work and dedication but also highlights the growing role of young leaders in shaping Barbados’ renewable energy future.”

The team was initially unaware of their placement in the competition. “We were only told that we had won the prize for tertiary schools,” Romar shared. “It wasn’t until later that we found out we had actually placed second, which made it even more exciting.”

The students received $1,500, which they split among themselves.

Both Traude and Romar plan to continue their education, potentially pursuing degrees in agriculture or related fields.

Their achievement highlights the importance of innovation, mentorship, and hands-on learning in shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders in Barbados.