BANGKOK — A Thai student has captured international attention at one of the world’s most prestigious youth innovation competitions, demonstrating how sustainability and compassion can drive groundbreaking invention.
Pitchaya Sasibutra, a student from Brighton College Bangkok, took home multiple honors at the 10th International Invention Innovation Competition in Canada (iCAN 2025) on August 30, earning Thailand recognition on the global innovation stage. Her project, “Green Halo: An Upcycled Mobility Aid Enhancing Life for Blind Dogs,” secured not only a Gold Medal but three additional prestigious awards in the competition’s final round.
Record-Breaking Competition
This year’s milestone 10th anniversary competition drew a record 802 participants from 62 countries and regions, making Pitchaya’s multiple victories particularly remarkable. The Green Halo project distinguished itself among hundreds of innovative ideas by combining environmental sustainability with social impact.
The invention transforms upcycled materials into specialized mobility aids for blind dogs, enabling them to navigate safely and live more independently. The device represents a unique fusion of waste reduction, animal welfare, and practical engineering that resonated with the international jury.
Multiple Recognition Categories
Pitchaya’s innovation earned recognition across four distinct categories:
- Gold Medal recognition in both preliminary and final rounds
- Canadian Special Award from the Innovation Initiative Co-operative Inc. “The Inventors Circle”
- Best Invention Video Award among the top 10 selections
- Overall Top 10 Best Invention Award from the jury
From Recognition to Real Impact
Following her international triumph, Pitchaya translated her success into direct action by donating the Green Halo device to Thailand’s Home for Handicapped Animals Foundation. The donation will immediately improve mobility and quality of life for disabled dogs in the foundation’s care, while additional financial support will assist the shelter’s ongoing operations.
“This invention is more than just an innovation – it’s a way to give blind dogs a second chance at mobility and independence, while also promoting the importance of upcycling and sustainable design,” Pitchaya explained.
Broader Implications
The Green Halo’s success highlights Thailand’s growing prominence in youth-led innovation and serves as inspiration for young inventors worldwide to address social challenges through creative problem-solving. The project exemplifies how emerging innovators can merge technical skills with environmental consciousness and social responsibility to create meaningful change.
The achievement positions Thailand as an important contributor to global youth innovation, demonstrating that transformative ideas can emerge from anywhere when creativity meets compassion and practical application.
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