A road safety smartphone app designed to help young people safely navigate WA roads has been crowned the winner of the RAC Ignite Leadership Program for 2024.
The RAC Ignite Leadership Program empowers Western Australians aged 18 to 24 to create positive change.
Run with support from youth-led non-profit Millennium Kids, participants engage in masterclasses and mentorship while collaborating on solutions for a safer, more sustainable and better-connected WA.
The winning pitch for 2024, designed by James Della Gatta and Matt Menezes, addresses a critical gap in road safety education for young people, with an app that gamifies and rewards walking and cycling activities, helping pre-driving-age users become more confident navigating roads before ever stepping behind the wheel.
Throughout the program, James and Matt honed their idea with support from industry experts and local community change makers, culminating in a polished pitch that impressed the panel of expert judges.
James said they wanted to encourage young people to truly know their streets before they’re behind the wheel.
“By gamifying the experience, we make it fun, educational and rewarding.
“My little sister is currently learning to drive and the first time she was experiencing navigating the road was behind the wheel, which is terrifying.” Matt said.
It comes as road safety remains in the spotlight after Western Australia last year experienced one of the worst levels of road trauma in over a decade.
Second place created the idea to build shadier and more attractive footpaths and bus stops to encourage more walking, cycling and PT use.
The People's Choice Award was chosen at the event and was an idea to deliver virtual reality education for young drivers to help them navigate dangerous scenarios and learn the consequences of risky driving behaviours in a safe way.
RAC Group Executive Social and Community Impact, Terry Durant said the program provided the chance to help solve real-world problems, like reducing road trauma, making our city better connected, or reducing vehicle emissions.
“This is about giving young people a voice and empowering them to create a better WA,” Ms Durant said.
The winners each received a $2,000 cash prize, along with ongoing mentoring and support from RAC to further explore bringing their idea to life, with all participants receiving a $500 RAC Parks and Resorts voucher.
ENDS
Media contact: Lauren Cherry, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
