In this episode, we sit down with young South African innovators Gustav Heesen and Johan Vorster, along with their parents, Heinrich and Lianne, to discuss their remarkable invention, "Expobot". We dive into how they used N8N, Docker, and AI to build an accessible, fully automated test-marking system designed to help teachers in overcrowded classrooms get their time back, delivering personalised student feedback with an impressive 95% accuracy rate.

We also celebrate their incredible journey, from being the first Grade 7 learners ever to be named Overall Winners of the Gauteng North Imbewu Science Fair and placing as Second Runner-Up at the National Imbewu SAYESS, to earning an exclusive invitation to represent South Africa at the 2026 Genius Olympiad in Rochester, New York. Applied engineering and STEM enthusiasts will truly value hearing how these brilliant minds leveraged digital innovation to solve a practical, real-world problem.

Support Gustav and Johan’s Journey to New York! We are helping the family spread the word to people who care about STEM, education, young innovators, and practical support for South African learners. They are currently running a BackaBuddy campaign to raise approximately R120 000 to cover travel and participation costs for the students.

If you'd like to support the next generation of STEM innovators, any exposure helps, and even small donations make a massive difference!

Helpful Links & Contact Info:

• Donate here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/genius-olympiad-finalists-help-us-get-there
• Watch the Project Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YN_rT_ieRNU 
• Get in Touch: For CSI, philanthropy, or innovation support, you can reach the parents directly. Lianne Heesen can be contacted at 082 094 3681, and Heinrich Heesen at 072 211 3960.

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By the South African Institute of Agricultural Engineers