Exploring the future: contest winners

Mia Majstorovic

What troubles me most is the growing divide among humans. In-group and out-group. Us and them. We don't see people as layered, complex individuals; instead, they're split by colour, race, religion, political stance, gender... Humanity faces deep, wicked problems that demand unity, yet we are more fragmented than ever. It's time to rise above these divisions and come together, not as labels, but as humans, because only collective action can shape a better future.

Cherrie Cheung

As a student and young person, I’m most worried for the future of our planet and the big corporations that are contributing to its destruction. It’s disheartening to feel like I’m just one person, small and insignificant, that can’t do much against these multibillion dollar companies that have no regard for climate change or environmental impact. I’m most worried that action will only be taken when it’s much too late. I hope that the biggest contributors to emissions and the degradation of my home can wake up soon.

Simon Makris

The healthcare system is severely under stress every single day with Emergency Departments experiencing ramping and huge amounts of individuals in the waiting rooms. A key contributor to the strain on Emergency Departments is a lack of public awareness of what truly constitute as an emergency. Additionally the alternate healthcare options available is not as utilised/known about as it should be within the general public, both contributing to huge strain on the hospital system. Improving education and access to these alternatives could help reduce strain on hospitals and improve access for those who need emergency care most.

Theresa Hickey

I am very concerned about the red algae infestation of our coastal waters and its impact on the environment as well as public health and the economy. This is not only a problem for South Australians at the moment but an increasing problem within Australia and other places globally.

Jordan Zerella

For our family, recreational fishing on the Yorke Peninsula was always a joy, early mornings on the jetty, the thrill of reeling in a catch, and the laughter we shared with friends on the water. Now, algal blooms cloud the sea, leaving nets empty and weekends quieter. Our fishing friends, who once relied on strong catches to support their families, tie up their boats in frustration. What was once freedom, connection, and tradition now carries uncertainty. These blooms don’t just affect the ocean, they touch every family and friendship tied to it, threatening our memories of what was once there.

Jake Howie

The biggest concern for me (and I believe for the generations to come) is the precarious state of the environment, both at the local and global levels, marine and terrestrial. Inextricably linked to this is the negative impact of human induced global warming caused by ever increasing carbon emissions and over population resulting in the relentless sprawl of cities, the clearing of forests, loss of native habitat, productive farmland and yet still more emissions. Our environment is the natural resource base which ultimately sustains us all with respect to food, shelter, clean air and water and it must be healthy.

Ryan Hensel

While we hear a lot about the current housing crisis, it’s more so an affordable housing crisis. Governments at all levels need to be looking at what can be done to increase the supply of affordable housing stock, whether this is through using more efficient or innovate building techniques such as prefabrication, or encouraging high density living. The demand side policies around housing like government schemes will do nothing but cause higher prices, leaving future generations with little hope of owning a property.

Damien Belobrajdic

Access to healthy food is vital for our health and wellbeing. Sadly, many Australians experience food insecurity daily, struggling to access or afford fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and other nutritious foods. As a result, they often rely on energy-dense but nutrient-poor alternatives. This contributes to poor health outcomes, including obesity and chronic disease, and widens inequalities among vulnerable groups such as low-income families, Indigenous communities, and those living in rural areas. Ensuring the affordability and availability of fresh, healthy foods is essential to protect public health and support all Australians in meeting dietary recommendations.

Paula Ghosh

Adelaide alums are facing rising living costs, housing crisis and stretched healthcare systems, all while adapting to rapid technological shifts. These pressures impact both personal stability and professional growth. To thrive, alums must embrace continuous learning, leveraging online platforms and local innovation hubs and strongly advocate for affordable housing and mental health support. Building strong peer networks and engaging with industry mentors can ease transitions and foster resilience. Empowering graduates with financial literacy and tech upskilling will ensure they survive and lead in the evolving business landscape.

Sam Lovell

The cost of living is one of the most pressing issues facing our community. Rising prices for essentials like housing, energy, groceries, and fuel are putting immense pressure on families and individuals, particularly those on lower incomes. Many are struggling to make ends meet, with stagnant wages failing to keep pace with inflation. This financial strain is leading to increased stress, reduced quality of life, and growing inequality. Affordable and reliable access to energy is especially critical, as it underpins daily life. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure a fair, sustainable, and supportive future for everyone in our community.