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Celebrating 20 Years of Innovation with the James Dyson Award

Since 2005, the James Dyson Award has recognised over 400 winners globally and awarded more than £1 million in prize money to young, aspiring inventors. To mark the 20th anniversary, we spoke with some past winners to see how their ideas have evolved and how they continue to drive positive change through engineering and design.

Ryan Mario Yasin: Inventor of Petit Pli

In 2017, Ryan Mario Yasin introduced Petit Pli, a textile inspired by origami that expands as the wearer grows. Designed to address the environmental impact of childrenswear waste, the innovation helps prevent clothing from ending up in landfill. Since his win, Ryan has opened a flagship store at Battersea Power Station and expanded his collection to include adult wear, maternity wear, and a range of accessories.

 

 

Bei Ning: Inventor of Rollo

Bei Ning, a 2022 National Runner-up from Singapore, created Rollo, a pocket-sized rollerball that relieves itching for people with eczema. Rollo provides comfort without damaging sensitive skin and has already helped over 2,000 individuals manage their symptoms. The invention has gained interest from healthcare professionals who are now exploring its clinical potential.

 

 

Joel Olympio: Inventor of OASIS

Joel Olympio, the 2023 National Winner for Ireland, developed OASIS, a wearable device that reduces distractions in busy environments using electrochromic film to dim peripheral vision. Motivated by his own experience with ADHD, Joel launched The Focus Co., a company specialising in wearable technology designed to support concentration. The team is now preparing OASIS for a limited market release in 2026.

Dr Yang Yue: Inventor of ThermoWear

Dr Yang Yue, China’s 2022 National Runner-up, designed ThermoWear, a smart and affordable orthosis created to improve comfort and support during rehabilitation. Since receiving feedback from the James Dyson Award, she has continued to develop the product, resulting in the creation of E-orthosis. This updated version allows healthcare professionals to embed electronics into existing orthotic devices more efficiently.

 

 

Gabe Tavas: Inventor of Pyrus

Gabe Tavas, the 2021 National Winner from the USA, created Pyrus, a sustainable alternative to wood made from kombucha waste. The material avoids the use of trees and toxic, petroleum-based components. Gabe’s goal is to help reduce deforestation and promote more sustainable materials. Since winning the Award, he has launched his own company, established a lab-scale production facility in Los Angeles, and begun collaborating with guitar manufacturers to bring Pyrus to market.

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