The Digital Twins Innovation Challenge is a national call for Sierra Leone’s young creatives, technologists, and storytellers to reimagine the future of cultural preservation. Participants will use 3D design, drone imagery, photography, and virtual reality to create immersive digital replicas of the country’s iconic heritage sites, blending innovation with cultural pride.

This pioneering initiative is led by UniPod Sierra Leone, in collaboration with KNESST (SL) Limited, with support from UNDP Sierra Leone and the Monuments and Relics Commission. It is part of the Technology Meets Culture and Heritage pilot project, which aims to modernize how Sierra Leone protects and promotes its cultural legacy by placing young people at the forefront of digital innovation.

What?

UniPod Sierra Leone, in collaboration with KNESST (SL) Limited, is launching the Digital Twins Innovation Challenge,a national invitation for youth to use tools like 3D modeling, drone technology, photography, and VR to build digital replicas of Sierra Leone's cultural and historical landmarks.

The initiative promotes creative entrepreneurship and technological innovation in cultural preservation.

Who?

The challenge is driven by UniPod Sierra Leone, implemented with KNESST (SL) Limited, and supported by UNDP Sierra Leone and the Monuments and Relics Commission, alongside other partners in the technology, youth, and cultural heritage sectors.

Why?

This challenge is part of a broader national effort to empower young people through digital transformation. It provides a unique opportunity to preserve cultural memory using cutting-edge technologies, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while nurturing Sierra Leone’s growing creative economy.

When?

• Challenge Launch: 14th August 2025
• Application Deadline: 31st August 2025
• Bootcamp & Exhibition: September 2025
• Location: Digital + In-person activities at UniPod Sierra Leone, Freetown

Where?

Hybrid activities will take place at UniPod Sierra Leone in Freetown, with digital content accessible nationwide via Monuments and Relics Commission. 

How?

Interested participants can register via:
📌 https://forms.gle/bxJbZFfozMcXzuENA

Innovation Challenge Categories:

1. Photography
   Capture themes of transformation, resilience, or local innovation through visual storytelling.
2. Drone Imagery
   Submit aerial footage or photographs offering unique perspectives on heritage, landscapes, or urban scenes.
3. Virtual Reality (VR)
   Design immersive experiences that transport users into cultural or imagined spaces rooted in Sierra Leonean context.
4. 3D Renderings
   Present photorealistic digital models of buildings, environments, or speculative designs.
5. Physical Renditions
   Build physical mockups or 3D-printed models that bring digital twin concepts into the real world.

The Digital Twins Innovation Challenge celebrates the intersection of heritage and innovation, with UniPod Sierra Leone, supported by UNDP Sierra Leone and the Monuments and Relics Commission,championing the role of youth in shaping how Sierra Leone remembers, represents, and reimagines its cultural identity for future generations.