Aldrin Sojourner “Soj” Gamayon, a 22-year-old Communications Technology Management student at Ateneo De Manila University, made history as the first Filipino to win the Red Bull Basement 2024 World Final in Tokyo, Japan. His AI-driven platform, AgriConnect PH, aims to help small farmers manage risks from pests, soil moisture, and unpredictable weather.
The competition, held from Dec. 2 to 5, showcased AI’s potential to solve global challenges in agriculture, sustainability, and public health. As the winner, Gamayon earned a spot in a three-week Accelerator Program in Silicon Valley, where he will present his idea to industry leaders and receive mentorship from Plug and Play VC.
How AgriConnect PH Works
AgriConnect PH operates through three simple steps. Farmers install smart sensors in their fields, which collect real-time data on soil moisture, water levels, and insect activity. The information is then processed by AI through an app, which presents results in an easy-to-understand traffic light system: red for high risk, yellow for moderate, and green for normal conditions. Farmers can then take immediate action based on these insights.
“There’s no efficient early detection system for farmers. Quick action can mean the difference between saving or losing a harvest,” Gamayon explained.
A Vision for the Future
Gamayon competed against 110,000 pitches from 39 countries, making him the only Asian finalist. Despite initial setbacks, he was stunned when he secured the win.
“I wasn’t expecting it. Winning was just a bonus—I was more focused on the impact,” he shared.
His goal? To empower one million farmers by 2035. He’s currently seeking developers to transform AgriConnect PH from prototype to reality.
“I need a working version by March for my trip to Stanford. Then, in May and June, I’ll be in Silicon Valley for the Red Bull Prize immersion,” he said.
Beyond agriculture, he dreams of creating an AI-driven platform to support freelancers and ensure fair wages.
“Just start. Don’t overthink. The first step is what matters,” Gamayon advised fellow Gen Z innovators.
