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Triggering Change Competition FAQs | Sustainability | JCU Rome
sustainability
Triggering Change Competition FAQs | Sustainability | JCU Rome

Triggering Change Competition FAQs

When does the registration period to participate in Triggering Change start?

The registration period will be open in Fall 2025. The tentative dates for the program are September 15 - October 25, 2025.

What steps do I need to fulfill for completion of the program?

All participants must complete all the steps by the deadline:

  • Registration
  • First Sulitest Awareness Survey
  • Prep Sessions
  • Second Sulitest Awareness Survey
  • Pitch Submission

If you do not complete these steps by the deadline, you will not be able to continue in the program. 

When is the submission deadline for the Triggering Change pitch? 
In Fall 2025, the pitch competition is expected to end by October. Late submissions will not be accepted. When submitting, make sure that your video is uploaded on the Master Folder. For team submissions, include all members' names in the file's name.

Can I participate in Triggering Change if I miss a Prep session?
Attendance at all Prep sessions is mandatory. However, if you have a valid reason for missing a session, you can access the recording of the session in the Master Folder.

Is the Sulitest Survey mandatory? Is it graded? What does it involve?
The Sulitest Online Survey is a learning and knowledge-assessment tool intended to increase participants’ eco-literacy. You are required to take the survey to participate in Triggering Change. Not completing both sessions will result in not receiving credit for the pitch and not being eligible for the Certificate in Sustainability. The results of the Sulitest are anonymous and have no impact on your grade.

What are the key elements to cover in my Triggering Change pitch?
Your pitch should focus on one of the SDGs and address a specific issue related to it. Ensure that your pitch is actionable, relevant, and demonstrates a clear understanding of both the problem and the potential impact of your proposed solution. Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Why is the environmental or social issue important to your chosen audience?
  • What is the challenge from an environmental or social sustainability perspective (what is the "problem" you are addressing)?
  • How can your audience make a difference (what is the "solution" you are proposing)?
  • What are you asking your audience to do concretely (what is the "call to action")?

Are there specific guidelines for audio and visual quality when recording?
Ensure both audio and visual quality are excellent, especially when recording outdoors. This might affect the evaluation of your pitch.

Can I participate in Triggering Change to earn the Certificate in Sustainability?
Yes, once you have completed the requirements (completion of both survey sessions, prep session attendance, on-time submission of pitch), you are eligible for the Certificate in Sustainability.

What format should my Triggering Change pitch take?
Your pitch should consist of a two-minute video, either done individually or in a pair. No PowerPoint presentations or static monologues in front of a screen are acceptable. Be creative! Choose an unusual venue and a creative format that help engage the audience and make it want to act! In this order, you can choose a format and method appropriate to your idea, which might include a dialogue, prototype, or even a performance held in an engaging space. Be creative and catch your audience’s attention!

What are the judging criteria?
The judging criteria include:

  • Knowledge of the chosen SDG
  • Creativity and proposing a realistic, sustainable solution
  • Quality of the pitch and video

Who is on the selection committee?
The selection committee comprises:

  • Prof. Francesco Bedeschi, Residence Director, Faculty of Architecture, University of Arkansas Rome Program
  • Prof. Karen Cripps, Senior Lecturer in Responsible Management & Leadership, Oxford Brookes University
  • Giacomo Di Capua, Postgraduate researcher in Climate Health Economics
  • Prof. Michèle Favorite, Business Communication and Public Relations, John Cabot University
  • Asia Guerreschi, Ph.D. Candidate for Sustainability and Wellbeing
  • Prof. Carola Hieker, Honorary Professor for Transformation Leadership, UCL
  • Madiha Rehman, Malala Fund Education Champion, and Director of Programmes at AzCorp Entertainment