The FIRST Global Challenge 2025, an international robotics competition often dubbed the ‘Olympics of Robotics,’ is currently underway in Panama, drawing young participants from 190 countries. Representing Suriname are Rechero Godlieb, Shivish Ramkhelawan, Ndari Mertotaroeno, Zayenn Soebarman, and Jason Wong Loi Sing. This talented team, aged between 14 and 18, received their invitation just a month ago. Despite the tight timeline, they managed to design and build a fully functional robot in just ten days, meeting all international standards to qualify for the competition. The event, held at the Panama Convention Center, focuses on the theme ‘Eco Equilibrium,’ encouraging participants to develop robots that address pressing environmental issues and promote biodiversity conservation. This marks Suriname’s sixth participation in the prestigious event. The team, guided by Julie Sundar of the Codettes Foundation and Theo Boomsma of IoTLab Suriname, expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness. ‘It’s such a big stage. We’re absolutely ecstatic,’ they shared. The journey to Panama was no small feat, requiring meticulous preparation of travel documents and technical verifications in a short span. The team extended their gratitude to parents, the U.S. Embassy, and key supporters like Giovanni Mertotaroeno and Rody Kartowirjo for their invaluable assistance. Suriname’s young innovators are proud to represent their nation on this global platform and are determined to make their mark in the competition.