Neo Hutiri: Why COVID-19 presents the best opportunity for the youth to innovate

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a wave of challenges for individuals worldwide, especially for those who rely on regular medication to manage chronic conditions. In South Africa, concerns around how chronic patients can safely collect their medicines without coming into contact with potentially sick individuals have been growing. Addressing this issue head-on is entrepreneur Neo Hutiri, the mastermind behind the innovative Pelebox system, which has revolutionized the way patients access their medications, cutting down queue times from hours to mere seconds. Hutiri's journey to developing Pelebox began in 2014 when he was diagnosed with TB and found himself spending hours in queues at the local clinic to collect his monthly medication, like millions of other South Africans. Determined to streamline this process and ensure that patients could receive their treatment quickly and efficiently, Hutiri conceptualized the smart locker system known as Pelebox. The Pelebox system operates by pre-packing medication into secure lockers, which then notify patients via SMS when their medication is ready for collection. With a unique digital pin, patients can access the locker, retrieve their medication, and be on their way, all without the need to stand in long queues or interact directly with healthcare workers. This contactless approach not only saves time but also minimizes the risk of exposure to potential illnesses, a crucial consideration in the current COVID-19 landscape. While Pelebox was developed prior to the pandemic, Hutiri and his team have swiftly adapted the system to further enhance patient safety in light of COVID-19. By incorporating hand sanitizer stations at the machines and implementing a touchless door opening mechanism via USSD, Pelebox ensures that individuals can collect their medication with minimal risk of virus transmission. Beyond the innovative technology itself, Hutiri's story serves as a beacon of inspiration for young people, particularly in the midst of economic uncertainty and job insecurity. In a time where many are grappling with the fear of losing jobs or struggling to sustain their businesses, Hutiri's outlook on the current crisis is refreshingly optimistic. He sees the pandemic not only as a challenge but as an opportunity for young entrepreneurs and innovators to think creatively and develop solutions that cater to the pressing needs of society. Hutiri emphasizes the importance of seizing the moment and leveraging one's skills and ingenuity to create new opportunities in the market. Whether individuals identify as entrepreneurs, innovators, or simply problem-solvers, the current climate calls for proactive thinking and a willingness to step outside the traditional employment mold. The COVID-19 crisis has paved the way for a heightened receptivity to grassroots innovators, encouraging them to bring forth solutions that can make a tangible impact on communities. As the global landscape continues to evolve in response to the pandemic, stories like Neo Hutiri's serve as a reminder of the power of innovation and resilience in times of adversity. By harnessing the spirit of creativity and adaptability, individuals can not only navigate the challenges presented by COVID-19 but also emerge stronger and more equipped to shape a better future for themselves and their communities.