Stuttgart, Germany – In an eco-innovative twist that could rival the efficiency of a finely-tuned engine, the first cohort of the beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship is cruising towards the finish line of their 12-month program. This unique assembly of minds, including vibrant participants from India, showcased their forward-thinking projects at a “Global Summit” in Stuttgart, aiming to drive the world towards a greener future.
Launched with the roar of the auction hammer falling on the most expensive car ever sold, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé, the fellowship program by The DO School Fellowships is revving up. Initially welcoming 100 fellows from across the globe, Mercedes-Benz is now shifting gears to include 500 participants from 35 countries. This expansion is fueled by the auction proceeds of the iconic vehicle, illustrating a novel approach to philanthropy — converting classic car cool into climate action capital.
The initial batch, a dynamic blend of young visionaries from India, South Africa, and parts of Europe, have been laboring on projects that could potentially reshape our environmental landscape. From CO₂ sinks to water-absorbing asphalt, these fellows are not just dreaming of a better world; they’re engineering it. And with prototypes already moving from drawing boards to reality, the program is proving to be a fertile ground for sustainable innovation.
Mercedes-Benz, not content with merely sponsoring the event, has pledged continued financial support, ensuring that the fellowship can extend its reach further. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to empowering a new generation of environmental innovators,” stated Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, responsible for Integrity, Governance & Sustainability. “We’re thrilled to turbocharge this program from its successful launch, driving more young minds towards impactful environmental solutions.”
The fellowship, designed and executed by The DO School Fellowships, a German non-profit, not only offers funding but also a comprehensive educational journey. It focuses on leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, providing the fellows with mentorship and a platform to bring their visionary projects to life.
Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz employees are given the chance to develop as mentors through the Impact Mentor Training program, enhancing their skills while contributing to the fellows’ journey. This synergy between corporate expertise and youthful innovation underscores Mercedes-Benz’s broader corporate citizenship strategy, emphasizing environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
As the first Global Summit unfolds, the spotlight is on these environmental pioneers, ready to accelerate their ideas into reality with further funding and support. With the beVisioneers fellowship, Mercedes-Benz is steering a new generation towards a sustainable future, proving that when it comes to innovation, they’re in the driver’s seat.
