Congratulations to Somesh Sharma, an undergraduate in the Department of Physics, on copping the Best Innovation Award for the 2025/2026 Vincent HoSang Entrepreneurship Competition with his groundbreaking innovation, EcoStraw.

EcoStraw (Patent Pending) is a biodegradable drinking straw crafted from recycled fibers, offering a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic and paper straws. By transforming agricultural waste into a durable, food-safe product, the innovation maintains its structural integrity in both hot and cold beverages while naturally decomposing after disposal. Rooted in environmental sustainability and circular economy principles, EcoStraw not only reduces plastic pollution but also adds value to locally abundant coconut resources. Its unique formulation and processing method are currently patent pending, safeguarding the originality of its design and production process. Somesh was mentored throughout this journey by Dr. Peter Nelson, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, whose guidance helped refine the scientific and commercial viability of the product.

Somesh’s entrepreneurial track record reflects a consistent resilience to innovation that merges science, sustainability, and social impact. Through his team, Innovatech, they developed Piezosmart Mats, an energy-harvesting technology that converts vibrations from pedestrian and vehicular traffic into electricity. The project secured first place at the FORECAST Conference Grand Innovation Challenge, highlighting its potential to contribute to renewable energy solutions. 

Somesh and his team further demonstrated his drive for impact with FreshJA, which earned second place in the 2024/25 Vincent Hosang UWI Venture Competition.  This introduced an innovative approach to strengthening food security and improving agricultural efficiency nationally. 

Expanding into digital entrepreneurship, Somesh launched the Yaad Bites App, a platform designed to increase the visibility and accessibility of Jamaican street food vendors. By leveraging technology to bridge local culture and enterprise, the app enhances opportunities for small vendors while preserving an important aspect of Jamaican heritage.

He also created Storm Safe JA, a website dedicated to supporting Jamaicans during hurricanes and severe weather events. The platform fosters teamwork, communication, and information sharing, ensuring that communities remain connected, informed, and safe during times of crisis.

Together, these initiatives underscore Somesh Sharma’s remarkable ability to translate scientific knowledge into practical, socially responsive innovations. His work exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, sustainability-driven thinking, and entrepreneurial leadership in addressing real-world challenges.