In this Light Lunch video podcast, Hayden Blucher, Engagement Lead at the Building Institute Aotearoa, chats with our two RESENE Next Gen Award 2025 recipients, Shanta Persad and Ellie Graham.

Shanta Persad, PhD Civil Engineering at the University of Canterbury, shares her innovative solar calculator that maps solar potential in complex urban environments, enabling smarter, data-driven decisions for solar panel placement and building design. Her research is already recognised in industry and academia, and she is passionate about making clean energy solutions accessible to all communities.

Ellie Graham, completing a Diploma of Architectural Technology at the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand, focuses on bridging the gap between design and construction. Her idea uses short learning modules, onsite shadowing, and interactive tools to improve collaboration, communication, and project outcomes. With experience as a Quantity Surveyor, Ellie is shaping a career connecting design, construction, and management.

Watch the full conversation below as Hayden explores their inspiring ideas for the future of the built environment.