Hult Prize international student competition comes to MU

Viktor Liu is not only a second year student at MODUL University Vienna in the BBA in Tourism, Hotel Management and Operations program, he is also the mastermind behind the first Hult Prize on-campus event at MU. The Hult Prize is an international student competition that challenges young entrepreneurs to tackle the most pressing issues of our day. The theme of the 2017 Hult Prize, entitled “Refugees – The Reawakening of Human Potential,” focuses on creating and launching social business ideas and initiatives that aid in restoring the rights and dignity of people and societies who may be, or are forced into motion due to social injustices, politics, economic pressures, climate change, and war. We sat down with Viktor to find out what inspired him to organize the event and how he thinks students at MU can change the world.

How did you first learn about the Hult Prize?

I learned about the Hult Prize through a story featured on the MU News Network that detailed the journey of former MSc students who competed for the Hult Prize in the 2014 regional finals in London.

What inspired you to organize the Hult Prize competition at MODUL University Vienna?

It was a pioneering idea to organize a Hult Prize@ Campus event at Modul University Vienna, because there are no other Viennese universities doing it and it will be the first and only competition in Austria this year. It could also create new opportunities for MU students who are not specialized in the tourism and hospitality sector. Even though I am organizing this event as opposed to competing, I will also try my best to support the winning MU team and their chance to win the $1,000,000.00 USD to solve this challenge.

The 2017 challenge is titled "Refugees – The Reawakening of Human Potential" - why is this an important theme and what does it mean to you?

When I first started acquainting myself with the 2017 challenge and how refugees are currently struggling with the uncertainty of their fate, one of the things that I realized is that they are constantly pushing up against social injustice, which immediately connects with me as a descendant of the Vietnamese boat people. Through my own family history, this challenge has also become a personal matter.

How will teams and their ideas be judged?

Each idea will be evaluated based on the following five criteria: whether it is 1) aligned with the theme; 2) impact-centered; 3) feasible and market-driven; 4) disruptive; and 5) scalable and profit-minded.

Who are the judges for the 2017 Hult Prize at MODUL University Vienna and why did you invite them to participate?

The judges should have expertise with startups, business planning, and social innovation as well as governmental issues. Therefore, the idea panel of judges should include at least one member from the government, business, and academic fields. The judges will be revealed at the competition.

How does the Hult Prize reflect the core values of MODUL University Vienna?

The core values of the Hult Prize resonate with MU Cares perfectly because both stand for engagement and responsible living in keeping with the values of stewardship, responsibility, and respect.

What are the next steps for our competitors/winners?

The winners of the Hult Prize@ MODUL University Vienna competition will be determined on December 15th. After that, the winning team will be mentored by experts in order to prepare for the regional competition in London in March 2017.

Please join us for the exchange of ideas and inspiration at the Hult Prize@ MODUL University Vienna competition on Thursday, December 15 at 16:30 in Room 2.08/2.09! All are welcome to show support for their fellow students and actively engage with topics of social responsibility and sustainable living.