Saksham, 17, made his debut in the 2024 MASK Awards Innovation Category, determined to reshape the intersection of art, technology, and culture. Still a student, he seeks to challenge the norm and push creative boundaries, driven by his belief that creativity is a catalyst for change.

Raised in the UAE, his parents—especially his mother—played a key role in nurturing his curiosity and encouraging him to explore new ideas. Influences like Franz Kafka, Osamu Dazai, and Virgil Abloh have also shaped his thinking, inspiring him to innovate and critically engage with the world.

His recognition at MASK Awards fuels his ambition to make a lasting impact through his work, constantly striving for new ways to inspire and challenge conventional thinking.

Awards

MASK Awards 2024, Winner - INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR

Innovators statement

'I create work that feels authentic and visionary. For me, progress is an endless pursuit of curiosity and originality. I’m constantly striving to inspire others to rethink what’s possible and redefine the future through bold, innovative ideas.'

Saksham Dixit's ideas entered into the MASK Awards 'Life under water' challenge

1. Develop Algal Bioreactors is an initiative that deploys floating bioreactors in the ocean to cultivate genetically engineered algae capable of bioremediation, carbon capture, and producing biofuels. These bioreactors will absorb CO2, detoxify polluted waters, and generate renewable energy, transforming ocean health and energy production.
2. Create Marine Acoustic Sanctuaries, an initiative that utilizes advanced sound technology to create quiet zones in the ocean, protecting marine life from noise pollution caused by shipping, drilling, and other human activities. These sanctuaries would use underwater noise barriers and sound dampening technologies to create peaceful habitats, promoting healthier marine ecosystems.
3. Establish Bio-Integrated Ocean Sanctuaries, is a revolutionary project that combines autonomous AI-driven drones, genetically engineered microorganisms, 3D-printed self-healing coral reefs, and nanotechnology to create self-sustaining, adaptive marine ecosystems that clean up pollution, restore biodiversity, generate renewable energy, and monitor environmental health.
4. Develop a Waste-to-Wealth Circular Economy Hubs is an initiative that transforms waste materials into valuable products and services in impoverished communities, using innovative recycling technologies such as waste-to-energy systems, and community-led waste management programs to create jobs, generate income, and promote environmental sustainability.
5. Create a decentralized Eco-Bio-Tech Smart Villages, which is platforms that transforms impoverished rural/urban communities into innovation hubs by integrating vertical farming, CRISPR biotechnology, renewable energy, and smart technology. Supported by a blockchain-based platform for transparent funding and community engagement, initiative aims to empower communities to achieve self-sufficiency, improved health, and sustainable development.