Uniting the World Through STEM at the FIRST Global Challenge in Panama

In November, will.i.am joined students from 191 countries for the 2025 FIRST Global Challenge, an international robotics competition celebrating engineering talent, innovation, and global unity. Taking place in Panama, this year’s challenge centered on the theme Eco Equilibrium, highlighting biodiversity in one of Earth’s most biodiverse countries.

We were honored to witness four days of competition, collaboration, and cultural exchange with the next generation of STEM leaders from around the world. On the night before the final matches, will.i.am put on a memorable DJ performance and shared words of inspiration and encouragement to energize the thousands of students participating.

According to FIRST Global:
“This year’s challenge tasked participants with navigating their robots through a rich, simulated world to carefully restore habitats, maintain ecological balance, and protect vulnerable species, emphasizing the delicate systems that support our planet and the critical role innovation plays in their survival. In addition, teams also took part in the Eco Equilibrium – New Technology Experience (NTE), developing projects that use emerging technologies to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable solutions within their own communities.”

Read the full recap of the week here.

Watch highlights from FIRST Global here.