Inspiration
We decided to tackle SDG 10, or reduced inequalities, and while researching the topic, we came to the shocking realization that migration is one of the most dangerous journeys anyone can take, especially without the proper knowledge or guidance. In 2024 alone, over 8,900 migrants died in transit, many of whom lacked basic information like how to travel safely/legally, who to trust, or even something as simple as where to go. That's why we decided to create SafeLink: we realized that most of the tools designed to "help" migrants don't even reach their intended demographic, whether it be a lack of internet, technology, etc. Our SafeLink SMS solution utilizes rudimentary texting services to provide help for those even without access modern infrastructure.
What it does
SafeLink is an SMS-based chatbot that provides all sorts of information to any migrant and refugee who is need. The founding principle of SafeLink is that in order to access it, all you need is a cellular device with basic texting capabilities, not even a smart device. By texting simple commands like “HELP [City]” or “EXIT [Country]”, users will be able to receive information of nearby shelters, legal aid, safety tips, and migration routes. It’s built to be anonymous, support multiple languages, and to work on any device that can text.
How we built it
Although we didn't fully create a live version of SafeLink for the competition, we developed a realistic mockup (see on website) to represent how a SafeLink chat would essentially work and look. Due to developmental limitations, we simply simulated SafeLink’s functionality through a browser-based interface and a couple scripted demo messages. Despite not being the real thing, the images are rather accurate representations of how our system would work and how the backend would interact with incoming texts if implemented in real time.
Challenges we ran into
Platforms like Twilio and Vonage that allow us to simulate a real SMS chatbot required setup and verification steps that took days, and so we couldn’t fully complete a live SafeLink bot in time. Without access to an active phone number or working gateway, we had to simulate SafeLink instead using scripted mockups and a browser-based demo.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
Despite the technical limitations, we’re proud that we validated the core concept of SafeLink. We designed a realistic SMS-based interaction flow tailored to the actual needs of displaced people. We created visual mockups that accurately represent how SafeLink would work in the field and demonstrated how simple, keyword-based commands can not only guide someone to safety, but even save their lives. Most importantly, we've laid out exactly how something like this should be approached, making the idea all the more feasible. It's not just a hypothetical solution, it's something that could be created and implemented today to have real world effects and help countless people across the globe.
What we learned
One of the most important things we've learned throughout this process is just how limited access to basic infrastructure is for most migrants. Things like internet, smartphones, or even consistent electricity are not guaranteed in the slightest. Many migrants travel with only a basic mobile phone, if any phone at all, and often rely on information that may be outdated or dangerous. This very lack of knowledge and connection is what leads to the displacements and deaths of so many migrants in the first place. In cases like these, what matters most isn’t some app with flashy features or a subscription service to make a quick profit, it’s whether or not someone in a remote area, with no access to smartphones or support, can get help with a single text. This understanding is what's influenced every decision we've made.
What's next for SafeLink SMS
Our next step is to continuing building and hopefully finish a working, live prototype of SafeLink SMS using a gateway like Twilio or Vonage. On a broader and more hypothetical scale, we plan to secure a toll-free or short code number in order to make SafeLink virtually free and easier to text/access. We’ll also work with NGOs and telecom providers to build and maintain region-specific databases of shelters, legal resources, and safety tips. As we grow, we’ll try to integrate satellite messaging through partners like Starlink so as to reach people in the most disconnected areas in the world, making SafeLink accessible literally anywhere on Earth.
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