Taking on the urban water challenges of the 21st century needs vision and leadership, something Singapore and the Netherlands have learnt over many years. The water story of both countries is one driven by long-term and visionary planning. It is thanks to the vision and leadership of unique individuals – politicians, engineers, urban designers, ecologists, etc. – and the collective commitment of national institutions that Singapore and the Netherlands succeeded to embrace their natural environment to the advantage of its people.

It is in this spirit and in recognition of the important role the next generations of water leaders have to play in addressing the 21st century urban water challenges, the Singapore-Netherlands Water Challenge in 2014 challenged students worldwide to develop and express their personal vision and leadership on urban water management.