Aspiring Astronaut
Abigail
Harrison, 19
At 15 years old, Abigail served as “Earth Liaison” for Italian astronaut Luca Parmitanos, conveying his experiences in space to audiences on Earth. She then built a digital community of nearly half a million space-exploration enthusiasts. At age 18, Abigail launched The Mars Generation, a nonprofit rallying her peers around space travel and STEM fields.
“I love imagining a future where humanity is spacefaring," Abigail says, and “dream[ing] of the first steps on the Martian surface, of discovering life in Europa’s oceans, and of seeing the general public view our little blue marble from orbit. ... [Sharing] these dreams with others, especially kids, and watching their eyes light up, is incredible.”
Inventor & Tech Enthusiast
Alexander
Wulff, 17
Alexander uses technology to better our world. In 2014, he created HaptoTech -- small, wearable navigation aids for people with low vision. His other invention, CastMinder, is a monitor embedded inside body casts that helps avert complications like skin irritation. The projects won awards at the 2015 and 2016 International Science and Engineering Fairs.
“I would like to see an age where every child can use local resources to face issues in his or her community,” Alexander says. “Just imagine if every child were able to help solve the world’s challenges using … native ingenuity. This is why education in STEAM is so important -- it emphasizes the creative problem-solving and design skills necessary to tackle any problem.”
Front-End Developer
Anah
Lewi, 18
After learning to code in the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program, Anah has spread her passion for computer science. In the fall of 2015, she co-taught a front-end web development class at the General Assembly to young professional women. This past summer, she served as the logistics and management lead for PixieHacks() -- an organization that exposes young women to the tech industry through hosted events, including hackathons.
“I enjoy computer science because it is a way for me to express my creativity,” says Anah. “I have always been passionate about art, design and technology, and computer science allows me to combine my many interests. … [Many] of the skills I developed from coding are transferrable to other aspects of my life.”
Inventor & Coder
Anastasia Efremkina, 19
Anastasia discovered her interest in computer science in high school and has since joined #BUILTBYGIRLS to encourage girls to pursue technology careers. Last year, she and her team placed in the Top Ten at the PennApps hackathon, among a field of more than 150 hackers, and she recently secured her first patent, for her invention of a tracking device for firearms.
“In each division of STEAM you learn a new approach to a problem,” says Anastasia. “For example, through computer science you learn how to logically break down a complex challenge into manageable bites; and through art, you learn how to channel creativity for outside-the-box thinking. With a STEAM background you can solve any problem put before you.”
Scientist & Wilhelmina Model
Autumn
Greco, 17
Autumn created Sci Strut to combine her passion for fashion and STEM, encouraging girls around the world to pursue STEM careers. In 2015, she studied acute myeloid leukemia at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute, where she investigated autophagy inhibition as a promising therapy. She went on to conduct clinical research around retinal diseases.
“I love the incredible potential and space for discovery in cancer research,” says Autumn. “I’m fascinated by the complexity of microscopic matter … [and the prospect of] translating research into medical treatment is the most incredible part of this field.”
Inventor & Robotics Engineering Enthusiast
Benjamin
Hylak, 19
In the 8th grade, Benjamin identified telepresence robots as a great way to virtually visit his grandmother more often; however, the cheapest one cost about $13,000. This inspired Benjamin to create MAYA (“Me And You Anywhere”), his own telepresence robot, for only $500. Both MAYA and a second project, ALAIR (“Assisted Living Autonomous Internet Robot”), have earned Benjamin awards and the honor of presenting at the White House Science Fair.
“I hope to revolutionize the way humans interact with robots,” says Benjamin. “Our world faces many challenges, like an elderly population growing exponentially. … My mission is to develop robots that leverage mutual emotions, hopes and dreams to achieve a common goal -- just like humans do. I want robots to work with us, not for us.”
Coder & Hackathon Organizer
Caitlin
Stanton, 18
As a student at Girls Who Code, Caitlin participated in her first hackathon and noticed a lack of diversity in the attendees. She has since founded and been a head organizer for two hackathons,
def hacks() and PixieHacks(), dedicated to immersing diverse students in the world of programming.
“The perspectives that are brought to the table during technological innovations are typically limited, and that’s why I believe STEAM education for all is important and extremely necessary,” say Caitlin. “It not only educates people in fields that are now being used regularly in our daily lives, but also opens ourselves up to new ways of thinking and new issues we didn’t realize whenever technological progress is being made.”
Programmer & Violinist
Grace
Hong, 17
Grace realized technology was changing classical music when she listened to an orchestra performing alongside a DJ. As a violinist for the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra and founder of the first Girls Who Code club at her library, she emphasizes the intersection of music and technology to counter the stereotype that computer science is limited to mathematical and scientific applications.
“We admire Picasso’s paintings and relish Bach’s preludes, but we commonly perceive those as ingrained in the periods in which they were created,” says Grace. “With STEAM, art becomes dynamic; we perceive age-old compositions under different lights and we discover new artistic fields from the crossover of art and STEM.”
Scientist & STEM Advocate
Hannah
Herbst, 16
Last October, Hannah was named America’s 2015 Top Young Scientist after creating an energy probe that generates power from ocean currents and promises to mitigate energy poverty in developing countries. She has since participated in the White House Science Fair, spoken at the United Nations and received the Congressional Award of Achievement.
“When my parents put me in a summer engineering camp, I was hesitant,” says Hannah. “I was the only girl at the camp. After a few days of programming and building robots, however, I realized my passion for science and discovery. After returning to school, I received a letter discussing how energy poverty impacted my pen pal in Ethiopia, and [I] was inspired to create something that would give her stable access to electricity.”
At age 14, Jaylen started Bledsoe Technologies, LLC, growing it into a successful IT consulting firm with over 150 contractors. Now, he leads The Jaylen D. Bledsoe Global Group, investing in many tech and youth-led businesses. In the last year, he has spoken at the White House, to over 65,000 students, and to 15,000 corporate executives, including those from Facebook and Google.
“Seeing my mother struggling financially, I made a pact to myself that I’d take every opportunity ... to be financially successful,” says Jaylen. “In 3rd grade, I was selected [for] ... a weekly gifted education classroom alternative. … I was programming, making beats, editing a digital yearbook and editing videos. Between these courses and knowing of Bill Gates, I felt STEAM was an amazing area for me to enter … [with] immense opportunity.”
Tech Entrepreneur & Motivational Speaker
Jaylen
Bledsoe, 18
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“Seeing my mother struggling financially, I made a pact to myself that I’d take every opportunity ... to be financially successful,” says Jaylen. “In 3rd grade, I was selected [for] ... a weekly gifted education classroom alternative. … I was programming, making beats, editing a digital yearbook and editing videos. Between these courses and knowing of Bill Gates, I felt STEAM was an amazing area for me to enter … [with] immense opportunity.”
e 14, Jaylen started Bledsoe Technologies, LLC, growing it into a successful IT consulting firm with over 150 contractors. Now, he leads The Jaylen D. Bledsoe Global Group, investing in many tech and youth-led businesses. In the last year, he has spoken at the White House, to over 65,000 students, and to 15,000 corporate executives, idnsancluding those from FacvdfgsAt age 14, Jaylen started Bledsoe Technologies, LLC, growing it into a successful IT consulting firm with over 150 contractors. Now, he leads The Jaylen D. Bledsoe Global Group, investing in many tech and youth-led businesses. In the last year, he has spoken at the White House, to over 65,000 students, and to 15,000 corporate executives, including those from Facebook and Google.
“Seeing my mother struggling financially, I made a pact to myself that I’d take every opportunity ... to be financially successful,” says Jaylen. “In 3rd grade, I was selected [for] ... a weekly gifted education classroom alternative. … I was programming, making beats, editing a digital yearbook and editing videos. Between these courses and knowing of Bill Gates, I felt STEAM was an amazing area for me to enter … [with] immense opportunity.”
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“Seeing my mother struggling financially, I made a pact to myself that I’d take every opportunity ... to be financially successful,” says Jaylen. “In 3rd grade, I was selected [for] ... a weekly gifted education classroom alternative. … I was programming, making beats, editing a digital yearbook and editing videos. Between these courses and knowing of Bill Gates, I felt STEAM was an amazing area for me to enter … [with] immense opportunity.”
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iOS Developer & Stem Cell Researcher
Joshua
Meier, 20
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Joshua combined his interest in computer programming and biology to study stem cells and reprogram the natural world. A class project at age 14 led him to conduct award-winning research into identifying the genes that link to the cell aging process in artificial stem cells. He holds two patents and has published his research on stem cells and genome engineering.
“Today, risk propels me,” says Joshua. “I am excited by the many possibilities my research unlocks; ultimately, it will result in treatment for major diseases. While science is fun for me, it has become something more since embarking on my research. It is a call to action.”
Artist & Dancer
Kristián
Mensa, 18
For Kristián, art takes many forms. Not only has he attracted over 30,000 followers on Instagram, pairing hand drawings with everyday objects and iPhone photography, but he also participates in dance, music and theater. He has had two solo “SMART ART” exhibitions in Prague, competes in international break dancing competitions, and teaches younger generations about diverse, artistic pursuits.
“I think that our minds aren’t created to learn one particular thing or craft, but we should rather expand our abilities in every aspect possible to grow as people, love and complement each other,” says Kristián
Coder & Athlete
Lacey
Strahm, 18
Lacey is a superstar soccer player and Girls Who Code Ambassador. She shares her coding knowledge with peers and organizes tech excursions to companies such as Twitter, Tumblr and Buzzfeed. Lacey’s latest project combines her passion for sports with technology: an athletic app that uses data to not only track past activity but also recommend how to improve future performance.
“My greatest challenge was getting started,” says Lacey. “I always had the tools necessary to create my app, but I never believed in myself and my ability. … The best things in life don’t come easy. Anything worth your time will be challenging and will require you to overcome some form of adversity.”
Inventor & Coder
Maya
Koneval, 18
For a Girls Who Code project, Maya teamed up with other three girls to create a device that minimizes workplace distractions through wireless lighting and music controls. Her team entered the project in the #BUILTBYGIRLS Challenge and was named the winner, receiving $10,000 in funding. Maya is also an eight-time medalist in the New York State Science Olympiads and teaches middle-school girls computer science skills.
“With the right skills, you can build something that will make the world a better place,” says Maya. “Coding is a superpower that, if used correctly, has the potential to make a big difference. I am fascinated by what other people have created with technology, and I can’t wait to see what I dream up.”
Inventor & Scientist
Maya
Varma, 18
Using a 3D printer, Maya created a low-cost lung function analyzer to diagnose five pulmonary illnesses. Costing less than $50, her system provides the same functionality of high-end spirometers that cost thousands of dollars. The project has garnered many accolades, including first place in the Intel Science Talent Search and a special mention by President Obama at the White House Science Fair.
“Technology has fascinated me from a young age, and I eventually realized that my engineering skills could help me make an impact on the world,” says Maya. “In 8th grade, while presenting my system to diagnose diabetic neuropathy at a science fair, I met a judge who told me about his own struggles with the disease. In that moment, I realized that the work I primarily do for fun could have a real impact on people's lives.”
Scientist & Artist
Michelle
Marquez, 17
Combining her passion for science and art, Michelle proved that certain types of music affect the brain by discovering the mathematical structure of sounds that trigger selective emotions. She is also the founder of a neuroscience initiative that explores and promotes a transdisciplinary blend of arts and STEM fields, looking for a place “Where Science Meets Art.”
“The notion of the effects of music dates back to the ancient Greeks, when Pythagoras created several diatonic scales,” says Michelle. “There is an obvious connection between music and emotions … yet the fundamental questions [of] ‘how’ and ’why’ sounds can produce this kind of reaction [remain unanswered]. … How can we use this bridge between art and science to enhance [humanity’s] understanding [of] emotional flexibility?”
Coder & Jewelry Designer
Samantha
Steinberg, 17
After graduating from Girls Who Code, Sam began to explore the intersection between fashion and technology. Harnessing her interest in wearables, she is developing electronic jewelry with the Arduino and Gemma circuit boards. This election season, she was also selected by U.S. Rep. Jerrold Nadler (N.Y.) as winner of the Congressional App Challenge for “PolitiTeen,” an app which educates young people about the election.
“As a fashion fanatic, I have developed great interest in the wearables field,” Sam says. “Aside from fun accessories, wearables have the power to be utilized in any field! I’d love to combine my passion for fashion and social activism in creating a product that changes how I broadcast my thoughts.”
Inventor & Scientist
Samantha
Marquez, 20
Among the seven patent applications she already has pending, Samantha’s most noted invention to date is a technology that organizes cells in a new structure called the Celloidosome, to potentially regenerate human tissue or even entire organs, such as the liver or pancreas.
“For the research to have true meaning, I needed ... my invention ... to improve the lives of others,” says Samantha. “Guided by this renewed sense of purpose, I caught on to the potential utility of artificial micro-glands as a mechanism to repair and reconstruct glands such as the liver and the pancreas.”
Entrepreneur & STEAM Education Advocate
Sam
Stark, 20
As captain of his high school’s robotics engineering program, Sam competed in robotics competitions, securing NASA grants and various sponsorships. He has since deepened his interest in STEAM to explore the intersection of education and tech, creating a company that incentivizes people to watch educational STEAM videos online, and co-founding the news website College Reaction.
“In today’s society, science and engineering jobs are extremely viable and available,” says Sam. “Yet I think STEAM goes far beyond that. I believe STEAM gives you a problem-solving ability to look at an issue and critically reason your way through it. ... Furthermore, the ‘A’ in STEAM is crucial because the arts provide ... a novel perspective that allows you to problem-solve in atypical ways.”
Technology & STEM Blogger
Stefan
Etienne, 20
At age 12, Stefan started a personal-tech journal called LaptopMemo to share his passion for the field. He continues to blog about new technology and write hardware reviews, frequenting media briefings for upcoming devices. He has since become a hardware technology reporter for TechCrunch, a full-time computer science student, and published a Pearson textbook article about high schoolers and STEM.
“I love the fact that I’m always in a position to witness what is going on with modern technology -- some of it consumer, some enterprise, the silly startups and serious scientific endeavors,” Stefan says. “I get to witness, learn [and] utilize it all. Best of all, I get to ask questions as a journalist: to the creators, coworkers, PR agents, inquisitive readers and everyone in between.”
Artist & Dancer
Kristián Mensa, 18
Inventor & Coder
Maya Koneval, 18
Scientist & Artist
Michelle Marquez, 17
Inventor & Scientist
Astronaut
Samantha Marquez, 20
Technology & STEM Blogger
Stefan Etienne, 20
Entrepreneur & STEAM
Education Advocate
Sam Stark, 20
Coder & Jewelry Designer
Sam Steinberg, 17
Inventor & Scientist
Maya Varma, 18
Coder & Athlete
Lacey Strahm, 18
iOS Developer &
Stem Cell Researcher
Joshua Meier, 20
Tech Entrepreneur &
Motivational Speaker
Jaylen Bledsoe, 18
Scientist & STEM Advocate
Hannah Herbst, 16
Programmer & Violinist
Grace Hong, 17
Coder & Hackathon Organizer
Caitlin Stanton, 18
Inventor & Robotics
Engineering Enthusiast
Benjamin Hylak, 19
Scientist & Wilhelmina Model
Autumn Greco, 17
Inventor & Coder
Anastasia Efremkina, 19
Front-End Developer
Anah Lewi, 18
Inventor & Tech Enthusiast
Alexander Wulff, 17
Aspiring Astronaut
Abigail Harrison, 19
