Hi, my name is Jaya Dunn, and I’m a 10th grader at Strongsville High School. Since I was a little kid, I have been fascinated by the world of technology. I still remember the day I got my first iPod in second grade, a gift from my grandparents. That small device opened up a whole new world for me and sparked a curiosity that I have explored since then. By sixth grade, I had already built my first website.
My grandparents have always supported my love for technology, gifting me every device I’ve ever owned. But not everyone has the same opportunities. A few years ago, I worked with my mom, who volunteered for a program in downtown Cleveland helping children from the neighborhoods in Slavic Village. I helped create and distribute Christmas baskets for these kids, organizing these projects within their schools. It was a humbling experience to see the joy a small act of kindness could bring, but it also opened my eyes to the reality of inequality. While I had the privilege of exploring technologies as a child, many of these children didn’t have access to the same tools or resources.
Studies show that integrating technology into education can boost student performance by as much as 30%, yet so many students are left behind simply because they lack access. I believe technology has the power to transform education and create opportunities for every child.
The mission of my technology drive is to provide children with the tools, skills, and opportunities they need in our tech-driven world. I want to inspire others to see the potential of technology and ensure it’s accessible to everyone. I believe every child deserves access to technology regardless of their background, as it is essential for a child to learn and grow. I am confident that technology can inspire innovation in our next generation of leaders and help them unlock their full potential. Check back here for updates and announcements in the future!