In quiet library rooms lined with bookshelves, she takes Zoom calls from across the country that connect students young and old to learn the language of technology.
At the center of it all is East junior Shubhangi Srishti, a teenager whose vision created TechElevate, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging the digital divide to empower the next generation of tech leaders. In the summer of 2024, Srishti founded TechElevate after noticing a problem in her community, and is currently helping around 1,200 people across the country with lessons from learning how to code to scam prevention. Growing up with technology around her, Shristi realized the influence she and others could have on older generations with the technological skills they have to share.
“As young people, we have a lot of knowledge on technology. I think there was a big gap, especially in our community,” Srishti told Spark. “Senior [citizens] can ask personalized questions, and also learn about how to stay safe online and learn some fundamental digital skills [from younger people].”
Coding is “the new basic literacy,” co- founder of TechElevate and East junior Shrey Rana told Spark. “In the 1900s, you needed to know how to read and write. Today, you need to understand the digital world.”
Texas student Sarthak Pandya shared that he was deeply impacted by TechElevate in ways that he believes can help other students too.
“TechElevate is important for kids and teens because it gives them an introduction into coding,” Pandya told Spark. “[Students] can find their passion from TechElevate.”
The founders and volunteers at TechElevate plan to reach out to as many countries as they can to broaden their influence. This experience has helped Srishti find her passion for helping others, and has taught her valuable lessons she can apply to her life.
“Through TechElevate, I’ve found my purpose: to teach, to protect, and to elevate others through technology,” said Srishti. “From a little girl who once couldn’t stick to anything, I’ve become someone who has found a lifelong passion and I’m excited to share that passion with the world.”
