Giving Compass' Take:

• Project Invent is an initiative to usher in the next generation of makers so that we encourage kids to replace antiquated solutions with fresh innovative ideas that will help to solve the world's future problems. 

• How can we create access for all youth that want to catalyze change?

• Read about how to build a makerspace to foster creativity. 

There are not enough people working on our world’s most pressing issues. From the refugee crisis to climate change to disaster relief, there are an infinite set of problems to solve, but not enough people standing up to address them.

And it is clear how differently our most vulnerable populations are served by innovation. For example, while Amazon has robotic warehouses and a 2-day delivery promise, we still have the same antiquated ways of getting donations to people on time after a hurricane hits.

There are huge disparities in how our most marginalized communities are served. It is clear that it is not more bankers and consultants that we need, but more impact-driven problem solvers. We need people willing to step up and find new ways to address age-old problems.

And our youth are the generation to do that. But in order for them to play a role in building a better future, they need to be equipped with the tools to take action and the confidence to step up.

With Project Invent, the initiative I lead, we spend our days thinking about how we can catalyze youth to build a better world. Because all youth have ideas that can change the world. We just need to help them see that.

Project Invent have designed incredibly impactful technologies, inventing everything from smart wallets to help the blind detect bill denominations to new products to combat stress & anxiety. 60% of our teams have been recognized in national competitions and 80% continue their projects into the second year, inspired to continue to create their impact. Driven by their desire to make a change, students are eager to learn the tools and processes to get there.

Read the full article about future leaders by Connie Liu at Getting Smart