The Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL) in Northwest D.C. has been a hub of innovation for young aspiring programmers over the past eight weeks. Through the Project Steam Ahead initiative, youth aged 11-17 have been introduced to the world of computer coding, equipping them with skills for the future.
Empowering the Next Generation
On May 9, the program’s culmination was celebrated with a showcase event where students presented their original video games and animated stories. The event highlighted not only their technical skills but also their creativity and critical thinking abilities. Rev. Kindred Curry, pastor of Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church and chair of the GWUL board of directors, encouraged the students to strive for excellence, stating, “If you are willing to go very well, you can go well beyond here.”
Dr. Lynn Nehemiah, chairwoman of GWUL’s youth education and development program, emphasized the importance of combining critical thinking with creativity. “Many know how to make computer games, animated software, and other electronic items,” she noted, underscoring the program’s success in fostering these skills.
Recognizing Achievement
Among the standout participants was Shaunah Boone, a junior at Dunbar High School, who received a $40,000 scholarship from LinkedIn and $8,000 from the Urban League for her project “Polite Enough,” a simulation game addressing gender biases. Boone plans to pursue mechanical engineering at George Washington University, supported by the scholarship funds.
Other notable projects included “Collect The Stars” by high school freshman Dylan Rowe and “Bananas! A Monkey’s Life” by Danela Kabebe, inspired by her childhood love for Curious George.
Guidance for the Future
Rev. Curry, who also serves as an environmental consultant at the National Institutes of Health, advised the students to be lifelong learners and systematic thinkers. His words resonated with the program’s mission to prepare students for a future where technology and creativity intersect.
Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.
