YouthSpark in action: Adrian Ordoñez Tostega

By Megan West, Citizenship & Public Affairs, Microsoft

Adrian Ordoñez Tostega spent the past few months in the Seattle area volunteering with a local nonprofit focused on helping immigrant families learn relevant technology skills to improve their employability. Adrian, who hails from Mexico, is a member of the Innovate for Good program and we had the opportunity to catch up with him last week.

He has created Tech4Kids which aims to teach children in primary school the basics of computer programming through videogames and robotics, and builds familiarity and trust with technology at a young age. Adrian hopes that by introducing technology through these channels at a younger age, students will have more options as they look for college programs or employment later in life.

Adrian is passionate about using his computer science skills and knowledge to make a difference in the world. This passion, paired with the help of Innovate for Good and the Sprout e-course, has taken Tech4Kids from a mere concept, to a viable venture with a business plan and funding goals. Adrian is prepping to launch Tech4Kids in his hometown of Veracruz, Mexico after he graduates from University in June.

Supporting Adrian’s work is a great example of how Innovate for Good provides a global community enabling youth to collaborate, inspire and support each other while using technology to make a difference in their communities. As part of its goal to provide members with resources and information on building and maintain a social venture, Innovate for Good offers the nine week Sprout e-course.

Innovate for Good is part of Microsoft YouthSpark and is operated in partnership with TakingITGlobal, who through the Sprout-e course takes participants through each step of the venture development process with a high level of interaction and one-on-one mentoring.