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connectit360.org l Contact: info@connectit360.org or (727) 742-7332 NGT360 2.0 NEWSLETTER EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION August 2025 Edition MAIN STAGE MOMENTS NGT36O DEBUTS YOUTH INNOVATION AT HISTORIC WAWABILITY 2025 On Day Two, Robyn and the Mobixx team shared how NGT360’s mission to provide accessibility for all was inspired by Robyn’s sister Susie—and built on the belief Connect-IT 360 proudly showcased its award-winning youth that true innovation means designing with people, not just innovation program, NGT360, at WAWABILITY 2025 on July 11 for them. and 12, a landmark event celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). During this historic The students echoed that summit, NGT360 shared it's mission on a national level: message in their own words: Empowering high school students to become purpose-driven innovators using technology, empathy, and creativity to solve “It’s been a transformational real-world accessibility challenges. journey.” – Madeline Chadwick For founder Robyn Mussler, “Accessibility isn’t optional.” the event was deeply – Leila Rivera personal. She reflected on her sister Susie, who had “We had a team of mentors Down syndrome, saying, who never gave up.” – Anshita Sahu “Imagine a world where we see each soul for its light, not Mobixx is proof that NGT360 doesn’t just create innovators its limits. That’s the world —it creates changemakers who lead with empathy and Susie saw—and the one I’ve build with purpose. believed in since the day she was born.” BIG One of the most powerful moments of WAWABILITY 2025 came when NGT360 highlighted the power of youth-driven THANKS, innovation by featuring Mobixx, the winners of the 2024-25 season. BIG Team Mobixx unveiled the MobiGlove—a wearable device IMPACT! paired with a mobile app to help individuals with hand mobility challenges regain function and independence KICKING OFF WITH BOLD IDEAS We extend our heartfelt thanks to the WAWABILITY team for allowing us to share our mission and for creating a space where accessibility is not just a theme, but a lived On Day One, NGT360 Founder Robyn commitment. Mussler and Vice Chair Scott Vejdani teamed up with Mobixx for a virtual Special thanks and congratulations to Warren "Wawa" panel at the WAWABILITY 2025 Snipe, AnnMarie Killian, Foo Dog Productions, Inc., Andrew Future of Accessibility Summit, White, Tiffany K. White, Au.D., and Chris Wilson for leading where students shared how NGT360 such a powerful and inspiring event. transformed them—with expert mentorship, insights into accessible NEXT GEN IN MOTION design, and hands-on experience. Later at the Technology Expo, NGT360 showcased the program alongside industry leaders like ZP Better Together, CSD, and Amazon. Mobixx unveiled their prototype, and alumna Nitya Padmanabhan (2022–23 Watch their Journey winner), now studying at the University of Maryland, shared how the program still From interns to innovators, from competitors to shapes her path today. changemakers, Alex Kranias and Nia Balieva are proof of what’s possible when we invest in youth through opportunity, mentorship, and real-world experience. Stories like theirs wouldn’t happen without the guidance of our dedicated mentors. Make an impact on the next generation - join us today!
connectit360.org l Contact: info@connectit360.org or (727) 742-7332 NGT360 2.0 NEWSLETTER EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION August 2025 Edition LOOKING BACK TO MOVE FORWARD SHARKMAKERS UNVEILED: A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS SOONS Season 10 marked a major milestone—our first year challenging students to design tech solutions that improve accessibility for people with disabilities. At WAWABILITY 2025, we announced Sharkmakers—the next evolution of our mission to unlock opportunity for all. The result? Real innovation powered by empathy and creativity. Focused on accessible innovation and community As we prepare for Season 11, we’re continuing our mission to collaboration, Sharkmakers will provide new pathways to show that designing with accessibility in mind helps create a mentorship, funding, and leadership training. better world for everyone. Join us in looking back at the season that redefined what youth-powered innovation can do! “Sharkmakers empowers youth to become bold, purpose-driven innovators— creators who lead with empathy, build with intention, and solve real problems others often overlook” Learn how Sharkmakers is shaping the leaders of tomorrow—more exciting updates coming soon! Learn More! WHAT’S NEXT: BUILDING SEASON 11 TOGETHER As we prepare for Season 11, we remain committed to designing with accessibility in mind and creating a world where everyone Stay tuned—new Teen Innovators episodes are on the way! belongs. To power this mission, we’re looking for passionate mentors, sponsors and students to join us: In the meantime, check out the full series on YouTube to Mentors: Inspire future innovators. dive into our student-hosted podcast that connects future Share your expertise and help students Become a Mentor leaders to expert business insights, startup resources, and turn big ideas into real solutions. the journeys of young innovators in the NGT360 program. Sponsors: Help us grow our impact! Your support provides scholarships, tools, Become a Sponsor and opportunities that open doors. CELEBRATING IN AUGUST Students: Learn more about joining NGT360, where you can build real tech, Get More Info pitch your ideas, and become an innovator!
