The Youth S.T.E.A.M Hackathon at the City College of New York on August 1st was a blast. The event kicked off with welcome remarks from Dr. Vincent Boudreau, the President of the City College of New York and Marko Nobles, 2nd Vice Chairman of Harlem Week Inc.

This year’s panel was themed “Local Innovation Leads to Global Opportunity” and included Harlem Chamber of Commerce director Winston Majette, Marko Nobles, and representatives from MTA, Hormel Foods, and the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs.

Students in the audience were very engaged and asked questions regarding the obstacles these individuals face, how these individuals are preparing for the fourth industrial revolution, and how students can find a career they are passionate about. Later in the day, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer attended and offered her valuable insights.

This year’s Hackathon topics included eliminate poverty, create economic growth using tourism, encourage good health, reduce vermin in the city and increase civic engagement. Participants ranged from ages 5 to 17 years old. Teams worked hard to process their ideas, prepare and develop a presentation. Each team did a great job presenting in front of the large crowd. Overall, the Hackthon was a fun and worthwhile day.

More coming soon on Silicon Harlem’s time spent “Demystifying Technology” at Senior Citizen’s Day on August 13th at Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building.