Young Innovator from Tampa Showcases LingoTech in NYC

News Summary

Kathy Mendieta, a senior at Jefferson High School in Tampa, made waves in NYC with her innovative company LingoTech at a competition. Her product, Lingo Lenses, smart translation glasses, aims to bridge language barriers. Despite not winning, Kathy’s experience highlights the importance of entrepreneurship education and offers a glimpse into the future of tech innovations.

Tampa’s Young Innovator Takes on NYC with LingoTech

In the vibrant city of New York, Kathy Mendieta, a bright and ambitious senior at Tampa’s Jefferson High School, made quite a splash at a recent competition that resembled the famous “Shark Tank.” As the teenage CEO of her student-created company, LingoTech, Kathy showcased an innovative product that aims to bridge communication gaps. Her product, the Lingo Lenses, are smart translation glasses designed to assist users in overcoming language barriers and clarifying slang—or simply misunderstandings—that can arise in conversations.

Business Dreams Take Flight

This trip to New York City was more than just a competition; it was the dramatic culmination of Kathy’s journey through Jefferson High’s well-respected Business Academy. Renowned for its focus on finance and entrepreneurship, the academy has established itself as one of the best magnet programs in the Tampa Bay area. Under the guidance of the inspiring teacher Evan Statman, students embark on a path that often leads them to pursue business majors in college after graduation—over 75% of them, to be exact!

Real Problems, Real Solutions

The key to the program’s success is its emphasis on creating companies that address genuine real-world challenges. Alongside Kathy and LingoTech, another standout project from the class is TirePlug, a revolutionary concept featuring an airless car tire made from recycled plastic. This hands-on experience not only equips students with essential business skills but also fosters teamwork as they assume various roles within their companies, such as human resources, marketing, and of course, the big boss—the CEO.

Competition Success and Lessons Learned

Kathy and her classmates took home multiple accolades from various Florida competitions prior to their appearance in New York. With their great marketing pitches and product demonstrations, they captured the attention of judges and stirred excitement among audiences. Although LingoTech didn’t clinch the win in the Big Apple, they still generated significant buzz with the unique concept of their translation glasses. It’s safe to say that products like Lingo Lenses may just soon be a part of our everyday lives.

Reflecting on the Experience

Kathy emerged from the competition experience feeling grateful. While winning would have been fantastic, the opportunity to showcase her invention and meet other aspiring young entrepreneurs was rewarding in itself. The camaraderie, learning moments, and excitement of presenting her creation were priceless to her. Many of her peers also echoed sentiments of gratitude and satisfaction as they wrapped up their participation in such an exhilarating environment.

A Bright Future Ahead

The students in the Business Academy are fortunate to be learning about entrepreneurship and innovation at such a young age. LingoTech and TirePlug are just the tip of the iceberg. With the skills and experiences gained through the program, Kathy and her classmates will undoubtedly make a mark in the business world as they transition to college and beyond.

In other news, the Desir family, who had faced a challenging situation when their vehicle was lost to flooding during Hurricane Milton, received a replacement car six months later. It goes to show that sometimes, perseverance pays off, just like the journeys of young innovators like Kathy Mendieta. Through challenges and competitions, these students are not only honing their business skills but also crafting a future filled with possibility.

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Additional Resources

• ABC Action News: Jefferson High’s Business Academy
• Wikipedia: Entrepreneurship
• ABC Action News: Jefferson High’s New Program
• Google Search: Smart Translation Glasses
• ABC Action News: Local Students Win State Business Competition