The Hidden Genius Project in Chicago is making waves in the tech world by empowering young Black men to tap into their hidden genius. This national program, rooted in Chicago, is not just about teaching technology and entrepreneurship, but also about building self-esteem and fostering brotherhood.
Under the guidance of Eric Steen, the Chicago site director, young men in the program are immersed in over 800 hours of computer science training over a 15-month period. The program not only teaches coding and tech skills but also emphasizes leadership and teamwork.
One success story from the program is Yusuf Seward, who started as an intern and is now an innovative educator at just 18 years old. He guides the geniuses through leadership and coding exercises, helping them use technology to better their communities.
The program also provides support services, ensuring that the geniuses have access to tutoring, mental health services, and academic support. The goal is to create opportunities in the tech field for underrepresented Black individuals and to help each participant reach their full potential.
The Hidden Genius Project is part of a national effort with divisions in various cities, offering programs for girls, men, and women. The key requirement for participation is curiosity. To learn more about The Hidden Genius Project, visit their website at hiddengeniusproject.org.