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IMPACT 0578: USING DESIGN TO MAKE EDUCATION MORE AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE

Youth Action Challenge (YAC) is a platform for youth to provide solutions that tackle the issues we are concerned about. Since October 2021, over 80 teams and more than 310 youths have undertaken the YAC Season 3 journey.

Aida Sevilla, 19, studies Experience and Communication Design at Singapore Polytechnic.

Her life has always revolved around creating, eventually leading her on the path of design. Now, she spends her time designing for her team at Stick’Em, which aims to make STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) accessible to everyone. Aida’s experiences have shown her the impact she can make as a designer, and she hopes to use design to make a difference.

What was your role within your YAC project?

At Stick’Em, I’m responsible for the designs. I am in charge of the art direction, graphics, and overall execution of the designs for our ecosystem’s packaging, website, and UI/UX (User Interface/User Experience).

What motivated you to join YAC?

We have always looked for opportunities to improve our knowledge and expertise. Joining YAC provided us with a stepping stone and a platform to connect with other like-minded individuals while also learning from mentors and industry professionals who could guide us along the way.

Can you share with us your experience with your YAC project?

Though YAC was difficult to balance with school, I did my best to participate actively. As a designer, YAC has given me the opportunity to experiment and learn new techniques to apply and execute during the process. I was able to learn new skills and apply them at work. Additionally, I gained some insight into the business and strategy side of things.

What are some challenges you faced while working on your YAC project?

I struggled to balance YAC with my schoolwork because I had submissions and projects throughout the semester, but spending nights on the design with the team and seeing how everything came together was well worth it.

Could you share more on how your project has a positive impact?

Stick’Em aims to make STEAM education more accessible to all by making it affordable and less intimidating for everyone to learn and try. By normalising robotics through programmes, engaging with schools, and collaborating with organisations that serve underprivileged children, we hope to be a part of a child’s learning.

Were there any key takeaways or learning points from your time with YAC?

For me, one of the key takeaways that I had was learning to be more confident about my own opinions and points of view, and sharing the views that I had because my contributions are valuable to the team.

This article was published on May 12, 2022