Highschoolers’ nonprofit STEM2Youth builds STEM literacy

Contributed by South Lakes STEM2Youth

SLHS students involved in STEM2Youth

Built by students for students, STEM2Youth is making waves in STEM education by empowering youth through hands-on, project-based learning. The nationwide 501(c)(3) nonprofit, established by teens Akhil Chada from James Madison High School, and Ateeb Afzal, Max Alfert, Shan Sakhia, and Daniel Echeverri from South Lakes High School, is dedicated to sparking curiosity, encouraging creative problem-solving, and building STEM literacy for the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Since its founding, STEM2Youth has engaged more than 650 children through its programs, with chapters established in seven locations nationwide, including Reston. Learners move through a variety of scientific and engineering concepts, from molecular ideas like DNA exon-intron splicing to fabricating solutions using computer-aided design (CAD). As more schools and libraries adopt the organization’s model of project‑based, hands-on learning, STEM2Youth’s footprint continues to expand.

In Virginia, STEM2Youth offers a wide array of activities, from multi-week after-school programs to weekend library workshops. In Reston specifically, the homebase for STEM2Youth, the nonprofit partners with various elementary schools and libraries, such as Lake Anne Elementary School, to deliver after-school activities to children. During the past year, the team has hosted more than 40 weekend library sessions in Reston and Herndon. “Each experience was made to lower barriers and build confidence for the youth. We wanted to show students that STEM isn’t just for the advanced. It’s for everyone,” Chada explained.

A major milestone for STEM2Youth has been their acknowledgment by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). The VDOE commended their much-needed impact on youth, connected their organization to state leaders in Virginia, and featured them in its newsletter. The endorsement affirms that STEM2Youth programs are aligned with the Standards of Learning (SOL) and positions STEM2Youth for new collaborations that will increase their impact in Virginia and nationwide.

Photo contributed by STEM2Youth

In addition to their programs, STEM2Youth launched a scholarship fund called Fund the Future to support students entering into STEM fields in college. The fund, awarded through a blind essay competition, will grant $5,000, $3,000, and $2,000 prizes to three winners respectively in late October to early November.

This effort directly aligns with their views on STEM barriers. “STEM2Youth was built by students who believe in the power of STEM to change lives,” Afzal said. “Our mission is simple: inspire, empower, and prepare the next generation to lead with creativity and purpose. I think we have a duty to bridge the gap between curiosity and action regardless of financial situation.”

For information, visit https://stem2youth.org/, email stem2youthva@gmail.com or call 703-203-4000.