Hi Timothy, how did you come up with your project idea?

I investigated the problem that blind people have when they encounter out of the ordinary obstacles while walking in public spaces. Obstacles such as scaffolding, ladders, signage boards and wing mirrors from large vehicles are hazardous to them. It’s not just the natural obstacles, such as overhanging tree branches they worry about. Blind people have no way of knowing if they are approaching such obstacles. Having witnessed this in my home town on numerous occasions I began thinking and planning of a way to solve this problem by using technology.

What inspires you?

The question I had was “Is technology assisting blind and visually impaired people to its fullest potential?” In today’s world blind people are facing problems such as obstacles that we take no notice of as we can actually see them. Finding out that this problem affects the lives of over 6,500 blind in Ireland (NCBI) and over 39 million blind people in the world, I wanted to help.  Also having witnessed this in my home town on numerous occasions I began thinking and planning of a way to solve this problem by using technology.

What advice will you give to other young people?

The idea is always the hardest thing to come-up with. I recommend to simply look at problems all around you that people are facing. Ask family members, friends and even mentors. The simplest solution to a problem is often the most life changing.

 

CoderDojo Coolest Projects is a world leading showcase that inspires the next generation of digital creators, innovators, change makers and entrepreneurs. The CoderDojo Coolest Projects Showcase offers young people from the international CoderDojo Community the opportunity to present the projects they have created at their local CoderDojo. It is both a competition and exhibition to showcase, inspire and enable innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship and technology skills in youth innovators aged 7 – 17.