When conducting Crypto and STEM seminars at my school and the local Boys and Girls Club, it became apparent that there was a significant gap in the availability of age-appropriate educational resources for teenagers interested in cryptocurrency. Most of the existing online information was tailored toward adults full of technical jargon.

I recognized the potential for success in creating a platform specifically designed for teens, leading me to create Crypto Debunked. My vision was clear: to cut through the confusing jargon and provide clear and understandable information to help teenagers grasp the fundamentals of cryptocurrency. I crafted a comprehensive course and launched a website with interactive modules. I also authored an ebook titled "Crypto Debunked: The Ultimate Crypto Handbook for Teens" to ensure that the basics of cryptocurrency were delivered in an easy-to-understand and relatable manner for teens.

Furthermore, my passion for economic development and financial inclusion was fueled by the realization that a significant portion of the global population lacks access to essential financial services, as highlighted by the World Bank's estimate of 1.7 billion people impacted by this issue. I understood that by creating educational platforms, such as Crypto Debunked, I could contribute to uplifting others and fostering inclusive economic development.

I am addressing the lack of educational resources concerning emerging technologies: cryptocurrencies and blockchain. The limited access to reliable cryptocurrency information and the lack of financial literacy are both pressing issues.

I saw the need to help fill financial literacy gaps. A recent survey on Study.com shows that 60% of parents would like their children to learn about crypto, but this isn’t part of most schools’ curricula. Crypto Debunked is tailored to bridge these institutional voids. My course simplifies these complex concepts, making them relatable to teenagers. It's accessible online for free, and I have collaborated with 15 schools to incorporate my curriculum.

This is important to me as I feel that by guiding teens about crypto and blockchain, I can help make a difference in financial equity for many people, including minority groups, as traditional banking systems and financial services often exclude marginalized communities. 

This is especially important in my rural town, with 22% of the population at the poverty level. Since crypto is decentralized and accessible, anyone can send and receive funds easily, regardless of location and bank account status. As minorities traditionally invest less in stocks, crypto can create new wealth-building opportunities, foster an entrepreneurial mindset, and close the financial literacy gap.

My approach to tackling limited cryptocurrency education for teens is comprehensive and immersive. What sets my solution apart is its commitment to fostering understanding through interactive learning, making it engaging and fun.

The Crypto Debunked curriculum, featuring quizzes and simulations, provides practical insights into the world of cryptocurrency and blockchain. The curriculum includes not only a course but also a handbook catering to different learning styles. The Debunked App takes the immersive learning experience to a new level, combining education with enjoyment, setting a new standard in EdTech. 

I founded the Debunked Research Incubator to encourage hands-on exploration and innovation, allowing students to create their own projects and solutions and gain invaluable experience and confidence in the cryptocurrency space.

My perspective as a teenager sets me apart from conventional educators. Many sources of cryptocurrency knowledge can be one-sided, often promoting the pursuit of profit without considering the broader impact. My unique insights are rooted in presenting both sides of the coin, emphasizing not only the potential for financial gain but also the critical importance of sustainability and ethical use of cryptocurrency. This comprehensive approach equips teens to make informed decisions and empowers them to create a better financial future.

I've set Crypto Debunked up for success with a multifaceted approach. I have created more than the course website Crypto Debunked; I am creating a Debunked community. This also includes the Debunked App, Crypto Debunked Club, and I offer Crypto Consulting. I work with other teens interested in learning more in-depth, one-on-one, in a Debunked Project Incubator, where students can create their own crypto initiatives. I am promoting it through Debunked Blog, Debunked Instagram, and Debunked Newsletters. I've educated and mentored over 5,500 learners on Crypto, Blockchain, and DeFi, especially focusing on underrepresented communities.

I've introduced Crypto Debunked in 15 school programs and 25 Boys and Girls Clubs, ensuring widespread access. I plan to create a global impact by creating an international crypto curriculum so all students can learn about rising technology. I intend to expand the Debunked App by integrating emerging technologies like AI, enabling students to be at the forefront of the ever-evolving digital landscape. I've also helped various projects implement crypto and blockchain technology to scale their impact and collaborated with Nathan Montone of M31 to foster sustainable finance in Crypto.

My vision is to change the way teenagers approach finance and technology education, making it not just informative but transformative and inclusive.

Crypto Debunked has not only ignited change within the community but also cultivated innovation and empowerment among those affected by the lack of financial literacy. Three students from my local Boys and Girls Club were motivated to learn about crypto and create their own projects, learning the importance of education and mentorship.

JayShon, an artistic eighth-grader, initially confused by blockchain, became an NFT enthusiast when he found out he could digitize his art, and when he successfully created and sold his first NFT, it served as a powerful reminder of why I founded this project in the first place - to inspire others and showcase the impact of determination and mentorship.

Similarly, Sarah, who was always interested in entrepreneurship, inspired by the knowledge she learned, founded a blockchain club at her high school and took it a step further, launching a charity-driven crypto token.

Carlos, another student, saw the importance of mentorship, deciding to take a different route, becoming a Spanish tutor, and using his skills to create positive change through education.

This exemplifies how Crypto Debunked has encouraged students to take charge of their learning, initiate their projects, and propose innovative solutions. The collaborative atmosphere within my platform fosters a community of mutual support, reflecting the ripple effect of empowerment.