How FIRST Global Challenge Shaped My Vision for the Future

Imagine this: a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity arrives at your doorstep. An invitation not just to participate but to build something extraordinary—a robotics team to represent Madagascar on the world stage at the FIRST Global Challenge. Fourteen years of commitment, countless hurdles, and a singular goal: nurturing the scientific minds of tomorrow. It was both exhilarating and daunting. But I said yes, fueled by a conviction that Malagasy youth could shine, given the right tools and guidance.

The first step? Assemble a dream team. But in a country where robotics isn’t part of the high school curriculum, this was no small feat. It meant diving headfirst into unfamiliar waters, learning alongside the team, and rallying the enthusiasm of curious, passionate young minds scattered across the island. Together, we took on the improbable task of preparing for an international competition in less than a year.

The Road to Team Madagascar: A Recruitment Adventure

Finding the right team members was like uncovering hidden treasures. From one school to another, I met students brimming with potential—creative thinkers, team players, and problem-solvers who only needed a spark to ignite their brilliance. The selection process was rigorous, prioritizing collaboration and perseverance over pure technical aptitude. It wasn’t just about building robots; it was about building a resilient team with a shared vision.

Building a Robot, Forging a Family

What followed was a whirlwind of late-night brainstorming, trial-and-error experiments, and moments of sheer joy as we overcame challenges together. Every obstacle—a stubborn motor, a glitchy code—was an opportunity to grow closer. What began as a group of strangers evolved into a family bonded by trust, determination, and an unshakable belief in what we could achieve.

Lessons in STEM and Beyond: A Mentor’s Perspective

The FIRST Global Challenge wasn’t just about technical skills; it was a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and teamwork. Using standardized kits from REV Robotics, we learned to innovate within constraints, turning limitations into opportunities. Programming became our language, and mechatronics taught us to think holistically—every gear, sensor, and circuit working in harmony.

My role as a mentor was as much about teaching algorithms as it was about nurturing confidence. Every “aha” moment from my students reaffirmed that education isn’t just about passing down knowledge; it’s about kindling curiosity and empowering others to dream bigger.

Leadership: Equal Parts Inspiration and Grit

Leading Team Madagascar taught me that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about creating space for others to shine. I learned to balance strategy with empathy, to guide without overshadowing. From managing conflicts to making tough decisions under pressure, the experience honed my ability to inspire, adapt, and unite.

Travel Adventures and Global Perspectives

Every competition brought new challenges—and new stamps on our passports. From Washington, D.C., to Dubai, these trips were about more than robotics. They were windows into other cultures, reminders of how interconnected we are. Navigating travel logistics and budgets was an exercise in patience and creativity, but it was worth it for the lessons learned and connections made.

Personal Growth Through Giving Back

This journey demanded sacrifices—financial, emotional, and personal—but it gave back in ways I never expected. Volunteering to mentor these young talents taught me resilience, adaptability, and the unparalleled joy of watching others succeed. It was a reminder that the best investments aren’t in things but in people.

Beyond the Robots: A Movement for Madagascar

The FIRST Global Challenge became more than a competition; it sparked a movement. Today, the impact reverberates through classrooms and communities across Madagascar. It’s a testament to the power of education and opportunity to transform lives. Watching my students tackle challenges with ingenuity and confidence fills me with hope for the future.

The Takeaway: Education as a Catalyst for Change

This journey wasn’t just about building robots; it was about building bridges—to new opportunities, to global collaboration, and to a future where Malagasy youth take their place on the world stage. The FIRST Global Challenge showed me that education isn’t just a tool—it’s the key to unlocking potential, sparking innovation, and shaping a brighter tomorrow.

With Joe Sestak, in Washington DC in 2017.

For me, the greatest reward wasn’t the competition itself but the ripple effect it created: a generation inspired to dream, innovate, and lead. If that’s not shaping the future, I don’t know what is.

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