Innovation begins with curiosity — the spark that pushes young people to ask questions, explore ideas, and create solutions that improve lives. At HOTI, we believe innovation is not just for scientists or inventors — it’s a mindset that anyone can develop.
Design Thinking for Impact
Participants learn how to identify real-world problems and build human-centered solutions using creativity and empathy.
Curriculum
- Introduction to design thinking: Learn the process that drives innovation across industries.
- Empathy: understanding user needs: Observe, interview, and connect with people to uncover their challenges.
- Defining the problem: Turn insights into clear, actionable problem statements.
- Brainstorming and ideation techniques: Generate multiple ideas through guided creative sessions.
- Prototyping with simple tools: Use everyday materials to bring your ideas to life.
- Testing and feedback loops: Improve your prototype through feedback and iteration.
Tech for Good
Shows how simple tech tools and coding can be used to create positive change in communities.
Curriculum
- Basics of digital problem-solving: Learn how technology can address real social issues.
- Introduction to coding for beginners: Build basic web, app, or chatbot projects.
- Low-code/no-code solutions: Create apps without advanced programming skills.
- Case studies: Explore examples of apps that changed lives globally.
- Group project: Build a simple tech prototype addressing a local problem.
Innovation in Everyday Life
Encourages participants to creatively reuse local materials for practical, low-cost innovations.
Curriculum
- Introduction to frugal innovation: Learn to innovate efficiently with limited resources.
- Understanding sustainability: Discover the value of resourcefulness and waste reduction.
- Hands-on activities: Turn waste into tools or useful products.
- Prototyping community-based solutions: Create small solutions that help local communities.
- Presentation and peer review: Share ideas and get constructive feedback.
Idea-to-Action Lab (Entrepreneurship)
Helps young innovators turn raw ideas into sustainable ventures or impactful projects.
Curriculum
- Identifying problems worth solving: Focus on challenges that matter to your community.
- Crafting solutions and value propositions: Design solutions that people truly need.
- Building prototypes and MVPs: Develop a testable version of your idea.
- Basics of pitching and fundraising: Learn how to present ideas and attract support.
- Business models with social impact: Combine profit and purpose effectively.
- Demo day: Pitch your ideas to mentors and investors.
Creative Arts & Storytelling for Change
Uses art, media, and storytelling as tools to inspire awareness and social transformation.
Curriculum
- Storytelling basics: Learn how to connect emotionally with your audience.
- Using art for advocacy: Express social messages through drawing, painting, or photography.
- Introduction to digital storytelling: Create short videos and online campaigns.
- Group project: Develop a campaign around a real social issue.
STEM + Community Challenges
Applies science and engineering to solve practical local problems through teamwork and mentorship.
Curriculum
- Understanding community-based challenges: Identify how STEM can make a local impact.
- Team formation and brainstorming: Work together to find creative technical solutions.
- Prototyping solutions: Use science and engineering concepts to build real prototypes.
- Testing with mentors: Refine designs with expert feedback.
- Showcase and awards: Present solutions at a community event.
Future Skills Bootcamp
Equips participants with emerging technology skills linked to solving social and environmental problems.
Curriculum
- Introduction to AI, robotics, and renewable energy: Explore how future tech drives progress.
- Practical demos: Try simple AI tools, solar projects, and DIY robotics.
- Case studies: Learn from innovators using tech for social good.
- Mini-project: Apply what you’ve learned to solve a local issue.