Teen Earns National Award for Program that Helps Seniors Learn Technology.

After watching his grandmother struggle to keep in touch with family using tools like text and video-call technology, Aadi realized that many seniors struggled adapting to the internet – not because they couldn’t learn, but because no one took the time to teach them. 

“What if students like me, who grew up with technology, could help seniors like her feel less left behind?” Aadi recalled asked himself at the time.

In answer, Aadi started TechPals in 2022 as an IT club with a few of his friends. The group gathered at their local library to help a small number of seniors learn basic internet and smartphone skills. To his surprise, the library kept inviting the club back for more sessions, word spread and the number of attendees grew. 

As the program expanded, Aadi started a website (now found at techpals.io) to help manage logistics, including volunteer credits and session schedules. The program has since grown to 25 chapters, three countries and seven states and more than 650 volunteers deliver instruction[1] . The program has helped more than 5,900 seniors in its first three years. Fundraising efforts support device donations, general outreach and the creation of training kits for new chapters.

TechPal’s volunteers have impressively hosted 150 hands-on workshops at public libraries, senior centers and residences for seniors. They also provide online training sessions and educate seniors about online scams and fraud risks. Volunteers teach seniors a wide range of tech skills including texting, e-mail, uploading documents and video calling. These skills help seniors independently accomplish many daily tasks and stay better connected with their families. 

The rapid growth of Aadi’s ambitious program has not slowed him down. TechPals is now a student-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit working with New Hampshire representatives to help pass a resolution addressing the issue of senior digital illiteracy. TechPals' future projects include launching a podcast, developing a standardized digital literacy training curriculum and expanding to include international chapters.

“I’ve learned that social impact doesn’t have to require millions of dollars or a massive platform,” Aadi said. “Sometimes, it starts with a few students, a library room and the courage to show up.”

Aadi was named as one of 25 winners of the Barron Prize for Young Heroes in 2025[2] . The honor recognizes young people in the United States and Canada, “...ages 8 to 18 who have made a significant positive impact on people, their communities, and the environment.”

The Foundation for a Better Life and PassItOn believe that Aadi is a hero. He identified a glaring problem in his community and asked what he could do to address it. His action is a great example of making a difference. His program helps seniors feel more connected and valued in an ever-advancing technological world. 

To get involved or learn more, visit https://www.techpals.io