The story of Young Genuises from Learning AI to Leading with AI

oung minds have an incredible capacity to learn and innovate, no matter where they are, if they have the right guidance, mentorship, and direction. 

In an era where technology is rapidly evolving, empowering young learners with the tools to understand and harness artificial intelligence is key to unlocking their potential.

Learning AI: A Shared Exploration

A group of passionate young learners embarked on a journey to explore AI in 2023, backed by the MaNaBu Movement and led by Arta Statovci.

While some might question why children should be introduced to AI at such a young age, these sessions proved that, given the right environment, young people can grasp and apply advanced concepts sooner than expected.

Among these learners was Atharva Kumar (Adi), a 10-year-old from India who began coding at the age of five. His curiosity and love for technology drive him to explore AI’s potential in making a difference in people’s lives. He shares his projects here.

Maya (11), a worldschooler, is passionate about environmental causes.

Maria (14), a creative soul has actively participated in AI sessions, working on projects and learning new tools, while

Rita Canolli, another enthusiastic participant passionate about coding, who actively participated in the sessions.

These young learners gathered weekly, engaging in discussions, experimenting with AI tools, and applying their knowledge to real-world scenarios. The sessions encouraged critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to navigate AI's potential challenges and opportunities.

The MaNaBu AI Sessions in Bansko

On October 7, 2023, in the town of Bansko, Bulgaria, a new chapter in learning began. The MaNaBu Movement, with the guidance of international AI expert Arta Statovci, introduced a groundbreaking AI session at Nestwork Co-Working Space.

What started as an introduction to artificial intelligence quickly evolved into a journey of exploration, critical thinking, and self-driven learning for young minds eager to shape the future.

Taking the Stage: AI Bootcamps and Showcases

The learning did not stop in Bansko. MaNaBu kids took their knowledge beyond borders, participating in international AI events. They joined the GIZ AI XForm Bootcamp with Arta Statovci and Young Geniuses, which took place from September 11th to 15th, 2023, in Kosovo.

On September 11th and 12th, MaNaBu kids took the stage, showcasing how they integrate AI into their daily lives and how AI can be used to address global challenges such as healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability.

Their presentations and projects demonstrated not only their technical skills but also their ability to think critically about AI's role in shaping a better world. These young minds proved that with the right support, they can go beyond just learning—they can lead.

Each learner brought a unique perspective to AI, finding innovative ways to incorporate it into their interests and daily activities:

From Learning AI to Leading with AI

Atharva Kumar (11): Adi now shares his experiences through his page, LearnwithAK, where he tests AI tools and discusses their benefits. opportunities.He makes content on AI and creates amazing products inspiring many young people to build and create.

Maria (15): Leveraged AI for content creation and translation, demonstrating its power in breaking language barriers.

Rita Canolli(14): Used AI in various hackathons, applying it to problem-solving challenges. Rita’s AI journey has propelled her into prestigious programs, opening doors to new learning. Her achievements culminated in her recent acceptance into the prestigious Synthesis School, founded by Elon Musk.

Shifting Perspectives: Parents Witness the Change

‍Parents, too, noticed a shift in their children’s learning approaches.

Daniela, the mother of Maria and Joana, shared a transformative experience:

‍“My kids were overwhelmed by an assignment to transcribe a podcast interview in Bulgarian. But then they asked, ‘Can AI help with this?’ Guided by Arta, they found the right tools.

The initial AI-generated text wasn’t perfect, but it saved them time and allowed them to refine it efficiently. This shift—from being unaware of AI’s potential to knowing how to seek its assistance—marks a fundamental change in their learning process.

‍Building Skills for the Future

‍The MaNaBu AI sessions and international bootcamps have shown that when young people are equipped with the right knowledge and mentorship, they don’t just learn—they innovate.

By developing life skills such as adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving, they gain the confidence to navigate an ever-changing world.With AI skills and hands-on experience, these young learners are not just keeping up with technology—they are driving it forward.

Through mentorship and exploration, they cultivate self-belief and self-development, proving that with the right guidance, they can achieve anything. As they continue to grow, experiment, and apply their learning, they are shaping the future with confidence and purpose.

The MaNaBu Movement, Arta Statovci, and their mentors have laid the foundation for a new generation that knows how to achieve self-confidence and acquire life skills by taking charge of their own learning and innovation.