Our Story

Founder & CEO
 

Kendra Choice is the founder and CEO of Young Gifted Techie. She has over 16 years of experience in Information Technology.

 

She earned her Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from DeVry University. She is certified as a Full Stack Software Developer, SAFE (Scaled Agile Framework) practitioner, Certified Scrum Master, and Certified Facilitator.

 

Kendra's passion for empowering youth originated with her experiences growing up in South West Atlanta. Her challenges finding guidance to enter the thriving world of technology fueled the creation of Young Gifted Techie. As a young black woman, she struggled with gaining access to the opportunities that would provide early access and direction in the technology career field. Remembering the difficult journey to securing her early technical career roles in project management and business analysis she launched Young Gifted Techie to help the thousands of other kids just like her. Young Gifted Techie strives to empower underserved communities with critical resources and knowledge needed to achieve technical career aspirations.

 

In her spare time, Kendra enjoys pouring time and attention into her family, traveling to places new and old, baking delicious treats, and expanding her mind through various podcasts.

Instructor
 

Elisabeth Dodd is an instructor for Young Gifted Techie. She has over 10 years of experience in software development.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at the University of North Georgia. Since then, she has worked as a Mobile Application Developer, Test Automation Engineer, and Software Engineer. She is currently Full-Stack Senior Software Engineer.

As the only female in many of her college courses and then the only female developer at her first few tech companies, she saw the need for more diversity in the field. There are a lot of excellent career opportunities in technology, and she feels strongly about creating a welcoming environment for anyone interested in the space.

When Elisabeth heard Kendra’s vision for YGT, she deeply felt it would be part of the change that the industry needs. She looks forward to seeing the improvements to the tech field as Young Gifted Techies enter the industry and the positive influence the program will have on the careers of many.

Treasurer
 

Jay Onibudo, CPA is the Treasurer of Young Gifted Techie and has worked in the finance and accounting space with some of the largest companies in Atlanta and some of the largest brands in the world.

He earned a Dual BBA in Finance and accounting From Georgia State university and later earned an MBA from the university of Georgia.

Although his career journey has been heavily focused on the financial function. He realized early on that even in finance there is a space and a need for tech. To boost productivity and efficiency He began to learn programming languages early that would help build more efficient financial models for his clients. Tech kind of adopted him. Tech was a newfound passion for him but he had always had a passion for mentorship and philanthropy. So when Kendra shared her idea that would become Young Gifted techie with him. He did not know how but he did know that he wanted to be involved.

Lead Instructor/Mentor
 

Toney Mauzy is a Lead Instructor/Mentor for Young Gifted Techie. He has been in the tech industry for over 17 years. 

 

Beginning with his Multimedia Design degree, Toney has traversed the tech industry with design, animation, video and web development careers along his journey. He is also an active Senior Web Developer for a major Atlanta based tech company.

 

Driven and passionate about his craft, he is working every day to improve his skills and grow as a web designer, developer / UX, UI specialist. With so many hobbies surrounding tech, it was only natural for him to be involved in such a beautiful program as YGT. He is dedicated to being a tech industry leader and teaching the next generation to be even bolder.

 

In his spare time, he is a father, certified gamer, Jui Jistu blue belt and tech hardware hoarder.

Instructor
 

James Leopold is an Instructor and mentor for Young Gifted Techie. Originally from Cleveland, OH, James traveled to Atlanta to study computer science at Georgia Tech. After graduating in 2016, he worked as a contractor putting together teaching programs around DevOps technologies. He currently works for Mannheim as a Senior Software Engineer.

James has been interested in computer-related things at a young age. Growing up during the explosion of the internet, he loved learning everything about the family computer. He was also inspired by his grandfather, an engineer at NASA during the space race.

James is passionate about teaching and helping students learn. He loves the “Ah Ha!” moment when a concept finally clicks for someone. The YGT program perfectly fits James, who loves to mix fun and learning. He is dedicated to the program's mission of empowering the next generation. As technology evolves, these technology skills will be essential and can empower our youth to accomplish things we never imagined.

In his spare time, James loves all things related to music. He is a guitar player, bass player, drummer, producer, and mediocre singer. He loves video games and spending time with his dog, Penny.

Staff

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With a background in Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, I embarked on a journey in the world of technology over 15 years ago. Little did I realize then the profound impact technology would have on my life. It has not only shaped my professional trajectory but has become a powerful force in enhancing the quality of life for me and my family, as well as my extended family.

Joining YGT has been a pivotal moment in my journey. It has offered me a unique platform to actively contribute to the change I wish to see in the world. As a member of this incredible organization, I have had the privilege of witnessing the unlocking of young minds. There is nothing more gratifying than seeing the radiant expressions on their faces as they envision a brighter future fueled by their own potential.

It allows me to play a role in shaping the next generation, fostering a community where young minds thrive and where the impact of technology is harnessed for the greater good. Together, let us continue to be agents of positive change, working towards a future where the benefits of technology reach every family, unlocking potential and brightening countless futures.

I look forward to continuing this journey alongside YGT making a lasting impact and creating a better world for generations to come.