Abran Maldonado, co-founder of CreateLabs Ventures, takes us on a fascinating journey from the pulsating beats of Hot 97 to the transformative world of education technology. Discover how his experiences as a Gates Scholar and his deep commitment to urban education fused with his love for music to create innovative educational tools. Abran's story is one of turning personal passions into powerful platforms for change, focusing on the development of a hip hop-themed education app that engages students through cultural connections.

Listeners will uncover the exciting opportunities being forged at the crossroads of tech, media, and education. From the founding of CreateLabs Ventures alongside Grady to the launch of the New School app, designed to make learning relatable, this episode highlights how technology can bridge gaps in underserved communities. Learn about the creative strategies Abran and his team employ, like pop-up tech events and unconventional hiring practices, to foster inclusive growth and development.

Concluding with a forward-thinking dialogue on AI and AR in education, we introduce Clara, the AI ambassador inspiring young minds. Through real-world examples, Abran discusses how AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance educational equity and support personalized learning experiences. This episode offers insights into how embracing technology not only empowers educators and students but also prepares future generations for the challenges ahead, emphasizing the collective effort required to innovate and transform education.

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EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

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