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HCC’s student-led Codefest ignites passion for AI and coding for area youth

May 8, 2025

More than 55 middle and high school students from across the region gathered at Houston Community College (HCC) South Campus recently as part of a day-long Codefest focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and coding.

“What set this Codefest apart was its unique approach: students teaching students,” said Dr. Ravi Brahmbhatt, HCC's director of Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “We had a standout team of high school and college-aged volunteer instructors delivering hands-on workshops designed to demystify tech and ignite curiosity.”

The instructional team included:

• Adel Sisy, co-founder of Online Knowledge LLC and InspiredK.org, organizations dedicated to empowering K–12 students in AI, science and engineering research.
• Neev Shaw and Neil Shaw, co-founders of NexusQuest.org, a platform focused on using technology for community impact, with interests in AI and its intersection with medicine.
• Madhavan Vinod, founder of Entrevamp, an organization that provides entrepreneurial education to students.

The HCC event was co-sponsored by the office of U.S. Rep. Al Green (D-TX). It drew praise from local leaders and HCC officials, including HCC Trustee Dr. Pretta VanDible Stallworth, a driving force behind the Codefest.

"I want you all to take a minute and look around; this is the most multicultural coding group you will ever see," said Dr. VanDible Stallworth, who represents District IX. “You're amazing, extraordinary and have an opportunity that most kids your age won't get.”

The Codefest is poised to become an annual event for STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) engagement in Houston, Dr. Brahmbhatt noted.