Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp: Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators
For the past three months, I’ve been working with the Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp, a nationwide program that gives high school students free, hands-on experience with artificial intelligence. It has been incredibly rewarding to be part of this initiative, and I’m excited to share a recent story that highlights just how powerful these bootcamps can be.
Most of my work focuses on supporting the teachers in our Fellowship and Bootcamp programs, but I will also be helping revise the curriculum used in our in-person AI Bootcamps this fall. In November, I’ll have the chance to attend the San Antonio bootcamp at Girls Inc. to help facilitate activities and see students in action.
A Bootcamp Alumna Makes Headlines
One of the most inspiring parts of this work is seeing the lasting impact it has on students. Recently, our Student Experience Manager, Kassandra Ayala, received a message from a young woman who participated in one of our bootcamps last year.
Kassandra hears from many alumni, thanks to the thriving network she has built to keep students connected long after the three Saturdays of Bootcamp. This particular message was especially exciting. The student, Tejasvi Manoj, was just named Time’s Kid of the Year for 2025.
Tejasvi created Shield Seniors, a website designed to help prevent fraudulent crimes against older adults. Her project uses AI to chat with seniors in simple, clear language and to scan emails, flagging those that appear to be scams. Inspired by watching her grandparents struggle with online fraud, Tejasvi turned her idea into a tool that could protect countless families.
Read more about Tejasvi and her award-winning project here.
Bootcamps Are for Every Student
While Tejasvi’s story is incredible, it is important to know that students do not need to have a background in computer science or other technical fields to participate in our bootcamps.
During the three sessions, students first learn the basics of artificial intelligence in ways that match their current level of understanding. Then, they choose one of several career tracks, such as sports, arts and entertainment, or health care, to begin developing a launchpad project of their own.
For example, a student passionate about sports might build an AI tool that analyzes athletic performance, while a student interested in the arts might explore AI-powered music composition or digital design. The goal is for students to apply what they learn to something meaningful to them.
After the bootcamp ends, students remain part of our community. They receive a monthly newsletter, continue as members of a private online group, and take part in virtual events featuring industry professionals who share their journeys and insights.
Apply Now
The AI Bootcamps are completely free thanks to the generosity of our industry partners. They will take place nationwide on November 1, 8, and 15, 2025.
Applications are open now, and the deadline to apply is September 30, 2025. Students can learn more, see participating locations, and submit their applications here:
https://markcubanai.org/students
Help Us Spread the Word
Please help us get the word out about these incredible opportunities. Whether you work directly with high school students, parent one or more, or simply know a young person who might be interested, your outreach can make a difference.
This is a chance for students to gain valuable experience, connect with others who share their interests, and have fun while building real-world skills. Who knows? Maybe the next Time’s Kid of the Year will get their start at one of these bootcamps.