Day 4. Tanmay Bakshi: The Prodigy Shaping the Future of AI.

Imagine being 14 years old and already a leading voice in the world of artificial intelligence (AI). This is the reality for Tanmay Bakshi, who became the youngest IBM Watson programmer, a remarkable achievement that has made him a global sensation. As we continue our “30 Days of Celebrating Youth: Explorers & Innovators” series, we are honored to highlight Tanmay’s extraordinary contributions to AI and his journey as a young innovator inspiring others to explore the possibilities of technology.

A Passion for Coding
Tanmay’s fascination with computers began when he was just five years old. By the age of nine, he had already developed his first iOS app. His curiosity and passion for coding quickly evolved into a deep interest in machine learning and artificial intelligence, fields that would soon become his playground for innovation. Tanmay’s early exposure to coding and his relentless pursuit of knowledge led him to explore the capabilities of IBM Watson, a powerful AI platform that analyzes large amounts of unstructured data.

Breaking New Ground with IBM Watson
At the age of 12, Tanmay became the youngest person to develop an application using IBM Watson’s AI capabilities. His first project was “AskTanmay,” an AI-powered application designed to answer questions and assist developers with programming. This achievement was groundbreaking, not only because of his age but also because it demonstrated the potential of AI to be accessible and useful to everyone, regardless of their level of expertise.

Tanmay’s work with IBM Watson has since expanded into various areas, including natural language processing, deep learning, and neural networks. He has developed multiple AI models and has even collaborated with IBM on projects aimed at improving healthcare, education, and accessibility through technology.

A Mission to Educate and Inspire
Beyond his technical achievements, Tanmay is deeply committed to sharing his knowledge and inspiring others to learn about AI and coding. He has spoken at numerous conferences, including TEDx, and has authored books and online courses to teach people of all ages about machine learning and AI. His YouTube channel, which he started at the age of seven, now serves as a platform where he educates and engages with a global audience, demystifying complex topics and encouraging young people to pursue careers in technology.

Tanmay’s dedication to education and mentorship is driven by his belief that AI should be accessible to all and that anyone, regardless of age, can contribute to the field. His work emphasizes the importance of collaboration and lifelong learning, values that resonate deeply within the Unitarian Universalist community.

A Unitarian Universalist Perspective
Tanmay Bakshi’s work embodies our commitment to the responsible search for truth and meaning, as well as our belief in the dignity of every person, which is evidenced by his development of applications to prevent teen suicide. By making AI and technology more accessible, Tanmay is helping to create a more inclusive and equitable future—one where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to the advancement of society.

Tanmay’s story values education and intellectual freedom. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and his passion for sharing it with others remind us of the importance of nurturing curiosity and encouraging the exchange of ideas, particularly in a rapidly changing world where technology plays an increasingly central role.

Inspiration for the Future
Tanmay’s achievements are a powerful reminder of the boundless potential within each young person. His work in AI is not just about coding and algorithms; it’s about using technology to solve real-world problems, empower others, and build a better future. Tanmay’s journey challenges us to think about how we can support the next generation of innovators and leaders who will shape the world in ways we can’t yet imagine.

As we celebrate Tanmay’s contributions, let us be inspired to invest in education, mentorship, and opportunities for young people to explore their passions and develop their talents. In doing so, we can help them realize their full potential and contribute to a world where technology serves the greater good.

Tanmay’s story is a testament to the power of youth, the importance of education, and the impact of technology on our lives. As we honor his achievements, we are reminded that the future is bright—and that it is being shaped, every day, by young minds like his.

Learn more about Tanmay’s work to prevent teen suicide.

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Join Us in Celebration
We hope that these daily stories will inspire you to engage more deeply with the youth in your community, to listen to their stories, and to amplify their efforts. Let us celebrate not just their achievements, but also the rich diversity they bring to our shared human experience.

Follow us daily this month as we honor these incredible young people and the boundless possibilities they represent for a more just, compassionate, and equitable world. Together, we can ensure that their legacy of excellence continues to grow and flourish.

#UU #UUA #CelebrateDiversity #CelebrateYouth #SuicidePrevention #AI

PARTNER WEBSITES: https://www.ted.com/