A Conversation with 2024 Tech 4 Youth Grant Recipient
Simon Monteith, a Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient and 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Finalist, is an inspiring young entrepreneur from Opaskwayak Cree Nation. At just 12 years old, Simon is making a name for himself as the founder of Simon The Scientist, a non-profit organization based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Focused on Indigenous-based STEM learning, Simon is on a mission to make science exciting and inclusive, showing the world how fun it can be to explore through a fresh, unique perspective.
Simon’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2020 at the onset of the pandemic, driven by his desire to promote STEM education from multiple perspectives. “I felt it was important for people to learn STEM from multiple perspectives,” Simon shares. “I also had fun exploring science myself.” Since then, his passion for innovation and discovery has turned into a platform for sharing knowledge, inspiring young minds, and building meaningful connections.
One of Simon’s favorite parts of running Simon The Scientist is the sense of pride that comes with big achievements. “The best part is how proud you are when you do something huge like building a partnership or updating the website. It makes me feel proud of myself!” This sense of accomplishment fuels Simon’s motivation and dedication to his work.
Like many entrepreneurs, Simon has faced challenges along the way. “My biggest lesson has been that not everything comes easily. I have to work hard even when I don’t always want to,” he explains. Yet, his determination remains steadfast, and his growth mindset is evident in his plans for the future.
Looking ahead, Simon hopes to expand his impact by presenting at more in-person events and creating professional-grade videos. “I realized that I really like presenting at in-person events, and I want to grow that,” he says. “I also want to make professional videos instead of kitchen-table videos.”
The Tech 4 Youth Grant and support from Best Buy Canada has been instrumental in helping Simon achieve his goals. The grant provided him with a microscope and a 3D printer, which he plans to use in innovative ways. “The microscope will be very useful for content and exploration—I want to check out cells. I already have a plan to use the 3D printer for one of my upcoming sessions where I will build Indigenous-based structures with the printer.”
To other Indigenous youth considering entrepreneurship, Simon offers heartfelt advice: “Keep trying even if it’s tough at times. It will be worth it.” His message underscores the resilience and passion that have been the hallmarks of his journey.
Simon Monteith’s story is a powerful example of how curiosity, creativity, and hard work can transform a vision into a reality. Through Simon The Scientist, he continues to inspire young people to explore the wonders of STEM while honouring the importance of diverse perspectives in education.
To watch Simon’s pitch in the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale, click here. To learn more about Tech 4 Youth, click here.