My Internship Experience at MakerBay to Explore Tech and Innovation

My name is Shrihaan Saxena, I am 14 years old and currently a Year 11 student in King George V school. I heard about MakerBay in 2021 as it was a sponsor at one of the hackathon events I attended, that was the first time I physically went to the makerspace. I was given a chance to be involved with the Ocean Imagineer project, which was a great opportunity I am still grateful for.

During this summer holidays, I wanted to get involved again and be part of the MakerBay journey again. Thanks to Kelvin, the Program Manager at MakerBay, I got a chance to engage again by joining the MakerBay Ambassador program. My first day of summer internship began on 18 July, and I stepped into the unknown with excitement.

On the first day,  I delved straight into the intriguing world of electronics. I was provided with an array of resources, including various sensors, multiple types of boards, an assortment of wires and expertise assistance. Using these resources, my first task was to make a water flow sensor from an Arduino Board for a miniature perfume-making machine. By day’s end, through guidance and online resources, I successfully had the sensor up and running, complete with a functional screen display.

Over time, these skills developed rapidly, imparting two crucial abilities: adaptability and self-learning. I actively engaged in projects associated with the Jockey Club AI Community Innovation Programme and contributed to workshops such as Perfume Making and the AI x Cultural Exchange Summer Programme with Nexperium. These projects entrusted me with responsibilities like crafting workshop materials and working on electronics. I assisted with 3 workshops for the Perfume Making programme over three days. Furthermore, I had the creative freedom to modify and design a workshop rundown for the AI x Cultural Exchange Summer Programme Workshop, which was attended by both Hong Kong and Korean students. Leveraging tools such as Slides, Padlet, Jamboards, Google Sites, and Thunkable, I ensured the workshop was a resounding success.

In addition to my assigned tasks, the MakerBay team encouraged me to work on personal projects. So, I took the offer and got to work on two major Arduino Projects of my own. One project involved the utilization of RFID technology and a door lock, simulating the operation of an RFID lock. The other project combined 3D design skills with temperature and light sensors to create an energy log, accessible through a local webpage.

Throughout my one-month internship, MakerBay provided me with a platform to enhance various skills, including marketing, design, critical thinking, teamwork and project management. I never felt excluded; instead, I was always regarded as a valued member of the MakerBay team. It truly felt like a supportive community where everyone was included and supported. I am sincerely grateful to the MakerBay team, particularly Mr. Kelvin Lee and Ms. Gaia Yang, for making this experience memorable for me. I plan to stay involved with MakerBay and continue being a part of the MakerBay Ambassador program, working with more students in the future.

Editor’s Note: Shrihaan Saxena volunteered as an intern from July 18, 2023, to August 16, 2023, supporting the development and execution of the Jockey Club AI Community Innovation Programme. MakerBay Ambassador is designed to equip high school students with the mindset and skillsets of makers, empowering them to make a positive impact on the world. If you are interested in our programmes, please send your profile and motivation to [email protected].