Will i am, STEM advocate
Will.i.am, best known as a superstar producer and rapper in Black Eyed Peas, is also a huge fan of robotics. In addition, he’s an advocate for STEM education, especially in underprivileged areas.
Inspired by the 2010 movie Waiting for Superman, Will.i.am wanted to make STEM education more accessible for young kids and teens. He launched the i.am Angel Foundation, which aims to provide college scholarships, college prep, and opportunities in the STEM field. Since its founding, the organization has awarded more than $1 million to qualifying students.
Outside of that, he’s a futurist who acts as a creative advisor to multiple corporations, including Apple, BEATS Electronics, Honeywell, Intel, IBM, Universal Music Group, and many more. When he’s not creating beats, he’s creating devices.
During the pandemic, Will.i.am teamed up with Honeywell to develop XUPERMASK, a wearable smart mask, in an effort to promote masking up. XUPERMASK is equipped with HEPA filters, fans, earbud docking, LED lights, Bluetooth, scent, and personal patches. He would go on to launch XUPERGEAR in 2021, a clothing line that integrates these smart masks in streetwear.
Will.i.am has already left a mark on music, and with his ongoing STEM efforts, he’s sure to make an impact on technology as well.