For decades, the path to “success” was a straight line: work hard, get good grades, pick a safe career, and stay the course.

But that map no longer works—not when AI is reshaping industries, the cost of living keeps climbing, and the most in-demand careers didn’t exist ten years ago.

Today’s teens are growing up in a world that’s less predictable—and more full of possibility—than ever before. That can feel overwhelming. But for a growing number of young people in BC, it’s also empowering.

Instead of following a set path, they’re building their own.

Meet the New Architects of Success

Matt, 21, from Vancouver, is building affordable, open-source humanoid robots to help researchers and developers collect real-world data at scale. He’s also leading hardware design for a decentralized semiconductor manufacturing network, with labs now expanding across top universities like MIT and Berkeley.

Jess, 17, based in the Vancouver area, is revolutionizing how schools support vulnerable students. She’s developing an all-in-one platform for counselors to better meet specialized student needs. Her work is being demoed weekly at UBC’s Atelier, and she’s continuously enhancing her platform with new tools and features.

In-Woo, 19, from Greater Vancouver, is now building a predictive platform to address drug shortages after launching a startup focused on medication supply chain issues. He’s currently doing product engineering at MedMe Health (YC) and collaborating with a UofT professor.

All three participated in The Knowledge Society (TKS)—a global innovation program that operates in Vancouver and is designed for students ages 13–17 who want to solve real-world problems using emerging technologies and science.

Why These Stories Matter

These teens aren’t outliers—they’re signals. Indicators of a shift already underway.

Success isn’t measured by straight A’s or the right list of extracurriculars anymore. It’s being redefined by resilience, resourcefulness, and real-world impact.

Today’s ambitious students aren’t waiting for permission or chasing checkboxes. They’re:

• Building portfolios that show what they can do, not just what they know
• Launching side projects, podcasts, startups—or even movements
• Creating networks of mentors and peers who open doors, give feedback, and share ideas

They’re treating their teenage years as a launchpad, not a waiting room.

Programs like TKS don’t just prepare students for the future—they give them the tools to start building it now.

The Traits That Make a Difference

Grades still matter—but they’re not the whole story. The students leading the way are developing:

• Resilience to bounce back from failure and keep experimenting
• Adaptability to navigate a world where careers, tools, and technologies change fast
• Purpose that anchors their energy in something meaningful and self-driven

They’re learning quickly, solving problems creatively, and building the confidence to take ownership of their future.

What You Can Do as a Parent

Let’s be honest—this shift can feel disorienting. The rules we grew up with felt safer. But clinging to that old map can leave teens directionless in a world that looks nothing like it used to.

The good news? You don’t need to have it all figured out. Chances are, you’re already doing more than you think. And with a few small shifts, you can create an environment that helps your teen grow into who they want to be.

Here’s how:

• Create space for exploration. Let them try things. Let them fail. Curiosity beats certainty.
• Praise effort and growth. Celebrate learning, not just results.
• Connect them with real-world experiences. Mentors, tech, and global challenges > textbooks.
• Support self-directed learning. Encourage them to dive into side projects, online courses, and rabbit holes.
• Stay curious together. Explore new ideas side by side. Let their interests lead the way.
• Shift the conversation. Ask about what excites them—not just how school’s going.

And maybe most importantly, ask a different question—not “What do you want to be when you grow up?” but “What problems do you want to solve?”

The Right Environment Changes Everything

You don’t have to do it all at home. Creating the right environment at home is powerful—but teens also thrive when they’re surrounded by peers who think big, mentors who challenge them, and opportunities that stretch their potential.

That’s exactly what TKS was built for.

TKS is more than a program—it’s a launchpad. Students don’t just learn about AI, biotech, or space tech—they apply it to real problems, collaborate with experts, and join a global community of young people working to make an impact.

If your teen’s ready to break from the script and build something bold, TKS Vancouver is a great place to start.

About TKS

TKS is a 10-month innovation program for students ages 13–17, designed to make them future-ready. Through real-world projects, emerging tech, and a global community, students build the mindset, skills, and confidence to solve big problems and lead in tomorrow’s world. Sessions in-person in Vancouver or virtually—tuition support and scholarships available.