Navya Aenugu, a passionate Interdisciplinary Brain-Computer Interface major who is also completing the Innovation in Business Track of McIntire’s Entrepreneurship Minor, is transforming STEM education with her startup, esSTEMtials. Founded when she was just 15, the company provides hands-on, curiosity-driven STEM learning experiences for children, moving away from traditional rote memorization. Her efforts earned her the title of Charlottesville Business Innovation Council’s Student Entrepreneur of the Year, a testament to her impact on education.
We recently sat down with Aenugu to find out more about the company’s impressive growth and how she gained trust and support despite her young age.
What inspired you to start this business?
I did it because it was my belief that kids should have that type of STEM education that drives curiosity rather than just having to go through rote memorization at school. I’ve seen that pay off by seeing hundreds of essTEMtials students become curious learners and parents wanting to donate hundreds to grow the company. People were excited about my mission, what I believe in, and how I executed it.
What are the biggest challenges you have faced as an entrepreneur?
Definitely getting people to trust the company and its vision! Starting this company at 15 years old was not easy, as many customers (parents) didn’t think I was old enough or experienced enough. This also applies in terms of getting funding and external support at such a young age, and having a strong sense of self-confidence, communication skills, and reliability helps overcome this.
What have been the best or most memorable moments or achievements thus far?
Expanding beyond my original hometown to other towns in the U.S. and soon to other countries across the globe has been one of the greatest achievements thus far. I have not only increased my customer base, but I also learned a lot about the education struggles that people face abroad and recognized how grateful we are for our education system in the U.S. Lastly, earning the recognition of Charlottesville’s (CBIC) Student Entrepreneur of the Year last summer made this all come full circle!
