Hii! My name is Ramiah Tekle, and I’m fundraising to attend a high school study abroad program in Tokyo learning Robotics this summer.

Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science. My dad and I would watch Apple and Google conferences every year, amazed at new innovations, and we’d spend hours watching Boston Dynamics’ robot dogs do tricks on YouTube. Technology became our special bond, but over time, it truly became my passion. The moment I saw AI being implemented in robotics, I realized robots weren’t just machines anymore–they were learning to think, move, and interact like humans. Honestly, that scared me. But that fear turned into something deeper: a true love for AI, robotics, and computer science.

Beyond cool robots, technology connects people in ways I would’ve never imagined. It gives everyone a voice and access in our society–all at the touch of a button. Which is so amazing!

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine. I love exploring new cultures, and I believe that understanding different perspectives makes us better innovators. So, when I got accepted into the CIEE highschool summer abroad program in Tokyo for robotics, it felt unreal. Japan’s reputation as a leader in technology makes the ability to study my passion there such a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Through this program I’ll gain hands-on experience in robotics and coding, attain insight into the technology industry, and jumpstart my career! As an Eritrean-American woman in STEM, representation is important to me. I want to bring diversity and inclusion into tech and uplift voices that are often overlooked. This international experience will shape the way I approach technology and innovation, teaching me how different cultural perspectives can drive creativity and inclusivity in STEM.

As the eldest daughter of two Eritrean immigrants, I've always been driven to work hard, chase my dreams, and make my family proud. My parents work tirelessly to provide for my sister and me, but growing up, I didn’t always have the means to attend summer programs or internships–even when I got accepted. Because of this, I’ve pushed myself academically create my own opportunities, earning a 100% merit scholarship to attend the high school of my dreams, being in student leadership and helping run the engineering club at school, and participating in a non-profit organization that strives to create a community for Eritreans, like myself, in Los Angeles.

Getting into the CIEE summer abroad program felt like an unimaginable dream come true, and I don’t want financial struggles to stop me from grabbing this life-changing opportunity.

I was awarded a $1,000 Global Navigator’s Scholarship from CIEE, while extremely gracious, I still need help covering the remaining program costs, airfare, and necessary expenses.

I know that times can be tough, and there are many important causes out there. That’s why I deeply appreciate any support–whether it’s donating or sharing this with friends and family. Every donation, big or small, brings me closer to Tokyo. Even just sharing this helps me more than you know.

I truly believe in fighting for your dreams, no matter how big or small. One day, I hope to pay it forward by helping kids like me access the opportunities and resources they need to achieve their dreams, the same way you're helping me reach mine.

Thank you so much for your support!