This 17-Year-Old Is Tackling Education Inequity with Business Tools

Meet Andrew - a 17-year old student in the Bay Area bringing education reform with business innovation.

Growing up in Northern California, Andrew Huynh witnessed stark disparities in educational access across communities. That experience sparked a passion for exploring how business, innovation, and policy advocacy can work together to create more equitable education systems.

Today, Andrew is the Co-Chief Operations Officer at Business for Kids, a member of San Jose’s Youth Council Committee focusing on public education policy and research, and a Distinguished Guest Speaker at the San Francisco Spring Economic Forum.

Here’s his story.

#1: How did you become passionate about business innovation and education?

Andrew: In first grade, I started selling handmade paper bracelets. Somehow, I sold 30 of them—even though they were free! That little project sparked my curiosity in entrepreneurship, creativity, and problem-solving.

That’s how I started exploring the world of policy advocacy. I realized that policy can build the framework for change, but business innovation supplies the tools and momentum to make that change scalable and sustainable.

#2: Tell us about Business for Kids and your role as Co-Chief Operations Officer.

Business for Kids is a student-led nonprofit that teaches business and financial literacy skills to children, empowering them to become entrepreneurs and leaders in their communities.

I joined recently, but it’s already become clear that this is where I can make a real impact.

A story that’s stuck with me is a boy named Jaden. He joined one of our financial literacy workshops. At first, he was incredibly quiet—but after going through a Kahoot budgeting activity, he lit up with excitement. He told me he couldn’t wait to go home and share what he learned with his parents.

In my role, one of my goals is to expand our offerings—like creating externships with startups, mentorship programs with industry professionals, and launching high school-specific business incubators. I want students to gain real-world exposure early.

#3: You’re working on public education policy & research with San Jose’s Youth Council Committee. What is the most pressing issue facing youth in San Jose right now?

The biggest issue are the emerging gaps in educational progress among students in underserved communities. A lack of focus on core subjects—and limited access to advanced coursework—puts long-term student success at risk.

The upcoming $10 million budget cut could eliminate even more essential programs and resources. That will only widen the achievement gap and limit opportunities for students who need the most support.

#4: These are big issues. What’s the hardest part about tackling them?

Balancing the needs of different communities is the most difficult part. What works in one district might not work in another—because of differences in resources, priorities, and even cultural norms.

That’s why we need more flexibility and a willingness to try different approaches in different places.

#5: Finally, tell us about the case study you presented about youth homelessness in the Bay Area at the San Francisco Spring Economic Forum.

Andrew: My friend Laya and I conducted research on youth homelessness in the Bay Area. One of the most shocking findings? Over 230,000 students in California public schools experience homelessness during the school year. In the Bay Area alone, more than 3,000 students are currently unhoused.

When homelessness is discussed in the media, it's usually framed as a general issue. But there’s so much complexity under that surface. I want to help bring that nuance into public conversations.

#6: What’s your advice to a student who’s overwhelmed by junior year?

Andrew: Two pieces of advice.

First: find your why. You might be smart or involved in a lot of activities, but knowing your purpose will push you further than any kind of forced or false motivation.

Second: focus on yourself. Don’t compare yourself to others. Have role models, sure—but avoid toxic comparisons. Your growth, your drive, and your passion will carry you much further than worrying about what anyone else is doing.

Stay Connected

Meet Andrew & learn more about his work:

• Andrew’s Linked-In

• Business For Kids Official Website