Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Fredi Lajvardi

President, CEO & Director of STEM Initiatives at Si Se Puede Foundation; Subject of the Documentary Underwater Dreams, the IMAX film 'Dream Big' & the Book and Major Motion Picture 'Spare Parts'

Fredi Lajvardi Speaking Fee: Contact Us for Pricing

President, CEO & Director of STEM Initiatives at Si Se Puede Foundation; Subject of the Documentary Underwater Dreams, the IMAX film 'Dream Big' & the Book and Major Motion Picture 'Spare Parts'

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Fredi Lajvardi
Speaking Fee:
Contact Us for Pricing

Travels From:
PHX - Phoenix, AZ

Primary Topic Category:
Science (STEM / STEAM)

Secondary Topic Category:
Latinx / Hispanic Heritage

 

Fredi Lajvardi Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Fredi Lajvardi captivated the country when he led his team of disadvantaged Latino teens in a university-level underwater robotics competition where they defeated leading schools, including top-ranked MIT. Their story inspired the acclaimed documentary Underwater Dreams, the IMAX film Dream Big, and the major motion picture, Spare Parts, starring actor and comedian George Lopez as Fredi. Today, Fredi is the President / CEO and Director of STEM Initiatives for the Si Se Puede Foundation, a prevention and advocacy organization dedicated to providing educational and leadership opportunities and services for underserved populations.

Fredi Lajvardi is a visionary leader in the field of STEM education, known for his impactful work with underrepresented youth. His journey began in the classroom as a dedicated high school teacher, where he discovered a passion for inspiring students through hands-on learning. Recognizing the potential of his students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, Fredi challenged them with ambitious projects that transcended typical educational boundaries. In 2004, Fredi and his team of talented Latino high school students captured national attention when they entered a university-level underwater robotics competition. Competing against some of the top universities, including MIT, this improbable team demonstrated ingenuity and resilience. Their victory was not just a win in the competition but a testament to the untapped potential of underprivileged students when given the right opportunities and encouragement. This remarkable story inspired the documentary "Underwater Dreams," the IMAX film "Dream Big," and the feature film "Spare Parts," where actor George Lopez portrayed Fredi's passionate and unwavering leadership. Beyond his accomplishments in robotics competitions, Fredi Lajvardi has become a prominent advocate for STEM education, serving as the President and CEO of the Si Se Puede Foundation. The foundation is committed to creating pathways for educational and leadership opportunities for underserved communities. Through his role, Fredi has been instrumental in developing initiatives that empower students, emphasizing the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics as avenues for future success. As a sought-after keynote speaker, Fredi shares his insights and experiences with audiences nationwide, inspiring educators, students, and industry leaders alike. His message is clear: with determination, mentorship, and equal access to education, students from all backgrounds can achieve greatness. Fredi's story continues to motivate a new generation to break barriers and reach for their dreams, believing firmly in the power of potential and perseverance. Fredi Lajvardi's commitment to transforming lives through education and advocacy remains unwavering. His work exemplifies the extraordinary impact that educators can make, one student at a time, challenging the status quo and proving that dreams can become reality, no matter one's starting point.
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