A Year 6 student at the Belmont State School and a resident of Mount Gravatt East, Kein Sheldrake is a computer whiz who was inspired by the needs of his best friend into launching his passion project. Kein builds computers for other kids, families or groups in the community who do not have one or cannot afford to buy one.
It all started when Kein told his mother, Michelle Sheldrake, that his best friend didn’t have a computer. “He is naturally very helpful. There has always been a natural inclination to look out for other people, but I was still surprised,” his mum said in a recent media interview.
Kein took it upon himself to learn how to build computers from watching YouTube video tutorials so that he could build the units himself and donate them to people in the community. His efforts have attracted attention and support both online and offline. Steve Minnikin, MP for Chatsworth and Shadow Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multicultural Affairs has made a donation for Kein’s project.
Calling upon people to support Kein’s project, MP Minnikin lauded Kein’s efforts and posted an appeal on his Facebook page. He said, “If you have PCs or PC accessories such as monitors, mouse or keyboards that you no longer need, you can contact Kein and his mum, Michelle at fastertech06@gmail.com.”
Kein’s passion project drew messages of support and admiration.
“I think letting children work on a project they feel passionate about can really free up their imagination and creativity. What a wonderful project this boy has come up with. Let’s support him by donating computer parts that we don’t need anymore.” – Breeze Lifecoaching
“…what a great initiative by a lovely young man!” — Stacey Benjamin
To say that ten-year-old Kein Sheldrake is good with his hands would be an understatement. With his project, Kein is proving that he not only has good hands. He is smart, resourceful, and has an immensely good heart too.
As a young man with dreams of working in the IT industry one day, Kein certainly seems to be on the right track. Build on, young man!
Photo Credit : Facebook Page of MP Steve Minnikin