Your Voice is Power

Explore how music, coding
and entrepreneurship can
effect positive change

As Paul was learning computer science and coding his song for the Your Voice is Power competition, he realized; if he can make it this far, others like him could do the same.

“There are intelligent people here (in Guam) who I know for sure can succeed in this field, but they sell themselves short because they do not believe in themselves. One day, I plan to change that by spreading the message that computer science can truly lead to equity. I believe it can level the playing field so that anyone who has the opportunity to learn computer science can succeed.”

Mandy understood the power of her voice and wanted to use it and her song to embrace diverse thoughts and dreams; to help people let go of stereotypes.

“I see a lot of people being stereotyped and that keeps them from following their dreams. With community coming together, we can get rid of stereotypes and bring equality to everyone. I want my song to reach the ones in need of hope for achieving their dreams and help for letting go of daily struggles.”

David focused on how hopeful the song “Entrepreneur” sounds, despite the serious message, because it was written in C-major. He chose to code in an alternate key to create a song with a different emphasis.

“I chose to make a remix that would focus more on a Call-to-Action. I chose C-minor as my key, which though energetic, is far less negative than most minor keys. Moreover, through the falsetto vocal, which retains some C-major in my song, I kept some of the hope that makes Entrepreneur’s message so potent.”

Music has always had a place in Christopher’s heart. When listening to music, he hears the beats and the message. That is why he wanted to use his song to convey a strong message to young people of color – Become UNSTOPPABLE.

“These words resonated with me the most during my life. With this song I’ve programmed, I want to spread the word of equity. As a Mexican-American, I fully support and condone equity for all human beings, for we are but one race; the human race.”

Josie’s song is about the power of empathy and working together, especially when fighting discrimination, to open the door for personal growth, progress and change.

“Using EarSketch to gain access to musical and coding expertise, I was reminded of how many opportunities technology provides. This competition reminds me of what can occur when people work together. Everyone began with the same sound clips, but each made something completely different based on their own ideas and experiences.”