Arianna Huriash, an eighth-grade Coral Springs Middle School student, has been named a State Finalist in the prestigious Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition.
Her project, The Flower Friend, is designed to combat loneliness and social isolation among individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Huriash’s innovation was inspired by a critical issue within the community: the lack of mental and social support for those with memory disorders.
“Dementia is a degenerative condition that affects memory and even aspects of people’s personalities,” said Huriash. “It can cause those who suffer from it to feel lonely and isolated, leading to mental health struggles. We noticed that in our community, the mental and social health of those with these disorders is often overlooked.”
To address this issue, Huriash developed The Flower Friend, a robotic device designed to provide comfort, happiness, and companionship to those living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
“Some people find great comfort in a flower, but for those with Alzheimer’s, this can be impossible,” Huriash explained. “A live flower requires great attention, gentleness, and care. Our invention can still support and enhance all the positive mental health effects of a live flower but can survive without water, sunlight, or being cared for extensively. The Flower Friend smells, looks, feels, and blooms just as a real flower would.”
As a State Finalist, Coral Springs Middle School was awarded $2,500 in Samsung technology. When asked how she would like the school to utilize the prize, Huriash suggested investing in new technology equipment such as Samsung Chromebooks, 3D printers, and headphones to enhance learning opportunities for students.
Huriash also thanked her instructor, Seema Naik, for her guidance throughout the project.
Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow competition challenges middle and high school students to leverage STEM skills to develop solutions to real-world problems in their communities. This year, 300 schools across all 50 states have been selected as State Finalists.
Finalists will now advance in the competition for a chance to become one of three National Winners, each receiving $100,000 in Samsung technology.
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