AOC Recognizes Congressional App Challenge Winner

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) proudly announced the winner of the Congressional App Challenge from New York’s 14th Congressional District: Glo Up, in a significant step toward inclusivity and innovation. Glo Up is a beauty app created by the talented team of Gioia Marchi, Bianca Siguencia, Somaih Sharhan, and Marufa Uddin.

Addressing the prevalent lack of knowledge about diverse hair and skin types, Glo Up aims to empower users by providing personalized recommendations for beauty products. In a statement, the creators expressed their commitment to fostering inclusivity and uniting individuals irrespective of gender or identity. Particularly empathetic to the struggles faced by young adolescents grappling with self-image, Marchi, Siguencia, Sharhan, and Uddin shared their mission to eliminate insecurities through the app.

The app’s primary functionality involves collecting user-specific information about skin and hair types, allowing it to suggest tailored products that cater to individual beauty needs. Marchi, Siguencia, Sharhan, and Uddin emphasized their dedication to including products that may not be as well-known or mainstream but can effectively address various skin and hair concerns.

Naureen Akhter, Deputy Chief of Staff and District Director, commended the winners for translating their lived experiences into a valuable resource that eases the navigation of the beauty space for others. She highlighted the significance of their contribution in making the beauty industry more accessible and user-friendly, irrespective of diverse skin and hair types.

The Congressional App Challenge, an annual event, witnesses students nationwide participating by creating software applications for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. Each Congressional office selects a winner from their district, recognizing exemplary achievements in coding and technology.

The success of Glo Up exemplifies the remarkable advancements in students’ coding abilities, showcasing the potential of the younger generation in STEM, coding, and computer science education. The app’s dedication to inclusivity aligns perfectly with the mission of the Congressional App Challenge, which seeks to inspire, include, and innovate efforts in these crucial fields.

As the winning team prepares to take the spotlight, their creation stands as a testament to the positive impact technology can have on fostering self-confidence and inclusivity in today’s society.

The Congressional App Challenge continues to be a beacon for aspiring student innovators, encouraging them to explore the realms of coding and technology with an eye toward making a meaningful impact on the world. Applications for the next challenge open in June, providing a platform for future trailblazers to contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of app development.