“Often times, it can be scary to go somewhere alone or when you feel alone, but having a place that is meant to curb those feelings is a wonderful idea for teens to enjoy.”
Hotspot
A mobile internet cafe & community truck
Context
The COVID 19 pandemic left high school adolescents facing prolonged social isolation, disrupting key rites of passage - sports rallies, prom, graduation, etc. Specifically Black and Latinx high school students were disproportionately impacted, as their communities faced heightened economic and health stressors – while receiving limited support for youth mental health. The closure of schools and social spaces left teens with limited opportunities for in-person socialization, play, and formative high school experiences. Challenge
How might we support the mental health and social well-being of Black and Latinx high school students by meeting them where they are - digitally and physically during a time of isolation and limited access for in-person socialization?Research & Insights
“The social isolation during quarantine has actually been looked at as being most problematic for long-term outcomes across adults and children and adolescents. It’s hit children most significantly because kids play in groups. During this time, kids really haven’t been able to hang out in groups or go to playgrounds.”Teens value both online and in-person connection as a key part of their well-being. They need and want both! High school students value face-to-face interaction for building trust and emotional connectionMental health support for teens is most effective when it blends community, flexibility, and agency allowing them to engage on their own both in-real-life and online digital spaces (social media, Discord, online communities, etc.)Students face a lack of access to reliable internet access or personal devices
Idea/Strategy
A hybrid, community-based solution that bridges physical and digital connection. This truck rotates locations near schools and neighborhoods. We designed an experience that lives within the community, removing access barriers to technology and that encourages social interaction, empowering teens to choose how and when they engage with their peers/communities. This solution is intended to be mobile, inclusive, and adaptable, meeting teens where they are.Branding & Concept
Two designers on my team, Crystal Torres and Sebastian Martinez worked on our branding, logo, and poster concepts for our mobile internet cafe. We decided to go with the name Hotspot and wanted to focus on these keyword: Friendly, Safe, Fun, Creative, & Trendy. So, we chose pastels color and gradients that resonate that.
Youth Feedback
“I would want to see this idea and project come to life because I feel like it will be a really great opportunity.”