Makai Samuels-Paige is an 11-year-old sixth grader at Ralph J. Bunche Middle School with a vivid imagination. But he doesn’t just visualize ideas. He designs and executes them too.
In November 2019, he received a patent for his Anti-Bully Backpack, an invention he created to stop bullying in schools. Three months later, he traveled with his parents to New York City to present his invention to Strahan, Sara and Keke during Good Morning America’s “Kidventors” segment and was awarded a $5,000 prize.
“My invention is the anti-bully backpack. It’s basically a backpack with a camera on it, so your parents can see what’s happening at all times,” explained Makai. “First you get on your cellular device, go to the Anti-Bully Backpack app, turn on your rechargeable battery pack, then sync up the cameras, press one of the cameras, and you’ll be good to go.”
His parents say Makai has always been an inventor. While most kids play with toys, his dad says Makai plays with tools.
On Feb. 20, Principal Octavius Harris recognized Makai as the IB Student of the Month for his achievement, innovation and compassion.
“Makai had the opportunity to invent something to not only help himself but to help other people,” Principal Harris said. “That is the epitome of caring.”
Makai was then given the opportunity to select 10 friends to join him in Bunche’s new game room, equipped with pool tables, video and board games, air hockey, and sweets. He selected 10 people who he describes as “really good childhood friends.”
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