FutureMinds X
FutureMinds X
Empowering Future Innovators
Our Vision
FutureMinds X is dedicated to empowering young individuals through impactful initiatives in STEM, technology, and leadership development. By providing hands-on experiences and access to global mentors, we prepare youth for careers in emerging fields like AI, robotics, and digital health. We believe in fostering an inclusive community where character, ethics, and innovation thrive, ensuring every young person has the opportunity to realize their potential. Together, we can inspire the next generation of leaders and drive positive change.
Team
Meet Our Leaders
Bethuel Terefe
Founder & President
Bethuel Terefe is the visionary founder of FutureMinds X, a youth-centered nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation through STEM, innovation, and emerging technologies. A Junior at Norfolk Collegiate School, Bethuel combines academic excellence with an entrepreneurial spirit, driven by a passion to create meaningful change in his community and beyond.
From a young age, Bethuel demonstrated a strong curiosity for science, engineering, and problem-solving. His interests quickly expanded into robotics, computer science, and artificial intelligence—fields that would later inspire the creation of FutureMinds X. Recognizing that many young people lack access to resources, mentorship, and hands-on opportunities in tech, Bethuel founded FMX with a mission: to ignite young minds and equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.
At Norfolk Collegiate, Bethuel is known for his leadership, dedication, and collaborative mindset. He actively participates in academic and service initiatives, consistently seeking ways to bridge the gap between education and real-world innovation. Through FutureMinds X, he is committed to building a platform where students can explore STEM fields, develop creativity, and gain confidence through mentorship, workshops, competitions, and community engagement.
Bethuel’s long-term goal is to inspire young innovators globally—especially those from underrepresented communities—to embrace technology as a tool for empowerment and positive change. His leadership at FutureMinds X reflects his belief that the future belongs to the minds we nurture today.
Bethania Ketema
Vice President
Bethania Ketema is a senior at Cross Creek Early College High School with a strong passion for scientific research, STEM education, and emerging technologies. She serves as a supporting team member at FutureMinds X, where she assists in advancing the organization’s mission to empower youth through innovation, mentorship, and technology-focused initiatives.
Bethania has actively contributed to competitive scientific research, including participation in the North Carolina Science and Engineering Fair (NCSEF), where her work earned recognition through the Association for Women in Science (AWIS) Award. She has also been involved in Science Olympiad, developing strong analytical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
With a growing interest in artificial intelligence and its applications in education and research, Bethania enjoys exploring how technology can be leveraged to create meaningful impact. Through her work with FutureMinds X, she supports program development, student engagement, and STEM outreach efforts, helping expand access to learning opportunities for young innovators.
Bethania is driven by curiosity, service, and a desire to contribute to initiatives that inspire students—particularly those from underrepresented communities—to explore science and technology as pathways for growth and empowerment.
Mike Abel
Director of Youth Development
Mike Abel is a high school junior with a deep passion for STEM, technology, and artificial intelligence. Fascinated by how innovation is transforming industries and shaping the future, Mike is committed to helping young people discover their potential in an increasingly digital world.
An outstanding student, Mike has earned multiple academic and leadership awards at his school, recognizing both his excellence in STEM subjects and his commitment to service. He actively participates in robotics and coding initiatives, contributes to technology-focused projects, and enjoys exploring real-world applications of AI and emerging technologies.
Beyond academics, Mike is a respected student leader who takes initiative, mentors peers, and helps organize school programs and community events. He is actively involved in community engagement efforts, volunteering his time to support youth programs and local initiatives. Known for his strong work ethic, teamwork, and problem-solving mindset, he balances academic achievement with extracurricular involvement, including athletics and student leadership activities.
As Director of Youth Development at FutureMinds X, Mike works to inspire, mentor, and empower young people to pursue excellence in STEM fields. He is passionate about creating opportunities that help students build confidence, leadership skills, and the technical foundation needed to thrive in an AI-driven future.
Mike believes that when youth are equipped with knowledge, guidance, and opportunity, they can become the innovators and leaders who shape tomorrow.
Emma Jacob
Chief Youth Innovation Officer
Emma Jacob is a high school junior from London, England, with a bold passion for STEM, innovation, and emerging technologies. Deeply inspired by the power of artificial intelligence and digital transformation, she believes that young people are not just preparing for the future — they are shaping it.
An accomplished student, Emma has received multiple awards in her school for academic excellence and leadership. She is widely recognized for her active involvement in community initiatives and her commitment to making a positive impact beyond the classroom. A dynamic leader at school, she takes initiative, motivates her peers, and consistently demonstrates integrity and resilience.
In addition to her academic and leadership achievements, Emma is also a dedicated athlete, balancing her passion for sports with her academic pursuits — reflecting discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
As Chief Youth Innovation Officer at FutureMinds X, Emma brings energy, creativity, and a strong youth voice to inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders in an AI-driven world.
Eden Henok
Director of Partnerships
Eden Henok is a junior at Green Run Collegiate with a strong passion for STEM, medicine, and youth leadership. Driven by service, innovation, and impact, she is committed to empowering young people to become confident leaders in a rapidly evolving technological world.
From an early age, Eden developed a deep interest in science and healthcare, which expanded into a broader curiosity about emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and digital health. She is especially passionate about how technology can increase access to education and create meaningful change in underserved communities.
At Green Run Collegiate, Eden serves as the founder and president of the Red Cross Club and as Vice President of her cohort. Through these leadership roles, she has organized service initiatives, led collaborative projects, and strengthened student engagement within her school community. Her leadership style is rooted in integrity, inclusivity, and action.
Through her involvement with FutureMinds X, Eden is dedicated to advancing youth leadership, expanding access to STEM opportunities, and fostering a generation of innovators who lead with both skill and character.
Eden believes that when young minds are equipped with knowledge, purpose, and opportunity, they have the power to shape a future defined by innovation and positive global impact.
Samson Yosef
International Youth Director
Samson Yosef is a high school junior from Ethiopia with a strong passion for STEM, technology, and artificial intelligence. Motivated by a desire to see innovation expand opportunities for young people around the world, Samson is especially interested in how technology can connect students globally and help solve real-world challenges.
An accomplished student, Samson has earned several academic awards for excellence in mathematics and science and has actively participated in school leadership and community initiatives. Known as a motivated and responsible leader among his peers, he enjoys collaborating on projects, participating in science and technology activities, and encouraging other students to pursue learning and innovation.
As International Youth Director at FutureMinds X, Samson helps strengthen global connections by supporting partnerships with students and schools in different countries. He is committed to promoting youth leadership and inspiring students worldwide to explore STEM and prepare for success in an AI-driven future.
Samson believes that when young people from different parts of the world work together, they can create ideas and innovations that benefit everyone.