Zen Connect

Imagine a world where the wisdom of experience meets the energy of youth. A community where history is passed down and technology is shared. That's the future Zen Connect will create.

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Inspiration

"Social isolation is a silent epidemic." We're witnessing a growing epidemic of loneliness on both ends of the age spectrum. Older adults face social isolation, often living alone after the loss of spouses or friends. Young people, hyper-connected online, can feel a lack of meaningful relationships in the real world. This isolation has far-reaching consequences. Loneliness is linked to a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and even physical health problems. It weakens our social fabric and erodes a sense of community.

What it does

Our project bridges the digital divide gap, empowering seniors and fostering intergenerational learning with youth. Our product creates opportunities for genuine connection, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness for both older adults and young people. Shared stories and experiences build a sense of belonging and purpose. The intergenerational exchange fosters a love of learning in both directions. Older adults share their life experiences and wisdom, while young people offer tech skills and a fresh perspective on the world. This cross-pollination of knowledge creates a richer learning environment for everyone.

How we built it

Tech-stack: Vite React TypeScript PeerJS Gemini Google Cloud (speech-text service)

Challenges we ran into

Training the Gemini model and fine tuning it.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Our model's benefits extend beyond the immediate participants. We bridge the technological gap by encouraging older adults to learn new skills and embrace the digital world. This empowers them to stay connected with loved ones and access essential services online. Using Gemini LLM, we are able to promote the conversation in the right way.

What we learned

Fine-tuning Gemini API PeerJS enabled the video call feature and taught us how to run it.

What's next for Zen Connect

  1. Developing a Pilot Program: Identifying a specific target audience for our pilot program. Considering factors like location, age range, and interests.
  2. Creating a system for matching participants based on shared interests or complementary skillsets.
  3. Ensuring access to technology and providing basic tech support for older adults who may need assistance with video calls or online platforms.
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