Cohort Stories: Meet Benjamin
NYC: vol. 2, no. 2— guest post by Benjamin Ortiz
When asked what I’m most proud of in regards to my Dominican background, I resist saying “it’s exactly that, being Dominican”, opting instead to highlight the rich culture of food, music, and communal drive to uplift others. There’s nothing like being raised in the New York area through Caribbean essence. As a first-generation American, ‘symbiosis’ sums up the experience for my family and me. I am deeply grateful to have had the freedom of pioneering East Coast American culture for them, while they ensured the nurturing of my Dominican identity never went neglected. From fleeing a murderous dictator to shedding blood for even mentioning pursuing an education, my presence stands as a testament to the obstacles overcome by both sides of my family.
My journey into technology was passively birthed from innate curiosity. As a kid, if I wasn’t turning over rocks, I was dismantling controllers for repairs, sneaking onto the computer to tweak and read what every single setting did. I was driven by a desire to understand how all things worked. As I grew older, I transitioned to modding PC games and coding HTML and CSS on MySpace in the name of teenage individuality. Fascinated by the creative possibilities that technology offered. These early experiences ignited an unconscious passion for technology, leading me to explore and eventually pursue a deeper understanding of the digital world.
I’ve dedicated nearly a decade to working in the educational sector, contributing to the same schools I once attended in my youth. The motivation I draw from guiding the younger siblings, sons, and daughters of my friends and community propels me toward my best self. Their victories are mine, and vice versa. Above all, it’s crucial for them to witness someone familiar, who looks like them, pursuing their passions. The symbiotic relationship that shaped my childhood is now a cycle I’m privileged to continue, and what better way to do it than playing into my digital prowess. I deeply appreciate the support of my town and the sacrifices of my family.
With the kids looking up to the moves I make, an opportunity at Hack.Diversity puts me in a position of representation turning the dreams of other future techies into a reality within grasp.
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