FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAMPA, FL (May 7, 2026) — Students from Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) earned statewide recognition for their creativity and innovation after two district teams placed second and third overall in the 2025–26 SharkMakers competition, a youth entrepreneurship and innovation program focused on solving real-world challenges through human-centered design.
The awards were announced during the SharkMakers Season Awards Ceremony held April 21 in Tampa, where students presented solutions designed to improve accessibility and quality of life.
The second-place team, Rhova, includes students from Strawberry Crest High School and Middleton High School. Their project transforms sound into physical sensation, creating a more immersive and inclusive way to experience music and movement. The team earned a $3,500 award.
Rhova team members are Rhea Rachala, Sampurna Saiganesh, Sarayu Karedla and Yashika Garg.
The third-place team, NAVA, is made up of students from Strawberry Crest High School. Their project is a simplified financial management solution designed to make money management more intuitive, accessible, and empowering for users. The team received a $1,500 award.
NAVA team members are Anushka Srivastava, Charvi Sunkari, Sahiti Yarlagadda, and Swara Dhamane.
SharkMakers, formerly known as Next Gen Tech 360, brings together students, mentors and industry partners to tackle authentic challenges with a focus on accessibility and innovation. During the five-month season, teams develop, test, and pitch solutions designed to meet community needs.
Both teams advanced through a competitive field that began with 12 teams, with only six finalists reaching the championship round.
“We are so proud of our students for excelling in this competition,” Superintendent Van Ayres said. “They are all creative thinkers, collaborators and problem-solvers who are applying their learning in meaningful ways.”
For more information about Hillsborough County Public Schools career and innovation programs, visit hillsboroughschools.org.