SightSense wins Rep. Anna Eshoo’s 2024 Congressional App Challenge in California’s 16th District

When asked what inspired the creation of SightSense, the students said, “We both remember the day that inspired us vividly. Our story began on a typical evening when my friend and I settled into a booth at McDonald’s for a brief meal after school. As we chatted, we noticed a couple near the order kiosks. A blind woman had walked in with her partner, who was reading the menu aloud to her and guiding her through the options.

While it was touching to see his support, we couldn’t help but think about her reliance on him for something as simple as ordering food. It struck us that, despite technological advancements, everyday independence remained out of reach for some. We began to wonder how we could help make her, and others in similar situations, more autonomous.

That moment planted a seed in our minds. Her dependence wasn’t just about navigating a menu; it was about perceiving the world at large. A question started to form: How could new technology bridge this gap and foster independence?

Driven by this thought, we set out to develop a solution. Our initial idea was a simple app that could read text aloud, providing immediate assistance in situations like the one we had witnessed. But as we explored further, the concept evolved. What if the app could do more than just read? What if it could describe entire environments, recognize objects, and guide users through unfamiliar spaces?

The result of our tireless labor has been SightSense. Throughout our journey, we have realized that making a difference often starts with a simple observation and the question, “How can we help?” By addressing a basic need—accessibility in everyday tasks—we realized we could significantly improve the quality of life for many.

We saw firsthand how technology could restore a sense of independence that many had lost or never fully experienced. Seeing users interact with our app, and witnessing their smiles as they accomplish tasks independently, has been the most rewarding part of this journey. Our experience with SightSense taught us that innovation thrives on empathy and a genuine desire to serve others. It showed us that by listening and responding to the needs of those around us, we can create tools that not only solve problems but also uplift communities. We hope that SightSense inspires others to look beyond the obvious, to see the unseen challenges faced by many, and to join us in making the world a more inclusive place.”