Kids to Know: Leela & Sonia

Tampa Prep high school students Leela and Sonia are helping inspire the next generation of STEM leaders by coaching elementary robotics teams across multiple schools. Through competitions, teamwork and problem‑solving, they’re showing younger students, especially girls, that robotics can be both challenging and fun.

What has surprised you most about working with younger students in robotics?

Leela: Despite their young age, the students show real maturity. They support one another even when things go wrong during competitions. At our last event, one student accidentally knocked down a stack of blocks, and his driving partner ran after him to comfort him.

Sonia: How quickly we built strong bonds. I thought it might be difficult since we were unfamiliar, but after just one meeting they remembered our names and even gave us hugs.

Can you describe a specific student or moment that really stuck with you?

Leela: In my first-year coaching, the students had never done robotics before. They worked so hard all season. At the final competition, they received the Energy Award for their uplifting spirit and sportsmanship. Watching their faces light up is something I’ll never forget.

Sonia: At our first competitions, I worried the students might get bored or want to leave early. Instead, they loved it. At one event we couldn’t find a student when it was time to go because he was fascinated watching the middle school teams compete.

What has been the most challenging part of leading the program?

Leela: We work with four schools, about 50 students, and around 20 volunteers, so coordinating schedules is challenging. Between holidays, severe weather, bus schedules and sick days, making sure everyone can attend practices takes a lot of planning.

Sonia: Competitions can be stressful for students. Sometimes they get overwhelmed or upset if things don’t go well. We try to encourage them and remind them to shake off the negative thoughts so they can get back in the game.

 Has this experience changed how you see yourselves?

Leela: This experience has shown me how rewarding giving back to my community is. Working with students and seeing their progress has been incredibly meaningful, and I hope to continue giving back in the future.

Sonia: I’ve learned that leaders don’t always have the answers. Sometimes, leaders simply help guide. I also have more respect for my teachers because keeping younger students focused can be challenging but very rewarding.

When something goes wrong, how do you handle it with the kids?

Leela: First we calm everyone down and talk through the problem. Once the students identify what went wrong, whether it’s a broken piece or coding issue, we work together on a solution so they can fix it and keep going.

Sonia: We try reminding them that things don’t always go as expected, in robotics or in life. What matters most is how we respond to challenges and that we keep moving forward.

Does students’ confidence grow throughout the season?

Leela: One student joined my team as a third grader and is now in fifth grade. Watching him grow from the youngest member into someone who mentors his teammates has been amazing.

Sonia: At the beginning, many students were eager but nervous to step outside their comfort zones. By the final competition, they were confidently strategizing with other teams. It’s incredible to watch.

Years from now, what do you hope the kids remember about you?

Leela: The impact I had on them — not just in robotics but in life. Even if they don’t pursue STEM, I hope they take something meaningful from the experience.

Sonia: The fun memories and lessons we shared. Robotics teaches teamwork, problem solving and flexibility, and I hope those skills stay with them.

If you could tell every elementary school girl one thing about robotics, what would it be?

Leela: You can do it just as well as the boys — if not better.

Sonia: Even if you feel nervous, don’t be afraid to try something new.

READ MORE:

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• Kids to Know: Kids 4 A Cause
• Kids to Know: Jacob Pham, Simba on Broadway

Originally Published in the April 2026 Issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine