In the Spotlight is Youth Observer’s interview series highlighting extraordinary young innovators, trailblazers, and changemakers shaping the world’s future.

For this edition, Youth Observer’s Rehman Siddiq connected with Lucy Guo, who at 30 became the youngest self-made female billionaire, surpassing even Taylor Swift. From dropping out of Carnegie Mellon for the Thiel Fellowship, to co-founding Scale AI at 21, and now launching Passes, Guo has consistently taken bold leaps. In this conversation, she reflects on her upbringing, the challenges of being an Asian American woman in tech, her frugal lifestyle, her vision for AI, and why she’s determined to help creators turn audiences into empires.

At 30, you’ve become the youngest self-made female billionaire, surpassing Taylor Swift. How does it feel to achieve this milestone, and what does it mean to you personally?

Honestly, I don’t think about it that much–it doesn’t mean a whole lot to me on a day-to-day basis. I’ve always been interested in building products that could generate revenue, even from a young age, but becoming a billionaire was never an explicit goal. My reality hasn’t really changed–what truly drives me is the work itself. I wake up focused on how we can make Passes better and serve creators more effectively. If anything, this recognition only strengthens my commitment to helping creators build their own successful businesses. I do hope this shows other young women in not just tech, but any industry for that matter, that these paths are possible.

You started coding as a child and built bots for Neopets to earn money as a teen. What sparked your early passion for tech, and how did those experiences shape your entrepreneurial journey?

My parents are immigrants and really emphasized financial independence growing up, so I figured out how to make money at a young age–from selling Pokémon cards on the playground to building bots on Neopets and Runescape. Being raised in the Bay Area, I was surrounded by emerging technologies and entrepreneurial energy. Teaching myself to code and creating these virtual economies showed me I could build products that actually impact people. Those early experiences taught me to be resourceful and persistent–qualities that are exactly what founders and entrepreneurs need to see success.

Dropping out of Carnegie Mellon for the Thiel Fellowship was a bold move. What gave you the confidence to take that risk, and how did it influence your path to success?

I operate on conviction. When I deeply understand a problem and see a solution that others either don’t see or don’t feel compelled to act upon, staying put feels riskier than leaping. The Thiel Fellowship gave me the confidence to bet on myself rather than following the traditional path my parents may have envisioned. While I rejected the specific career path they wanted, I still embodied the work ethic they instilled in me. That decision taught me that sometimes the unconventional route is exactly what you need.

You co-founded Scale AI at 21, which now has a $25 billion valuation. What was the biggest challenge you faced in those early days, and how did you overcome it?

As more of these founder stories of younger entrepreneurs are being featured and more publicly received, this constant need to re-establish credibility has definitely improved. However, around the time I was working on Scale AI, this challenge was still very much something I faced, especially as a young Asian American woman in tech. I had to deal with people constantly telling me that I only won hackathons and landed jobs because I was a woman. But I found that the best response to that is to build something undeniably great. Results speak louder than anything else, so I’ve always focused on results in my own work and in how I manage my teams.

As a woman in tech, you’ve broken barriers in an industry where female founders receive just 2% of venture capital. What challenges have you faced, and how do you inspire other women to pursue tech entrepreneurship?

The most insidious barriers aren’t always the explicit biases–though those exist–but the subtle ones that make you question yourself. There are still rooms where I’m the only woman, and people will always have opinions about me. Another barrier I still deal with is people spreading false rumors purely out of envy. But I’ve learned that authentic representation isn’t just about having diverse faces–it’s about having diverse perspectives influencing decisions at every level. I try to be deliberate about opening doors and creating access to networks where many founders from underrepresented groups get stuck.

You’ve founded Passes, a platform empowering creators, with backing from figures like Shaquille O’Neal. What gap in the creator economy did you see, and how does Passes aim to fill it?

I saw creators in my direct circle of friends struggle with monetization. The big platforms were taking massive cuts, the tools were fragmented, and brand deals were inconsistent. While the creator economy was exploding, the infrastructure simply wasn’t keeping pace. Creators with millions of followers were cobbling together five different tools to run their businesses. Yet, there was still this massive gap between the work creators put into their craft and how they were being compensated for it. Passes is built on the principle that creators should own their audience and their revenue. We’re the first actual creator commerce platform—we’re not just trying to take a slice of the creator economy; we’re trying to expand it.

You’ve embraced the FIRE movement and live frugally, shopping at Shein and driving a Honda Civic despite your $1.3 billion net worth. How do you balance this mindset with your high-profile success?

Growing up in a frugal household where financial independence was emphasized shaped my relationship with money. Those immigrant values of being resourceful and not wasteful stick with you. My day-to-day reality hasn't changed much—I'm still focused on building and solving problems. The recognition comes with responsibility to use resources wisely and create impact that matters, not just accumulate for the sake of it.

Who have been your biggest inspirations, past or present, in shaping your approach to entrepreneurship and leadership, and how have they influenced your decisions?

My parents have been huge inspirations—watching them work within systems that weren't designed with them in mind, having to work twice as hard for the same recognition, gave me empathy for creators building businesses on platforms that aren't designed to help them succeed. That experience directly influences how we build Passes. I also surround myself with fellow founders and creatives who really live out their days to the fullest–doing things they love to do while challenging themselves with their career at the same time. Those who challenge conventional thinking and build from conviction inspire me to do the same and prove to me that my approach to entrepreneurship is the way to go.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs, especially female entrepreneurs, who are starting their own ventures and facing doubts or obstacles in male-dominated industries?

Your difference is your advantage. For so long, many of us were taught to downplay what makes us different—our cultural backgrounds, our perspectives—to assimilate. I did this too early in my career. But the perspectives you bring from navigating multiple cultures, from seeing systems others take for granted—these are superpowers in entrepreneurship. The world is unfair, and that’s not going to change overnight, so you have to fight and work harder to win. Develop unwavering belief in your vision because the world will test that belief constantly. And when you succeed, create space for others.

With your experience at Scale AI and beyond, where do you see the future of artificial intelligence heading? Should we be scared about its growth, and will it take away jobs or create new opportunities?

I think of AI as a copilot, not a replacement to humans. AI will complement human creativity. Imagine a world where AI can do 80% of the mundane tasks, and that extra 20% can be spent adding human touch, relationship building, and closing deals. That’s where we’re headed, even within the creator economy. The most successful creators will be those who learn to use AI to execute their vision faster and more efficiently. AI can help with production, but the creative vision, the personality, the connection—that needs human oversight. It will create new opportunities by amplifying what humans do best, so we really shouldn’t be scared about its growth.

Passes has faced legal challenges regarding content moderation. How are you addressing these issues, and what steps is Passes taking to ensure a safe platform for creators and users?

We take platform safety seriously at Passes and we’re continuously improving our content moderation systems. We’re building tools that protect both creators and users while maintaining a creator-first approach that makes Passes different. Safety and creator empowerment aren’t mutually exclusive—we can build the best platform with the best tools while ensuring responsible practices.

You’ve said you want to create “unicorn creators” through Passes. What’s your long-term vision for the creator economy, and how do you plan to help young creators achieve financial independence?

I want to turn our creators on Passes into billionaires—unicorn creators. We’ve already made many millionaires at Passes, and creators are buying their first homes, paying off student loans, retiring their parents, etc. More creators are building billion-dollar brands like Hailey Bieber’s Rhode and Logan Paul’s Prime, born and thriving purely from creator audiences. These creator-founded businesses have a significantly lower creator acquisition cost and AI is going to copilot this for creators even more. Again, I see AI becoming creators’ best copilot, helping them scale their time and grow income faster. The boundary between physical and digital experiences is blurring. Creators will design experiences that move seamlessly between online and offline. My vision is helping creators build sustainable businesses and reach their potential—turning audiences into empires.

In the Spotlight is Youth Observer’s signature interview series featuring extraordinary young leaders, changemakers, and visionaries. From politics to activism to entrepreneurship, we highlight bold voices shaping the future.

At 27, Bushra Amiwala has already made history as the youngest Muslim elected official in the United States. Now, she’s setting her sights on Congress — aiming to represent Illinois’s 9th District at a pivotal moment for the country. In this candid conversation, Bushra shares why she’s running, the values guiding her campaign, and her message for the next generation of leaders.

For those who don’t know you yet, who is Bushra Amiwala? How would you introduce yourself beyond your titles and résumé?

I am the 27-year-old daughter of Pakistani immigrants who has lived in Illinois’ 9th District my entire life. My message and vision for the country are rooted in that history. Like everyone in my generation, I've spent my entire adult life in Trump’s political environment. I am tired of it and want to bring a fresh perspective to my community and the country. Life needs to be more affordable, healthcare needs to be universal and neighborhoods need to be Trump-proofed.

You’ve already made history as the youngest Muslim elected official in the country. What motivated you to now run for Congress, and why now, in this moment?

My motivation to run is twofold: My platform will make life safer and more affordable for everyone in my district, and my experience has shown me that real leadership doesn’t wait its turn. Through serving on the Skokie School Board as the youngest Muslim elected official in the country, I learned that inaction and the status quo are choices made by ineffective leaders. However, complacency is not inevitable. We need candidates who have the vision to see what's next and the courage to push for change. So many Gen-Zers have grown cynical of politics and politicians, and fairly so, but I deeply believe that fearless leaders and bold policy will move this country forward. A culture of “wait your turn” and seniority has placed far too many of those status quo leaders at the top of the Democratic Party, and 2026 is the time to change that.

Jan Schakowsky, the longtime incumbent in Illinois’s 9th District, is not seeking re-election after serving for over two decades. With several candidates now jumping into the race, how optimistic are you about your chances, and what makes your campaign uniquely positioned to carry this seat forward?

I am very optimistic about our chances, but frankly I would be doing this even if I wasn’t. I am in the race because I have the best program for my district to thrive, and these changes cannot wait until it’s politically convenient. This seat has been held by the same congresswoman since before I was born, so there are a lot of candidates in the race who feel they have “waited their turn”. Many of them have had admirable careers in politics, but the challenges of 2026 and beyond are not the challenges of 2015. I am reflecting what I know my community wants in their representative: a leader who earns their vote with her vision for a safer, more affordable future, rather than representation that feels entitled to the seat because it's their turn.

You've raised over $250,000 already, without support from big-money lobbies or political insiders. What tips would you give to young people considering a run for office but lacking resources? Any marketing or outreach advice?

Raising money for a campaign is exciting, but it’s also grueling. I am proud of the $250,000 we have already raised, especially given how connected our donors are to the district I am running to represent. Before I give my tips, I want to say that part of what I want to do in Congress is change how elections work in this country. If we want our best leaders to serve us, we can’t ask them to spend the majority of their time each week asking for money. It’s a process that keeps young candidates out of races too, because they don’t have the right group chat of megadonors that their older, establishment opponents do. Now getting off my soapbox and answering the question, my main piece of advice is to keep faith in those around you. I didn’t grow up around any mega-donor group chats, but I continue to be inspired by how many people want to help me and believe in me. If what’s holding you back is “why would anyone support me?” then I’m here to encourage you to just ask. You will be shocked.

Are you borrowing any strategies from grassroots campaigns like AOC’s or Zohran Mamdani’s? What tactics or values are you carrying forward from those movements?

AOC and Zohran are incredibly inspiring. To me, they represent a shift in our politics away from what you say to me and towards what you do for me. Both AOC and Zohran felt like candidates that sprang to prominence from out of nowhere, but the early years they spent organizing for their beliefs gave them unique insight into what their communities needed—more insight than any focus group or poll could come up with. Their campaigns demonstrate that it is impossible to represent a community that you don’t love and aren’t a part of. So of course, I will be on TikTok now and then, looking for my Zohran-type moments. But really what I take from their movement is that, although I am a Gen-Z Muslim woman, my most important identity is a person who listens to and loves my community.

Since Zohran’s primary victory and amid growing Islamophobia and xenophobia, do you think your identity as a Muslim woman will be weaponized in this campaign? How do you plan to respond while staying focused on your message?

The question is framed in the most accurate way: my identity will be weaponized. It’s a low-ball attempt to otherize me and my campaign, which is ironic since I’m the only candidate in the field who has lived in this district my entire life. It’s also a shallow attempt to distract from my messaging. I’ll have to internally remind myself to bring the discussion back to my platform that will make life better for the residents of my district. That’s what voters want to hear about. Islamophobia and xenophobia are distractions from progress, and pretty lazy ones at that. But that doesn’t mean they’re not real; we have a responsibility to stand up to hate and division. The Islamophobia I will face is a small reflection of the day-to-day bigotry that too many of your readers, and my constituents, face. It is incumbent upon us to reject bigotry in all its forms. My campaign is unequivocal in its messaging that no one should feel unsafe or unwelcome in the place they call home.

In today’s political climate, conversations around Gaza, trans rights, and undocumented immigrants have become politically risky, even within the Democratic Party. If elected, how would you stand firm on these issues in Congress?

I’m proud to advocate for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, a stance I’ve maintained with 370+ other elected officials around the country. What’s happening in Gaza is unacceptable. Defenseless civilians—including 900,000 children—are dying of hunger. Meanwhile, our own tax dollars are funding the crisis by sending weapons to Israel. Voters following the news from Gaza are outraged, as they should be. And this is not just about one conflict. It’s about a broader commitment to upholding international law and protecting human dignity. In Congress, I’ll fight to uphold human rights abroad and at home. Not only have I rejected any type of AIPAC-affiliated funding, but I’ve rejected donors who give to organizations like AIPAC, too. My stance is a moral obligation, and it cannot be bought.

You’ve made faith a bridge rather than a barrier, hosting interfaith events and advocating for inclusive education laws. How does your personal identity shape your public leadership?

Building coalitions has always been the framework to enact positive, wide-scale change. Upon being elected to the board of education in 2019, a lot of parents shared concerns about their children’s dietary needs. This wasn’t just Muslim parents advocating for Halal food; it was also Jewish parents advocating for Kosher food, and Hindu parents advocating for vegetarian options. Inclusion isn’t just about representing the demographic I’m a part of; it means standing firm and showing up for all communities.

If elected to Congress, what would be your top three priorities in your first year, and why those specifically?

Education, economic justice and healthcare.

Education: We need to take 1% of our defense budget and reallocate it to schools nationwide. It may not sound like a radical change, but even increasing federal funding for education by 1% can save families thousands of dollars in property taxes, and afford us the quality schools our students deserve. My experience serving on my district’s school board has prepared me to serve all the students of IL-09.

Economic justice: I believe that economic inequality undermines our democracy. I will work to raise the minimum wage, protect the right to unionize and ensure that our economy works for everyone, not just the wealthy few. This means supporting small businesses to thrive in our communities and incentivizing them to stay by leveraging intergovernmental agreements between federal and municipal authorities.

Healthcare: Our country needs Medicare For All. Bernie Sanders put this solution on the map, and it is our generation's time to get it done. Our healthcare system is broken. Implementation will take time, so I will ensure that comprehensive mental healthcare is the first step in remaking our system. This includes proactive preventative check ups, reactive care, and covering the cost of medication.

Why should voters, especially young people, support you? What vision are you offering that they won’t get from a more traditional candidate?

Young voters should support me because I am going to fight to make their lives safer and more affordable. Every campaign will say something like that, so you all deserve more. Unlike traditional candidates, I have lived these problems. Politicians and pundits recite talking points about how young people face an affordability crisis or skyrocketing rates of depression and anxiety. But they will only ever speak to us, not fight with us. I have seen ICE invade my community in Skokie, Illinois; I experienced the effects of social media as a kid and can see how much worse it is for kids today; and I have seen the prospect of buying a house fade away as I get squeezed financially. It scares me, frustrates me, and every so often challenges the hope I have. Supporting me means not giving up on that hope to do better. If you find yourself frustrated and scared at times by what's ahead, then let’s get in the game and fix it. We win elections now so we can change our future later.

You’ve come a long way since being a policy debate champ and college intern. What’s the most humbling or surprising lesson you’ve learned on your journey so far?

There are people who don’t play by the rules, and lean on disinformation and click bait. It is frustrating, but that will make it feel even sweeter when we win.

Lastly, what advice would you give to young people, especially first- or second-generation Americans, who feel powerless but want to make a difference?

We can win our way. There is no one to mimic and no talking point to memorize. We change the system by beating it in our own way. Focus on what inspires you, political or otherwise, and be great at it. Take pride in your work and don’t be afraid of taking on powers that don’t understand it. I’ll be cheering you on, and I hope you will be cheering for me too. If you want to help us out sign up at bushraforcongress.com.

Disclaimer: This interview is part of Youth Observer’s In the Spotlight series, which profiles inspiring young leaders from around the world. It is not a paid piece, nor does it constitute an endorsement of any political candidate or campaign by Youth Observer.

At just 18 years old, Jaylen Smith made history — becoming the youngest Black mayor in U.S. history after winning the 2022 mayoral race in Earle, Arkansas. While most high school graduates are focused on college or first jobs, Jaylen was stepping into city hall, determined to revitalize his community and lead with heart.

As part of our new “In the Spotlight” series, where we interview some of the most inspiring young voices from across the world — from youth leaders and activists to rising political changemakers — Jaylen spoke with Youth Observer about what pushed him to run, how he balances school with civic duty, and why this is only the beginning.

1. At 18, you became the youngest Black mayor in U.S. history. What inspired you to run for mayor of Earle, Arkansas, right out of high school?

Honestly, it came from a desire to see real change — and not just talk about it. I’ve always loved my community, but I saw needs being overlooked and potential going untapped. I knew if I waited for someone else to step up, we’d just keep getting more of the same. I believed in Earle, and I believed that young people like me could lead with fresh eyes and bold ideas.

2. You’ve said you wanted to “be the change” for Earle. What specific challenges, like the lack of a grocery store or public safety concerns, drove you to take on this role?

The biggest thing was access. We didn’t have a local grocery store. Our seniors and families had to travel miles just to get basic necessities. Public safety and infrastructure were other concerns — from street lighting to cleaning up abandoned properties. I wanted to tackle issues that directly impact quality of life. People deserve to live in a community they’re proud of.

3. How did your experience as student government president at Earle High School prepare you for the responsibilities of being a mayor?

Being student government president taught me how to listen, lead with integrity, and speak up — even when it’s uncomfortable. It showed me how to advocate for others, build consensus, and stay organized. I had to bring people together to get things done, and that’s the same energy I carry into city hall.

4. Some residents were skeptical about your age and lack of experience. How did you convince voters to trust you, and what advice do you have for young people facing similar doubts?

I didn’t try to act like I had all the answers — I showed that I was willing to work for them. I talked to people, knocked on doors, and asked questions. I listened before I led. Over time, people saw my heart and my hustle. For young people: your age doesn't disqualify you. If anything, it’s your strength. Believe in your calling — and be willing to prove it through action.

5. You’ve met key figures like Vice President Kamala Harris and other prominent leaders. Which leader, past or present, do you look up to the most, and how have they influenced your approach to leadership as mayor?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is one of my biggest inspirations. He led with purpose, grace, and courage, even in the face of doubt and danger. He didn’t wait until he had a title — he served from where he was. That mindset reminds me to lead with humility, focus on service, and never forget who I’m fighting for.

6. Can you walk us through what a mayor’s duties look like in a small town like Earle? What’s the most surprising or challenging part of your day-to-day responsibilities?

In a small town, you wear many hats. I’m in meetings about roads, budgets, community events, and even helping residents with personal concerns. Sometimes I’m cutting ribbons — other times, I’m cutting red tape. The most surprising part is how hands-on it is. The most challenging is making change with limited resources, but that’s also where creativity kicks in.

7. Balancing college at Arkansas State University Mid-South with mayoral duties must be intense. How do you manage your time, and what’s a typical day like for you?

Time management is everything. I wake up early, keep a strict calendar, and surround myself with a strong support team. A typical day might include class in the morning, meetings at city hall in the afternoon, and community calls in the evening. I’ve learned to prioritize what matters and give my full focus to the task in front of me.

8. You’ve prioritized revitalizing Earle’s economy and infrastructure, like bringing back a supermarket. What progress have you made, and what obstacles have you faced?

We’ve made real strides in cleaning up blighted areas and attracting investment interest. The process of bringing back a grocery store is ongoing, but I’m committed. The biggest obstacle is funding — small towns often get overlooked. But I’ve been working with state and federal partners to bring new opportunities to Earle. Progress may be slow, but it's steady.

9. As a member of Generation Z, how does your perspective differ from older leaders, and how does it help you address Earle’s challenges?

Gen Z brings a mindset of innovation, urgency, and inclusion. We’re not afraid to challenge the status quo. I use technology to communicate with residents, streamline city functions, and connect Earle with the wider world. I respect the wisdom of older generations, but I also believe it’s time for fresh ideas and bold solutions — that’s where my generation thrives.

10. You’ve spoken about inspiring other young people to get involved in their communities. What message would you share with our readers who want to make a difference but feel they’re “too young”?

You are not too young — you are right on time. If you see a need, you were probably meant to meet it. Your voice matters. Your ideas are valuable. Don’t wait for permission to lead. Start where you are, use what you have, and let your passion drive your purpose. Someone is waiting on your obedience.

11. You’ve attended the U.S. Conference of Mayors and met with other Arkansas mayors. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from other leaders?

The biggest lesson is this: every community, big or small, wants to be heard, seen, and invested in. I’ve learned the value of collaboration — that real progress happens when we share knowledge and support each other. I’ve also learned that transparency, communication, and consistency build trust. No matter the city size, leadership principles stay the same.

12. You’ve mentioned aspiring to become a prosecutor or even president one day. How does your current role as mayor shape your future ambitions, and what’s your next step?

Being mayor has shown me the power of local government to change lives — and it’s given me a clearer vision for long-term impact. I still plan to study law and advocate for justice. Whether that leads to the courtroom or the White House one day, I’ll always remember where I started. My next step is continuing to grow, serve, and prepare — because this is only the beginning.

Follow our "In the Spotlight" series for more interviews with youth leaders, trailblazing activists, and rising stars making their mark on the world just like Jaylen Smith.