Devices

Sony, Best Buy Collaborate to Support the Future of Tech

Teens will continue getting hands-on experience with the latest tech—including sound and video production, digital photography and graphic design—at the Best Buy Teen Tech Center Powered by Sony.

Sony has supported the Best Buy Teen Tech Center @ San Marcos Boys & Girls Club since it opened in 2017 and is recommitting support for the next five years. The tech center is housed at San Marcos Boys & Girls Club of America (BGCA), a perfect location given BGCA’s commitment to serve youth in their more than 4,000 clubs.

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center Powered by Sony helps neighborhood teens from disinvested communities who might otherwise not have access to prepare for careers of the future. Here, teens can develop critical skills through hands-on activities that explore their interests in programming, filmmaking, music production and design. Teen Tech Centers support young people as they learn crucial tech skills, explore their passions, and discover how technology can benefit them in school and future careers. In a collaborative environment with their peers, and with the guidance of adult mentors, the space houses state-of-the art technology. Sony’s continued support of the clubs comes from Sony’s Global Social Justice Fund.

“We want youth to have access to the technology, training and mentorship they need to pursue their dreams,” said Andrea Wood, Vice President of Social Impact at Best Buy. “We know we can’t do this alone, so we’re excited to continue our collaboration with Sony as we continue to empower teens with the resources they need to thrive now and in the future.”

“Sony is pleased to provide students the best in technology – we know these experiences can help pave the way for STEAM jobs of the future,” said Cheryl Goodman, Head of Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility at Sony Electronics. “We are pleased to renew our commitment with the Teen Tech Centers while we strengthen tomorrow’s workforce with diverse, creative voices.”

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center @ San Marcos Boys & Girls Club is open to youth ages 13-18, providing an opportunity to explore and collaborate with technology through project-based learning. To follow COVID-19 regulations, the Center is currently limiting the number of people allowed inside at a given time. They have also designated a staff person to meet with teens virtually and have adjusted their business hours to help with online schooling.

Currently, there are 35 Teen Tech Centers across the country that offer safe after-school learning spaces where youth can learn new tech skills, stay on track with school, gain exposure to new career possibilities and benefit from positive adult and peer relationships.