The Providence Journal and United Way of Rhode Island have partnered to highlight the state’s nonprofits. Each week, a nonprofit identified by United Way will be spotlighted in the Providence Sunday Journal, and the United Way will share how it supports that organization.
This week, we feature Winners’ Circle XR Academy Inc., which serves more than 250 students annually through STEAM programs.
We asked founder and executive director Juan Rodriguez to tell us more about the organization.
What is your mission and vision?
Our mission is to empower young people through esports and STEAM by providing access to technology, mentorship and hands-on learning experiences. We use gaming, extended reality and creative technology to help students build confidence, discover their strengths and explore pathways into careers in technology, engineering and game design.
Our vision is a Rhode Island where every student, regardless of background or ZIP code, has the opportunity to participate in the future of technology. We believe that when young people are given the right tools, supportive mentors and meaningful challenges, they not only gain technical skills, but also confidence, purpose and a sense of possibility that can shape the rest of their lives.
How do you measure success?
We measure success by looking at both impact and transformation. This includes the number of students served across Rhode Island, the diversity of communities reached, and the strength of our partnerships with schools and community organizations.
Equally important are the moments that signal deeper change. Students completing projects they once thought were out of reach, collaborating confidently with peers and returning for additional programs because they feel a sense of belonging in technology spaces. Success also shows up when students begin to imagine futures in STEAM fields and take early steps toward those pathways with curiosity and confidence.
What are your biggest challenges currently?
One of our biggest challenges is sustaining high-quality programs while keeping them accessible to students and families. Providing meaningful STEAM and esports experiences requires up-to-date technology, skilled mentors and supportive learning environments, all of which depend on ongoing community support.
Another challenge is closing opportunity gaps for students who have had limited exposure to technology. Many young people enter our programs unsure of their abilities. Our work requires patience, mentorship and intentional design to help students build confidence while learning new skills. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensuring every student has a fair chance to thrive.
How can volunteers or donors get involved?
Volunteers and donors make our work possible. Volunteers share their time, experience and encouragement by mentoring students and supporting hands-on learning experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Donors help remove barriers by funding technology, equipment, program materials and learning opportunities that families may not otherwise be able to access. Every contribution directly supports student growth and expands access to STEAM pathways. Those interested in learning more about our work can visit our website or reach out to explore ways to get involved.
What are some recent accomplishments or projects you’re proud of?
We are proud of creating learning experiences that bring students from different Rhode Island communities together to collaborate, problem-solve and express their ideas through technology.
These experiences emphasize teamwork, creativity and real-world problem-solving while helping students see technology as a tool for positive impact.
We are also proud of the strong relationships we have built with schools, community organizations and higher education partners. These collaborations allow us to reach students who might not otherwise have access to advanced STEAM opportunities and create pathways that extend beyond our programs into long-term learning and career exploration.
Winners’ Circle XR Academy empowers youth through esports. Here’s how.
