Introducing Leio Ohshima McLaren
A note from Kerrie Phipps – Leio’s been featured on the Today Show recently, and other media, but I first saw his app mentioned on facebook. This story has gold for anyone who reads it. Hard work makes dreams possible.
Please ‘like’, share and use this story to encourage others. I’m encouraged!
Leio Ohshima McLaren
Leio’s nominator sent in these comments – “Leio was featured on the Today Show last month as the Youngest App developer in Australia at the age of 13. He created an iPad app to help assist young children learn the sounds of the alphabet. He is inspiring as he is not only very young but he had a goal to make an app within the year and he achieved it in that timeframe. He is also donating 20% of all his profits to an organisation 100% Hope to help educate orphaned Ugandan children.” – Mark
Leio Ohshima McLaren has become one of Australia’s youngest ‘App-preneurs’ with the recent release on the Apple App Store of his independently designed and developed iPad app, Phonic Buddies. 2012 was an extremely busy year for Leio as he balanced his leadership role as Primary School Captain at King’s Christian College on the Gold Coast and spent precious free time developing his programming skills and AppApp&Away business. The precocious debating captain and student magazine editor has always been passionate about using technology to educate and entertain others. Leio’s willingness to help has been well recognized and he is passionate about setting the example of his mantra “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard”.
1. How do you love to explain your business to others?
I love computers and technology and helping others therefore, I wanted to conceive a business that combined both of my passions. During the process of developing my app and the associated business acumen required for such a venture, it became obvious to me that I had taken on a huge challenge that many would say was unachievable for a 12 year old. However, I proved to others and myself that hard work and dedication to your passion can give you the ability to achieve your dreams.
Leo’s app, Phonic Buddies
2. What makes your story unique?
I think that many people are surprised to hear that as a 13 year old I was able to develop an app and have it approved on the App Store. On release, Phonic Buddies became the no 1 educational app within 48 hours. For me this was just awesome! I am in no way a genius or child prodigy however, my determination to set a goal, learn all that was required and manage my time effectively enabled me to successfully achieve what I had set out to do. I am proud of my accomplishments so far and further inspired to continue in this field.
3. Who are your greatest supporters?
Firstly, I would definitely say that my parents and family are ALWAYS incredibly supportive of me. They continue to encourage me through feedback and advice when needed. Most of all, I know that they believe in me.
Secondly, I must also give credit to the wonderful support given by my teachers at King’s and their willingness to help foster my skills and talents. I wouldn’t have started anything like this if I wasn’t given the opportunities I have had at King’s with their 1:1 Apple laptop program. It’s amazing what a young person like myself can achieve when given a positive, caring and supportive environment.
4. What is your approach to marketing and how or are you becoming known?
It’s difficult to get noticed on the App Store as I do not have a large marketing budget like bigger and more established companies. I rely on the fact that I have created a quality educational app and hope for recognition through media, articles, word-of mouth, social media, etc.
Phonic Buddies from AppApp&Away
Phonic Buddies is available on the App Store for $1.99 with 20% of all proceeds being donated to the 100%hope charity that assists in helping educate orphaned children in African communities. I have a personal connection to this charity via Miss Grady, one of our exceptional teachers at King’s. She has actually left her teaching position at the end of 2012 to pursue her mission work for this absolutely awesome charity in Uganda. I feel strongly that our generation becomes aware and shows empathy for others less fortunate in countries and communities who aren’t as blessed as we are in Australia.
Contact Details
Name: Leio Ohshima McLaren
Role: CEO and Founder
Busienss Name: AppApp&Away
Mob. 0406 553 635
Web. www.appappaway.com
Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/appappaway
Twitter. @LeioAppAppAway
iTunes. Phonic Buddies
