TALKS
Michael Platt | Kids Can Solve Big Problems
Michael Platt believes you’re never too young to solve a big problem. In fact, he insists that kids are uniquely suited to dreaming big about how to make society better. They just need a little help from adults to make it happen.
Three years ago, Michael saw a chance to connect his two passions, cupcakes and the social justice teachings of Martin Luther King, Jr. He founded Michael’s Desserts, a bakery with the mission of fighting hunger and giving back. For every baked good he sells, he donates another one to someone in need at a domestic violence shelter, transitional housing center, or place of food insecurity. Each month, he creates a new “freedom fighter cupcake” inspired by leaders like Maya Angelou, Nelson Mandela, and Harriet Tubman; he hopes the cupcakes spread awareness of the past and inspire others to work for social justice.
Michael’s TEDxJacksonville idea is to help kids between the ages of 10 and 18 find a problem they hate and want to solve, and then use their interests to start a business that helps fix it.
Michael Platt is a 14-year-old baker, business owner, social entrepreneur, and food justice advocate. Michael has been baking since he was 9 years old, but has been interested in the challenges of inequality since he learned about the historic March on Washington at age 6. Michael comes from a home of educators and advocates and began to ask questions early on about the challenges of inequity. Inspired by a pair of TOMS shoes he received as a present, Michael decided that he would begin a baking business with a one-for-one model. From the beginning of Michaels Desserts, he has donated a dessert to someone in need for every one dessert that he sells. With this model Michael has served hundreds of people and provided over 12,000 meals.Michael appeared with 11 of the best kid bakers in the country in season four of “Kids Baking Championship” on Food Network and has appeared on “Good Morning America” and “Access Hollywood” as well as CNN and CBS.
