Mike Vanderpool | Explore Boldly, Imagine Freely, Keep Learning!
YouTube tech creator Mike Vanderpool (channel: @HillPhantom ) visited Shenzhen, China for the first time—and the experience left a lasting impression. Mike is especially interested in how robotics can be used to support people with disabilities, and Shenzhen’s robotics ecosystem truly stood out to him: advanced technology, affordable costs, and astonishing manufacturing speed.
Through his camera, Mike hopes to capture Shenzhen’s innovation-driven atmosphere, cutting-edge products, and vibrant maker spirit, helping more people around the world understand the energy and creativity of China’s maker community—and breaking down cultural and geographical barriers in the process.
What impressed him most was the openness and inclusivity of the Chinese maker community. Young people under 30 are actively encouraged to engage in technology and innovation, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experimentation and real-world making. As a completely self-taught creator, Mike deeply resonates with this culture that values practical skills and creative thinking.
For young makers and students who love to create, Mike shared some heartfelt advice: “Always keep exploring. Never be afraid. You have to be brave, and you have to believe in yourself. It can be hard sometimes, but if you stick to these habits, they’ll grow into something truly special. You need to have dreams, and you need to stay focused on improving your knowledge and skills.”
Asked to describe this year’s Maker Faire in one word, Mike’s answer was simple:“Special.”
