Demarcus Marcellus Billups: The Right Mindset Leads to Perseverance, Innovation
As artificial intelligence, or AI, becomes more integrated into our world, young people are finding ways to use it for good.
For Demarcus Billups II, being a part of Douglas Byrd High School’s AI Solve-A-Thon team is one way he can use the latest technology to make a difference. Nicknamed the Byrd Brains, the team recently placed third in the North Carolina AI Solve-A-Thon competition. This innovative problem-solving challenge empowers North Carolina’s public school students in grades 6-12 to apply AI while creating solutions to real problems in their communities.
With Demarcus leading the charge, the Byrd Brains came up with an app and website designed to help unhoused individuals find local resources.
“Achieving this required tons of determination to keep the project going despite setbacks, along with technical understanding of artificial intelligence and how to ethically utilize it,” Demarcus said. “Most importantly, the project also required proper communication between the team working on the app, as well as local shelter providers, so we could get professional insight on the things that any person experiencing homelessness may need.”
School leaders at Douglas Byrd describe Demarcus as an exceptional student with strong character and determination. He is a consistently hard worker who approaches every task with focus and perseverance, even when faced with challenges.
“As a leader, Demarcus demonstrates integrity, encouragement and responsibility, earning the trust of both peers and teachers,” said Thea Kraljevic, school counselor. “Most impressively, Demarcus has overcome personal obstacles with resilience and maturity, using his experiences as motivation to grow stronger rather than as excuses to give up.”
At only 17, during the first semester of his senior year, Demarcus was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. At first, finding out about this chronic disability at such a young age was hard on his mental health and he felt like giving up. However, he began to realize that he couldn’t change the diagnosis, and stressing over it would only make things worse. Instead, he decided to keep persevering, achieving and taking necessary preventive measures to keep himself healthy, physically and mentally.
“I feel that the hardest thing I've worked for is my own mindset,” Demarcus said. “Being forced to live with a chronic disability has had a multitude of effects on my mental health; however, despite this, I've managed to hone my mindset into a more positive one. Which for me, personally, was the hardest thing I've ever achieved.”
Throughout high school, Demarcus has stayed involved. In addition to the North Carolina AI Solve-A-Thon, he is also a part of the National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society.
After high school, Demarcus plans to attend North Carolina State University. He is undecided on a major—he would like to take time to properly evaluate his interests and goals.
“After college, I hope to understand myself and figure out what path truly makes me happy,” Demarcus said. “Then, once I realize who and what I aspire to be, I’d love to help others achieve that same level of clarity.”
Demarcus’ future plans come as no surprise to those who know him best.
“Demarcus’ thoughtful nature and genuine curiosity sets him apart from his peers,” said Kraljevic. “He asks insightful questions, seeks deeper understanding and eagerly embraces opportunities to learn new skills and concepts. Demarcus' work ethic, character and determination will undoubtedly continue to propel him toward success.”