From Greece to UC San Diego: raising two kids while earning a Math–CS degree, interning, and building a startup.
We would like to thank you for supporting Ioanna Gkerdouki in this year's competition. Your participation made a huge impact for Children’s Miracle Network® and their mission to provide life-saving care and improve the health of children across the country.
Watching my daughters grow into their own personalities while knowing I’m shaping their confidence, values, and way of thinking. The small everyday moments, how they learn, laugh, and trust me, matter more than anything. It’s rewarding to see them feel safe, loved, and capable, and to know I’m building strong, independent girls who will navigate the world with confidence.
What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?Motherhood showed me how resilient I truly am. Before becoming a mom, I couldn’t have imagined handling even half of what I do now, raising two toddlers while managing an intense course load, interning, building a future, and adapting to new countries. It pushed me beyond my limits and showed me that I’m capable of far more than I ever thought.
What would you do with $20,000?I would invest the money into building my startup, an AI-driven platform designed to create real opportunities and empower others. Beyond personal growth, my goal is to generate jobs and meaningful impact. I’d also allocate a portion toward education and tools that accelerate execution, ensuring the idea turns into something sustainable and scalable.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Super Mom, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
