Passion for science, a fervour for education, and a willingness to communicate. It is the combination of these qualities that leads us to Šimon Popovič. The founder of the project “VEDA V KOCKE” and one of the most successful contributors on the social network LinkedIn is only 16 years old, but his mindset sets him apart significantly from his peers.
What motivated you to start you project “VEDA V KOCKE”?
The project VEDA V KOCKE aims to popularize science among young people and create interactive learning experiences for them. Currently, we are doing this through content on social media, where we present interesting topics from various scientific fields to our followers. We try to explain even the most complex topics briefly and simply. Since we write in the language of our generation and incorporate elements of humor, we come across more naturally to our peers.
WE STRIVE TO EDUCATE IN AN INTERESTING WAY.
Imagine Einstein putting on a pair of golden glasses and, instead of reciting a technical formula, starts explaining his theory of relativity to young people using simple sentences and humour.
And that’s exactly what we aim to do—explain even complex or seemingly difficult topics in a simple and engaging way. Of course, when you simplify, you sometimes have to omit certain details, so you technically don’t tell the whole “truth.” Everything is inherently complex, and to understand it thoroughly, you need to study the subject for several years.
I was inspired to start by watching Vedátor—Samuel Kováčik. He was one of the first “pioneers” to start popularizing science in Slovakia. I realized that not only does science fascinate me, but I also really enjoy explaining it to others. So, I decided to start doing something similar. Over the years, a lot has changed—VEDA V KOCKE has grown into a team of people, we’ve built an audience of over 4,000 followers on Instagram, we’re expanding to other social media platforms, and we have more plans for the future.
What’s it like to be in the business world at a young age?
It’s incredibly rewarding. I’m thrilled to be surrounded by people who want to achieve and change things. I also deeply appreciate that they not only support me but also share their experiences and advice. And since in Slovakia “everyone knows everyone,” it’s always an endless wave of networking. (laughter)
Do you encounter generational prejudices?
Honestly, I haven’t encountered any generational prejudice where someone older has dismissed me just because of my age. However, generational prejudices are still quite common. I believe the problem exists on both sides.
Young people today can leverage technology and the online world to gain a tremendous amount of knowledge and learn a lot. Additionally, when the right conditions are created for us, we can be incredibly creative and innovative. We are always looking for something new and view things with an innovative mindset; the question “How can we improve something?” constantly flows through the minds of young inventors.
On the other hand, let’s be honest, a lot of things simply require life experience. As we get older, we go through more experiences, victories, and failures, from which we can learn. Sometimes, the younger generation doesn’t respect this aspect.
Do you like social media? Why do you enjoy LinkedIn?
After each use, I delete the social media app. If I want to use it again, I have to download it and enter a lengthy password. Then, I delete it again. My peers don’t understand this at all, but this habit that I’ve developed over the last two years has helped me reduce my average time on social media from 8 to 6 hours a day to just a few minutes.
Social media, in my opinion, is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s an amazing tool through which we can share our thoughts, help others, and meet new people. On the other hand, it has a dark side: it can facilitate the spread of aggression, the dissemination of alarmist news without verification or context, and it can quickly lead us into social bubbles that are hard to escape from.
Of course, there are many profiles on social media that can teach us something valuable. It’s fine to entertain ourselves with “funny” videos, but we shouldn’t overdo it. It’s each person’s responsibility to use social media as meaningfully as possible and behave considerately while enjoying the fun.
That’s also why I like LinkedIn. You won’t find vulgar arguments in the comments there. But you can easily connect with other professionals from whom you can not only learn a lot but, ideally, who might even offer you a job. It’s like putting your resume in a bottle and throwing it into the ocean—you never know who might find it and open new doors in your life. (laughter)
WE SHOULD BE MORE MINDFUL OF HOW MUCH TIME WE’RE SACRIFICING TO THESE APPS- INCLUDING MYSELF.
How do you perceive generation Z?
Of course, every generation has its own challenges, problems, and joys. However, I think that in many ways, Generation Z has it tougher. I once came across the idea that, at a time when humanity should be at its best—we have enough food, water, and the internet connects us with the entire world—we paradoxically seem to be at our worst. And I believe there’s some truth to that.
As a generation, we have immense opportunities, but there are so many that we struggle to choose. We have access to news from every corner of the world, but often only the negative ones reach us, which can put us in a bad mood. We have a vast amount of resources at our disposal for information. Social media connects us with friends but also amplifies our tendency to focus on superficial matters, constantly compare ourselves to others, and strive to be perfect in everything.
On the other hand, we’re a generation full of creativity, new ideas, and a desire to improve things. If we help each other and create good conditions around us, I’m confident we can handle anything. (laughter)
What message would you give to your generation Šimon?
If I had to give you one piece of advice, it would be: delete your social media. Or at least regulate your time on them a bit. You’ll find that not only do you get more done, but you’ll also feel better about yourself. (laughter)
