Redwood City Teen Named to '30 Under 30' List

Ryan Traynor of Redwood City has been named to the inaugural 30 Under 30 list of the International Literacy Association.

The list recognizes the next generation of young innovators, advocates and educators who are leading efforts to address the challenges of today’s evolving education landscape and make a difference in the global literacy landscape.

According to the organization, Traynor was selected for his unique contribution to the fight against global illiteracy within his community. Traynor, 16, is promoting literacy through creative literacy programs he developed and implemented.

Ryan Traynor began reading to children at a local preschool at age 11. When he discovered the children lacked reading materials at home, he organized a drive that collected more than 25,000 books.

Traynor created a website to teach others how to run a successful book drive, and he founded the Redwood City Public Library’s Youth Literacy Council—which has raised more than $52,000 to fund numerous literacy programs he created including STEM classes for children, financial literacy classes for teens, and family board game days.

“I have been very fortunate to have a network of youth that has helped me implement my successful campaigns,” he says. “Young people want to help if given the opportunity, and I find them to be extremely creative and insightful, which promotes the development of new ways to tackle literacy challenges.”

Traynor is also the editor-in-chief of Amazing Kids! Magazine and has been recognized with numerous awards including the Jefferson Award, ABC7 Star Award, and four Gold President’s Volunteer Service Awards.

“I am proud to recognize Ryan Traynor, who is part of a new generation of champions playing a critical role in the future of literacy around the world,” said Marcie Craig Post, executive director, International Literacy Association. “Today, an astounding 12 percent of the global population is unable to read or write. These 30 young education champions are developing new, creative strategies to close the literacy gap and, in the process, are transforming lives in their communities and around the world.”

ILA’s 30 Under 30 list highlights young trailblazers from 13 countries and several different sectors and includes nonprofit leaders, classroom teachers, authors, volunteers, researchers, technology startup founders and entrepreneurs.