About

Taj Pabari had a simple dream as a young kid: he wanted to change the world. He even googled it!

At the ripe old age of 13, Taj set about making a device that could inspire young children to not just use computers and tablets, but to learn how they worked. He wanted to help young people learn about, and communicate in, the digital world, no matter where they were from. And he wanted to help them use their creativity and learn problem-solving skills. Through lots of designing, making and refining, Taj created the Fiftysix tablet.

Children can build the Fiftysix tablet themselves. It comes with a battery, camera, motherboard, SD card, and lots of flex cables. Children click the components together to create a fully functioning tablet computer. On top of that, the tablet comes preloaded with applications that take children on a programming and coding adventure. They learn what each of the components in the tablet does, and program their own games to play on the tablet they just built.

Disassembled Fiftysix Creations tablet showing the various components

This was a long and hard process for Taj. When he set out on this adventure, he had no idea what he was getting himself into. He didn’t even know how to design a computer! But by surrounding himself with the right people, backing himself and persisting through setbacks, Taj was able to create something truly amazing.

At just 16 years old, Taj now manages a business that has staff in Australia, England, China and America, and produces a product that could completely change how we learn about technology. His company also donates tablets to, and runs workshops with, underprivileged communities in Australia and overseas, so that they can also learn about technology.

Whatever you want to do, you’re never too young to start innovating.

And why the name Fiftysix? In numerology, 56 means opportunity. That sounds like the perfect name for Taj’s creation!

Why it's important

Taj’s story is impressive, but – clearly! – not impossible. No matter your age, if you have a passion, then back yourself and have a go. Learn from your mistakes and surround yourself with people who can help you improve your skills.

Another way to improve your skills is to do some training courses. If you’re interested in learning all things coding, a good place to start is Codecademy. You’ll find all sorts of courses that will help you on your coding journey.

Discover more stories about Enterprising Australians.