At just 12, Leonardo Mariotti has enrolled at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai to become the youngest university student ever admitted in the UAE, and one of the youngest in the world. Working closely with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), RIT Dubai tailored a pilot programme around his unique and extraordinary talents.

Leonardo's story of perseverance, curiosity and the courage to think differently started at an early age when he demonstrated a remarkable ability to visualise and build complex ideas. While his words would tangle on paper, his imagination and spatial thinking thrived. Diagnosed with Asperger's, Dyslexia, Tourette's, and ADHD, Leonardo's mind operates in extraordinary ways, delivering a unique combination that fuels his creativity.

As his mother, Yolanda Pohl-Mariotti, describes it:“He wasn't born with just one instrument, he carries an entire orchestra within him. Each of his unique neurological traits plays its own melody, and together they compose a breathtaking symphony of uniqueness.”

Leonardo's journey has been shaped by the support of his school, Lycée Français International de l'AFLEC, where educators, specialists, and therapists worked together to nurture his potential. Their commitment to inclusion and excellence ensured that Leonardo's individuality became his greatest strength. This collaboration between family, school, and experts is a powerful example of how belief, patience, and personalised education can help neurodiverse learners reach their fullest potential.

When Leonardo's parents approached RIT Dubai, the university saw beyond his age to see his talent and unique potential. His curriculum is moulded by his abilities and passions and includes courses in Robotics, 3D Modeling and Printing, Engineering, Computer Coding, Artificial Intelligence, and New Media Design.

This initiative reflects RIT Dubai's ongoing commitment to inclusive and innovative education, to create opportunities for exceptional students whose abilities don't always fit conventional pathways. Under the leadership of Dr. Yousef Al Assaf, RIT Dubai continues to champion a learning environment that values diversity, nurtures creativity, and encourages students to push boundaries in pursuit of knowledge.

Founded in 1829 in Rochester, New York, RIT is one of the world's leading universities in technology, creativity, and innovation. Its Dubai campus embodies that same forward-thinking vision to empower exceptional talent, embrace diversity, and prepare students to shape a smarter, more sustainable future. Leonardo's story also mirrors the UAE's national commitment to inclusion and educational excellence. Through the efforts of the Ministry of Education and KHDA, the country continues to pioneer approaches that celebrate neurodiversity and inspire the world to view differences as a strength.

Now in his second month at RIT Dubai, Leonardo continues to challenge perceptions and inspire those around him. He represents every child who was ever told they were“too different” and every educator who chose to believe in potential instead of limitation. His story is a reminder that brilliance comes in many forms and a belief difference can unlock true genius.

As his mother concludes:“Leonardo has the mind of a scientist and the heart of a humanitarian; he is deeply curious, compassionate, and eager to explore how things work. He builds what others can't yet imagine, perfectly imperfect shapes that somehow stand tall and balanced. Just like him. Believe in your children, not despite their differences, but because of them.”

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