‘I can build meaningful solutions’: Mitchell Kabenda, digital health innovator

Flexing your innovation/entrepreneurship muscles

I’ve sought out courses and experiences that challenge me to apply knowledge in real-world settings. Entrepreneurial Product Engineering showed me how ideas become products by integrating technical and business perspectives. I loved its hands-on nature and practical applications. Introduction to Systems Engineering has deepened my understanding of high-level system design and decision-making tools like Quality Function Deployment. My programming classes have reinforced the importance of “think twice, code once,” teaching me to approach problem-solving thoroughly. It’s not just about coding or engineering — it’s about understanding systems, thinking critically, and ensuring that solutions are scalable and effective. Iowa State has helped me develop this mindset, preparing me to contribute to meaningful innovations in health and technology.

Do you have a startup or business?

I have many ideas, but I don’t currently have a startup — and that’s intentional. Founding a company requires time, resources, and commitment, and if I ever take that step, I want to do it thoughtfully.

Right now, I see myself as a learner and collaborator, thriving in environments where I can build and refine ideas with others. That’s why I’ve enjoyed contributing to Neolth’s (a digital health company) Global Ambassador Innovation Challenge, where I developed a front-end UI to help young adults reflect on decisions impacting their mental health.

I’ve also attended startup weekends as a hands-on way to explore health-focused product ideation. My priority is growth, learning, and making an impact — not just individually, but as part of teams that challenge and push me forward.

Value of Iowa State’s innovation/entrepreneurial resources

They have equipped me with the skills to contribute meaningfully to projects. As a second-degree student, I’m here to gain knowledge I can apply in the digital health space, particularly on technical teams. Courses like Entrepreneurial Product Engineering and Systems Engineering have helped me understand not just product development, but the broader strategy and system design behind it. The Student Innovation Center has also provided hands-on learning — leading me to rediscover woodworking, and I’d love to explore 3D printing next. These experiences have shaped how I approach problem-solving — ensuring I think beyond the product itself and consider systems, users, and business viability.

Taking this mindset into your career

Innovation isn’t just about creating something new — it’s about understanding systems, identifying gaps, and solving problems effectively. I’ve realized that every great solution starts with a strong foundation, whether in programming, systems design, or business strategy. Throughout my career, I want to apply this mindset to product development, software engineering, and digital health innovation. Being thorough and intentional in problem-solving ensures that solutions aren’t just quick fixes — they’re scalable, sustainable, and impactful. Whether I’m designing software, in product management, or focusing on project execution, I want to build technology that makes a meaningful difference.

How do you hope to change the world?

I want to make a real impact — especially in helping people access better health resources. Right now, that means working on projects that put well-being back in people’s hands, so they have more control over their health. I enjoy refining and improving existing solutions rather than feeling like I have to create something entirely new. If I can help build or enhance tools that make even a small difference, that’s success to me. I’ve had my own struggles and searched for ways to move forward — now, I see innovation as a way to create something that helps others do the same. If I can be part of a team that accomplishes that for even a few users, I’d consider that a win.

The moment you saw yourself as an innovator/entrepreneur

I never thought of myself as an “innovator” — I just saw myself as a creative person who loves solving problems. But over time, curiosity led me into business and tech spaces, where I realized I wasn’t just interested in ideas — I wanted to understand how they get built and implemented. My passion for health has always been central, so I started exploring digital health spaces, startup weekends, and innovation challenges.

Competing in startup weekends, pitching ideas, and collaborating with teams on health-focused projects made me realize: I’m not just someone who likes solving problems — I’m someone who can help build meaningful solutions. Courses like Entrepreneurial Product Engineering and Systems Engineering reinforced this, showing me how much I enjoy seeing the big picture while also diving into the technical details. After countless failures and iterations, I’ve finally found an intersection that merges my love for creativity, problem-solving, and health. I can see myself as an innovator in digital health, but I know I still have a lot to learn and many roles to pursue/work in before truly solidifying that role.