Mercedes Molloy is a survivor, activist and founder of Safe Squad, an app committed to providing peace of mind for young women and men across the globe. Championing for access to health care, representation in media, Molloy is looking forward to utilizing her platform to advocate for generation z as well as disenfranchised communities.
After a traumatic life event, Molloy has made it a personal mission to be a voice and provide a solution to alert mechanisms while in danger. It is her goal that the app will be a resource of armor among generation z, millennials and individuals desiring peace of mind for dear family and friends. The young activist engages in conversations to bring about positive change from a place of service and progressing culture.
Safe Squad is a SOS messaging app that is available on all devices and will serve as a hub of information for family and friends. In the event of danger, users are able to alert family and friends on location. In the event of danger, the app will notify authorities and emergency contact.
Q: What made you create SafeSquad?
A: It was the result of my own experiences. For a period, I was very angry and I didn’t know how to properly address or channel what I was going through. It wasn’t until I recognized that I held the power to change my narrative and be empowered to help others. It has been a healing process to potentially prevent something from happening. And I can’t change what happened to me, but if I can have a chance to make sure another woman does not have to say “Me Too” This is the reasoning behind it.
Q: What were some fears you had going into this journey?
A: I would have to say my biggest fear would bee naysayers. I have already encountered naysayers, people doubting saying I am incapable of doing things. While STEM is a Male-dominated. I sought to make a difference regardless of my gender and ethnic background. Being both female and Mexican American set me apart to big within such an industry. But being a Political Science major with limited prior knowledge of coding on top of that made me subject to criticism. But I have come to learn that not everyone will like you, or what you represent and you just have to pursue it fully anyway despite what they may say. For me this also served as additional motivation.
Q: Have you encountered any set backs?
A: Being a first generation college student and the fact I don’t come from a wealthy family has been a set back in regards to the app. Meaning that I have had to resort to utilizing my college funds and financing everything between myself and my family. Despite the obstacles and sacrifices away. It came to fruition and I couldn’t be prouder.
Q: What advice would you like to give for others?
A: Be true to yourself and what your passion is. If you have a passion pursue it fully. most importantly research! properly prepare. Be able to establish your brand, right now social media is a powerful tool as well. So make your mark and don’t forget to lift up the other women around you. And lastly, live life to the fullest.
Through her work she has proven to she is dedicated to making an impact in her community and is on the path to creating a better tomorrow.
