Tahira Reid Smith’s story is evidence of persistence and creativity’s amazing and life-transforming power! The child of Jamaican immigrants, Reid Smith grew up with a passion for innovation and a love for double Dutch, a pastime she often struggled to enjoy when playmates weren’t available.
Her solution? At just eight years old, Reid Smith conceptualized a machine that could mimic the movements of double Dutch ropes, allowing her to jump solo.
This childhood idea became the foundation of her groundbreaking invention: the Jump Dreams Automatic Double Dutch Machine.
From Childhood Dream to Groundbreaking Invention
Reid Smith’s journey toward creating the world’s first automatic double Dutch machine spans over 20 years.
Her dreams gained momentum while studying at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where she met a mentor in her Introduction to Engineering Design course who encouraged her entrepreneurial spirit.
“Stories like mine are still too rare,” Reid Smith remarked, highlighting the underrepresentation of women and people of color among inventors.
According to Invent Together, only 13% of inventors globally are women, and in the U.S., Black, Hispanic, Native American, Native Alaskan, and multiracial individuals comprise less than 8% of patent-holders.
Keeping the Dream Alive
Reid Smith’s journey exemplifies the importance of perseverance. She has spent decades refining her invention, drawing from her upbringing and drive to overcome obstacles.
Today, her company Jump Dreams Inc. is preparing to launch the Jump Dreams Automatic Double Dutch Machine, bringing a childhood dream to life and inspiring others to pursue their passions.
“Dreams don’t die unless you kill them,” Reid Smith said. Her story is a call to action for dreamers and innovators to never give up.
Follow Her Journey
Stay updated with Tahira Reid Smith’s inspiring work by following her on social media (@drtahirareidsmith) and visiting tahirareidsmith.com.
The Jump Dreams Automatic Double Dutch Machine will soon be available at jumpdreamsinc.com.
