Twin brothers build 'Blast Robotics' team for kids in Philly region

Philly Proud Twin brothers build 'Blast Robotics' team for kids in Philly region The Ponugoti twins put their brains together to help kids to blast off into the world of robotics in Berwyn, PA. By Matteo Iadonisi Tuesday, November 10, 2026 10:43PM Share Follow 6abc on Google BERWYN, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- The Ponugoti twins put their brains together to help kids to blast off into the world of robotics. Vivaan & Virat Ponugoti are juniors at Conestoga High School and live in Wayne, Pennsylvania. The pair always enjoyed science and technology, but didn't get interested in robotics until high school. However, one brother did not make the team during their freshman year. This was the spark that fueled their mission to provide more access to robotics opportunities for kids in the region. They got their program off the ground through fundraising, social media outreach and word of mouth. Blast Robotics , also known as Team 10989, launched last year and already has roughly 40 members on board. Blast Robotics is a FMA ( FIRST Mid Atlantic) team, part of Mid Atlantic Robotics . They recently competed in the 'Ramp Riot,' the 26th Annual Robotics Competition at Wissahickon High School. The program is fueled by many community partners such as Eadeh Enterprises, who donated workshop space to the group. "From summer camps, to raising monies to support the robotics mission and being an inclusive environment where everyone is learning, leading and thinking about the common goal is incredible," said Stacey H. Ballard, President & CEO of Eadeh Enterprises and member of the board. Suspect wanted after Burlington shooting leaves man dead, 2 teens injured 28 minutes ago Man out on bail in Bucks County arson case now charged with drug trafficking 7 minutes ago Man accused of unlawful sexual contact with young girl; police say more victims are possible 1 hour ago Blast Robotics is officially chartered by Keystone STEM Alliance Inc., a Pennsylvania-based nonprofit whose mission is to promote education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). To learn more or get involved, visit their website. RELATED: 'Crime Scene Expo' lets students imagine the future as a PA State Trooper Pennsylvania State Troopers help students envision careers on the bomb squad, forensics unit, and more at the 'Crime Scene Expo.' Report a correction or typo Copyright © 2026 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved. Related Topics COMMUNITY & EVENTS CHESTER COUNTY PHILLY PROUD COMMUNITY JOURNALIST FEEL GOOD How 'Morgan's Light' shines bright six years after tragic passing Seniors form 'The Golden Kazoos' band in Haddonfield, New Jersey Coach Ted Abel keeps cross country runners moving for 50 years Pa. thrift shop provides 'Second Chances' to victims of domestic abuse Watch Live ON NOW Suspect wanted after shooting leaves man dead, 2 teens injured 28 minutes ago Man out on bail in arson case now charged with drug trafficking 7 minutes ago Man accused of touching girl; police say more victims are possible 1 hour ago Bicyclist wanted for striking woman in Philadelphia's Chinatown Hegseth faces key House vote on impeachment | LIVE 14 minutes ago Bengals nix agreed-upon trade with Eagles, sources say 5 minutes ago S.S. United States sinking date moved up due to weather AccuWeather: Nice and mild for Veterans Day 1 hour ago