Luis von Ahn

“Luis von Ahn, honored during McDonald’s Hispanic Heritage 2025 by 360WiSE®, is celebrated as the visionary behind Duolingo and reCAPTCHA, representing both technological innovation and Latino cultural pride.”

Who is Luis von Ahn?

Luis von Ahn – McDonald’s Hispanic Heritage Month 2025 honoree celebrated by 360WiSE

Luis von Ahn — From Guatemala to Silicon Valley

McDonald’s Salutes Hispanic Heritage Month 2025

During McDonald’s Hispanic Heritage Month 2025, 360WiSE is proud to highlight the incredible story of Luis von Ahn — a Guatemalan-born innovator who transformed the way the world learns, works, and connects online.

Early Life & Roots

Luis von Ahn was born in Guatemala City, where his curiosity for problem-solving began at a young age. Growing up in a country where access to technology was limited, he quickly realized that education and innovation could break barriers and open doors. His journey from Guatemala to the halls of Carnegie Mellon University represents the determination and resilience at the heart of the Hispanic experience.

“This McDonald’s Hispanic Heritage 2025 feature highlights Luis von Ahn…”

Breakthrough & Achievements

Luis von Ahn’s vision reshaped the digital landscape.

  • He co-invented CAPTCHA and reCAPTCHA, protecting millions of websites while digitizing books and historical texts.

  • As the founder of Duolingo, he created the world’s most popular language-learning platform, used by more than half a billion people.

  • Recognized with a MacArthur Fellowship and numerous global awards, von Ahn has been celebrated as a pioneer who merges technology with social good.

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Legacy & Impact

Luis von Ahn’s story is more than an achievement in technology — it is a testament to the power of education, innovation, and heritage. His work empowers learners across cultures, breaking language barriers and building bridges of understanding.

As part of McDonald’s Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor von Ahn for proving that one person’s vision can ignite change for millions. His success stands as a reminder that Hispanic voices are shaping the future of global innovation.

“If you want to make the world a better place, start with education.” — Luis von Ahn

McDonald’s Salutes Hispanic Icons

McDonald’s proudly celebrates Luis von Ahn and other Hispanic leaders whose legacies inspire generations. Presented in collaboration with 360WiSE, these stories honor the strength, creativity, and impact of the Hispanic community.

“360WiSE continues to amplify Hispanic icons like Luis von Ahn during Hispanic Heritage Month.”

THE MOMENT

QUICK FACTS

  • Co-Founder of Duolingo — the world’s #1 language-learning app.

  • From Guatemala — born and raised in Guatemala City, representing Hispanic excellence globally.

  • Inventor of CAPTCHA & reCAPTCHA — his tech was acquired by Google to help digitize books.

  • Award-Winning Innovator — recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship, also known as the “Genius Grant.”

  • Education Advocate — dedicated to making learning accessible to all, especially underserved communities.

Thank you to the New York Tristate Owner and Operators Association for your continued support.

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