[onion2k]

Are you sure that your age is the reason people don't take you seriously? It's an obvious assumption, but in reality it probably isn't true - if you do things to demonstrate your ability and willingness all those apparent age-related barriers will evaporate.

To do that.. make stuff. Share it. Ask for feedback. Find people (go to events, use Twitter/LinkedIn, use HN, etc) and just ask them to help you. It takes guts, but you'll be amazed at how many people will go out of their way to lend a hand if you reach out to them. Generally speaking people are pretty awesome at this sort of thing and want to help when they can. Don't be put off if people say no though. Sometimes people just don't have the bandwidth to help, so saying no is the best thing they can do. Accept it and ask someone else. Some people will help.