Sai Hitesh Vavilapalli: Indian-American teen’s nonprofit empowers the visually impaired
Compiled by: Team GI Youth
(November 17, 2023) He was just 14 when Portland-based Sai Hitesh Vavilapalli embarked on a journey to cultivate his interest in social justice and human rights, especially focussed on advocating for the visually impaired. It began when he flew down to India for his Christmas break, and visited a blind school in a quaint little town of Kakinada where his parents volunteered. “It was then I realised I should also do my best to give something back to society, and do something for the underprivileged,” he said in an interview.
Upon his return to the US, the Indian-American, whose parents migrated from Vishakapatnam, was keen to make a change and soon organised a cultural night. From this, he raised $4200 which he used to start a non-profit The I Mission in 2016. Explaining the mission of the NGO, he said, “What we do is we gather many patients together and we do screening examines and we have eye camps to test whether they are ready to go through the cataract and retinal surgeries that our partners and the people that we work with offer.”
Sai Hitesh Vavilapalli is an Indian-American changemaker
The next year, he returned to India with a vision to help the poor. It was with the help of Sankar Foundation Eye Hospital that he organised a couple of free eye camps in Vishakhapatnam, and also helped perform about 500 free cataract surgeries. Moreover, The I Mission also donated two Perkins mechanical braillers to a rural south Indian school in order to provide support for visually impaired female students in their pursuit of reading.
.Seeing the impact that his work was creating, he continued returning to India every year to help visually impaired people. On his next trip, The I Mission coordinated and funded a total of 48 cataract surgeries for underprivileged individuals, in addition to one retinal surgery. They also took on the responsibility of supporting three blind schools in the region. Initially, individuals in need of cataract or retinal surgery were identified through comprehensive screening tests conducted during eye-checking camps.
Sai Hitesh Vavilapali is an Indian-American changemaker
Beyond providing essential eye health check-ups and surgical interventions for visually impaired individuals in rural India, The I Mission also conducts educational workshops. These workshops are designed to empower students, enhance their mathematical skills for competitive platforms like MathCounts, improve their public speaking abilities, and develop their reading comprehension. The workshops are structured to be both enjoyable and educational, offering engaging activities tailored to the varying levels of receptivity among the students.
In the last few years, The I Mission has supported over 5,000 free eye screenings, 1,719 cataract surgeries, and 13 retinal detachment surgeries, besides adopting three blind schools in India. “To fund the camps, we not only conduct cultural events but have also tied up with brands like Nike and Intel. We intend to approach some more corporate firms in the coming years,” he added.
Hitesh, who plans to become a doctor, is working with a professor as a research intern at Oregon Health Science University, with a focus on discovering potential remedies for cataract and other eye-related issues prevalent among the tribal communities residing in the Eastern Ghats of India. He plans to take the nonprofit to the next level in the coming years by spreading its wings across the world.
(January 18, 2023) The last few years have seen several Indian-origin teenagers emerge as leaders of tomorrow. From environment to technology, and even politics, these teenagers are super focussed on coming up with viable solutions for various problems the world is facing. Global Indian takes a look at the journey and contributions of three Indian-origin teenagers, who have been named among Teen Vogue’s annual 21 Under 21 list of “changemakers, influencers, activists, and artists who have made a substantial impact in both their communities and the world.” Sridevi Krothapalli It was her parents who first influenced her to dive into the world of coding, however as she grew up her interest moved toward astrophysics and cosmology. Only 17, Sridevi Krothapalli was selected to attend the Stanford Program for Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Physics hosted by the Stanford Physics Department and the Kavli Institute for Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology. Always willing to go that extra mile to help people, the teenager started working as a student tutor at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, to improve students' mathematics, science, and English skills, and prepare those interested in attending the Academy for the application process. "By applying coding skills
Always willing to go that extra mile to help people, the teenager started working as a student tutor at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, to improve students' mathematics, science, and English skills, and prepare those interested in attending the Academy for the application process. "By applying coding skills to physics-based projects in environmental engineering and tutoring other students in physics-oriented topics in my community, I realised my ambition to break the gender gap in the field of physics and mathematics,” she told Teen Vogue, adding, "I hope to pursue making scientific discoveries that will better the lives of others all over the world.”
However, this teenager is not only a physics pro. Her talents in art and literature have helped her to dedicate her time to other causes as well. She is the founding president of the non-profit, Kahani, which distributes literary and art magazines to children's hospitals around the world. The teenager's work might seem complex, but for her “kindness and love have been a guiding force to speak what comes to heart and incite positive change.”
Shiva Rajbhandari
A climate change leader, activist, and prolific writer - this 18-year-old teenager is all that, and much more. As a young boy, Shiva Rajbhandari would listen to his father quite intently talking about the climate crisis and how deforestation has affected tribal lives. And it wasn't long after that the teenager started running various campaigns against climate change, gun violence, and various other issues that plague society today. "As I grew in my activism, I began working for tribal justice, voting rights, and gun violence prevention,” Shiva, who started off working in climate activism, said, adding, "After a two-year long campaign to create a clean energy commitment and long-term sustainability plan in our school district, I decided to run for the school board.”
The teenager, who is an elected student leader in his school, talks about keeping things in perspective and including everyone in the decision-making process. "Activism takes place at the intersection of your interests, your skills, and your community's needs. From artists to writers to speakers to scientists, there is room for everybody in our movement,” Shiva said."
Alishba Imran
Growing up in Toronto, Alishba carved a space for herself in the world of machine learning, robotics, and blockchain at the very young age of 18. About four years back, Alishba, who had zero knowledge about programming or coding back then, enrolled herself to join her school’s robotics team. While she faced several issues, her focus to learn, earned her the position of the lead programmer on the team. And there has been no turning back since then.
A few years after this incident, while on a service trip in India, the teenager learned about the lack of medication in various rural parts of the country. To come up with a solution for this, Alishba taught herself blockchain coding and launched Honestblocks, a platform that tracks counterfeit medicine in the supply chain. Her codebase for the initiative has since been integrated into IBM and used globally. She then co-founded Voltx to accelerate the development of renewable energy storage devices using machine learning and physics models to accelerate the lab to commercialization process for electrochemical devices.
“The biggest thing you can optimize for in life is people. Spend time exploring your interests, what you’re good at, and what brings you energy. I think the best things to work on are at the intersection of what you're good at, what you enjoy, and are a way for you to create value for the world," the teenager said.
(January 31, 2024) Shreenabh Agrawal is a powerhouse of talent. His work, spread across diverse areas, stands testimony to that. Now 20-years-old, Agrawal has authored two books, wrote over 200 scientific articles in various publications, is an innovator who presented his work through seven research papers and a coder who has contributed to multiple projects. And all this is only one part of what he does. His scholarly achievements aside, the youngster has positively impacted many lives with his extraordinary ideas. To top it all, he is the recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2021, the highest civilian honour for children in India. “Physics, Quantum Technology and the latest developments in the world of Robotics and AI interest me the most,” smiles Shreenabh, in an exclusive chat with Global Indian. [caption id="attachment_35559" align="aligncenter" width="618"] Shreenabh Agrawal[/caption] Currently pursuing a degree at IISC Bangalore, a course which involves a comprehensive study of the subjects mentioned above, Shreenabh’s diverse interests is what makes him stand out among the rest. “Being presented an award by PM Narendra Modi was a moment of immense honor and pride. It reflected recognition for my contributions, particularly in the field of innovation,” says the 20-year-old. The experience further
verse interests is what makes him stand out among the rest. “Being presented an award by PM Narendra Modi was a moment of immense honor and pride. It reflected recognition for my contributions, particularly in the field of innovation,” says the 20-year-old. The experience further motivated him to pursue excellence in his endeavours and contribute meaningfully to the society.
He was presented the award for his achievements in the field of agriculture, which benefitted thousands of farmers across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Shreenabh’s innovation “Neer Setu farming” helped reduce the consumption of water manifolds leading to an increase in the productivity of crops. Both farmers and scientists lauded the innovation.
Books
His first book, "Thank you Modiji," was published in 2015, followed by "A Young Explorer's Journey of Science" in 2017.
“Currently, I am considering ideas for a third book,” informs Shreenabh, who has written over 200 scientific articles in Twinkle Star Magazine of the Hitavada, Science India Magazine, and Science Reporter. These articles covered a wide range of scientific topics and have been recognized in the India Book of Records and Asia Book of Records.
His essays on Global issues have won awards at competitions organized by GOI Peace Foundation, Japan; NASA, Pendle War Poetry Competition, London, UN Information Centre for India and Bhutan, Korean Cultural Centre India, Embassy of the Republic of Korea; PRL-ISRO, Spaceport India Foundation, etc.
As a coder, Shreenabh Agrawal contributed to multiple projects. “I can code in Python, Java, C, Arduino, and Web Dev Languages. I am also proficient in Cloud Computing and Machine Learning. I have developed two open source projects as well,” says the multi-talented youngster, who along with a team of like-minded Math enthusiasts, also organized IGMO 2020, which is the world's second-largest virtual math open.
Lock Bore Hole Protection
One of his inventions is the triple lock bore hole protection lid. He came up with this invention after coming across multiple reports of children losing their lives after falling into open borewells. Since 2009, at least 40 children have lost their lives after rescue operations failed.
“The Triple Lock Bore Hole Protection Lid was designed to prevent accidents and save lives by securing bore holes. The innovation aims to provide a robust solution to an often-overlooked problem, emphasizing safety and protection,” points out Shreenabh, who was moved by the gruesome and slow deaths of children.
As an innovator, he has published and presented his innovative research work (7 research papers) on reputed National and International platforms. He even represented India at the International Science and Engineering Fair, 2020.
Oldy-Goldy club
Among his humanitarian missions is the Oldy-Goldy club, which he came up with when he noticed the plight of elderly citizens who felt ignored and shunned by the society. “I visited 16 libraries and convinced them to allow their facilities to be used for a weekly life skills session. I requested the elderly citizens to make use of their experience and knowledge and conduct weekly sessions for children.”
Awards
He was invited to Tokyo, Japan, by the Goi Peace Foundation for an award in the international essay contest for his project "Oldy Goldy Clubs." Adjudged first among participants from more than 162 countries, it was a significant achievement for him. He traveled to Sweden on being selected for the Elite Scholarship camp organized by IVL Sweden, which he describes as a truly life-changing experience. “These international exposures have enriched my perspectives and contributed to my personal and academic growth,” says Shreenabh, who also won the prestigious Princess Diana Award for humanitarian work.
His other awards and accolades include world rank one in International Youth Maths Challenge, nomination as Youth ambassador for Radio Chico Switzerland among others.
Nagpur boy
Born and brought up in Nagpur in December 2003, Shreenabh astonished his parents, Dr. Moujesh Agrawal and Dr. Tinu Agrawal, with his razor-sharp memory, creativity and unique abilities ever since he was a three year old. He could memorise and recount lengthy and complex scriptural passages and churn out stunning pieces of art.
“My parents serve as constant inspirations with their distinguished careers in shaping the younger generation by way of research, developing new products to simplify learning and mentoring,” says the youngster, who studied from Class 1 to Class 12 in an ICSE board school, Chanda Devi Saraf School and junior college, Nagpur.
While Dr. Moujesh Agrawal is a consultant for ICAD group of Institutes in Nagpur and a profound Mathematician who trains students worldwide for prestigious Maths Olympiads, Dr. Tinu Agrawal is a researcher and director of Prarambh Advanced Training and Research Centre.
Academics
As a student, he displayed his academic proficiency by securing the All India Rank 3 (99.2%) in his ICSE Grade 10 Board Examinations and All India Rank 136 in KVPY SA. In Grade 11 (ISC), he again scored 99% marks and went on to secure World Rank 1 in IYMC 2020.
“My interest in science sparked early on and was nurtured through various experiences,” says Shreenabh, who cleared the KVPY exam in class 11, which led to admission in the UG BS program at IISC Bangalore. He completed two online courses in Physics from IIT Kanpur. “These courses ignited my passion for physics and contributed significantly to my academic journey.”
He also won the title of Himalayan-2016 by acing the Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM), a scientific talent search examination held at IIT Delhi.
“My interests extend beyond academics,” informs the prodigy, who has won a gold medal in the IGEM competition, worked on robotics and AI projects with companies like Open AI and served as the Corporate Relationship Committee head for Pravega, India's largest fest. “I’m inspired by the achievements and values of legendary Indian Scientists, which makes me strive for excellence in my endeavours.”
Daily routine at IISC Bangalore
His daily routine is a balance of rigorous academic commitments, involvement in extracurricular activities like leading the Corporate Relationship Committee for Pravega, and personal pursuits. “The experience at IISC has been transformative, providing a holistic learning environment and shaping my academic and personal growth.”
Future plans
Shreenabh Agrawal says his future plans revolve around research in Physics. “I aim to continue my pursuits in Robotics, Quantum Technology at world's best labs as my summer internship projects in near future. Then, I would go for PhD while exploring opportunities for further academic and professional growth,” he informs.
Diverse interests
Beyond science, Shreenabh has diverse interests. “I enjoy exploring books related to finance, complementing my core subjects,” he says. Music too holds a special place. “I love playing the keyboard and exploring various genres.” Travel is another passion. “ I've had the opportunity to visit Tokyo, Japan, and Sweden for international awards and scholarship programs, both of which were life-changing experiences,” shares the youngster.
(March 8, 2023) In her address at the Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2023 felicitation ceremony Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, president Droupadi Murmu showered praises on this year’s eleven recipients. The Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, also known as the National Child Awards, is India’s highest honour for exceptional achievers between the ages of five and 18, in innovation, scholastics, sports, art and culture, social service and bravery. “The country whose children are so talented is bound to reach great heights,” said the President during her speech. The youngsters also got the opportunity to meet prime minister Narendra Modi after the felicitation ceremony. Global Indian celebrates the achievements of all the winners, and on International Women’s Day puts the spotlight on the five girls who received the prize, all of whom have climbed their own mountains to reach where they are today. Anoushka Jolly Innovator and social activist This young innovator’s app, Kavach, spreads awareness against bullying. Anoushka Jolly was a victim of bullying for three years, an experience she describes as the “lowest phase in her life.” It was also a “turning point,” she says, which helped her “identify her life’s purpose – to stop bullying and help kids be happier.” [caption
This young innovator’s app, Kavach, spreads awareness against bullying. Anoushka Jolly was a victim of bullying for three years, an experience she describes as the “lowest phase in her life.” It was also a “turning point,” she says, which helped her “identify her life’s purpose – to stop bullying and help kids be happier.”
[caption id="attachment_28198" align="aligncenter" width="581"] Anoushka Jolly with the Prime Minister of India[/caption]
Educational institutions, social organisations and experts have all stood by Anoushka in her endeavour - she also won a Rs 50 lakh investment on Shark Tank. “No one is born a bully; they are usually led into it in one way or another. We need to be open to hearing their side of the story, be empathetic and forgiving because sometimes peer pressure also leads them to bully,” she said in an interview with Global Indian. “However, the good thing is that we can always lead them back to being good,” remarked the Delhi girl.
Alana Meenakshi Kolagatla
Chess player
Ranked world number one in the U-12 girls’ category by FIDE (the International Chess Federation), Alana Meenakshi was described as a “distinguished chess player” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his congratulatory tweet. “Her successes in chess have made her shine in various competitions globally. Her accomplishments will certainly inspire upcoming chess players,” he wrote.
[caption id="attachment_28196" align="aligncenter" width="642"] Alana Meenakshi with the President of India[/caption]
“Kids should do something creative than just watching TV or spending time on mobile phones, she said in an interview with Global Indian, adding, “They should go out and play or, try some arts and crafts. Maybe, they should try learning a new thing like chess,” remarked the Vishakhapatnam girl.
Hanaya Nisar
Martial arts champion
The youngster from Kashmir has won great laurels representing India in multiple international competitions. Hanaya recently brought home a gold in the third World SQAY Championship held at Chingju in South Korea.
[caption id="attachment_28193" align="aligncenter" width="568"] Hanaya Nasir with the Prime Minister of India[/caption]
“I am honoured to receive such a big honour and also interact with the President and the Prime Minister of India,” she said after the award ceremony. “The award and interaction with such dignitaries are going to act as motivators for me to further excel in sports. I aim to make my country, Jammu and Kashmir and my parents proud,” she added.
Gauravi Reddy
Classical dancer
A prolific dancer from Telangana, seventeen-year-old M Gauravi Reddy has performed at various national and international events and is passionate about Indian culture. When she was twelve, Gauravi became the youngest dancer to be nominated to the International Dance Council (UNICEF, Greece) in 2016.
[caption id="attachment_28190" align="aligncenter" width="809"] Gauravi Reddy with the President of India[/caption]
Though the prolific dancer specialises in Kuchipudi, she can also perform other classical Indian dance forms like Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak and Manipuri. “It’s all because of my mother’s support that I have come this far. She has always encouraged me,” said Gauravi in an interview after winning the award. “There is nothing wrong with youngsters being inclined towards western dance forms but at the same time, they should not forget their roots and learn a classical Indian dance form as well,” she added.
Shreya Bhattacharjee
Tabla player
Twelve-year-old Shreya holds a record in the India Book of Records for playing tabla for the longest duration. The young artist received a gold medal at the ninth Cultural Olympiad of Performing Arts held in Singapore.
[caption id="attachment_28192" align="aligncenter" width="689"] Shreya Bhattacharjee with the Prime Minister of India[/caption]
The Assamese prodigy has received various honours and accolades and has emerged champion in the All-North-East Tabla Solo Competition, All India Pt Rupak Kulkarni Music Competition and All India Tabla Solo Competition. “I am very happy to receive the Rashtriya Bal Puraskar. Becoming a recipient has increased my responsibilities to take my skills to newer heights and reach out to audiences nationally and internationally,” she said in an interview.
Watch Rashtriya Bal Puraskar felicitation ceremony on the President of India's YouTube channel
(August 8, 2022) Rishaad Chaudhry began his musical journey as an amateur who used to write songs in his room during the pandemic-induced lockdown. As the world opened up, he continued to make music, very different from that of others. He could incorporate numerous genres into one song or make songs of different kinds of genres. From pop and hip-hop to rap and indie Hindi music, this Geneva-born singer has created his brand of music, which sets him apart from other artists. "While making music, I simply reflect on my own life, experiences, learnings, and emotions," smiles Rishaad, in conversation with Global Indian. His latest track, ‘Tu’, is a Hindi pop song with a touch of desi rap, which is refreshingly different from a regular Hindi song. [caption id="attachment_20469" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Singer Rishaad Chaudhry[/caption] “I have played with the pop and rap styles that my English songs have and integrated these into a Hindi one. I was inspired to write a Hindi song that my audience would relate to," informs the 20-year-old, who believes that the desi rap and pop genres are growing rapidly and his latest song fits perfectly in both. The song, he informs, came to be as
pop and rap styles that my English songs have and integrated these into a Hindi one. I was inspired to write a Hindi song that my audience would relate to," informs the 20-year-old, who believes that the desi rap and pop genres are growing rapidly and his latest song fits perfectly in both. The song, he informs, came to be as a result of Rishaad’s own experiences as well as those of others about how love can have a huge impact on us.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BusFWLxljAo
He says the beat for ‘Tu’ really struck out for him as it has a happy yet gloomy melody and tune. “After deciding the beat, I thought of the chorus of the song. I was slowly able to bring the harmony together with elements of desi rap,” explains the singer, about what all went into the making of the song.
Musical journey
Rishaad was born in Geneva, where his father was transferred for a job opportunity in 1997. The family, however, returned to India later and settled down in Gurgaon. The budding singer went to Shri Ram school Aravali, Gurgaon, and then to La Martiniere, Lucknow. “Having spent a major part of his school life at the boarding school, I made lifelong friends and memories, along with gaining important life lessons which I believe are of use to me till today and will be for the rest of my life,” says the youngster, who is currently studying Business in OP Jindal Global University, Sonepat.
Rishaad began writing songs in the pop/hip hop genre. “As I grew as a musician, I delved into rap as well as Hindi songs. I initially did not choose rap and was inclined only towards singing. However, after listening to the kind of music my generation and target audience listen to, I gave rap a shot as well and found my niche in it," he says. His previous song ‘Khafa’ echoes the pain of longing. ‘Not Alright’ and ‘I’m Sorry’ are also two of his most popular previous releases.
“Not Alright is a song for everyone who is putting up a happy face for the world but is struggling within themselves. I wrote this song to remind everyone to be kind because we can never know what is happening in someone else’s life. ‘I’m Sorry’ is an apology for all the wrongs I did while being hurt in love,” informs Rishaad.
The music he has been listening to over the years has had a huge impact on the way Rishaad began to make his own. “I am a huge fan of the rap, pop, and hip-hop genre as well as Indie Hindi music. Some of the artists I have been listening to for years, including 21 Savage, Powerful, Drake, The Kid Laroi, Juice Wrld, Zaeden, and Yashraj have inspired me to showcase my take,” says Rishaad, who also performed in his high school band. The youngster believes rap is a genre that has become increasingly popular among the people of his generation. “This inspired me to incorporate the genre into my songs."
Finding his voice
With his music, says Rishaad, he intends to connect with people and allow them to connect as an audience. “Life is full of ups and downs, and no one should feel as if they are alone on this roller coaster ride,” says the singer, who is looking forward to travelling abroad to obtain a degree in digital marketing, which will assist him in his career as a musician.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdyApGuz3WA
So what more tracks are in the making? “Currently, I am working on an English song, its working title is ‘Broke My heart’. It is a song about heartbreak and betrayal and echoes the feelings of sadness one feels after losing the one they loved the most. This song is an extremely special one as I am in the process of recording my first ever music video for the same,” informs the talented singer, who also has several Hindi singles in the making which will also be released soon.
He says the constant motivation to create music is what gives him immense joy and satisfaction. “Each day, my passion only grows along with my experience and knowledge regarding the brand I wish to build as a musician,” smiles the youngster who indulges in different kinds of sports including football. “I now see a clear image of where I wish to be in the coming years and what I wish to achieve. My main focus is on creating music and content to reach an audience all around the world and continue to do what I love,” says Rishaad.
(February 26, 2022) When inventor Nicola Tesla remarked, “Be alone, that is the secret of invention; be alone, that is when ideas are born,” a brilliant 15-year-old girl from Chandler, Arizona, inadvertently followed his diktat. Teen inventor Prisha Shroff sat alone, contemplating solutions to world problems. Et Voila, she solved some, and is on her way to solving many more. Finding a problem, solving it, and moving on to the next is Prisha's modus operandi. A mind that runs riot on witnessing something disconcerting, the teen inventor dives into her cauldron of extensive tech and coding stack - and out of that Stem hat a solution is born! An Intel Innovator, she also had a national honourable mention at the NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing. Included in the Smithsonian Sixteen Innovators to Watch in 2022, the honours, they keep on coming. Her 2021 invention – An AI-based Wildfire Prevention System won the Broadcom Masters Lemelson Award for Invention, Wells Fargo Sustainable Earth Innovation Award and the 3M Young Scientist Award. [caption id="attachment_11477" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Prisha Shroff with one of her inventions[/caption] How a wildfire triggered a fire in her Prisha witnessed the devastation by wildfires on her way back
"Teen innovator | Prisha Shroff " width="700" height="525" /> Prisha Shroff with one of her inventions[/caption]
How a wildfire triggered a fire in her
Prisha witnessed the devastation by wildfires on her way back from LA. Troubled, she researched into AI and tech. Her answer was a Wildfire Prevention System which uses real-time NASA and NOAA meteorological data to predict wildfires. The system alerts and even deploys a drone carrying flame retardant. Just 15, her proclivity to use tech began at just six years of age. Yes, that young.
“I used an engineering design process to build the WPS. The first time, it used only one input parameter, temperature, and image processing to predict hotspots, and had low accuracy. I revised it, and it uses real-time data of six input parameters from Nasa and Noaa to accurately identify hotspots,” teen inventor Prisha Shroff explains in an exclusive with Global Indian. One nods, not fully comprehending, but yes, a serious problem has a solution.
Her WPS is 98.6 percent accurate today. And it combines artificial intelligence to analyse temperatures, soil moisture, precipitation, vegetation, health and wind.
“The fire lasted 86 days, causing 1,032,648 acres of land burnt, and 935 structures destroyed,” recalls Prisha. “I was happy to realise that the solution can be used in the real world to prevent wildfires,” says the teen inventor who is now exploring patents, and working on improving it.
When tech calls, Prisha answers
Her interest in computing and technology thanks to her project-based learning elementary school saw her master ‘all things coding.’ “My teachers encouraged me to keep asking questions. The scientific method and engineering design process were stepping stones to computing and technology. They were the life changing- foundation blocks of my education,” reveals the teen inventor.
Soon, Prisha was leveraging this power to “make things happen,” while peers and experts looked on in awe.
“One day, my mom showed me the code of a digital clock which used an arduino board to tell time. A few lines of code to tell the time…,” left her wonderstruck, and suddenly the world of coding became the framework to mind-boggling inventions for a wee girl – a WPS, a self-cleaning solar panel, a water-saving showerhead, a solar-powered drone, and an arduino-based leak detection device.
A clubber who Stems change
Shroff inhabits a world of block codes, and programming ozobots. A self-taught coder, she learnt on code.org, and soon transformed a few lines of code into a functioning website. As part of the drone club, Prisha wasn’t just flying drones for fun, but learning about the physics of flight. “I discovered that the drone’s flight time was so small, which hindered functioning. So, I developed solar-powered drones,” says the teen inventor. At the 3D printing club in school, more inventions followed – a medi-kit. Unsurprisingly, even the video game design club saw her create an educational game.
AI fascinates this little genius. An Udacity course followed by a Kaggle one, Prisha is now ever-ready to solve real-world problems. That is, if she hasn’t already.
On winning the Broadcom Masters Lemelson Award for Invention 2021 with a prize of $10,000, the teen inventor says, “My thoughts were happiness as I had created a solution that had a positive impact. It boosted my confidence, and inspired me to never give up.”
Nurtured in academics
Prisha’s parents Romish (from Mumbai) and Prital Shroff (from Baroda) have strong academic credentials. Her father, a computer engineer, did his MBA from Chicago, and now works at a US Fortune 500 company. Her mother, was motivated by her father to study further, and has an MS in computer science from Penn State. She works at a tech firm, also a Fortune 500. Prisha’s Gujarati upbringing ensures she visits her grandparents and cousins in India frequently.
“She’s always been this motivated kid who wants to go change the world,” says her mother Prital while her brother is inspired by how Prisha’s mind works.
The ninth grader from Hamilton High School, LA is not all geek. She plays the piano, sings and reads. “When I play the piano, I feel peaceful, calm and in my element. Singing boosts my confidence. I am the happiest when I am composing my own songs,” says the artsy scientist.
Elon Musk, a role model
Teachers, project heads, parents, have all mentored this sponge of knowledge. Yet the the teen inventor's bigger inspiration is, “Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshbhai, a peaceful, enlightened master, and spiritual visionary. He teaches us to become better people through practical examples and stories. His mission is to realise one’s true self, and serve selflessly. He teaches us 5 S’s - satsang (timeless wisdom), sadhana (spirituality applied), seva (selfless service), sanskruti (culture), sports.” It does explain Prisha’s single-minded focus on doing good.
[caption id="attachment_11426" align="aligncenter" width="721"] Prisha Shroff with family[/caption]
Elon Musk, her role model, she feels is an “amazing visionary with brilliant ideas” “His electric self-drive Tesla cars, SpaceX, exploring commercial flights to both Earth and the lunar orbit, Musk has even created Boring, a company that works on building the hyperloop,” says an excited teen inventor who advices, “Be curious, dream big and never give up.”
A 15-year-old teen scientist who understood a Nasa problem then went on to invent a self-cleaning solar panel, she explains “Solar panels face dust that decreases efficiency. Nasa declared its Opportunity Mars rover unresponsive after its solar-powered robot went silent during a dust storm.” Prisha increased efficiency with her self-cleaning, self-detecting solar panel system (with a dust sensor that activates a wiper system).
It hard to fully grasp a teen and her brilliant scientific mind. “Prisha the scientist and Prisha the 15-year-old are the same person! I enjoy hanging out with friends, playing board games with family, and baking with my brother!” she giggles.
Onward with an incredible sense of self, the years ahead can only be meteoric. She wants to be an entrepreneur, and create solutions. “I am going to change the world with solutions that improve day-to-day lives and the planet. The future will only decide what I will build, but I will be solving real-world problems,” vows the teen inventor.
Anoushka Jolly with the Prime Minister of India[/caption]
Alana Meenakshi with the President of India[/caption]
Hanaya Nasir with the Prime Minister of India[/caption]
Gauravi Reddy with the President of India[/caption]
Shreya Bhattacharjee with the Prime Minister of India[/caption]
Prisha Shroff[/caption]
Prisha Shroff[/caption]
Prisha Shroff with family[/caption]