Global Indianstory Global Indian ExclusiveFrom Delhi to Seoul: Srija Paul’s journey of Korean language, music, and dreams

From Delhi to Seoul: Srija Paul’s journey of Korean language, music, and dreams

By: Amrita Priya

(November 9, 2024) “I feel blessed to have come this far in my journey with the Korean language and music,” says Delhi’s Srija Paul, reflecting on the journey that has brought her to the global stage. Srija’s connection with the Korean language began as a quest to understand the lyrics of her favourite K-pop ballads. Over time, it grew into a deep, immersive passion that’s shaping her career path.

In 2024, the 20-year-old achieved a major milestone by winning the grand prize in the “Born To Be A KPOP Star” contest, held in South Korea’s Gyeongsang-do province. This isn’t the first time Srija has made her mark on the international stage. Last year, she claimed the top prize in the Sejong Hakdang Outstanding Learners’ Invitational Training Program, an annual competition for Korean language learners in Seoul. With each achievement, she feels she is getting closer to her ultimate goal – to become a popular professional singer in Korea.

Indian youth | Srija Paul | Global Indian

Srija in front of the Blue House, also known as Cheongwa Dae – the official residence of the President of South Korea

After majoring in English Literature at a college in Delhi and completing a basic Korean language course at the Korean Cultural Centre India (KCCI) in New Delhi, she recently began an advanced practical Korean language course at the SNU Language Education Institute in Seoul. Alongside her studies, Srija works as a Korean language trainer on the language exchange platform Hilokal, where she and other trainers hold audio-based classes to help people improve their Korean. She’s also dedicated to building a musical career in South Korea.

Tryst with the Korean language

Srija’s fascination with the Korean language took root in 2017 when a friend introduced her to the world of K-pop. Intrigued by the unfamiliar sounds and rhythms, she found herself drawn to the unique artistry of the genre, especially the ballads. Her growing love for these songs, and the messages she sensed within the lyrics, motivated her to learn Korean. Initially, Srija’s goal was simple – to understand the music on a deeper level. But as she delved into the language, what started as a personal interest transformed into an unshakable passion.

In February 2023, Srija took a definitive step forward by enrolling in a formal Korean language course at the Sejong Hakdang branch of the Korean Cultural Centre India (KCCI) in New Delhi. There, she immersed herself in rigorous language studies, embracing the nuances of Korean grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. By the time the Sejong Hakdang Invitational contest came around later that year, Srija was ready to compete with other top learners worldwide.

Srija at the Sejong Hakdang Outstanding Learners’ Invitational speech competition in 2023

Her performance in the competition was nothing short of stellar; she presented the speech titled ‘My Dreams and Challenges in Korean,’ which resonated strongly with both the audience and judges. In her speech, she shared her aspiration of becoming a singer in Korea and spoke candidly about the obstacles she had faced. This victory not only reaffirmed her dedication to the Korean language but also brought her one step closer to achieving her dream.

Winning ‘Born To Be A KPOP Star’ competition in 2024

This year’s ‘Born To Be A KPOP Star’ competition marked another significant milestone in Srija’s journey. The event, held in South Korea’s Gyeongsang-do province, featured contestants from around the world, both online and offline. She got emotional upon hearing her name announced as the grand prize winner. It was a surreal moment, a culmination of years of practice, discipline, and commitment to music. Srija attributes much of her success to her language skills, noting that singing in Korean has allowed her to connect with audiences on a deeper level. By conveying the nuances and emotions of Korean lyrics, she brings authenticity to her performances, which resonates with listeners.

Srija received the first prize in the ‘Born To Be a KPOP Star’ competition as an online participant

Platform for cultural exchange

For Srija, the Sejong Hakdang program and the Korean Cultural Centre, India have provided crucial platforms not only to learn Korean but also to experience Korean culture in its entirety. The Sejong Hakdang Outstanding Learners’ Invitational Training Program, which brought her to Seoul last year, is a collaborative effort between the Sejong Hakdang Foundation and the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in South Korea. Each year, the program invites top students from Sejong Hakdang branches worldwide to compete in Korean language skills, and the event is a central part of the annual Hangeul Day celebrations on October 9. In 2023, over 2,400 applicants from 67 countries participated in the program, and Srija emerged as the grand prize winner, joining the ranks of previous winners, including Anubhuti Kakati, another Indian student who won in 2021.

“When they announced my name as the winner during the speech contest, I was filled with happiness and a sense of achievement. In that moment, I felt that I had taken one step closer to my dream,” she remarked.

Srija Paul while receiving the second prize at the Sejong Hakdang Outstanding Learners’ Invitational speech competition

The preliminary rounds took place at the Korean Cultural Centre in New Delhi, where the contestants were given a choice between two topics: ‘Korea as I and Koreans See It’ and ‘The Korean City I Want to Visit and an Introduction to My City.’ “I chose the first and was placed second. In the interview round with a panel of professors from reputable Korean universities, just 10 finalists had made it,” she shared.

The first visit to Korea

Srija’s experience in the Sejong Hakdang program was more than just a competition. It was a chance to immerse herself in Korean culture and connect with other language learners from around the world. In addition to the speech contest, the finalists engaged in a variety of activities during their 6-day, 7-night stay. These included visits to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Yongin Folk Village, a traditional game performance at Namsadang, and a tour of the Blue House. They also experienced aspects of modern Korean culture, such as K-pop dance.

The program’s focus on cross-cultural exchange and learning has had a lasting impact on Srija, reinforcing her desire to contribute to Korean-Indian cultural relations through her music.

Srija visited the Gyeongbok Palace in traditional attire (Hanbok)

“I was happy and teary-eyed when I landed in Korea; my dream had finally come true. I was mesmerized by the country’s beauty. Additionally, everything was so organized there and the roads wide and clean. My favourite activities were wearing Hanbok and visiting the aquarium at Lotte World,” shared the youngster who travelled back this year to pursue Korean language course at SNU Language Education Institute in Seoul, few months back.

Korean culture in India

The influence of Korean culture in India has grown rapidly over the past few years, with the KCCI playing a vital role in nurturing this interest. The KCCI offers a variety of classes in New Delhi, from Korean language courses to Taekwondo and Samulnori (traditional Korean percussion music). In addition to these courses, the KCCI extends its reach by partnering with 32 schools across India, offering Korean language classes and cultural programs to students.

A dream of musical fusion

Shrija dreams of sharing a stage with her idols, such as Paul Kim and Jung Seung-hwan, and creating music that speaks to both Indian and Korean audiences. For Srija, singing in Korean is more than a performance – it’s a form of expression that bridges two cultures and resonates with listeners on an emotional level.

“I want to create music that brings Korea and India closer to connect people on a deeper level, and I want to keep learning and spreading knowledge of the Korean language and culture to others,” she tells talking about her ultimate goal. To start, she has been working on collaborative projects with Korean singers.

Srija’s journey from a K-pop enthusiast in Delhi to an award-winning Korean-speaking singer-in-the-making exemplifies the power of passion and perseverance. As she moves forward, the youngster remains committed to her goal – one that transcends borders, celebrating the connections that music and culture create across continents.

For her, the Korean language has been more than just words and phrases – it has been the key that opened a door to her greatest dream.

Follow Srija Paul on YouTube and Instagram

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Published on 09, Nov 2024

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Laalitya Acharya: The Indian American raising awareness on global water crisis

(October 16, 2022) A family trip to India was nothing short of an eye-opener for the Ohio girl Laalitya Acharya, who was a witness to the glaring water gap and the lack of access to clean drinking water and its implications. Seeing the damaging impact of contaminated water on health - leading to stomach flu and other ailments - made her dig deep into the statistics. In 2017, nearly 75 million people in India had no access to safe water. The startling numbers made her think hard, but after she fell ill from consuming contaminated water despite taking precautions, Laalitya knew it was time to make a change. "When I returned home, I found that this is a global crisis that affects billions all across the world. I decided that I wanted to find a solution to this problem and thus the foundations for The Nereid Project were born," the changemaker tells Global Indian. Nereid - a low-cost device that can detect water contamination within seconds using Artificial Intelligence - made Laalitya bag the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes recently, for making a positive impact in people's lives and communities. In the last few years, the Nereid Project has

aking a positive impact in people's lives and communities. In the last few years, the Nereid Project has grown by leaps and bounds, and Laalitya calls it an organisation that "aims to raise awareness for the water crisis through research, advocacy, and policy." They are now working on implementing Nereid in Ohio, India, and Morocco.

[caption id="attachment_23046" align="aligncenter" width="415"] Laalitya Acharya developed Nereid[/caption]

Foundation laid by curiosity

While Nereid has put this Indian-American teen on the global map, Laalitya's interest in technology and science began at a tender age. The Bengaluru-born grew up in a suburb of Ohio after her parents moved to the US in search of better opportunities. Being a first-generation Indian American, "the importance of education was constantly emphasised," and she naturally gravitated toward scientific experimentation. It was in high school that her passion flourished as she found herself participating in scientific research and science fairs. "My high school did not have a traditional research program, so I decided to do 'at-home' independent research instead. This was where the basis of my research, Nereid, began," the changemaker reveals.

It was creative thinking that led her to explore scientific research, something she calls "crucial" to her journey. While most think science and creativity are separate entities, Laalitya begs to differ. "People tend to believe that science is not for the creative but I could not think that falser. All of the research and novel developments that we have, are born out of creativity, not in spite. The Nereid device, for example, utilises an intersection of biology, computational science, and artificial intelligence - it required unique thinking to create a unique solution," she elucidates.

[caption id="attachment_23047" align="aligncenter" width="501"] Laalitya Acharya recently won the Gloria Barron Award for Young Heroes[/caption]

Making an impact with Nereid

So, what exactly is Nereid? It's a portable device that works as a microscopic camera that takes images of a water sample which are then analysed using AI technology to determine if it's safe or contaminated, thus helping to alleviate the global water crisis. Such is the feasibility of the device that it can be easily integrated into a water system. "The coming months will help me to gather real-world data to hopefully implement Nereid globally," adds the changemaker. Not just this, the Nereid Project also expands to hosting STEM education programs and water summits which "are conferences centred around ways each of us can mitigate the global water gap." Along with it, they are working to use the legislative arm of policy to ensure access to this global necessity for all.

A STEM champion

Laalitya, who is currently majoring in biomedical engineering at Columbia University, is keen to work at the "intersection of STEM and public policy" to create legislative changes that incorporate science-based solutions. A STEM champion, she calls it the need of the hour to solve issues such as climate change or reform US healthcare. The 19-year-old is happy to see girls "crushing the game" in STEM. "The growth that I have seen even in my career of the science fair, and research has truly shown the power of women in science. I've also worked to create educational programs for young girls interested in science through The Nereid Project. Seeing their excitement and being able to support them on their STEM journeys has always been immensely gratifying for me," adds Regeneron Science Talent Search 2021 finalist.

The young changemaker is taking baby steps to cause a tectonic shift in the world through her work, and is keen to see "a world where people have access to their basic human rights and necessities." Knowing that the world is in crisis right now, she says, "it is our job to fix it."

[caption id="attachment_23048" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Laalitya Acharya with US Senator Chuck Schumer of New York[/caption]

"The United Nations defined their Sustainable Goals (SDG)s as due in 2030. We are less than 8 years away from this and I truly hope that we can continue our exponential growth in solving these global crises. I am doing my part to close the water gap and I aim to help the UN reach SDG #6 (which regards clean water access)," adds the changemaker, who was a Casework Intern for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in May where she worked with the constituents of New York to resolve any issues they were facing.

Challenges and learnings

However, this journey came with its share of challenges, and COVID was especially a tough time. But Laalitya was able to see a silver lining in each of her difficulties. "A lot of what The Nereid Project did was dependent on in-person camps/summits. Overnight, this changed and we were forced to move to a virtual format instead. But this shift led us to engage with more people outside of my local area. We worked with students from across the world and helped them kickstart their scientific journeys. Today, in a post-pandemic world, we have decided to keep our online format and return to in-person events - thus allowing us to expand our reach," the changemaker says.

A voracious reader, she loves to devour historical fiction and memoirs. "I also play the violin and run as I find both activities to be very soothing. It helps me to take care of my body and mind which is crucial in this line of work," says the changemaker.

[caption id="attachment_23049" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Laalitya Acharya encourages kids in the space of STEM[/caption]

The last few years have been a learning curve for Laalitya as she extends some pieces of advice to youngsters looking to make an impact. "It's okay to be a one-person-show," she suggests, adding, "It can be super scary to put yourself out there as an 'organisation' when it's just you wearing 5 different hats at the same time. But in reality, we all start small, and even the smallest changes can cause a ripple effect." However, she emphasises the importance of finding one's niche. "Go narrow and deep. Delve into a few sectors that you are particularly fond of and then you can expand as you grow," adds Laalitya, who believes in building a network and finding a community - in terms of family, mentors, friends, advocates, and or organisations. But her biggest learning was understanding that the way to a 'yes' is through many 'no'. "You will face negative comments, criticism, and other not-so-fun conversations on your journey. But the best way to think about it is that every 'no' gets you closer to a 'yes'," signs off Laalitya.

Follow Laalitya Acharya on Linkedin and her website

Reading Time: 6 min

Karthik Ramu: The Indian-American revolutionising elder care

(October 18, 2024) In 2015, Karthik Ramu's life changed in a way that few teenagers could have anticipated. His grandfather, living thousands of miles away in Coimbatore, India, suffered a near-fatal heart attack. Karthik, at the time a high school student in North Carolina, found himself helpless, with no real way of staying updated on his grandfather's health. Despite living in a world of smartphones and wearable tech, the Ramu family, like millions of others, had no reliable system in place to track the health of their elderly loved one. This sudden realisation revealed a bigger problem: how can families, separated by distance and busy with their own lives, care for elders in a connected, real-time way? This personal crisis turned into a mission for Karthik Ramu, who at the age of 16, co-founded AmityConnect, a mobile platform designed to give families real-time insights into the health of their elders, no matter the distance. For the Indian-American, this wasn’t just about solving his family’s problem; it was about addressing the universal need for better elder care—particularly in a world where the elderly population is expected to double by 2050. "Seeing my grandfather suffer and not being able to do anything

able to do anything made me realize how out of touch we were with his health," said Karthik, who is currently pursuing BA from University of Virginia.

[caption id="attachment_39908" align="aligncenter" width="355"] Karthik Ramu[/caption]

A Crisis Turns Into a Mission

His journey towards launching AmityConnect began while he was still in high school, enrolled in a STEM-focused entrepreneurship program. This gave him the technical foundation to address a problem that was deeply personal as he firsthand saw how disconnected families can be from their elders’ health. He found that the available medical alert systems were outdated and notified families only after the emergency had occurred. This prompted him to find a solution that was better than the available resources.

Together with his classmate, Kushi, Karthik launched AmityConnect in April 2019. The app pulls data from a range of smart medical devices like Fitbits, Apple Watches, and Hexoskin sensors, and presents it to families in an easy-to-understand format. Through real-time updates on vitals such as heart rate, blood pressure, and activity levels, AmityConnect allows families to monitor their elders' health, regardless of whether they live across the country or across the world.

[caption id="attachment_39909" align="aligncenter" width="400"] Karthik Ramu with co-founder Kushi[/caption]

Building a Global Solution

As Karthik delved deeper into the elder care industry, he realised how urgent the need for solutions like AmityConnect was. The elder population in the US alone faces alarming health trends: 60 percent of seniors have two or more chronic health conditions. And with families increasingly spread across different locations, staying connected to an elder’s health can be incredibly difficult. AmityConnect's vision is to change that by giving families peace of mind and the tools to take proactive action when it comes to elder care.

In the summer of 2020, Karthik Ramu and his team partnered with Fitbit to provide smart medical devices to seniors and ran a successful beta test of AmityConnect with over 70 families and assisted care centers in Northern Virginia. The results were promising, and AmityConnect's user base quickly began to grow.

By 2021, AmityConnect had already reached over 3,000 people across the US, spreading awareness through social media campaigns and local events. The platform garnered attention, and in 2020, it was selected as a winner of the T-Mobile Changemaker Challenge, which recognizes young innovators making a difference in the world. Karthik and his team were named among the top 30 changemakers of the year, a distinction that put AmityConnect on the map as one of the most promising elder care innovations created by youth. Karthik was honoured as a Global Teen Leader by the We Are Family Foundation in 2021, also won the T-Mobile Changemaker Challenge and was recognised as one of the top 30 changemakers.

Rooted in Heritage, Driven by Innovation

The success of AmityConnect for Karthik isn't just about technology but also about his heritage and upbringing. As a first-generation Indian-American, Karthik feels a deep connection to the values of his Tamilian roots, particularly the importance of family and caring for elders. "The concept of respecting and caring for elders is deeply ingrained in our culture, and this definitely shaped how I approached AmityConnect," explained the 21-year-old.

Growing up in a household where both parents worked in the tech industry — his father is an IT consultant, and his mother assists in their family business — Karthik was exposed to technology from a young age. Yet, he was equally influenced by his parents' roots in Coimbatore, India. The duality of his Indian heritage and his American upbringing gave him a unique perspective, allowing him to innovate with a deep sense of responsibility toward family and community.

"I'm as close to my parents' roots in Coimbatore as I am to my Indian-American culture," the Global Indian reflected. His experience of growing up with both Indian and American cultures shaped how he approaches problem-solving. It helped him combine empathy with innovative thinking, blending traditional values with modern solutions.

Growing up in one of the fastest-growing immigrant communities in the US, Karthik is the perfect example of how Indian-American teens are making an impact by combining their rich heritage with modern innovation. For decades, Indian immigrants have made their mark in fields like technology, healthcare, and business, and Karthik, too, has merged his heritage with contemporary ideas, making him a bridge between two worlds.

Larger Perspective

What began as an idea to help stay up to-date with his grandfather's health became a platform for elder care that reached out to more families in the US. However, his goal has been to scale it globally. "There's still so much more we can do to ensure that families feel connected to the health of their elders, no matter where they are," he added. For him, AmityConnect isn’t just a business but a mission to change how families care for their elders in an increasingly disconnected world.

As Karthik continues to redefine elder care, his story is not just an inspiration for Indian-American teens but for changemakers everywhere. In an era where the elder population is growing faster than ever before, Karthik’s work with AmityConnect couldn’t be more timely or necessary. His journey underscores how young people, empowered by their cultural roots and a drive for change, can solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Follow Karthik Ramu on LinkedIn
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Sirish Subash earns ‘America’s Top Young Scientist’ title in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge

(October 29, 2024) When Sirish Subash's innovation, an AI-based handheld pesticide detector named PestiSCAND, was tested, it demonstrated an impressive 85 percent accuracy in detecting pesticide residues on fresh farm produce like spinach and tomatoes. The effectiveness of this innovative tool paved the way for Sirish’s victory at the 2024 3M Young Scientist Challenge. The Georgia teen from Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology won the $25,000 grand prize along with the title of 'America’s Top Young Scientist.' The 14-year-old credits his parents for instilling in him the curiosity that inspired him to design a pesticide detector. "My parents always insist that I wash fruits and vegetables before consuming them,” he shared in an interview. “I wondered, how necessary is this really, and how effective is washing? Does it actually work to ensure that produce is clean?” This curiosity led him to innovate the award-winning tool in the Challenge where he competed against nine top finalists. The final event was held at the 3M global headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Oct. 14 and 15. Impact of 3M Young Scientist Challenge The 3M Young Scientist Challenge, now in its 17th year, continues to inspire middle school students to apply

ttps://www.globalindian.com/youth/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/3M-Young-Scientist-.webp" alt="Indian Inventor | Sirish Subash | Global Indian" width="782" height="532" />

Impact of 3M Young Scientist Challenge

The 3M Young Scientist Challenge, now in its 17th year, continues to inspire middle school students to apply STEM principles to solve real-world problems. As the United States’ premier science competition, it is administered by Discovery Education and 3M.

Each year, the top 10 finalists, comprising public and private school students from across the U.S. are evaluated through a series of challenges - including a presentation of their completed innovation project. Their work gets scored independently by a panel of judges.

Past 3M winners have gone on to give TED Talks, found nonprofits, file patents, and make it onto the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, highlighting the far-reaching impact of this platform.

Technology behind Sirish’s innovation – PestiSCAND

Sirish’s tool uses spectrophotometry to measure the wavelength of light reflecting off fruits and vegetables, combined with a machine learning model to analyse the data and detect harmful pesticides - all without damaging the food.

All one needs to do is download an app, point the tool at the food in question, and determine if an additional rinse is necessary. “That’s the main goal of PestiSCAND - to help people ensure that they aren’t consuming pesticides so they can avoid any associated health risks,” Sirish explained in an interview.

PestiSCAND is equipped with a sensor, power supply, display screen, and processor. By utilising a non-destructive method, it provides an efficient and reliable solution to the growing concern over pesticide contamination. The tool’s ability to quickly assess the safety of fruits and vegetables marks a promising step toward healthier food standards.

[caption id="attachment_40079" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Sirish demonstrating how to use PestiSCAND[/caption]

Journey of earning the title

The finalists faced a series of interactive challenges and were assessed on their creativity, application of STEM principles, passion for research, presentation skills, and ability to inspire. Each finalist was paired with a 3M scientist for one-on-one mentoring throughout the summer, guiding them from concept to prototype development. Sirish Subash was paired with Aditya Banerji, a senior research engineer at 3M’s Corporate Research Process Laboratory.

With Aditya’s support, Sirish refined his idea over the course of four months. Competing against nine other brilliant young minds, he showcased his ingenuity and presentation skills during the final events, ultimately securing the grand title and the cash award.

A dream comes true

The Indian origin teen has been passionate about science since the first grade and has dreamed of applying to the 3M Young Scientist Challenge for many years. A remarkable student, he even skipped the fifth grade. During his sixth-grade year, his family spent much of their time in India, which prevented him from setting up a project that year. In seventh grade, he applied, but things didn’t go as planned. In eighth grade, knowing it was his last chance, he made sure to apply again. “It has been a dream of mine to make it here,” said the Global Indian, who has just begun his studies in ninth grade.

[caption id="attachment_40080" align="aligncenter" width="712"] Sirish with his mentor Aditya Banerji, senior research engineer at 3M’s Corporate Research Process Laboratory[/caption]

Passion for writing

Beyond his passion for science, Sirish Subash is also an avid writer, having authored two books: Carbon Block Puzzle and Biochemistry: The Fun Way! - both available on popular platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. For his first book, he set a record with the Asia Book of Records as the youngest non-fiction author at the age of 10.

His first book, Carbon Block Puzzle offers a concise and accessible way to understand the fundamentals of climate change - a crucial issue today where distinguishing fact from misinformation can be challenging.

"The effects of climate change are already happening. The first inklings of damage have already been done. Unless more people learn about climate change, the darkest days could come soon. That’s where Carbon Block Puzzle comes in,” Sirish mentions on his website. “The book educates readers on climate change and how to prevent it. Only if truth prevails will the right thing happen, and only then will humanity be safe from climate change.”

Aimed at young readers, Carbon Block Puzzle conveys its message in an engaging way, using the video game Block Puzzle as a tool for learning

His second book, Biochemistry: The Fun Way!, is an illustrated graphic novel designed as an introductory guide to biochemistry. The story follows fictional characters Burger Bob and his cousin SciKid, who runs a biochemistry business. The novel explores a wide range of topics, from foundational chemistry and amino acids to enzymes, proteins, sugars, polysaccharides, nucleic acids, cellular components, and the immune system, concluding with the complement system and practical applications of biochemistry in the real world.

Sirish Subash also runs a YouTube channel called SciKid Sirish, where he shares videos on various science topics and experiments, offering explanations and insights into each.

[caption id="attachment_40081" align="aligncenter" width="716"] Sirish published his first book at the age of 10[/caption]

Looking ahead…

The Indian-origin Georgia teen aspires to go beyond his current accomplishments. He dreams of developing more devices and resources that will have a positive impact on people's everyday lives. With a drive to educate and innovate, Sirish aims to continue making a difference, using his curiosity and talents to improve the world around him.

Follow Sirish Subash on Facebook

Reading Time: 5 mins

Embracing the Open Waters: Anshuman Jhingran becomes world’s youngest North Channel swimmer

(Aug 23, 2023) "Water is my battlefield," writes Anshuman Jhingran in one of his social media posts. At 18 years 125 days, the Navi Mumbai swimmer became the youngest to cross the North Channel – a strait between Northern Ireland and Scotland that connects the Irish Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. He became the 114th swimmer and the youngest to do so since 1947.  The youngster is on a mission to become the world's youngest swimmer to complete the Oceans Seven, considered the Grand Slam of open water swimming, comprising seven of the world's toughest open water crossings. [caption id="attachment_32679" align="aligncenter" width="499"] Anshuman Jhingran[/caption] North Channel was Anshuman's first swim as part of the Oceans Seven challenge. He swam for 35 kilometres in 11 hours, 28 minutes and 52 seconds finding a place in the Guinness Book of Word Records. "I set this world record on 17th July 2023 and have been super proud of it. Being able to enter my name in the Guinness Book of World Records feels like a dream come true," the overjoyed swimmer remarks. Turning adversity into opportunity Anshuman has been swimming since he was five years old. As a competitive short distance swimmer, he

Word Records. "I set this world record on 17th July 2023 and have been super proud of it. Being able to enter my name in the Guinness Book of World Records feels like a dream come true," the overjoyed swimmer remarks.

Turning adversity into opportunity

Anshuman has been swimming since he was five years old. As a competitive short distance swimmer, he had made rapid progress, participating at various meets across the country, and in state and national level championships winning laurels. However, open water swimming was a completely different ball game.

He had not given a thought to diving in its tough terrain until he broke his left forearm and wrist that prevented him from participating in championships for some time, even after he recuperated due to championship norms.

Being a swimming enthusiast, he was restless. Looking at this his coach Gokul Kamath suggested that he try open water swimming. "It was very new for me, but I knew my coach would support me at every step. So, I decided to give it a go," Anshuman remarks.

[caption id="attachment_32674" align="aligncenter" width="554"] Anshuman Jhingran[/caption]

It was not easy

Regarded as one of the most challenging among the Ocean Seven swims, the North Channel presented an intimidating test of physical endurance and mastery due to its cold waters. There were many dangerous boneless animals in the waters like the lion's mane jellyfish that swam freely. Also, the tides and currents made the swim tough till the very end.

But Anshuman was prepared. He had dedicated nearly a year to training, including two-hour sessions of immersing in ice baths to adapt to the conditions of open waters. Given that the North Channel's temperature can drop to as low as 10 degrees Celsius, and lacking suitable training grounds in Mumbai, he had resorted to ice baths to get acclimatised.

Also, he successfully completed a swim across the Palk Strait channel from Sri Lanka to India as part of his preparation. He stayed in the UK for a month before the big swim just to get acquainted with the climate. 

"Open water swimming is an invitation to embrace the untamed beauty of nature," he says, adding, "Leave behind the sterile pool tiles and immerse yourself in the vastness of lakes, rivers, and oceans. It's a chance to feel the rhythm of the waves, taste the salt in the air, and discover hidden coves that only the adventurous dare to explore."

[caption id="attachment_32680" align="aligncenter" width="445"] Anshuman Jhingran[/caption]

Endurance - the winning mantra

Anshuman has won many competitions in the past like the 2018 National-level medal in the 100m Butterfly swim. In 2019, he made his mark at the SNAG (Singapore National Age Group Swimming Championships). His talent also led to his selection for the Khelo India Youth Games in 2020.

The class 12 commerce student at Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil College has trained at Fr Agnel Sport Centre, since years. Working closely with his coaches, Gokul Kamath and Rutuja Udeshi, both recipients of the prestigious Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Award, Anshuman had been dedicating at least 6 hours to training for his open water swimming challenge. Sometimes the practice hours even extended to even 12 hours on more intense training days.

At the later stage of the preparation, getting guidance from MBE Sally Minty-Gravett, a renowned coach and marathon swimmer also helped.

[caption id="attachment_32681" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Anshuman Jhingran practicing the Wim Hof breathing method while ice bathing[/caption]

Future ahead

The youngster’s eyes are firmly set on the next goal - to swim across another open water crossing of the Oceans Seven. “Only 22 people in the world have ever completed all seven swims, and I am determined to add my name to that illustrious list,” he shares. He is aiming for at least two swims by the end of this year.

“I did not choose swimming because I had to, but I did because I loved it. If the situation permits, I would love to take this as a full-time career,” says the young champion who finds support in the steadfast belief held by his parents, Sandeep and Kiran Jhingran in all that he does.

Follow Anshuman Jhingran on LinkedIn and Instagram

Reading Time: 5 mins

‘App’solute vision: Diana Awardee Freya Thakral’s recycling & mental health smart solutions

(February 16, 2022) Frantically scribbling away ideas for a startup in 2019, Freya Thakral stumbled upon the huge plastic waste menace. The then 13-year-old created an app that recycles plastic, and even helps ragpickers live dignified life. The same year, India generated over 34 lakh tons of plastic waste, and the teenager knew it was time to take matters into her hand. Freya’s Recycler App, a free door-to-door waste collection service won her the Diana Award 2020. “I had no idea that my work was creating such a huge difference. The award was a validation of sorts, and has made me more comfortable about the path that I have taken,” she tells Global Indian. Incredibly, this isn’t the only app that made Freya a global name. The 15-year-old won the British Citizen Youth Award 2021 for empowering girls to express themselves through her wellbeing app Curiousify. An initiative that began during the pandemic, it helps women deal with mental health issues. [caption id="attachment_10922" align="aligncenter" width="493"] Freya Thakral at Young Founders Summit[/caption] When adventure gave her ideas Born in 2006 to a teacher-father and a homemaker-mother in the UK, Freya moved to Nepal with family at six owing to her dad’s

c1684-c02f-47a3-9d54-e084185d53901.jpg" alt="Diana Awardee | Freya Thakral " width="493" height="657" /> Freya Thakral at Young Founders Summit[/caption]

When adventure gave her ideas

Born in 2006 to a teacher-father and a homemaker-mother in the UK, Freya moved to Nepal with family at six owing to her dad’s sense of adventure. “After a year-and-a-half in Nepal, we moved to Delhi which was my home for almost five years,” says the 15-year-old who enrolled in the British School then. Fitting in was a task as neither was she “academically inclined” nor did she have “any particular hobbies.” However, things shifted for the teenager when she decided to participate in the Young Founders Summit, a global start-up competition and accelerator programme. There, Freya came up with the recycling app.

“Since I stayed in the UK and Nepal, I had seen the way waste was disposed. If England has a set system of disposing, open dumping of solid waste was a common practice in Nepal. In Delhi too, plastic was mixed with other waste, making it difficult to recycle. I realised no one was encouraged to recycle. That’s when the idea of a Recycler App struck me,” smiles the innovator who then involved ragpickers to help them in their vulnerability.

From “rags” to sustainable riches

It was after speaking to marginalised ragpickers in her locality, many of them children, Freya realised the need to build a more sustainable method of recycling. Driven by a passion to transform the lives of ragpickers, she decided to build the app to connect users with ragpickers.

The summit helped her find her first investor. With funds pouring in, she set up a warehouse in Ghaziabad and paid money to ragpickers. “A judge liked my idea, and even got me in touch with an investor who helped me understand the business side,” says the Class 10 student who had to learn coding online to develop the app with a little help from her father.

Launched in June 2019 on iOS, the app was initially available in South Delhi. “Anyone who wanted to avail the services could simply slot a date and time, and the ragpicker would collect plastic at the doorstep, which was sent to a recycling plant,” explains the young activist who at first started with only three collectors, and soon the number grew to 10.

[caption id="attachment_10924" align="aligncenter" width="620"] Freya Thakral with the middleman[/caption]

However, convincing ragpickers to work wasn’t easy. “Being so young, not many believe in your vision. So, it took time building trust. We worked with a middleman who had access to the app, and would send ragpickers to homes as not everyone had a touchscreen phone,” explains the Diana Awardee. Her motto was to improve the lives of ragpickers, and employ them. “Instead of roaming the streets, they could reach people who required their services. We would also pay a large part of the money we received from recycling to them,” adds the Brighton School Bangkok student who had 500 active users on the app that she calls the “Uber of recycling.”

Awards & glory thanks to a vision

Freya won the Diana Award 2020 for her app, and it completely “surprised” her.

“I had no idea that my work was getting noticed. While I couldn’t receive the award in person due to the pandemic, it was great connecting with those doing noteworthy work,” smiles the Diana Awardee.

Recycler’s operations are on hold since the pandemic began in 2020. “Collectors weren’t allowed into people’s houses. Since many came from squatter settlements, people were uncomfortable having them near during Covid-19. I, too, moved to the UK, thus it was hard to manage,” reveals Freya who wasn’t sure of “putting the burden of the business on someone else” in her absence. A handful of old users still use the app, and avail services.

Helping those struggling in the pandemic

As lockdown put a spade on everything, Freya was busy creating the app Curiousify which focusses on wellbeing and the mental health of young women. After experiencing emotional difficulties, she needed a constructive outlet to express herself. “I realised many young women going through issues were exposed to negative and incorrect information, thus exacerbating the situation. So, I decided to bring a sense of community with Curiousify,” reveals the girl who offers a curated collection of bite-sized articles and videos that are positive and helpful. The mental health campaigner won the British Citizen Youth Award 2021 for empowering girls to express themselves.

[caption id="attachment_10926" align="aligncenter" width="516"] Freya Thakral at the British Citizen Youth Award 2021[/caption]

Freya is now bettering the app by adding new features like a language convertor to make it accessible to a larger audience. Looking forward to working for something bigger than her, the Diana Awardee avers, “Joining the United Nations is definitely on my list.”

She credits the awards for opening her mind to possibilities. “The current generation needs to get out of their comfort zone,” she implores.

Follow Freya Thakral on Linkedin

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