Global Indianstory Global Indian ExclusiveKarun Kaushik: Indian-American teen helping fight pneumonia with a cost-effective AI solution

Karun Kaushik: Indian-American teen helping fight pneumonia with a cost-effective AI solution

Compiled by: Team GI Youth

(May 21, 2024) 2020 had just begun and things were getting difficult for California boy Karun Kaushik as a delayed pneumonia treatment due to an inaccurate diagnosis nearly cost him his mother’s life. The harrowing experience put him face-to-face with Covid-19 and the grim reality of pneumonia – a global killer that took the lives of 2.5 million people in the world, out of which 600,000 were children under the age of five. The startling statistics led the Indian American teen to think on his toes as Covid-19 had only exacerbated the situation.

With many relatives in India, he was concerned about the hospitals in India as he knew from visits that they had nowhere near the resources or technology necessary to save lives like his mother’s. As the world went into lockdown and Covid-19 swept across the globe, the 17-year-old spoke with radiologists in India, who confirmed that overwhelming patient volume and impossible working conditions were creating diagnostic bottlenecks, resulting in unnecessary deaths.

That’s when the Indian-American teen decided to focus on developing a solution to remove the ever-building backlogs. He spent months learning Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create X-Check-MD, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) software that can diagnose Covid-19 and pneumonia with 99 percent accuracy in under one minute. It won him the Gloria Barron Prize 2022 for Young Heroes.

We’re wowed by 2022 Barron Prize winner Karun, who created AI software that can diagnose Covid-19 and pneumonia with 99% accuracy in under one minute. His tool is part of Democratize Health, the nonprofit he founded to save lives in impoverished regions. Grateful for you, Karun! pic.twitter.com/VFM9ODc7cu

— Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes (@BarronPrize) December 13, 2022

This innovation led to the birth of Democratize Health in March 2020, a non-profit initiative to empower healthcare workers in underprivileged communities with fast, affordable, accurate, and remotely accessible artificial intelligence-based diagnostics solutions. “It’s easy to feel hopeless at times with the issues the world is facing but, in my opinion, hope is our strongest resource and weapon,” Karun said in an interview.

So how does X-Check-MD work? It allows doctors to take a picture of an X-ray with their mobile phone’s camera, upload it to a globally accessible website, and receive a diagnosis within seconds, thus making the process faster, and cheaper than traditional methods where the typical turn-around time for diagnosis is 4-18 hours by radiologists. The 99 percent accuracy reduces the chances of misdiagnoses due to human errors such as visual and cognitive fatigue under overwhelm. It also eliminates the diagnostic backlog which is common in developing countries while helping reduce delays in treatment.

Karun Kaushik | Global Indian | Indian American

Karun Kaushik is the founder of Democratize Health

Democratize Health also educates impoverished communities about environmental risk factors, preventative measures like vaccines (as 71 million children didn’t get the full pneumococcal vaccine in 2018), and available treatment options. So far, it has impacted more than 3,000 people in India, and the non-profit believes that it has the potential to save the lives of 800,000 children worldwide who die from pneumonia each year.

Since this Global Indian provides the technology to doctors and hospitals for $2.75 per scan in India, he is hopeful it can help prevent deaths from pneumonia, 90 percent of which occur in the world’s poorest regions. Currently, he is working to expand global outreach for Democratize Health and build diagnostic solutions for more diseases. Karun, who was selected as a 2021 Global Teen Leader by the We Are Family Foundation, wants to ensure that no one’s health is left behind, regardless of their geography or socioeconomic status. “I want to drive change to make a better world.”

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Published on 21, May 2024

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Divaa Uthkarsha: Diana Awardee’s Project Surya empowers kids with Type 1 diabetes

(July 23, 2023) When the wheels of the world came to a screeching halt in 2020, people saw themselves adapt to changes that the pandemic brought with itself. Amid the uncertainty and fear, a family in Bengaluru found that their 9-year-old son Surya has Type 1 diabetes. The news left his 12-year-old sister Divaa Uthkarsha shell shocked. "I had no idea what Type 1 diabetes was. My first reaction was he is just a child, how can he get Type 1 diabetes? I was shocked at my brother's diagnosis and my lack of awareness on the chronic condition," Divaa tells Global Indian. It was this knowledge deficit that prompted her to start Project Surya in 2021 to help create awareness and provide assistance to underprivileged children living with Type 1 diabetes. The initiative won her the Diana Award 2023. "It was a moment of pride because I have been putting my heart and soul into Project Surya. It is an inspiration and motivation to work harder and help more people and save more lives," adds the 15-year-old. [caption id="attachment_32064" align="aligncenter" width="726"] Divaa Uthkarsha is the founder of Project Surya[/caption] When life turned upside down In 2020, Divaa's life took a

wp-image-32064" src="https://www.globalindian.com/youth//wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_1465.jpg" alt="Divaa Uthkarsha | Global Indian " width="726" height="662" /> Divaa Uthkarsha is the founder of Project Surya[/caption]

When life turned upside down

In 2020, Divaa's life took a significant turn when her younger brother was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a condition where the body stops producing insulin. Fortunately, their doctor parents provided valuable support, guiding her to comprehend the complexities of the illness. The family as a collective took time to adjust to the new reality. "Eventually within a few months, he became independent and could manage himself," adds the teenager who accompanied her brother on all doctor visits. "I would ask them all sorts of questions and read the manuals and diet chart in detail to understand the subject. Previously, I thought diabetes only affected adults." Together, the family embarked on a journey of lifestyle changes, altering their diets and habits to accommodate Surya's needs. "It isn't just a lifestyle change but also takes a toll on mental health."

Having witnessed the challenges firsthand, Divaa gained a profound insight into the resources required and the considerable expenses associated with managing Type 1 diabetes. less privileged children lacking access to essential resources, knowledge, and proper healthcare facilities. This prompted her to contemplate the plight of the less privileged kids lacking access to essential resources, knowledge, and proper healthcare facilities. Motivated by her experiences, she founded Project Surya in June 2021, aiming to improve the quality of life for underprivileged Type 1 diabetic children residing in Karnataka.

The beginning of Project Surya

Upon joining the Future Leaders Program by 1M1B, which aims to cultivate one million young leaders impacting one billion people, Divaa embarked on her journey of conceptualising Project Surya. "After identifying our problem statement and target audience, we started working on our plan of action. We came up with solutions that were very effective, sustainable, and impacted Type 1 diabetic children in a significant way," adds the National Public School student.

Her journey in developing Project Surya involved a meticulous process of gathering insights through 30 interviews with key stakeholders, such as doctors, dieticians, and Type 1 diabetic children, alongside conducting over 500 surveys involving teenagers and ASHA workers. "It was through Samatvam Endocrinology For Science and Welfare Trust that we conducted online sessions, awareness workshops, Q & A sessions, and interactive counselling sessions with the help of an endocrinologist and raised awareness about Type 1 diabetes in a concise and scientific manner, covering essential aspects such as dietary considerations, the importance of exercise, and adjustments to insulin dosage when eating outside." Divaa discovered that many teenagers and ASHA workers lacked awareness and had misconceptions, often confusing Type 1 diabetes with general diabetes affecting older individuals." However, the sessions conducted by Project Surya helped dispel myths and equip them with the knowledge to manage diabetes effectively."

Crowdfunding and Samatvam - the helplines

Project Surya has adopted crowdfunding as its approach, successfully raising ₹1,50,000 till now. "Additionally, we are receiving $5000 from a corporate based in the US. We are also in talks with corporates for grants and CSR funding," reveals the teenager. The initiative aims to support underprivileged children with Type 1 diabetes by donating both funds and insulin syringes to Samatvam, who then distributes them.

Despite government healthcare facilities not providing free insulin, Divaa, and her team stepped in to offer low-cost insulins to these children through Samatavam. Their goal is to raise more funds to provide insulin pens, a less painful alternative to syringes, further enhancing the quality of life for these young patients.

Despite being passionate about Project Surya, many questioned her credibility initially owing to her age. "The major stakeholders that I pitched my project to initially didn't believe me. As I was only 13, many thought that this was some school project that I would get over within a few weeks. But I had to convince them how passionate I am about the cause." Fundraising, too, posed difficulties as the appreciation for the project did not always translate into donations. "Initially not many people showed up at fundraising events but then we were successful when almost 8000 people were in attendance. Right now, we are looking at accelerating the funding of the project."

Throughout the two-year journey of Project Surya, Divaa has experienced both successes and setbacks, but she has come to realise the impact that even a small step can have on someone's life. A passionate individual who enjoys playing basketball and engaging in debates, she firmly believes in seizing every opportunity that comes her way.

The impact

With the vision of making a significant impact, Project Surya took a deliberate approach, focusing on one-on-one interactions and targeting a smaller support group of 100 diabetic families over the last two years. "Directly, we have impacted 150 children and indirectly, we have impacted so many people as these children educated other children and families, thus creating a ripple effect," adds Divaa. To raise awareness about Type 1 diabetes among the masses, the initiative organized rallies, school sessions, and engaged with ASHA workers. The result was far-reaching, impacting over 2000 students through sessions held in seven schools, and creating a Domino effect of awareness as volunteers initiated drives in their schools and ASHA workers spread the word in their community. Passionate about the cause, Divaa has actively advocated for insulin tax bans and the inclusion of Type 1 diabetes in the Disabilities Act, furthering her commitment to creating a positive change.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faokCq8SsMM&t=2s

Looking towards greater sustainability, Divaa envisions implementing an "adopt a child" plan as a funding option for Project Surya, where individuals can commit to supporting a child's insulin needs for a specified period, ranging from 5 to 10 years or until the child reaches adulthood. Alongside, she plans to secure additional funds from corporates and continue fundraising efforts. "We want to provide insulin pens and more effective diabetes management resources to these kids because the resources they currently have are limited and painful."

With 95,600 cases of Type 1 diabetes affecting children under 14 years of age in India, Project Surya is determined to make a positive impact on these young lives. "From creating awareness where people under what Type 1 diabetes is, its symptoms, and the lifestyle changes they can make to keep it under check, we also focus on the mental health aspect where we talk about the stigma surrounding diabetes. The right approach and information can go a long way. And that's what we are doing," she signs off.

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Changemaker Shloka Ashok is ensuring students her age land internships

(April 11, 2023) Studying in X standard, 16-year-old Shloka Ashok wanted to intern at a company that could help her enhance her knowledge and also gains the experience of working in an organisation. Talented, and a brilliant student, the youngster made a list of companies she wanted to work at and started sending internship applications to each one. The trouble was, no one wanted to hire a 16-year-old. While, a year later, the changemaker managed to get an internship through her parents, she couldn't help thinking that she didn't get the internship through her merit. And that is what got her motivated to start her platform, InternMee. The online platform connects high school students with companies offering internships, leadership, and volunteering opportunities. "Our mission is to give students access to the right network, exposure to various careers and opportunities, and ultimately accelerate their journeys into the work world. Our platform is ideal for mid-size to large companies, student-run organisations, start-ups, and NGOs across sectors," the young changemaker said. Enabling over 11000 students through her portal, Shloka recently received the prestigious Diana Award for her contribution towards empowering the world's youth. "I am immensely grateful to receive The Diana Award and

portunities, and ultimately accelerate their journeys into the work world. Our platform is ideal for mid-size to large companies, student-run organisations, start-ups, and NGOs across sectors," the young changemaker said.

Enabling over 11000 students through her portal, Shloka recently received the prestigious Diana Award for her contribution towards empowering the world's youth. "I am immensely grateful to receive The Diana Award and be part of a global community of young, inspirational changemakers. This international award cements my belief that young people have the power to change the world and the recognition not only provides the validation that every young changemaker needs, but also acts as a driving force to do more," the Global Indian expressed, soon after receiving the award.

Driven and passionate

Since a young age, Shloka has been driven and focussed on doing something productive daily. A brilliant student, the changemaker has won several laurels over the years. However, it was quite disheartening for the youngster when she couldn't get any internship, despite being eligible. "Back in 2020, just when COVID-19 hit, I was keen to pursue a meaningful internship during my summer vacation. My research led me nowhere, and my parents used their contacts to help me. But I felt it was unfair as they did not gauge my skills and I was hired purely based on their recommendation," the changemaker said.

While several other students might have dismissed the incident, it got Shloka thinking about how difficult it would be for students whose parents didn't have such a big network. "There are many students who would want to do their internship and look for different companies but are helpless as they don't get an opportunity anywhere. I began thinking about students in India and abroad who might not get beyond the classroom opportunities to gain new skills and understand their true capabilities," she shared.

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A post shared by InternMee (@internmee)

While she wanted to do something to help the other student, she didn't know what or where to begin. "I conducted a survey among 350 students across the globe and found out that 95 percent of them were thinking to do an internship, but didn't know what to do," said the changemaker, who after reviewing several survey applications, decided to start a platform to allow these young minds an insight into potential career paths, enabling them to explore their interests and aptitudes in search of their ikigai.

Standing up for a noble cause

In December 2020, Shloka launched InternMee - which is purely for students and run by students. "The type of internships that students want to take up and the connections they want to make do matter for their future. Through InternMee, we connect students with start-ups as well as NGOs or social initiatives that they'd be interested in volunteering for. We also connect them with other student-run organisations. All this is for free and we don't charge a single rupee for connecting students and companies," she said.

I am grateful to receive the @DianaAward This award cements my belief that young people have the power to change the world. I aim to continue working towards creating equitable opportunities & this award has motivated me to dream bigger & take on more social responsibilities(1/3) pic.twitter.com/PKgqwW3XUP

— Shloka Ashok (@shloka_ashok) July 2, 2022

So, how does the platform works? Students have to just sign up on the platform and gain access to a range of internship opportunities across fields. They can apply to postings that interest them and the applications would be sent to the concerned organisation, which would evaluate candidates before choosing to offer them the position. "We don't charge the companies either on our platform. But what we have started monetising is the partnerships or collaborations that we post on our website and Instagram page," she said. The platform has over 35,000 students registered, from over 85 countries and was featured in the top 10 internship search websites by a recent survey.

Going forward the young changemaker plans to leverage InternMee, to open doors to the less privileged, by building a focussed track for students in government schools. "I aim to continue working towards creating equitable opportunities and receiving The Diana Award has motivated me to dream bigger and take on more social responsibilities. We are in discussion with some NGOs and see this as one of the future paths for our organisation," she expressed.

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Tanmay Bakshi: Harnessing AI to transform healthcare and education

(October 27, 2024) In the heart of Ontario, Canada, a remarkable journey began in a modest basement. This is where Tanmay Bakshi, a prodigy in artificial intelligence (AI), first fell in love with technology. His fascination sparked at the tender age of five when he started coding, a passion that took the shape of a mission to revolutionise healthcare and education through machine learning. "For the past 13 years, I have not only been in love with technology but I have been working towards applying it in domains where I believe that have an impact on human lives," he said at a talk. The 20-year-old Indo-Canadian's journey is not just a personal quest; it represents the aspirations of many in the Indian diaspora in Canada, where dreams of innovation and progress blend with a rich cultural heritage. [caption id="attachment_40041" align="aligncenter" width="540"] Tanmay Bakshi[/caption] From Basement to Brilliance From a young age, he was curious and this led him to start coding at the age of five. While most kids his age were playing with toys, he was fascinated by his father, Puneet Bakshi's work as a computer programmer. "It was so fascinating to me how computers could really do anything,"

ing at the age of five. While most kids his age were playing with toys, he was fascinated by his father, Puneet Bakshi's work as a computer programmer. "It was so fascinating to me how computers could really do anything," Tanmay recalled. His father recognised his budding interest and took the time to teach him programming basics. "I wanted to know what goes on behind the back end and see how you can control the computers and tell them what to do," he explained.

At just seven years old, Tanmay launched a YouTube channel to share coding tutorials and web development tips. He set a goal to help 100,000 aspiring young coders and responded to thousands of questions from followers around the globe. By the age of nine, he had developed his first app, teaching multiplication, which was accepted into the Apple Store. His parents, immigrants from India, nurtured his interests by encouraging him to explore technology's possibilities. This environment fostered his growth, allowing him to dream big.

Tryst With AI

Despite his early successes, he began to feel disillusioned with programming, thinking, "I always felt that technology was very limited. I always felt that the moment you put something in, it would become obsolete." However, his life took a significant turn at age eleven when he stumbled upon a documentary on "question answering machine" IBM Watson while uploading a YouTube video. This was his first encounter with artificial intelligence, and it instantly reignited his passion for technology. "From there, I was just immediately hooked to IBM Watson and AI," he recalled.

Within a week, he had created his first Watson app, “Ask Tanmay,” which provided users with answers by weighing the best possible responses. Shortly thereafter, he encountered an IBM service called Document Conversion, which could convert documents from one form to another. Still in the alpha stage, in a stroke of serendipity, he discovered a bug in the software and reported it on a programming website and Twitter. His keen observation caught the attention of IBM developers, marking the beginning of a relationship with the tech giant.

However, it hasn't been an easy journey for the youngster who had to face skepticism around his age and abilities. However, he did not let this deter him. His connection with IBM provided him a platform to showcase his talent, allowing him to push boundaries and challenge perceptions. "I am essentially a kid in the basement trying to solve big problems by using machine learning technology," he had said.

Making Coding Accessible

In the midst of this journey, Tanmay Bakshi also took on the role of an educator. He recognized the importance of sharing knowledge and inspiring others. Through his YouTube channel, where he shares tutorials and insights, he reaches a vast audience, encouraging young people to explore the world of coding and AI. His efforts reflect the ethos of the Indian diaspora, where education and community support are deeply valued.

A Vision for the Future

His vision extends beyond personal success; he aims to make technology accessible to everyone. He believes that AI should not only be a tool for the privileged but a force for good that can uplift communities globally. As he continues to innovate, he remains focused on ensuring that technology serves humanity. His work in healthcare and education is driven by a commitment to equity, emphasising that everyone deserves access to the tools that can enhance their lives. "I am most passionate about changing the way we do things. Be it healthcare or education because I feel millions of people don't have access to the right healthcare and students across the globe are taught the same way as their peers. It doesn't work because how we as humans learn."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-lyzsqnK-c

The Indian community in Canada has played a significant role in shaping Tanmay's journey. With a strong emphasis on education and technology, the diaspora has produced many innovators and leaders who, like Tanmay, are passionate about using their skills to contribute to society. Tanmay embodies the spirit of this community, showcasing how cultural heritage can inspire a commitment to positive change.

His story reflects the potential of young people to challenge norms, break barriers, and create solutions for a better future. As he continues to work on transformative projects, Tanmay serves as an inspiration to many, proving that age is not a limitation but a stepping stone to greater achievements.

Follow Tanmay Bakshi on LinkedIn
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Sustainable Smiles: Harsh P’s biodegradable toothbrush wins the 2024 iF Design Award

(October 6, 2024) Every day, millions of people use toothbrushes and toothpaste packaged in plastic tubes as part of their daily oral care routine. While these products are essential for oral hygiene, their environmental impact is severe. According to the British Dental Journal, “The UK uses 300 million tubes of toothpaste every year. Spread end to end, that's about 75,000 kilometres of plastic, almost twice around the world.” Now, consider the global scale of this problem, with billions of dental hygiene products contributing to plastic pollution worldwide. An estimated 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes are consumed each year globally, and more than 23 billion plastic toothbrushes are discarded annually across the globe. To play his part in addressing this issue, Harsh P, an IIT-Guwahati student pursuing Master’s in Interaction Design came up with the innovative solution of biodegradable single-use, water-soluble toothbrushes that are infused with toothpaste. His design tackles the growing plastic waste crisis in dental care, and earned him the prestigious iF Design Student Award 2024. Harsh travelled to Milan in Italy this June to receive the award. “I wasn't expecting it. I just entered the competition, and my innovation emerged the winner in the student category,” the 24-year-old tells

avelled to Milan in Italy this June to receive the award. “I wasn't expecting it. I just entered the competition, and my innovation emerged the winner in the student category,” the 24-year-old tells Global Indian.

[caption id="attachment_39759" align="aligncenter" width="637"] Harsh receiving award from Uwe Cremering, CEO of iF Design Awards[/caption]

The iF Design Award

In 2024, the iF Design Award, presented by the non-profit iF Design Foundation, received nearly 11,000 submissions from 72 countries across both student and professional categories. The foundation aims to highlight design's significant global influence through this initiative.

Harsh competed in the product design category of the awards which spanned across various fields, including packaging design, communication design, interior architecture, and service design, among others. The entries were judged by a jury of members from around the globe.

To win the award, participants had to go through a two-stage selection process where their designs were evaluated by renowned design experts. “When I received the award in Milan, I felt very humbled by this honour, as I was sharing the stage with many famous designers,” says Harsh, who received the award from Uwe Cremering, CEO of the iF Design Awards initiative.

Although the award does not come with any monetary benefits, receiving this global recognition is a significant achievement for professionals and students. Harsh says his parents, peers and professors are proud of this accomplishment.

[caption id="attachment_39773" align="aligncenter" width="769"] Finger-based and tongue-based oral care biodegradable products designed by Harsh[/caption]

The innovative solution - Zero Brush

“I saw how plastic is affecting our environment, oceans and earth, so I thought let's change small things that can have huge impacts,” tells Harsh about his biodegradable toothbrush which he has named Zero Brush.

Zero Brush addresses the global problem of discarded toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes through two innovative designs - finger-based and tongue-based brushes, ideal for accessibility.

These single-use, water-soluble brushes are infused with toothpaste and made from semolina, corn, agar, and mint extracts. Unlike conventional brushes that contribute to plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, Zero Brush biodegrades naturally. “It’s unique UNO bristles and projections gently clean teeth and massage gums, while being vegan, sugar-free, and affordable,” tells Harsha. “I want everyone to join the fight against plastic and unleash a wave of sustainable smiles.”

[caption id="attachment_39760" align="aligncenter" width="574"] Harsh P at Milan[/caption]

In the world of designs

After completing his bachelor’s degree in electrical, electronics, and communications engineering from the Government SKSJT Institute in his hometown, Bengaluru, Harsh joined IIT Guwahati for his masters.

Talking about his decision to pursue design at the master’s level, he shares, "During my engineering studies, I had a great mentor who ran a research and innovation lab at my college. That experience exposed me to various fields, including design, which sparked my deep interest in it."

In addition to the biodegradable toothbrush that earned him the prestigious international award, Harsh has also developed other innovative products, such as a road profiler and a smart switch, among others.

“My future plan after completing my masters is to make better designs that reach and benefit the people of India and ultimately be beneficial to the whole world,” he says.

[caption id="attachment_39802" align="aligncenter" width="557"] Harsh P[/caption]

Relishing the trip to Europe

When Harsh travelled to Milan to receive the award, it was his first trip abroad. “The Milan experience was amazing. I explored new places and immersed myself in a different culture during my week-long stay,” says the young designer, who travelled solo.

His trip to Milan coincided with a three-week student exchange program in France. “I was selected by the French embassy in India for the French+Science course,” he tells. On his way from Italy to France, Harsh spent two days in Switzerland, as it was en route, exploring the region's beautiful landscapes.

The iF Design Award and the experience of travelling to multiple locations in Europe not only broadened the youngster’s horizons but also deepened his appreciation for international collaboration in design and education.

Follow Harsh P on LinkedIn

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D Kavin Vendhan: The Diana Awardee empowering peers through his non-profit

(April 3, 2022) Into his teens, a peer-education programme opened up new possibilities that gave the differently-abled a “smiley” to tackle life. Then a Class 8 student, D Kavin Vendhan gave students with special learning needs guidance at his school. A month into this not just changed his perspective, it also gave him a purpose. “It made me understand the importance of non-academic skills, and how every child has potential beyond marks,” says Kavin who founded Society for Motivation Innovative Leadership and Empowerment of Youth (Smiley) India, a non-profit initiative in 2019. The idea of empowering youngsters resonated with the youth of Chennai who came forward to participate in the programme. Kavin's Smiley India not only won the trust of youngsters but also picked the Ashoka Changemaker Award 2019 and Diana Award 2021. “It was a validation for the work that we have been doing over the years,” Kavin Vendhan tells Global Indian. [caption id="attachment_13948" align="aligncenter" width="709"] Kavin Vendhan with his Diana Award 2021[/caption] A special place for all children The Hyderabad-born Tamilian was a victim of bullying at his primary school. His father, a public health professional, with a transferable job, Kavin studied in over 12 schools. Often, it

an" width="709" height="473" /> Kavin Vendhan with his Diana Award 2021[/caption]

A special place for all children

The Hyderabad-born Tamilian was a victim of bullying at his primary school. His father, a public health professional, with a transferable job, Kavin studied in over 12 schools. Often, it was hard fitting in due to speech difficulties. “Kids made fun of me in primary school,” reveals Kavin who even confronted a friend for bullying another child at school. “I had been through it, and, as an act of vengeance, I also bullied students in middle school. However, something in me shifted looking at my friend. I asked myself if what we were doing was right,” says Kavin. His turning point became a beacon for other children to stand up against bullying. Empowered by the realisation that anyone has the power to bring about change, Smiley India is spearheading this movement.

Its full potential struck him in 2015 when he joined to help children at school. "Our school had children with special needs, and in the programme, each student was assigned a peer who would help them learn and grasp subjects better. That experience nourished me as a person and helped me imbibe the quality of empathy,” says the first-year law student even though the very next year, many were dropped from school citing “learning issues.”

[caption id="attachment_13946" align="aligncenter" width="656"] Kavin Vendhan during a workshop with school kids[/caption]

“Schools only value marks, and don't believe in a child's potential beyond that. That's when I realised the significance of skills and talent over marks,” says Kavin, committed to finding a solution. He joined hands with a handful of children from the programme, and launched Smiley India, a movement for the students and by the students.

Spreading smiles

“We focus on the importance of non-academic education, social responsibility, and addressing mental health issues,” says the Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University student whose aim is “Better Youth for Better India.”

“The youth is the future of India. We work on the overall development of young minds by conducting workshops. We give them a platform to speak their minds and understand the possibilities within,” adds the 18-year-old whose non-profit has 70 volunteers between 13-19 years of age across Chennai and Chengalpattu.

[caption id="attachment_13949" align="aligncenter" width="635"] Kavin with Smiley India volunteers[/caption]

One in seven Indians aged between 15-24 is depressed, according to a Unicef report, and Kavin is no stranger to this disorder. “There is so much going on in the minds of youngsters. We want them to open up in a protective environment without any sense of shame or guilt. Not many open up to adults about mental health issues. We bridge that gap, as we encourage them to speak to peers who act as a support group," says the young changemaker who started training peers as counsellors, reaching out to 1,500 students.

A benchmark for all

Kavin believes that the “pressure in the educational system” pushes students to the brink and they feel “isolated.” “We try to build trust. About 90 percent of the issues are minor and can be taken care of at the initial stage, but serious cases are referred to psychologists,” says Kavin who witnessed a rise in suicide among youngsters during the lockdown. “It becomes more important to speak to youngsters at a time when they feel isolated with a lack of social support.”

His relentless work earned Kavin a Diana Award in 2021. “I felt grateful to the 40 volunteers for their hard work,” he beams with pride. The young changemaker is ecstatic that the awards and recognition have “changed perspectives” of people towards his non-profit. “The tables have turned. Now, schools approach us to conduct workshops and sessions,” says an excited Kavin, answering the early skepticism of volunteers' parents.

[caption id="attachment_13947" align="aligncenter" width="649"] Kavin Vendhan creating awareness among school teachers[/caption]

The laurels have been the perfect nudge for Smiley India, but not without the challenges. With almost no resources, Kavin found it hard to “bridge the distance between his vision and reality.” Also, as a young organisation with teenager founders, trust had to be built. “At times, even volunteers questioned themselves and their mission,” reveals Kavin, who is planning to expand Smiley India’s mission to Tamil Nadu and other southern states. “The aim is to create a peer-based programme, and make them understand that change can be sustained in school,” avers Kavin.

The self-proclaimed movie buff finds life lessons in films like KungFu Panda and Spiderman. The avid reader indulges in martial arts too. The changemaker gives his parents the credit for “supporting me blindly and instilling the ideals in my mind.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwo02fERnJQ

Kavin aspires to get into civil services by cracking the UPSC exam next. Smiley India’s good work will continue. “It has now become a functional organism with a life of its own,” adds Kavin.

The young changemaker advises fellow youngsters to “follow your heart and dreams,” he feels, adding, "Everyone has a unique purpose in life. Try hard to make it a reality."

Follow D Kavin Vendhan on Linkedin

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