Saathvik Kannan: Indian-American teen wins Regeneron Young Scientist Award for mpox research
Compiled by: Team GI Youth
(June 16, 2023) In the realm of scientific discovery, there are individuals whose exceptional talent and dedication propel them to new heights of innovation. Such is the case with Indian-American teen Saathvik Kannan, a prodigious young scientist who recently made headlines for winning the prestigious Regeneron Young Scientist Award, accompanied by a remarkable $50,000 prize. Saathvik’s groundbreaking research in biocomputational methods shed light on the heightened infectivity of the mpox (monkeypox) virus, which resurfaced in the world in 2022, presenting a significant public health challenge.
Research on mpox
The re-emergence of the mpox virus in 2022 sent shockwaves throughout the scientific community and global population alike. This highly infectious disease had previously been considered largely eradicated, with only sporadic cases reported in remote regions. However, its resurgence demanded immediate attention and investigation to understand the causes behind its heightened infectivity. It was during this critical juncture that Saathvik, armed with his extraordinary scientific acumen, embarked on a mission to unlock the mysteries surrounding mpox.
Saathvik Kannan
Kanan’s pioneering research was centered on the utilisation of biocomputational methods, which he used to unearth and understand the factors causing such infectious diseases as monkeypox that resurged in 2022 when the COVID-19 pandemic began to recede in most parts of the world. Bioplex, the approach he used, uses machine learning and three-dimensional protein modeling to decode structures enabling the virus to replicate. Showing his gratitude for his mentor, the Global Indian wrote, “I was overjoyed and incredibly excited. I felt that it reflected our work with Dr Singh’s mentorship and guidance over the last few years culminating in my project this year.”
How it began
The Missouri-born and raised Indian American was in eighth standard when he became interested in programming, and soon began learning python and other programming languages. However, it was at the age of 14 that he was propelled into the world of computational biology, after meeting a University of Missouri researcher. It began in the summer of in 2020, during the pandemic, when Saathvik’s father came across a paper published by Kamlendra Singh detailing the use of RNA polymerase inhibitors while creating an initial vaccine. The paper gained attention in the scientific community nationally and internationally.
Saathvik soon reached out to Kamlendra to set up a meeting on Zoom to understand how his abilities could be used in a lab setting. To which Kamlendra replied, “If I could have a computer programmer, I could do better research.” This was Saathvik’s cue and soon they both joined hands, which was the beginning of a new partnership. With Covid-19 at its peak, Saathvik built a program to help analyse mutations in many viral organisms, thus leading to a paper about the D614G mutation within Covid-19.
Research for the future
Alongside the Covid-19 research, he also wrote a paper on the mpox virus after its resurgence in the 2022, which highlights the way new mutations affect the virus. “The research provides a basis for understanding several new outbreaks,” Kannan said, adding, “As we have realized with Covid-19 and even mpox, any virus can go from dormancy to a full resurgence in a very short period. So, there is potential for another outbreak of mpox, where this research could be used.” His research can help better understand viruses like mpox.
Beyond the scientific realm, Saathvik’s achievement serves as a beacon of inspiration for young aspiring scientists worldwide. His unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and groundbreaking research stand as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge.
The Regeneron Young Scientist Award, which recognizes exceptional scientific inquiry and innovation in high school students, is a testament to the impact young minds can have on the world. By honoring Saathvik Kanan’s research on the mpox virus, this award amplifies the urgency of addressing emerging infectious diseases and encourages further exploration into the mechanisms that drive their resurgence.
The senior at Hickman High School Columbia, who likes to strike a good balance between his research and social life, is excited to continue his research even during his college life because learning is his priority.
(February 8, 2022) Esha Singh was barely nine when she heard a blaring gunshot for the first time at a firing range in Hyderabad. It excited her. That reverberating sound led her to pick up a shotgun. Though heavy, it overwhelmed her, as she welcomed the adrenaline rush. A quick tour of the armoury, introduced to guns of all shapes and sizes, a rifle caught her eye, but that was too heavy. Esha settled for a lighter air pistol as she felt it suited her best. Eventually, it did. Now 17, Esha is a sharp shooter who shoots with utmost precision. One of India’s finest and promising shooters, she is now aiming for the bull’s eye at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup to be held in Cairo in February-end 2022. She also won the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2020. [caption id="attachment_10545" align="aligncenter" width="546"] Esha Singh with President Ram Nath Kovind[/caption] “My ultimate goal is to win an Olympic medal and to accomplish as many wins as I can to make my country proud,” smiles Esha Singh in an exclusive with Global Indian. Esha was among the select few whose name figured in the Indian squad for the prestigious championships. Active, sporty, now accurate!
proud,” smiles Esha Singh in an exclusive with Global Indian. Esha was among the select few whose name figured in the Indian squad for the prestigious championships.
Active, sporty, now accurate!
Born and brought up in Hyderabad, Indian ace shooter Esha credits her businessman father Sachin Singh, a rally driver, for the initial push into sport. “Since my father is also a sportsperson, he often highlighted the importance of sporting activities, which give one a sense of discipline and dedication - much needed in life,” says Esha, who enjoyed badminton, tennis, skating and go-karting before shooting took centre stage. Schooled (1st-10th) at Bolton School, Esha is now in grade 11 at Reqelford High School. Her father comes from a line of ancestors in Rajasthan and her mother Srilatha Sachin Singh is an entrepreneur from Andhra Pradesh.
Indian ace shooter Esha Singh says, ‘Muzzle tov!’
“Shooting was a whole new world for me,” quips Esha, who became Telangana’s state champion in the 10m air pistol category (2015). That first time at the firing range changed her life forever. “I was not even aware that a sport like this existed until I heard the gunshot for the first time,” smiles the January 1, 2005 born Indian ace shooter.
As national champion in the 10m air pistol category (2018), she clinched gold medals at the second edition of Khelo India Youth Games in January 2019 (under-17 category) and Asian Airgun championships in Taoyuan, Taiwan in March-April 2019. She also won a silver medal at the ISSF Junior World Cup at Suhl, Germany in July 2019, a bronze in the 10 m Air Pistol mixed team event there, besides winning two gold medals at the Asian Junior Championships (in 10 m air pistol women and 10 m air pistol mixed team) held in Doha, Qatar in November 2019.
Passion aside, Esha’s determination is rock solid. “Once I set my mind on something, I pursue it dedicatedly, and do all it takes to achieve it,” declares the teenager, who also competes in the 25m standard pistol and 25m pistol events. The Indian ace shooter was also selected for the Indian core team for the Tokyo Olympics.
Focussing on her strengths
Having good focus is important, and the Indian ace shooter elaborates, “A shooter needs to go through intense mind-training - train the brain the right way. Shooting is a mind game. There is no such thing as a lucky day, it all depends on the mindset and thoughts on the day." The ace shooter is the proud owner of a 1.25 metre sports pistol and 2.10 metre air pistol, though her first was the Pardini Kids Air Pistol.
Hand-eye coordination is key. “One must train in these skills to be better at shooting. Physical fitness sharpens these skills. I workout five times a week and also undergo mind-training and meditation,” explains the shooter, who defeated Commonwealth Games and Youth Olympics gold-medalist Manu Bhaker and multi-medalist Heena Sidhu in the 62nd National Shooting Championships at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala to become the youngest champion in the senior category, when she was just as 13.
Tough and long training days with no distractions are crucial for tournaments and championships. On an ordinary day, Esha trains five to six hours a day at the paper-practice range set up by her father at home. “My typical day starts at 5 am, and main training begins at 9 am. The range keeps me occupied till around 4 pm. I have the rest of the day to do normal things – schoolwork and studies,” informs the Indian ace shooter.
Getting ready for the world championship now, that regimen remains a constant every day.
An Indian ace shooter’s hardwork and perseverance
Unlike other sports, shooting is expensive, and Esha agrees, though adds, “Like any sport, it requires a huge commitment. Our generation is lucky to have private sponsors to help budding athletes,” smiles the shooter.
Esha loves the Gachibowli firing range in Hyderabad. “The government has been extremely helpful. The Khelo India project is a great scheme for young sportspersons,” adds Esha, who has visited several firing ranges abroad.
Away from the shooting range, Esha tries not to think about the sport. That is when her hobbies kick in. A nature buff, she loves greenery, bird-watches, sketches, and is a bookworm too. Busy in The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, her friends motivate her. “They see me as an influence to pursue what they are passionate about. They feel, and also make me feel proud of my accomplishments,” smiles the girl who is a crime-thriller and 90’s sitcom buff.
Will shooting be a full-time profession? “Yes. With the right dedication and support, shooting can indeed be a full-time profession. It does take a lot of time out of your life but eventually it will be worth it,” urges the fan of hip-hop, pop and rap.
Her role model in the sport is “Gagan Narang as I trained in his academy (Gun For Glory in Pune) in the beginning. I spent my days looking at his posters. His work motivated and inspired me,” the Indian ace shooter signs off.
(May 20, 2023) When he was living in Lisbon, Portugal, Neel Ghose, co-founder of the Robin Hood Army, came across an organisation named Re-Food. They took surplus food from restaurants and distributed it among the homeless every night. Ghose was struck by the simplicity of the idea - it brought compassion to capitalism, minimised food wastage and addressed the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. Global Indian looks at how Ghose and a team of co-founders, including Aarushi Batra, began the Robin Hood Army, which now operates in four countries including Inda and Pakistan, has served over 68 million means to date. According to UN data, nearly 8.9 percent of the world's population, or 690 million people are hungry (as measured by the prevalence of under-nourishment). The World Food Programme records show that 135 million people suffer from acute hunger due to man-made conflicts, climate change and economic downturns. In essence, a quarter of a billion people are at the potential brink of starvation. The startup model Ghose was so taken by the idea, as well as the success of its execution, he wondered why he couldn't try the same thing in India. "I arranged for a few
Ghose was so taken by the idea, as well as the success of its execution, he wondered why he couldn't try the same thing in India. "I arranged for a few meetings with the founders and decided to replicate it in India. Once I returned, a few friends and I served 150 people in south Delhi on our first night of distribution," said Ghose, who went on to do his masters in business administration from Harvard University.
In August 2014, the Robin Hood Army (RHA) began with a Facebook, inviting everybody they knew. The response was instant and requests came pouring in. "I will never forget that night," Ghose said, at a TedXGateway event. That first night in August, Ghose and a few friends stopped under a flyover in Hauz Khas. They saw a family of six huddled together, sharing a leftover pizza. Further down the road, an old couple, the woman was blind, foraged through a trash can for something to eat. "I have been brought up in India, we have all seen poverty," Ghose said. "But what was overwhelming was that these are our neighbours. We have no idea of the sheer scale of hunger and neglect a few minutes from where we live."
Logistics is key
Hunger, Ghose believes, is not a problem that can be solved by the UN or the governments. "Logistics," he proclaims, "Can and will provide the solution." The Robin Hood Army is not an NGO, nor is it a largescale civic movement. "Ours is a simple model. We function like a startup and our job is to match demand with supply through simple logistics solutions." Young professionals, who work during the day, volunteer their time to a hyperlocal model.
Food is collected from restaurants, weddings and parties and distributed to homeless people in the area. "We distribute it among the homeless, who don't know their next meal is coming from, or if it will come at all," says co-founder Aarushi Batra, in a TedX talk. Responses came pouring in from across the country, with people volunteering their time. The press showed its support and the Facebook page went viral. "Restaurants were so generous," said Ghose, "That many gave freshly-cooked food instead of leftovers." Three years after they began, the RHA had established its presence in 58 cities, with 13,000 Robins and nearly 50 lakh meals served. In 2019, the Delhi Capitals got in touch, asking them to distribute the leftover meals from Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi. Not long after, the team invited around 15 kids who had been served food from the RHA to watch a match.
[caption id="attachment_22580" align="aligncenter" width="622"] Neel Ghose. Photo: Harvard Business School[/caption]
Pandemic... and scaling up
When the pandemic hit, the team had to come up with a new strategy overnight. Again, working with their decentralised model, volunteers came up with their own safety protocols. They were on call as busloads of migrant workers exited the big cities and started the 'senior patrol'. "During the daily phases of the pandemic, we had people writing to us and saying their parents were stuck at home without access to essentials," said Batra.
The team circulated a basic Google Form and circulated it everywhere. Volunteers addressed thousands of requests - those who weren't living with parents or other senior citizens would go out to pick up medicines, fresh produce and whatever else was needed, which they distributed.
The Robin Hood Army learned to apply their model to tackle a number of other problems. In 2016, when Maharashtra reeled under severe drought, the RHA volunteers mobilised schools, colleges and offices in their neighbourhoods. They began sending 75,000 litres of water to rural areas, on a special train, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. As the organisation grew stronger locally, they decided it was time to expand and first on the list was Pakistan, which faces very similar problems.
[caption id="attachment_22581" align="aligncenter" width="591"] With co-founder Aarushi Batra[/caption]
Serving up compassion
"It's not merely about handing out food," Ghose said. "I would like to believe that we have a baseline of compassion in what we do." A team of lawyers who visited a girl's orphanage in South Delhi, would spend time with the kids, talking to them about the importance of school and of knowing politics. "Eight of those girls decided to pursue law as a career," he explained.
(May 20, 2022) The coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing lockdown brought the world and the economy to its knees. Not for long though: various tech solutions soon sprung up to bridge the gap that had begun to make its presence the world over. If there were apps and web platforms to help people connect more easily and work remotely, there were services that bridged the last mile. But what of those that were not savvy enough to jump onto this new digital bandwagon? That’s where 17-year-old Gurugram-based Gavi Kothari stepped in with his startup Tech Help For All. The non-profit venture is aimed at helping both adults and children to get a lowdown on the new tech offerings and how to use them. [caption id="attachment_16916" align="aligncenter" width="558"] Gavi Kothari, founder, Tech Help For All[/caption] “At Tech Help For All, we follow a non-discriminatory policy and aim to make our content accessible to everybody. This is a website to help and educate people on how to use these apps, either for your work meetings or pure curiosity,” says Gavi in a conversation with Global Indian. He has stood first in the 2020 Math Olympiad, ranked 5th in Avishkar, an international robotics
ople on how to use these apps, either for your work meetings or pure curiosity,” says Gavi in a conversation with Global Indian. He has stood first in the 2020 Math Olympiad, ranked 5th in Avishkar, an international robotics competition, and also had his AI-based sustainable development project rank in the top 10 in a global contest.
Tryst with robotics
A high schooler at Amity International School, Gavi’s love for technology and robotics began quite early. “I’ve always been fascinated by new gadgets and tech,” says the teen, who looks up to his parents Rupesh and Anjani Kothari, who’ve paved the way through their hard work and determination. “My dad lost his job due to the pandemic. But he didn’t back down. He went ahead and set up a new business that is now successful and proved that hard work and determination can solve any problem,” beams the lad, who also has a younger brother.
About a year ago, Gavi decided to launch Tech Help for All, a non-profit startup to help educate people on the latest consumer tech offerings and bridge the digital divide that had sprung up due to the pandemic. “During the pandemic, we would all go online for every little task. It was around this time that I realised that there were a lot of people who didn’t know how to use these tech platforms; even NGOs,” says the teen entrepreneur, whose startup creates video tutorials to help people understand how to use every day apps such as Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Zoom among others.
Bridging the gap
Tech Help for All has now helped several NGOs in the areas of web development, fundraising, creating LinkedIn pages, and tutoring students apart from the video tutorials. “The idea is to help people navigate the maze of modern-day apps and softwares that have now become a part of our daily lives,” says Gavi, whose company has so far hosted 100 interns and has a team of 15 apart from 15 youth ambassadors.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FciQ0UFBBc
Incidentally, the teen found his calling in tech rather early on and would often spend after school hours interacting with his Robotics teacher to further his passion towards the subject. He has participated in several competitions such as IRC and IIT Delhi’s Robo contest. Apart from these, Gavi is also currently working on an AI-enabled waste management project to work towards a cleaner tomorrow. “Dumping of waste in landfills has been a persistent problem. Though several of us now segregate garbage into wet and dry waste, it all ultimately lands up in the landfills affecting the environment,” Gavi tells, adding, “Through this project, we aim to convert waste into various industrial products at home. We’ve devised a system to segregate and convert waste into manure, biogas, electricity, metals, and 3D printed dustbins with minimal human interaction and easy operation. An app that we’ve developed also helps the user track his/her impact towards the environment.”
The teen entrepreneur, who is also interested in trekking, community work, singing and cooking, also ensures he’s constantly upgrading his knowledge and skill sets through certificate courses in AI and ML. He is also looking to pursue a career in robotics engineering.
(October 16, 2024) October 1st, 2024, was no ordinary day for Nidhi Gautam, a student from Karnataka currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in History and Geography at Miranda House, Delhi University. She received the extraordinary opportunity to serve as the British High Commissioner to India for a day - a position typically held by seasoned diplomats. While this role usually takes years of experience to attain, she earned it after being selected from a competitive pool of over 140 applicants. Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India, took on the role of Deputy High Commissioner for the day, shadowing Nidhi and supporting her in carrying out the responsibilities of the High Commissioner. The opportunity equipped Nidhi with a deeper understanding of the responsibility that comes with leadership. "One key takeaway for me was the immense responsibility diplomats carry. It’s about presenting a seamless front to the world, but behind the scenes, there’s a wealth of knowledge, collaboration, and effort that goes into every decision," she remarked in an interview with Global Indian. [caption id="attachment_39867" align="aligncenter" width="745"] Nidhi Gautam with Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India[/caption] The ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ competition The opportunity allowed the 19-year-old
[caption id="attachment_39867" align="aligncenter" width="745"] Nidhi Gautam with Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India[/caption]
The ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ competition
The opportunity allowed the 19-year-old to experience the challenges and responsibilities of international diplomacy, especially within the context of the strong UK-India partnership.
Since 2017, the British High Commission has celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child, observed in October, through initiatives like the 'High Commissioner for a Day'. This initiative, designed to empower young women across India, is more than just an opportunity to shadow diplomats. It is a platform to promote gender equality, challenge societal norms, and provide young women with the tools to tackle global challenges head-on.
Nidhi secured the first spot in the competition through a thought-provoking one-minute video submission. The youngster’s articulate response and clear vision to the question, “How can the UK and India collaborate on technology to benefit future generations?” stood out, ultimately leading her to this once in lifetime experience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PW73g9IoSM
Stepping into diplomacy - a day to remember
The day began like no other, with Nidhi arriving at the British High Commission in New Delhi. Her morning started with a breakfast briefing from the senior leadership team, where she was introduced to the inner workings of UK-India relations. The focus was on the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, a key aspect of the two nations' partnership. Discussing everything from climate change to healthcare, this briefing provided Nidhi with a comprehensive view of the critical collaborations happening between the UK and India.
What struck her most, however, was the gravity of the role she was stepping into. 'I was seated at the head of the table, and I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of responsibility. They treated me with such respect, just as they would a real diplomat,' she reflected, recalling how she was served first and even had the car doors opened for her. "That moment made me realize the power and symbolism of diplomacy. Riding in the High Commissioner’s vehicle with the flag was surreal. These were ceremonial gestures, but they also made me feel like I was part of something much bigger than myself."
This, of course, was only the beginning. Nidhi’s day as High Commissioner took her through a series of meetings and visits that would leave a lasting impact on her future ambitions.
[caption id="attachment_39862" align="aligncenter" width="700"] The day started with a breakfast briefing[/caption]
The power of innovation – a visit to IIT Delhi
A defining moment of Nidhi’s day was her visit to the National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. Here, she was exposed to cutting-edge innovations designed to empower individuals with disabilities, particularly those who are visually impaired. "The most memorable and impactful moment was witnessing the various innovations being developed to assist differently-abled individuals. What struck me wasn’t just the advanced technology, but the social impact of these innovations," Nidhi explained with palpable enthusiasm.
"It was incredibly inspiring to see how knowledge and technology are being used to uplift those in need. This is where diplomacy meets real-world change. It’s not just about policies and negotiations, but about creating tangible benefits for society," she added.
The experience deepened her understanding of how science, technology, and diplomacy intersect to create a better future. She recognized that technological innovation, when combined with effective diplomatic partnerships, has the power to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
[caption id="attachment_39863" align="aligncenter" width="660"]A visit to the National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies at IIT-Delhi[/caption]
Shaping global health - a visit to the National Institute of Immunology
Following her time at IIT Delhi, Nidhi visited the National Institute of Immunology, where she observed ongoing advancements in vaccine development. Given the global importance of vaccines in a post-pandemic world, the visit provided good insights on the collaborative work being done by the UK and India in biotechnology. Nidhi saw firsthand how scientists from both nations were working together to tackle global health challenges—a poignant reminder of the importance of international cooperation.
Reading about these topics in textbooks is one thing, but seeing it unfold in real time was extraordinary. "I now have a much deeper understanding of how global health challenges are addressed and the pivotal role diplomacy plays in facilitating these collaborations,' Nidhi remarked.
[caption id="attachment_39864" align="aligncenter" width="707"] A visit to National Institute of Immunology[/caption]
Inspiring leadership and the role of women
One of the most rewarding aspects of Nidhi’s experience was her interaction with Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India, who served as Deputy High Commissioner for the day. Their discussions spanned a variety of topics, from the UK-India Technology Security Initiative to the broader role of young women in leadership.
“Lindy’s warm encouragement and insightful thoughts throughout the day inspired me profoundly, reminding me of the importance of dedication and passion in serving one’s country,” Nidhi remarked.
For the DU student, seeing women at the helm of diplomacy and leadership roles was a powerful inspiration. "One of the key lessons I took away from the day was the importance of collaboration, not only between countries but also within leadership. Women play such a significant role in these discussions, and seeing them in action was both inspiring and empowering," she noted. "It filled me with pride to see women driving change at such a high level. It reinforced my belief that women are remarkable at what they do and that more of them deserve to be in leadership positions."
For Nidhi, the experience was more than just a day in the life of a diplomat—it was the affirmation of a dream. "I’ve always wanted to become a diplomat, and this experience reaffirmed my desire. It’s not an easy path, especially in India where competition is intense, but I’m committed to working hard and broadening my knowledge to one day achieve that goal," she shared.
Nidhi’s biggest source of inspiration is India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar. "He continues to inspire me every day with his depth of knowledge and contributions to diplomacy. I aspire to one day follow in his footsteps and serve my country with the same passion and dedication," she added.
Aspiring for a future in leadership
As Nidhi Gautam continues her education at Miranda House, this unique experience has given her a fresh perspective on international relations, technology, and leadership. She sees herself not only as a future diplomat but as a champion for gender equality and innovation. Her passion for diplomacy, technology, and cultural exchange is set to shape her path forward.
"The future of diplomacy is bright, especially as more young leaders, particularly women, are given platforms to shine. Initiatives like ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ are essential in promoting gender equality and inspiring the next generation of change-makers," she said. "More women deserve to be in leadership positions. The world is better when everyone has equal opportunities."
Extraordinary opportunities in 2024
The year 2024 has been full of extraordinary opportunities for the youngster. Earlier this year, she was part of a nearly 100-student cohort invited to the Raisina Dialogue 2024, a multilateral conference held annually in New Delhi, after being selected through an application process. Describing the Raisina Dialogue experience she remarks, "It was truly beyond words. It was a unique opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds, including civil servants, diplomats, and top leaders from around the world. I’m extremely grateful for that experience, just as I am for the chance to serve as the British High Commissioner for a day."
[caption id="attachment_39861" align="aligncenter" width="643"] Nidhi Gautam with Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India[/caption]
Both the opportunities have been exhilarating and learning platforms for the young scholar. As Nidhi puts it, "The experiences taught me that collaboration and leadership go hand in hand. Whether it’s between countries or individuals, shared knowledge and expertise always lead to better outcomes."
What stood out the most for Nidhi was the warmth and encouragement she received from the entire team at the British High Commission. "Their supportive smiles and kind words reassured me, making the experience even more memorable," she signed off.
(October 8, 2022) The world watched in awe when Anjika Ganesh Pai, dressed in a beautiful saree, took over the stage during the graduation ceremony, at UC Berkeley on May 21, 2022. Addressing her fellow students, the environmental justice student lobbied for greater diversity in the scientific field and more young environmental volunteers, during her speech. "After countless lessons in my environmental science classes about the catastrophic, unavoidable effects of climate change, I would ask my professors, 'Do you think we'll be able to make it?' Everyone responded that our generation will be the one to reverse the destruction we have witnessed thus far," she said during her speech. [caption id="attachment_22763" align="aligncenter" width="583"] Anjika Pai[/caption] After she had to pause for the crowd to stop applauding, she added, "But this vote of confidence hasn't been the only thing that has reoriented me towards hope, time and time again. It has been the cutting-edge research that has shown me the potential to create radical, positive change." A first-generation Indian American, with roots in India’s western coastal state of Goa, Anjika was named the 2022 University Medal winner, the highest honor for a graduating senior. Winning a cash prize of $2,500, the
A first-generation Indian American, with roots in India’s western coastal state of Goa, Anjika was named the 2022 University Medal winner, the highest honor for a graduating senior. Winning a cash prize of $2,500, the young Global Indian is also the co-founder of the award-winning website STEM Redefined, which works as part of the Clinton Global Initiative University programme for social impact startups. Her deep sense of equality and justice earned the young environmental activist several awards and recognitions over the years.
A born leader
Anjika and her elder sister, Anisha, were born to Indian immigrants Ganesh and Samhita Pai, who moved to the United States from India in the early 1990s. Settled in the sparsely-populated town of Jamison in Pennsylvania, Anjika often went to the nearby woods after school and sat there for hours. While the sisters had the full support of their teachers, they had to face casual racism at school.
[caption id="attachment_22764" align="aligncenter" width="566"] Anjika with her parents[/caption]
To constantly prove herself, Anjika worked on a social science project linking the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. to the sinking of the Titanic in 1921 in her third grade. The project was a huge success and earned her a school medal at a very early age. Proving her mettle again, the now 19-year-old convinced her school principal to let students take part in a Day of Silence, an annual April event observed internationally to spread awareness about how LGBTQ-plus students are bullied and silenced. While she couldn't get all the students to participate in the event, more than 75 percent of the school observed the Day of Silence.
Fighting for nature
While most kids watch television to unwind, it was actually a show on Animal Planet that encouraged this youngster to take up environmental justice as her major at the University level. “Everyone I knew wanted to be a doctor and save lives, and I just kept wondering, ‘Where are we going to put all these saved lives? How long is this planet going to be here?’” she recalled during an interview with Daily California.
So when she started at Berkeley in 2018, she was clear that her focus should be not only to encourage her peers to join hands in saving this planet but also to work towards framing policies and study material around the subject. In her first year, the young environmental activist won the Cal Alumni Association Leadership scholarship and joined the California-China Climate Institute as a policy research intern.
Intrepid and entrepreneurial, Anjika, joined the Student Environmental Resource Center at the University and with the help of other fellow students co-founded a student club that produces the publication, Caravan Travel & Style Magazine. Her initiative led her to discover the relationship indigenous people in the US have with nature, which later became her field of research in the final year. She interviewed several hundreds of tribal members about how they work on preserving the natural resources in their area. The environmental activist's thesis about the rights of nature doctrine as a tool for Indigenous sovereignty across the US received grants from the Charles H. Percy Grant for Public Affairs Research and the Center for Research on Native American Issues.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yA8dgfNnCjs
With a vision to continue her education and later work in the field, Anjika is now headed to Northeastern University in Boston to study environmental law on a full-tuition graduate scholarship.
Neel Ghose. Photo: 
With co-founder Aarushi Batra[/caption]
Nidhi Gautam with 
The day started with a breakfast briefing[/caption]
A visit to National Institute of Immunology[/caption]
Nidhi got highly inspired by 
Nidhi Gautam[/caption]
Nidhi Gautam with Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India[/caption]
Anjika with her parents[/caption]