Growing up in Agra, in the heart of India, I was always drawn to the words of Swami Vivekananda: “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached.” These words became my compass, especially during the darkest moments of the COVID-19 pandemic when uncertainty, fear, and despair seemed to cloud the future of millions.
It was during those trying times that I decided not to wait for change but to be the change. While others were confined by circumstances, I stepped out to serve. With no major resources, I started sanitization drives in local communities and distributed free food to those who had lost livelihoods. It wasn't charity—it was a duty, a calling sparked by empathy and responsibility. The faces of struggling families, the helpless eyes of hungry children—those images ignited a fire within me.
That fire led to the founding of Next Generation Global Connect (NGGC), a youth-led movement committed to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 11, SDG 13, SDG 16 and SDG 17. What started as a humble effort now connects over 10,000 youth across India and more than 5,000 young changemakers globally. Each of them is a spark, together forming a wildfire of change. We conducted youth dialogues, skill development workshops, tree plantation drives, road safety campaigns and online forums that empowered students and volunteers from both rural and urban regions. One of the most transformative experiences was when I got the chance to represent Indian youth at international forums, including an informal interaction with the United Nations General Assembly—a moment that felt surreal for a small-town student.
Conducting an SDG Awareness Program at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Agra, engaging students in meaningful dialogue for a sustainable future.
Working closely with Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Agra, we integrated SDG-based awareness into campus life. As the days passed, my journey found a new direction through digital engagement. I became a Campus Ambassador for MyGov, the citizen engagement platform of the Government of India. Through this role, I was able to reach and inspire thousands of young people across the country. When I received the MyGov Campus Ambassador Award and stood as India’s top ambassador, it wasn't just a personal victory—it was a signal that youth voices matter, and that the government is listening.
I often reflect on the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, especially his emphasis on Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and the way he has called upon the youth to lead India into its Amrit Kaal. Inspired by his vision and Vivekananda's teachings, I’ve realized that youth empowerment isn’t just about leadership—it's about giving voice, vision, and value to every young person. But the journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Mobilizing youth in remote areas, battling societal resistance, managing limited funds—all these have been constant challenges. Yet, every challenge taught resilience, adaptability, and the importance of collaboration. Each youth leader trained, each voice heard, and each life touched made every hardship worth it.
Meeting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the Parliament of India, discussing the future of Indian youth and the nation’s growth.
Today, as I stand with thousands of young minds, I believe that real development happens when youth rise above limitations and act. We are no longer the leaders of tomorrow—we are the changemakers of today.
And so, I write this not just to share my story, but to remind every young person reading this: You are powerful. Your voice matters. Your actions can heal, uplift, and transform the world.
Let us walk together, with courage in our hearts and purpose in our stride—because the future is not something we enter, it’s something we create.
