Aashvi Modi

Where a child begins shouldn’t define how far they can go; I work to be the bridge between their circumstances and their potential.

Aashvi Modi (17), from India, grew up seeing how one’s gender and circumstance can shape a person’s opportunities. Her mother’s journey to pursue higher education later in life showed her the power of education to change lives and shaped Aashvi’s own drive to create opportunities for others.

Through her R³ Model – Rehabilitate, Reintegration, Rebuild, Aashvi developed a long-term approach to supporting children in juvenile homes, protection centres and vulnerable communities. Her work combines practical skills, arts and income-generating programs, helping young people build experience and savings before returning to their communities. She also created platforms such as Skillzo and IgniteBharat, offering learning in academics, coding, life skills and vocational training.

Her initiatives have reached thousands of young people. She organized webinars with institutions. Through digital platforms, mentorship and social media, her work has reached more than 100,000 people, bringing education and opportunity to young people who might otherwise miss out.

Other nominees