Ayush Mohapatra
When you give a child the freedom to create, you don’t just change a life — you unlock the power to change the world.
Ayush Mohapatra (17), is from India. At 17, Ayush Mohapatra believes every child should have space to be creative. In Class 7, he began volunteering with underprivileged and differently-abled children. Their curiosity and desire to express themselves showed him what many children miss: opportunities to learn through creativity, build confidence and feel heard.
Ayush created Project Indradhanu, an art-based learning initiative that helps children express their thoughts and emotions while exploring social and environmental issues. Through storytelling, music, interactive workshops and hands-on activities, he brings creative learning to children in government schools, slums, tribal communities and childcare institutions.
So far, Ayush has reached more than 6,000 children through 20+ workshops across multiple districts. Children who are initially hesitant often begin sharing their ideas, expressing their emotions and taking part actively. His work has also reached more than 100,000 people through his content.
With his parents supporting him along the way, Ayush is showing what happens when creativity gets a place in the classroom: children find their voice.
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