Shivi Kumar

Shivi Kumar (17), is from the United States. Shivi is a young changemaker advancing children’s rights through her nonprofit, Mind Matters Foundation, with a focus on healthcare access, mental health, and education—especially for young girls and refugees who face systemic barriers.

Her research background is impressive: working with the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Medical School, she has produced 18 publications on neurological screening and disparities in clinical care, and has spoken at platforms like UN CSW, the World Bank Group Spring Meetings, and Yale Law School. As Research Co-Chair of Mission Brain, she leads studies on pediatric neurological care and maternal screening, and as the youngest Co-Chair of UNA-USA Women CEDAW and Generation Equality, she drives global advocacy for children’s and women’s rights.

Shivi’s impact is significant: she has helped over 1,200 patients receive neurosurgical and neurological care in India and Bangladesh, and her Mind Matters Foundation has educated over 16,000 children and young girls. Supported by a global network of 50+ ambassadors and 800 volunteers, her programs bring health and mental health education directly into schools and communities.