MEET THE YOUNG LEADERS
Pranayaa Jeyaraman, a high school student at Woodbridge Academy Magnet School, serves as the Lead Volunteer and Programs Director for all Agraj events, orchestrated various STEM activities such as the STEM Symposium, DATA NOVA, Engineers Day Hackathons, NJ STEM Pathway-supported events, IDEATHON, STEM Fest 2024, and National Doctors Day events.
A recipient of the Presidential Gold Service Award, she is also a ambassador for the OM Foundation, promoting kids’ cancer awareness, and a designated Khan Academy SAT tutor for underprivileged high school kids. As a passionate STEM enthusiast, science journalist, and researcher, Pranayaa has earned the National Green Ambassador Scholarship. She is a brand ambassador for Lupine Music Academy and an editor for City Kids World magazine, showcasing her leadership and communication skills. As a music enthusiast, she has won numerous awards in piano and singing as well.
Meet Dhruv Maini, a High Schooler at South Brunswick High School in NJ, whose enthusiasm for STEM knows no bounds. This year, Dhruv is excited to be a part of the school’s robotics team, delving into the world of technology and innovation with gusto.
When he’s not immersed in robotics, Dhruv can be found showcasing his swimming prowess as a key member of the school’s swim team. With his dedication to the sport and his teammates, Dhruv consistently strives for excellence in the pool. Beyond academics and athletics, Dhruv dedicates his time to volunteering with Agraj Youth, where he aims to ignite a passion for STEM in younger students. With his love for learning, athletic talent, and commitment to service, Dhruv is poised to make a meaningful impact both within his school and community.
Sarvesh Anand is a student at Monroe Township High School Biomedical STEM Academy track. His primary interest in STEM is in biological science however he is also interested in technology and data analytics.
As a STEM enthusiast in biological science he has conducted research and presented at science fairs on topics ranging from health sciences to environmental preservation. As an Agraj coordinator he is deeply passionate about encouraging STEM and environmental education, supporting events such as the annual Agraj Youth STEM Fair and the Go Green Initiative. Additionally, he has worked with several organizations and programs (such as Governor’s STEM Scholars, Bioconnect Oncology Leadership Development etc.) to develop his skills in program coordination which he has reflected in his involvement with Agraj programs. His particular motive at Agraj is to awaken scientific curiosity in students through explorative learning to encourage scientific curiosity. He is also the Agraj Seva Kendra instagram handler and posts updates about Agraj events. Within his academic environment, he has encouraged STEM participation with his leadership involvement in his HOSA chapter and his participation in STEM competitions and clubs. He hopes to ignite the same passion in Agraj youth. This summer he will be pursuing EMT certification and an data science internship at Regeneron.
Nandika Nair is currently a junior at Marlboro High School with a strong passion for the medical field. Aspiring to become a surgeon, she has actively immersed herself in science and healthcare opportunities to deepen her knowledge and impact.
As a STEM enthusiast, Nandika has participated in both Data Nova 2023 and Data Nova 2024, led by AGRAJ and KHNJ, where she conducted advanced research on the correlation between mutation counts and various types of cancer diagnoses. She has also analyzed critical data on the outcomes of kidney transplants, gaining valuable insights into the clinical and human aspects of medicine.For the past two years, Nandika has served as a STEM Fest Youth Leader, playing a key role in organizing and facilitating the Little Einstein STEM Fest, which introduces young students to hands-on science and sparks their curiosity early on. She has also volunteered at several AGRAJ events and was honored with the Presidential Gold Volunteer Service Award twice, recognizing her exceptional dedication to community service. In addition, Nandika co-manages the AGRAJ Instagram account, helping amplify outreach and awareness for youth STEM initiatives. In Marlboro High School, Nandika is an active member of the Science League, with a focus on chemistry, where she competes and collaborates with peers who share her enthusiasm for scientific learning and challenge.Additionally, in the healthcare space, she volunteers in the Progressive Care Unit at CentraState Hospital and currently serves as a cadet with her local EMS squad, gaining firsthand experience in patient care and emergency response. She will be pursuing her EMT certification in the summer. As a youth STEM leader, Nandika is passionate about fostering a love for science in others. She plans to create engaging, inclusive programs that make STEM both exciting and accessible. Outside of her academic and volunteer pursuits, Nandika is a competitive swimmer, which has taught her discipline, resilience, and time management—skills she applies in all areas of her life.
Advait Baijulal, a high school junior attending Edison Academy Magnet School, has been an AGRAJ youth wing leader from 2022 onwards.
He has continually organized and led countless STEM events focused on empowering the younger generations and spreading his passion in computer science, machine learning, entrepreneurship, and business.
Advait Baijulal, an innovator, developer, and youth leader, is dedicated to creating a global impact through the development of new technologies. He is currently pursuing summer courses at Brown University and Columbia University and was an Essay Finalist in the prestigious Global John Locke Institution Competition, which attracted over 20,000 applicants.
Beyond academics, he is a passionate dancer who inspires younger generations through his love for dance and plays on his school’s Varsity Soccer Team. He has also qualified for the National level competition in FBLA, showcasing his aptitude for leadership and business acumen.
As a strong advocate for STEM education, Advait has hosted multiple STEM events aimed at encouraging youth to embrace the importance of STEM in today’s world.
Lakshya Venkatesan is a student from the Old Bridge district, interested in integrating medicine and technology for the goodwill of others. She applies her leadership and communication skills to develop a tangible impact on the world’s most pressing problems.
As a leader in Agraj, she spearheads the efficiency, organization, and engagement of Agraj’s professional, cultural, and educational events. Since 2023, she has consecutively received the Presidential Gold Service Award. Outside of her work in the organization, she has been a Bharatanatyam dancer and Carnatic singer for 8 years. She learned how to leverage her impact by working with Dr. Jeffrey Vinokur, a scientist vehement about curiosity, dance, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning (Just like her)! Dr. Vinokur’s drive to help others with his founded resource, Generation Genius, inspired Lakshya to submit a winning proposal to the NJ Hall of Fame. In every aspect, Lakshya drives the power of service, care, and impact in her voice to uplift the community.
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