The INK Fellows Program is your chance to actively build the future. We're searching for visionaries like you, exceptional young minds across disciplines who are ready to push boundaries and become the change makers of tomorrow.
Our global network connects you with innovators from around the world, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. We provide the launchpad you need: national and international exposure, invaluable mentorship from established industry leaders, and access to financial support.
We'll amplify your groundbreaking ideas, help you craft your story, and bring your solutions to the world stage.
Abhishek Likam, a former aeronautical engineer turned sustainability warrior, has been selected as an INK Fellow for his outstanding contributions to environmental conservation and water security. As the Head of Springshed Management & Strategic Partnerships at Central Himalayan Rural Action Group (CHIRAG), Abhishek has led transformative initiatives in springshed management, helping 6,000 villages across the Indian Himalayan region to successfully restore the spring sources. His work has not only improved water security but also revitalized local ecosystems and supported community development, closely aligning with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. His innovative approaches to water management demonstrate a strong understanding of the local challenges faced by these communities. Abhishek’s transition from the corporate world to the sustainability sector reflects his deep commitment to creating lasting, positive impact.
Akshat Dave, a Postdoctoral Associate at MIT Media Lab, has been named an INK Fellow for his pioneering work in developing AI-enabled imaging systems that push the boundaries of visual perception. His research focuses on creating next-generation cameras capable of capturing light dimensions invisible to the human eye, with transformative applications in automotive safety, infrastructure monitoring, and medical diagnostics. These innovations align with UN Sustainable Development Goals promoting industry innovation and infrastructure resilience. Akshat’s impressive academic track record, which includes collaborations with leading tech companies like Samsung and Hyundai, highlights his potential to drive significant advancements in imaging technology. The real-world applications of his work are vast, with the potential to revolutionize multiple industries.
Ashwini Hiremath, co-founder of the Wild Wild Women collective, also known as “Krantinaari,” has been selected as an INK Fellow for her impactful work in empowering women through music, particularly rap and grassroots activism. As a multidisciplinary artist, Ashwini uses her art to advocate for gender equality, sustainability, and social justice. Her unique approach blends music with local-level activism, enabling women to address critical issues within their communities. Ashwini’s latest initiative—a mobile music studio for women in collaboration with Manzil Mystics—provides safe spaces for music creation and educational workshops, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals on gender equality and quality education. Her work has already impacted hundreds of women and children, and her goal to empower women to gain recognition in music reflects her commitment to breaking gender barriers in the industry.
Prabhat Sinha, the founder of Mann Deshi Champions, is an athlete, sports agent in the US, and a writer from rural India. With a decade of experience, he has pioneered India’s first skilling and Incubation center for sports, empowering over 8,000 athletes and creating sports-related jobs for rural women.
As a sports agent, Prabhat has collaborated with NBA and Track & Field athletes. His remarkable achievements have earned him recognition as a guest speaker at esteemed institutions like Georgetown University, Trinity College, NYU, Madrid University, the World Bank, G20 SEWA, as well as TedX events. He is also an esteemed Acumen Fellow.
Richa Gupta, CEO and co-founder, Labhya, has been selected as an INK Fellow for her pioneering work in improving the social and emotional well-being of vulnerable children through education. In partnership with state and local governments, Labhya integrates well-being education into public school curricula, driving sustainable, systemic change in underserved communities. By creating locally relevant curricula, offering teacher development, and ensuring rigorous program evaluation, Labhya addresses the diverse needs of both students and educators. Currently implemented in 22,000 schools, Labhya’s programs positively impact 2.4 million children. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals on quality education and well-being, Richa’s vision to reach 30 million children in India by 2030 reflects her commitment to scaling this critical impact nationwide.
Rishi Sharma, CEO and co-founder, Faclon Labs, has been named an INK Fellow for his work in Industrial AI. Faclon Labs, based in Mumbai, utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies to improve industrial productivity and sustainability, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals on industry innovation and climate action. The company’s innovative solutions have optimized operations in over 400 factories across India and internationally, resulting in significant reductions in energy losses and enhanced efficiency. Driven by a vision to revolutionize industrial operations, Rishi aims to make factories and manufacturing processes smarter and more sustainable. His work holds strong potential for scaling and expanding Faclon Labs’ impact in the industrial sector.
Sarjan Shah, Managing Director of Shield AI, has been named an INK Fellow for his leadership in integrating artificial intelligence into India’s defence sector. After losing his father in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Sarjan took over the family real estate business at the age of 19, steering it through crisis and building on its brand equity. Since then, he has also founded Rubicon to promote the application of Artificial Intelligence within large Indian enterprises. His personal commitment to national security is evident in his founding of the 26/11 Foundation, which aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals relating to peace and justice. A deep thinker, with degrees from Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge, his vision to elevate India’s role in AI-driven defence technologies and his resourcefulness position him to make a meaningful impact in the defence space.
Siddharth Agarwal, Founder Director, Veditum India Foundation, has been selected as an INK Fellow for his pioneering work in environmental and social sustainability. His unique approach of “learning by walking,” covering over 6,000 kilometers along major Indian rivers, sets him apart as a dedicated changemaker. Siddharth’s flagship initiatives—Moving Upstream and India Sand Watch—have made a tangible impact by documenting ecosystems, supporting local communities, and utilizing open data to develop evidence at scale and address illegal sand mining. His work aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in clean water and environmental governance. Siddharth’s potential to scale these projects, foster NGO collaborations, and broaden the impact of his work makes him a valuable addition to the INK Fellowship.
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