Ridhakshi Ganjoo, a class 11 student, has taken it upon herself to empower children, through creative expression- turning them into powerful voices of change
A 16-year-old student from south Kashmir’s Pulwama district is using art as a beacon of hope and expression for the children in Kashmir.
Ridhakshi Ganjoo, a class 11 student, has taken it upon herself to empower children, through creative expression- turning them into powerful voices of change.
Ridhakshi, an accomplished artist, student leader, and social changemaker, founded Pragaash, an initiative that has been teaching art to Kashmiri students for the past year.
She believes art is a medium of healing and a powerful tool to voice emotions that words often fail to express.
“Art gives children a space to communicate their fears, dreams, and realities. In places like Kashmir, this is more than just creative expression—it is survival,” she said.
Her journey into education and social impact began when she interned at Teach For India, where she emerged as one of the student changemakers.
Inspired by her work in Pune and Mumbai, she decided to bring the same impact to Kashmir, where children struggle with emotional and psychological challenges.
Through Pragaash, she has been nurturing young minds, giving them a platform to express themselves beyond the barriers of fear and conflict.
But Ridhakshi’s achievements extend far beyond the realm of social impact. A gold medalist in curling at the national level, she has brought laurels to Kashmir, proving that excellence knows no boundaries.
Her academic brilliance is equally remarkable—she secured an astounding 99 percent in her 10th-grade exams, earning the 4th position and the prestigious student of the Year award at Dolphin International School, Pulwama.
She also served as Head Girl, demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities.
Her dedication to knowledge and innovation led her to be selected for the National Level INSPIRE MANAK Exhibition, where she will represent Kashmir. She also participated in the Lodha Genius Programme (LGP), enrolling in a Physics course that transformed her perspective on the subject.
As part of the CSIP initiative under LGP, she and five other students will present their ideas at the Design for Change (DFC) event in Dubai.
Born into a Kashmiri Pandit family, Ridhakshi’s upbringing in a conflict zone has shaped her resilience and deep commitment to fostering change.
Apart from art and activism, Ridhakshi is a creative soul who finds solace in painting Kashmir’s picturesque landscapes, writing poetry, and engaging in scientific research.
Her time at Ashoka University has further fueled her interest in science and research, adding another dimension to her multifaceted personality.
Looking ahead, Ridhakshi remains steadfast in her mission to create a student leader community in conflict areas, empowering young minds to turn their struggles into strength.
“My journey has been about fear, self-acceptance, and empowerment. If I can help even one child find their voice, then my purpose is fulfilled,” she said.
Article Credit: greaterkashmir